Research at the StationLabs & EquipmentAquatics
Mesocosm Tanks
A river you can set the temperature of: six Living Stream® units and a recirculating chiller-heater for experiments under naturalistic yet controlled conditions.
Our state-of-the-art mesocosm tank system provides a controlled environment for studying aquatic ecosystems, species interactions, and ecological processes. Housed in our dedicated lab space, we have six Living Stream® units, along with a water recirculating system that functions as both a chiller and heater, allowing precise temperature regulation for a wide range of research applications.
Set the tank
Holding steady
Drag the set point. The recirculating system cools or warms the water to match it.
What the tanks are for
Naturalistic, yet controlled
These mesocosm tanks offer researchers and students a unique opportunity to conduct experiments under naturalistic yet controlled conditions—ideal for studies on aquatic biodiversity, climate change impacts, and ecological dynamics. Whether investigating freshwater species or testing conservation strategies, our system supports cutting-edge ecological research in the heart of the Southern Appalachians.
A Plant Hidden by Water
Grant-in-Aid researcher Jake Thompson recreates the Little River’s currents in living stream tanks to learn how a threatened aquatic plant grows, flowers, and might be saved.
Highlands Biological Station is a center of Western Carolina University.