March 29, 2016 – Gulf of Mexico Research Initiative

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A close-up of the Ruppia maritima, and the fruiting bodies it produces on its tips. Experiments showed that oiling reduced the fruiting bodies, which could translate to long-term population loss. (Photo provided by Charles Martin)

Study Shows Oiling Has Multiple Subtle Negative Effects on Submerged Vegetation

Scientists conducted experiments to assess oil exposure effects on Ruppa maritima, a common underwater plant species in Gulf of Mexico estuaries.