Wednesday, December 2, 6:00 p.m., NR 105 FOUR DARWINIAN THEMES ON THE ORIGIN, EVOLUTION AND PRESERVATION OF ISLAND LIFE Charles Darwin’s observations and insights continue to inspire nearly all scientists who are captivated by both the marvels and the perils of island life. I feature four themes inspired by Darwin’s singular insights: themes that may continue to provide valuable lessons for understanding the ecological and evolutionary development of insular biotas, and for conserving the natural character and evolutionary potential of all species restricted to isolated ecosystems (natural or anthropogenic). Thursday, December 3*, 3:00 p.m., ENGR 101 PATTERNS AND PARADOX OF LIFE’S MOST FUNDAMENTAL TRAIT I will describe patterns in variation of life’s most fundamental trait across space, time, and a diversity of organisms, primarily using empirical information from mammals and other vertebrates. I will then develop an integrative explanation for these patterns and preview ongoing and proposed studies designed to provide a more comprehensive understanding of the causal nature of these patterns and, in turn, more effective strategies for conserving biological diversity. Graduate Student Hosts: Jonathon Koch (Kochj@aggies.usu.edu), Christina Olson (christina.olson@aggiemail.usu.edu), and Seth Price (seth@pricepages.org). *Thursday’s seminar will be preceded by refreshments in the ENGR atrium at 2:30 p.m. **To schedule an appointment with Dr. Lomolino, please contact Stephanie White—x2555 (stephanie.white@usu.edu) |
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