Sediment Secrets: What the Lagoon's Tiniest Animals Are Teaching Us About Lagoon Health

Season 3 of One Lagoon, One Voice: The Podcast is here! Follow on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Youtube, or wherever else you listen to podcasts to catch a new episode every Tuesday!

Dive into Episode 22 of One Lagoon, One Voice as Daniel Kolodny, COO of the Indian River Lagoon National Estuary Program, sits down with Dr. Holly Sweat of the Smithsonian Marine Station. Together, they explore the hidden world of infauna — the tiny bottom-dwelling organisms that play a massive role in the health of the Indian River Lagoon’s sediments and ecosystems. From burrowing worms to microscopic flatworms, discover how these unsung creatures oxygenate the seafloor, recycle nutrients, and pave the way for seagrass recovery and healthier waters.

Dr. Sweat shares fascinating insights into newly discovered species, the surprising resilience of infauna in challenging conditions, and why these organisms are critical indicators of environmental health. Whether you’re passionate about marine biology, lagoon restoration, or biodiversity conservation, this episode will change the way you see the lagoon — starting from the ground up.

Follow Dr. Holly Sweat and her lab’s work on Instagram at @SmithsonianBenthicEcology or visit the Smithsonian Marine Station website. 

Check out the Indian River Lagoon Species Inventory.

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