Dr. Katie Marshall
Associate Professor, University of British Columbia, Department of Zoology
PI: Prof. Kara Layton
November 8, 2024
12 to 1 PM
IB 140 & Zoom
Title: Hot topics in 'cool' adaptations: how Canada's invertebrates survive the winter
Abstract: In Canada's winters, animals must contend with subzero temperatures. Some species migrate, others find warm microhabitats, and yet others just develop the impressive ability to either prevent or survive ice crystal growth at very low temperatures. Our lab studies the ability of boreal forest pest eastern spruce budworm as well as West Coast intertidal invertebrates to survive and thrive in subzero conditions. We work on everything from the biochemistry of ice binding proteins and the biosynthesis of cryoprotectants through to the impacts of winters on population growth and distribution. In a world where winters are changing rapidly, a better understanding of cold and its impacts will help us make better predictions for species ranges in the future.
Visit the Marshall Lab website to learn more about Katie and her research!