Michael Nannini

Michael Nannini is a Fisheries/Aquatic Ecologist at the Illinois Natural History Survey (INHS), part of the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign. His research focuses on freshwater ecosystem dynamics in Illinois, with emphasis on sportfish behavior and invasive species management.

Research Interests

Dr. Nannini's work centers on critical fisheries challenges:

• Largemouth bass and bluegill behavioral ecology in changing environments
• Invasive carp deterrence strategies and ecology
• Climate change impacts on freshwater fish populations
• Predator-prey dynamics in Midwestern lakes and rivers
• Field-based sportfish management techniques

Publication Trends

His 2020-2024 research demonstrates experimental rigor in addressing invasive species threats and climate impacts. Key themes include electric barrier efficacy against carp, temperature-driven behavioral shifts in bass, and predator-prey interactions as natural control mechanisms. These studies directly inform Illinois fisheries management practices through field-tested solutions.

Professional Context

As an INHS researcher, Nannini contributes to statewide fisheries monitoring programs and collaborates with University of Illinois colleagues like David Wahl and James Parkos on applied conservation projects within Illinois waterways.