Marine Laboratory

About Us

The Sanibel-Captiva Conservation Foundation Marine Laboratory is an independent marine laboratory funded through private donations, and local, state, and federal granting agencies. The laboratory currently has 10 full time staff members, three of which are Ph.D. level research scientists.

The majority of the research conducted at the laboratory is in collaboration with scientists in academia, local government, and state agencies. These partners in research include the City of Sanibel, Florida Wildlife Research Institute, Florida Gulf Coast University, Mote Marine Laboratory, and the South Florida Water Management District.

The current 2,800 sq.ft. laboratory main building, an associated temperature-controlled outbuilding lab, and a hatchery are situated on J.N. “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge property within walking distance of Tarpon Bay and less than a mile and half to SCCF’s main headquarters.

Mission Statement

To investigate status and trends of area habitats and associated faunas and floras within the waters on and around the barrier islands of Sanibel-Captiva and adjacent localities.

Research Overview

Research currently conducted by laboratory scientists includes: (1) studies of marine, estuarine and near freshwater submerged aquatic vegetation (SAV) and mangrove populations, including their restoration and functioning; (2) red drift macroalgal coverage; (3) water quality remote sensing using River Estuary Coastal Observing Network (RECON), an instrument array composed of eight near real-time sensors deployed at locations within the Caloosahatchee estuary.

Research conducted at the laboratory is driven by critical management questions concerning water quality, estuary health, and the restoration of these resources. Data collected by the laboratory is used to better understand the current state of the waters surrounding Sanibel and Captiva and to make more informed decisions regarding the future of the estuary.