Quenton Tuckett

Research Assistant Scientist, Aquatic Ecology and Non-Native Species

Quenton Tuckett began researching non-native species in 2013 at the Tropical Aquaculture Laboratory (TAL) in Ruskin. Prior to his appointment at the University of Florida, Quenton was a Ph.D. student at University of Maine. His dissertation research examined the relationship between eutrophication and invasion of non-native White Perch (Morone americana). These studies were focused on determining the ecological causes and consequences of trait divergence in invasive White Perch.

Quenton’s past research also includes examining the ecological implications of disturbance, eutrophication, harvest, and wildfire, on aquatic ecosystems, eco-evolutionary dynamics, and ecological stoichiometry theory.

Quenton’s role at the TAL is primarily research-based, but also includes the mentoring of undergraduate and graduate students. Quenton also provides support to the ornamental aquaculture industry by informing aquaculture Best Management Practices, supporting aquaculture research at the lab, and spreading awareness about the ornamental aquaculture industry.

• Research Interests

  Current research interests include:

  • Ecological and evolutionary factors that limit/promote the persistence and establishment of non-native fishes
  • Non-native poeciliids, Green Swordtail (Xiphophorus hellerii), Southern Platyfish (Xiphophorus maculatus), and Pike Killifish (Belonesox belizanus), as model organisms in the study of invasion dynamics
  • Assessment of risks associated with the trade in aquatic organisms
  • Reducing the environmental impact of aquaculture through examination of aquaculture Best Management Practices for non-native species

• Education

  • PhD, Applied Population Biology, University of London, UK, 1997
  • Diplom (MS), Biology with Mathematics, Kiel University, Germany, 1993