Kadas Nexus

Leon H. Charney School of Marine Sciences, based at the University of Haifa, recently inaugurated two new long-term marine ecological research stations which focus on the Levantine Sea region at its doorstep. The first facility, named the Morris Khan Marine Research Station, is located in Kibbutz Sdot Yam about 44 kilometers south of Haifa and adjacent to Caesarea. The second lab opened in late 2016 and is named the Top Predator Laboratory - this centre focuses on apex predator distribution (including dolphins, sharks, rays, and tunas) in Ashdod, Israel. The laboratories focus on coastal water research and monitoring of the ecology and species in shallow seas, as well as anthropogenic impact on the marine environment. The Israeli coastal region is witness to accelerated development projects along the coastline, and a massive exploitation of marine resources never before experienced in our region and nation. These projects, coupled with the effects of climate change and other local polluting factors, are quickly changing our local fauna and flora from the shallow zones to the deep abyssal zones. The new research center will gather baseline information and provide ongoing monitoring and analysis of critical marine biology and ecological data. Recently, the Crown Family and the Helmsley Charitable Trust has provided a generous donation towards monitoring and biodiversity research to be conducted at the Morris Khan Marine Research Station. To accomplish these goals, the facilities will be equipped with controlled seawater flow and biological experimentation systems required for aquaculture and renewable energy-related research. The marine station will also be equipped with research vessels that serve as diving platforms for coastal waters research. Other smaller laboratories are equipped with facilities for dissection, necropsies, and areas dedicated for graduate and visiting researchers to sit. Please visit our site for more information