Horticulture & Related FieldsTori Guarino

Hidden Layers of Saltmarshes: Uncovering the Genetic, Microbial, and Economic Foundations of Spartina- Based Living Shorelines

My doctoral research at the University of Florida examines how plant source genetics and soil microbial communities influence the growth and resilience of Spartina alterniflora used in living shoreline restoration. As restoration strategies gain prominence as an effective tool for mitigating salt marsh and wetland loss, it is essential to evaluate how restored systems can successfully mimic the structural and functional ecosystem services of natural wetlands that are lost upon degradation or destruction. My work examines how variation in plant source, genetic diversity, seasonal seed set, and soil physiochemical and microbial properties across natural, restored, and donor marshes influences restoration potential and plant performance in the field. By evaluating how these factors interact with nursery production practices and seed-based restoration strategies, I aim to strengthen the native plant supply chain and improve the quality and resilience of plant material used in coastal restoration.