Rouane Brokensha

Affiliation

University of Cape Town, South Africa

Shipboard training

Research subject

Marine Biologist, crustacean taxonomy and ecology, benthic and microbial diversity and functional ecology

Supervisor

Professor William Froneman

Short CV

I am a South African-born marine scientist and PhD candidate at the University of Cape Town, South Africa. My doctoral research investigates the ecological role of the Cape mantis shrimp (Pterygosquilla capensis) in the southern Benguela upwelling system, using complementary molecular, isotopic, and morphological lines of evidence to characterize species interactions and functional roles.
Alongside my academic research, I work as a research associate and consultant on long-term biodiversity monitoring initiatives in South Africa’s kelp forests, as well as on international marine conservation and plastics policy projects. These roles have provided opportunities to bridge scientific research with environmental management and policy development.
I have participated in several international research expeditions across the Atlantic and Indian Oceans, including cruises aboard the R/V Roger Revelle and the OceanXplorer. Most recently, I joined the WHIRLS project (2026) aboard the Marion Dufresne, investigating the microbial diversity and functional ecology associated with small-scale ocean eddies and currents in the Southern Ocean. Through this work, I hope to better understand the links between ocean circulation, microbial processes, marine biodiversity, and biogeochemical cycling, and how these interactions influence broader climate systems.
Through my research, I aim to contribute to a deeper understanding of marine ecosystem functioning and the impacts of environmental change on ocean biodiversity.

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