Much of my research focuses on the extensive area of oxygen-depleted bottom waters on the Louisiana continental shelf. Our multi-disciplinary and multi-institutional studies have documented the distribution and dynamics of these low oxygen environments since 1985. During 1990, we completed a successful deployment of an instrument mooring with current meters, a continuously recording near-bottom oxygen meter, and particle traps. The data retrieved are the first time series available from the extensive hypoxic area. The benthic community response to hypoxic water masses is also a current research theme. Cruises in mid-summer of 1989-1991 have provided a unique opportunity to use a remotely operated vehicle (ROV) to investigate the behavior of demersal species in relationship to hypoxic water masses, the behavioral modifications of benthic organisms to hypoxia, and the extent of sulfur-oxidizing bacterial mats. My research in animal/sediment relationships has been conducted on the continental shelves in the influence of the Mississippi River and the Huanghe (Yellow River). Characterization of the benthic environments in both these areas have included typical benthic community analyses, stable isotopes to trace food webs, ancillary sedimentary characteristics, xradiography, sediment pigments and biogenic silica. Collaborative work with LSU and LUMCON colleagues is directed to benthic-pelagic coupling and carbon flux to the benthos. In other areas, three major studies have been completed on the fate and effects of produced waters (oilfield brines) discharged in coastal environments of the northwestern Gulf of Mexico. I also conduct research on the early life stages of coastal decapod crustacean species in both laboratory and field studies.