Tuesday, April 9th
In-Person Meeting
Virtual Zoom Option
7:30 PM EST
Why nothing in ecology or evolution makes sense, except in the light of the other: Testing Eco-Evo Dynamics Through the Beak of the Red-Shouldered Soapberry Bug
Dr. Mattheau Comerford
University of Massachusetts Boston
Abstract: Eco-evolutionary dynamics refer to the cyclic interaction between evolution and ecology, where an organism’s ecological interactions can influence the evolution of a trait, and conversely, evolutionary changes can impact ecological interactions. Due to the often contrasting time scales at which ecology and evolution operate, the rapid life history of insects offers a unique opportunity to study these crucial feedback loops. In this context, I have utilized the red-shouldered soapberry bug (Jadera haematoloma) to investigate eco-evolutionary theory from both perspectives. Firstly, I explored a less-studied form of evolution known as spatial sorting. Secondly, I described the first known example of a hemipteran insect acting as both a plant-pollinator and a seed-predator.
NOTICE: We will be holding hybrid meetings to accommodate audience members from around the world.
For those able to attend, we will have an informal dinner at 6:00 pm at Cambridge Common Restaurant with the speaker, followed by our formal meeting (~7:30 – 9:00 pm) in room MCZ 101 of the Museum of Comparative Zoology (there will be signs to help direct). The meeting will begin with club announcements, followed by a 60-minute presentation by the invited speaker and Q&A. Membership is open to all.
