Fish-People

General research interest in reef fish ecology, with a background as a field ecologist studying connectivity, seascape ecology and herbivory, and its effects on ecosystem function. Investigating effects of land-based run-off (sedimentation and nutrients) on fish herbivory and fish distributions, and how runoff may impact coastal food webs and alter trophodynamics on reefs.

Current Hawaiʻi Sea Grant Fisheries Fellow and 2026 Smith Conservation Research Fellow. Research integrates organismal thermal tolerance and habitat suitability models to forecast shifts in the ecology of coral reef fish and macroinvertebrates as anthropogenic forces alter reef habitats.

This work aims to inform adaptive invasive species management strategies that enhance subsistence fish production. I strive to apply my findings to fisheries management to sustain the livelihoods and identities of island nations, whether it be my family in the Philippines or Native Hawaiians or the millions of others who depend on the health of their islands' surrounding waters for economic security, food, and, importantly, joy.

Early-career scientist with a passion for reef fish ecology. Interested in combining field and laboratory techniques to investigate how marine organisms respond behaviorally and physiologically to environmental stress, including temperature, water quality, pollution, and storm surges.

Recently defended M.S. thesis and returned as Ph.D. student. Research focuses on Native Hawaiian imu (traditional fish houses) and their influence on juvenile fish behavior and reef fish community assembly. Integrating Indigenous ecological knowledge with modern marine science.

Originally from San Diego, California. Completed bachelor’s degree at UH Mānoa and interned at the Johansen Fish Resilience Lab. Pursuing master’s degree with a focus on the impacts of sediment on herbivorous reef fish.

B.S. Marine Biology with a Minor in Oceanography from Cal Poly Humboldt. Former Scientific Diver at Northcoast Evaluation of Reef Ecosystems Organization performing long-term Marine Protected Area monitoring surveys. Experience as Field Research Technician with the California Collaborative Fisheries Research Program. Background as marine mechanic, aquarist, and carpenter. Collaborating with NOAA Fisheries on lab and field-based operations.