Biology Weekly Seminar - Dr. Diane Debinski

Combining Observational and Experimental Studies to Examine Plant and Insect Responses to Climate Change

Montane meadows are diverse with respect to their plant communities and are important food sources for a diverse group of herbivores, from small insects to large mammals. Temperature increases associated with climate change will likely lead to a decrease in the duration of snow cover in these areas, and this change could affect the ecology of the systems. Ecological responses could include shifts in species abundance and distribution patterns. 

Dr. Debinsky’s group are quantifying how these systems will respond to climate change.