Michael Borbolla
Fields of Interest: Aquatic Resource Management, Social Ecological Systems, Conservation, Environmental Justice, Urban Ecology
Current Projects:
- Interdisciplinary study on introduced peafowl in South Florida, USA
- Ethnographic Study on Urban Fishing in the Miami River (FL, USA)
- Long-Term Analysis of Angler Satisfaction in Biscayne National Park (FL, USA)
- Social-Economic Analysis of Whaling and Whale-Watching in St. Vincent
- Mixed-Method Evaluation of Whaling’s Importance to St. Vincent
Background: Michael Borbolla, a Cuban ecologist from Miami, is a Ph.D. student in the Earth Systems Science program at Florida International University. Under the guidance of Dr. Elizabeth Anderson in the Tropical Rivers Lab, his dissertation research focuses on the management of aquatic resources in south Florida and the Caribbean. Michael is affiliated with FIU's CREST Center, and contributes towards their ecosystem level assessment focus area. Beyond academic positions, Michael is an Emerge Fellow for the Society for Freshwater Science, where he works to amplify the principles of diversity, equity, and inclusion in freshwater scientific endeavors.
In his undergraduate years, Michael explored of the impact of mercury on juvenile bull sharks within the Florida coastal everglades. His commitment to environmental research led him to other collaborations and projects with the National Park Service, where he carried out extensive fieldwork in areas like Biscayne National Park and Big Cypress National Preserve. At Zoo Miami, Michael delved into the study of invertebrate communities within gopher tortoise habitats and burrows. By leveraging the diverse ecosystems of South Florida throughout his research experiences, Michael has cultivated a versatile skillset that positions him uniquely in the realm of ecological studies, priming him for multifaceted contributions in his current and future endeavors.
Contact: mborb005@fiu.edu
Active Project Details
Social-Ecological Impacts of Peafowl in Coconut Grove
Indian Peafowl are emblematic of the Coconut Grove community despite being non-native. We work on quantifying their population dynamics and community sentiments to provide recommendations for management.
Social Research Methods in Biscayne National Park
Biscayne National Park relies heavily on recreational fishing surveys when monitoring fish population dynamics within their park. However, their methodologies have remained unchanged for nearly 50 years. I examine presumed correlations that are regularly cited in annual reports to see if data supports them.
Urban Fishing Along the Miami River
Existing management plans along the Miami River promote commercial and residential development, but little attention is paid to local fishing communities. This study uncovers the stories and practices of locals who depend on the Miami River to remedy food insecurity, emotional health, and social wellbeing.