Charlene L. McCord

Papers

Total Citations

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About

Charlene L. McCord is a marine biologist whose research centers on the behavior and ecology of deep-sea fishes, with a particular focus on the enigmatic hagfish. Her major contribution lies in elucidating the burrowing mechanics of the Atlantic hagfish (*Myxine limosa*), a species that inhabits muddy substrates at depths exceeding 100 meters. In her 2024 study, McCord documented a previously undescribed biphasic burrowing process, revealing how these animals use a combination of body undulations and mucus secretion to penetrate and stabilize within sediment. This work, which has garnered 3 citations, provides critical insight into the life history of a poorly understood deep-sea scavenger. By analyzing video footage from submersibles, McCord has advanced our understanding of how *M. limosa* utilizes burrowing for predator avoidance and foraging, filling a significant gap in hagfish behavioral ecology. Her findings not only highlight the adaptive strategies of deep-sea organisms but also underscore the importance of direct observation in uncovering hidden behaviors. McCord’s research continues to illuminate the secret lives of these ancient vertebrates.