Study Shows Oiling Has Multiple Subtle Negative Effects on Submerged Vegetation

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)

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

Gulf of Mexico Research Initiative