Our River Ecology Laboratory investigates large rivers to understand how temporal, spatial, and structural heterogeneity maintains biodiversity and fisheries productivity. Ongoing research in coastal rivers of the southeastern United States explores the links between land use, floodplain biodiversity, and aquatic food webs. Research in the Amazon and Pantanal regions of South America examines the evolutionary origins and ecological significance of fish-forest interactions. Fisheries ecology research evaluates drivers of fisheries productivity to enhance food security and sustainability. Our findings inform monitoring, restoration, and climate resilience initiatives for riverine ecosystems.