How Do Humans Influence Evolution? Studying the Impacts of Human-made Dams on Endangered Trout Anatomy

Humans impact ecosystems in a variety of ways, with urbanization, climate change, and infrastructure projects posing unique challenges organisms must overcome. In freshwater river systems, human-made dams pose major risks to endangered fish species, disrupting habitats in many ways. Jackie Galvez’s research investigates the influence of damming on one important aspect of fish biology: anatomy. By using museum collections to study fish body shape and skeletal anatomy, we can better understand how fish adapt to human influences, better informing conservation efforts for California native species. Bring your questions and your curiosity!

Speaker: Jackie Galvez, UC Berkeley