Xochitl Clare

Biography

I am first generation Latina African American with island heritage--where the importance of life at sea is in our folktales, music, and food. While most of the world's resources come from the sea, we are only recently learning about how climate change poses a threat to all that the ocean gives. Growing up in a low-income Latino neighborhood in Southern California, I have firsthand experience with socioeconomic barriers associated with interacting with the marine world. However, my background in both marine biology and the performing arts empowers me with insight on how to increase public engagement in marine sciences. Today, in the lab and at sea, I investigate how climate change effects important fished species. Using my multicultural background and interdisciplinary lens, I connect with the public to improve our relationship with our blue backyards.

Research

I study the effects of climate change on fisheries and use my cultural and artistic lens to make nature more accessible.