Our line of research focuses on the field of conservation biology, with special attention to that of coastal wetlands and the interactions between human activities and biodiversity. An important part of the research is carried out, for reasons of proximity and relevance, in the Bahía de Cádiz Natural Park, Strait of Gibraltar and nearby coastal and marine systems. Among other aspects, this line includes:
1. Conservation and management of biodiversity in coastal wetlands.
2. Management and restoration of saltworks and aquaculture in a sustainable way and compatible with biodiversity.
3. Ecosystem services in coastal wetlands.
4. Biology of movement: migration, conservation and global change in marine and coastal ecosystems.
5. Involvement of birds in the dispersal of native and invasive species
6.Waterfowl as reservoirs and vectors of microorganisms, with an emphasis on antibiotic resistant bacteria
7. Reproductive trophic biology and population dynamics of coastal and marine birds.
8. Human impacts on biodiversity in coastal systems
9. Environmental education and awareness linked to coastal wetlands.
It is important to note that within this line methodologies are developed that allow, through biological monitoring, the environmental assessment of coastal systems, mainly those affected by human activities. The development of these studies has allowed to deepen the knowledge of natural and artificial coastal wetlands. The results have been applied to the conservation of biodiversity in protected natural areas and to the reduction of human impacts. The group is currently developing both international and national projects related to the improvement of these habitats and the study of their ecosystem services.