Trained as a shellfish ecologist and wetland ecologist, most of Danielle’s research studies have focused on the physiological ecology of filter-feeding animals and their trophic interactions in aquatic ecosystems. Suspension-feeding animals such as bivalves (oysters, mussels, clams) and zooplankton (cladocerans, copepods) are of widespread interest for many reasons. In most aquatic systems, suspension-feeders are functional dominant consumers that feed at the base of the food chain and are crucial for supporting production by secondary consumers (e.g., fish), maintaining high water quality, and some are commercially important (oysters, clams). They also represent some of the world’s leading bioindicators for environmental assessment (e.g. Mussel Watch) and toxicity testing (e.g., bioassays). One active area of research is shellfish restoration, especially freshwater mussels which are the nation’s most imperiled animals. Danielle currently serves as science director for the Partnership for the Delaware Estuary (PDE), and National Estuary program. In that role, Danielle is also engaged in research on climate change, wetland monitoring and assessment, living shorelines, oyster restoration, and assessing the many ecosystem services furnished by wetland and shellfish communities. Kreeger has been on the Drexel faculty since 1994. She had previously worked as a scientist for the Plymouth Marine Laboratory in the United Kingdom (1992-1994), and was associate curator for the Academy of Natural Sciences in Philadelphia (1994-2004).

Physiological ecology, ecosystem services and restoration of suspension-feeding bivalves; ecology and restoration of coastal wetlands; climate change