Prof. Jack W. Fell
RSMAS/MBF
University of Miami
4600 Rickenbacker Causeway
Miami, FL 33149
Telephone: 305.421.4603
Fax: 305.421.4600
jfell@rsmas.miami.edu

Field and laboratory research on the role of fungi in marine food webs. Field studies have been in oceanic and near shore regions. Open ocean research has examined the distribution of yeasts relative to physical and biological characteristics of the Atlantic, Pacific, Indian and Antarctic Oceans. Near shore studies concentrate on the role of fungi in decomposition processes in the mangrove detrital system, a major nutrient source in tropical food webs. Laboratory studies examine mating genetics and molecular genetics of basidiomycetous yeasts as a measure of fungal population diversity. Molecular systematics is being adapted for rapid identification of marine and terrestrial microbes using techniques such as suspension arrays and electrochemistry.