Gustav Paulay

Gustav Paulay is the Curator of Invertebrate Zoology at the Florida Museum of Natural History and an Adjunct Professor of Biology at the University of Florida. His research focuses on marine biodiversity, biogeography, and systematics of invertebrates, particularly in tropical regions, coral reefs, and the North Pacific.

His work includes large-scale biodiversity surveys ("bioblitzes") and genetic studies to document species diversity and test historical diversification hypotheses. Recent projects involve collaborations in the Arabian Peninsula and the North East Pacific, examining environmental impacts on species distribution and evolution.

• NSF grants for digitizing marine invertebrates and mollusks
• Active field programs in the Red Sea, NE Pacific, and Pacific Islands

Paulay emphasizes the urgency of documenting pre-human biodiversity before climate change and human activities erase it. His lab integrates morphological, genetic, and ecological data, with a focus on sea cucumbers, crabs, and reef organisms.