معرفی
Dr. J. Wesley Neal is a Research Professor in the College of Forest Resources at Mississippi State University. His work focuses on tropical and temperate fisheries management, aquatic vegetation, bioenergetics, and angler recruitment. He has extensive experience in cooperative research with agencies and outreach programs.
Education:
- Ph.D. in Zoology, North Carolina State University
- M.S. in Wildlife and Fisheries Science, North Carolina State University
- B.S. in Forestry & Wildlife, Virginia Polytechnic Institute
Research Interests span fisheries management, pond ecosystems, and climate change impacts on tropical fisheries. His work integrates bioenergetics modeling, aquatic vegetation control, and community resilience post-disturbance (e.g., Hurricane Maria). Recent publications highlight temperature and salinity effects on juvenile fish physiology, invasive species risk assessment, and science communication strategies.
Publications emphasize tropical fish ecology, reservoir management, and climate adaptation. His 2021-2023 studies include tarpon survival, peacock bass bioenergetics, and global invasive species screening, reflecting interdisciplinary and applied research trends.
Awards & Honors
- Outstanding Extension/Outreach Award (American Fisheries Society)
- Gold/Silver Educational Materials Awards (ANREP, The Wildlife Society)
- Jack F. Dequine Best Fisheries Paper (Multiple awards)
- Conservation Education Awards for Mississippi Landowner Handbook
Students include graduate researcher Kevin Jones. He actively mentors in fisheries ecology and management, with fieldwork in Puerto Rico and Cambodia.
