Re: [ECOLOG-L] effects of early spring on fish spawning?
Hi David, River herring (common name blue-back herring and alewife, anadromous Alosa species) have been spotted already far upstream and that is early for RI. Scott Ruhren, Ph.D Senior Director of Conservation Audubon Society of Rhode Island 12 Sanderson Road, Smithfield, RI 02917 Tel: 401-949-5454 ext. 3004 Fax: 401-949-5788 sruh...@asri.org Connecting People With Nature Stay informed all month long with eWing, Audubon's monthly e-newsletter. Follow us online: www.asri.org ~ Twitter ~ Facebook Consider supporting Audubon by making a donation today! -Original Message- From: Ecological Society of America: grants, jobs, news [mailto:ECOLOG-L@LISTSERV.UMD.EDU] On Behalf Of David Inouye Sent: Thursday, March 22, 2012 2:42 PM To: ECOLOG-L@LISTSERV.UMD.EDU Subject: [ECOLOG-L] effects of early spring on fish spawning? The Diane Rehm show on WAMU this morning featured an hour about the effects of the mild winter and early spring: http://thedianerehmshow.org/shows/2012-03-22/effects-mild-winter Audio recorded at: http://thedianerehmshow.org/audio-player?nid=15792 One question that came up was about the potential consequences of early spawning by largemouth bass and other fish. My guess was that there weren't likely to be potential consequences such as were experienced by plants, insects, and other animals in 2007, when an early warm spell in March like this year's was followed by a hard freeze in April. But I'd be interested to hear from aquatic/fish biologists who are more knowledgeable. David Inouye Dr. David W. Inouye, Professor Associate Chair, Director of Graduate Studies Dept. of Biology University of Maryland College Park, MD 20742-4415 Rocky Mtn. Biological Laboratory PO Box 519 Crested Butte, CO 81224 ino...@umd.edu 301-405-6946
Re: [ECOLOG-L] effects of early spring on fish spawning?
In my experience the question of whether or not fish populations are impacted by earlier spring depends, in part, on their behavior ie., migratory or sedentary. In general, sedentary species should experience less impacts because their entire ecosystem (i.e., a pond or a lake) is changing as a unit - ie., earlier spawn and early hatch date of fish eggs is matched by earlier timing of the spring plankton bloom so events are not desynchronized. For migratory species you encounter greater potential negative consequences. For example, Fraser River sockeye salmon are entering freshwater and reaching spawning grounds at earlier dates but spawning still occurs at the same time in the fall. Hence, adult sockeye are spending more time in freshwater, and this leads to premature exhaustion of energy reserves, longer times for disease to incubate, etc. Net result is greater pre-spawn mortality. A similar disconnect occurs during the downstream migration of young anadromous fishes -- their freshwater habitats are changing at a differnet rate than their marine environment, so young may arrive to the ocean before the ocean has reached sufficient productivity. Although not a precise example, the work of Holtby et al from Carnation Creek BC Canada serves as a good empirical example of how disruption of the timing between life history events has non-linear long term population consequences. Cheers, Michael Cooperman, PhD. -Original Message- From: Ecological Society of America: grants, jobs, news [mailto:ECOLOG-L@LISTSERV.UMD.EDU] On Behalf Of Scott Ruhren Sent: Friday, March 23, 2012 9:28 AM To: ECOLOG-L@LISTSERV.UMD.EDU Subject: Re: [ECOLOG-L] effects of early spring on fish spawning? Hi David, River herring (common name blue-back herring and alewife, anadromous Alosa species) have been spotted already far upstream and that is early for RI. Scott Ruhren, Ph.D Senior Director of Conservation Audubon Society of Rhode Island 12 Sanderson Road, Smithfield, RI 02917 Tel: 401-949-5454 ext. 3004 Fax: 401-949-5788 sruh...@asri.org Connecting People With Nature Stay informed all month long with eWing, Audubon's monthly e-newsletter. Follow us online: www.asri.org ~ Twitter ~ Facebook Consider supporting Audubon by making a donation today! -Original Message- From: Ecological Society of America: grants, jobs, news [mailto:ECOLOG-L@LISTSERV.UMD.EDU] On Behalf Of David Inouye Sent: Thursday, March 22, 2012 2:42 PM To: ECOLOG-L@LISTSERV.UMD.EDU Subject: [ECOLOG-L] effects of early spring on fish spawning? The Diane Rehm show on WAMU this morning featured an hour about the effects of the mild winter and early spring: http://thedianerehmshow.org/shows/2012-03-22/effects-mild-winter Audio recorded at: http://thedianerehmshow.org/audio-player?nid=15792 One question that came up was about the potential consequences of early spawning by largemouth bass and other fish. My guess was that there weren't likely to be potential consequences such as were experienced by plants, insects, and other animals in 2007, when an early warm spell in March like this year's was followed by a hard freeze in April. But I'd be interested to hear from aquatic/fish biologists who are more knowledgeable. David Inouye Dr. David W. Inouye, Professor Associate Chair, Director of Graduate Studies Dept. of Biology University of Maryland College Park, MD 20742-4415 Rocky Mtn. Biological Laboratory PO Box 519 Crested Butte, CO 81224 ino...@umd.edu 301-405-6946
[ECOLOG-L] PhD opportunity in Landscape Ecology
The Helmholtz-Centre for Environmental Research, Department of Computational Landscape Ecology (www.ufz.de/cle), invites applications for a PhD student in the field of Landscape Ecology. The position will be available as soon as possible and is limited to 3 years. The project seeks to analyze the effects of landscape complexity on the biocontrol-production functions in rice dominated agro-ecosystems. The position is part of the LEGATO project (www.legato-project.net) that investigates ecosystem functions and services in agricultural systems in South East Asia, with focus on regional land use intensity, biodiversity and potential impacts of future climate and land use change. The candidate is expected to develop statistical and simulation models to analyze interactions between habitat characteristics, agricultural pests and pest-controlling species using a range of field, GIS and remote sensing data. The candidate will closely cooperate with other researchers from the LEGATO project. Research tasks include: - Investigate the relationship between habitat complexity and diversity of species representative for the predator-prey system in rice field landscapes - Examine the effects of different land use change scenarios on predator-prey interactions in rice dominated ecosystems using a simulation model - Analyze the effects of landscape complexity on other ecosystem services and functions Requirements: - Master or diploma degree in ecology, geography, environmental systems, geoinformatics or a related field - Experience with statistical analysis (preferably in R), GIS and geocomputation - Very good written and oral communication skills in English We offer: - Excellent research opportunities within a highly interdisciplinary and an international team located in Leipzig, Germany - Funding through the Project LEGATO - Participation in the established Helmholtz Graduate School HIGRADE (www.higrade.ufz.de) - Salary according to the appropriate civil service level 13 (50%) TVöD. Further information can be provided by: Dr. Tomá Václavík, email: tomas.vacla...@ufz.de, phone: +49 341-235-1952 Women are encouraged to apply to increase their share in science and research. Physically handicapped persons will be favoured if they are equally qualified. Please send your complete application documents including a letter of motivation, curriculum vitae, degree certificates and three references (in English) under the appropriate code digit 29/2012 to: Helmholtz Centre for Environmental Research - UFZ, Personnel Department, PF 50 01 36, 04301, Leipzig, Germany, or by email as a single PDF document to: applicat...@ufz.de Closing date: until the position is filled
Re: [ECOLOG-L] Ecology terminology Re: [ECOLOG-L] definition of native
*There is no precise terminology*, and can never be, for many concepts in ecology. The problem is that reality presents us with continua, with gradients without clear boundaries. Physicists who study light, don't, as far as I know, argue about the definition of red; they accept the nature of the spectrum and work with it mathematically. When precision matters, they speak of frequency or wavelength. *In biology*, species and other taxa represent continuously varying frequencies of genes bundled temporarily into organisms. There are patterns in this bundling, (the type of bundle we call a horse looks a lot like the type of bundle we call a donkey or a mule), but we can waste a lot of time arguing about the boundaries. *Landforms are no simpler*, and often grade insensibly together. Can one be sure where steppe, taiga, and tundra start and stop, or forest, woodland, grassland and desert? Behavioral scientists came up with autism spectrum disorder in the face of one of their troublesome continua. On one level, most of us realize that these issues aren't worth fighting about, *but then the law and commerce get involved*. A species gets on the endangered list, or not. (Which once caused some creative whalers to invent a new species, the Pygmy Blue Whale. Very similar the the Great Blue, but smaller. And, strangely, younger...because they hadn't grown up yet. By the time you can prove such lies, a lot of animals die.) Now there is evidence that polar bears and grizzlies are the same species, by the criterion of being cross-fertile. *Even religion has something at stake *in believing in fictional boundaries. I have heard arguments about the kinds of animals named by Adam and Eve. Is the African elephant the same kind as the Indian elephant? The answer had critical logistical implications for Noah. I suppose that a physicist who runs a traffic light could argue that it wasn't really red, and show spectral tracings to prove it. My reason for mentioning these silly cases is to point out the danger of getting too hung up on terminology, and to encourage people to find alternatives to rigid labels. For instance, numerical taxonomy allows us to treat genetic or phenotypic variability in terms of cladograms (trees) without worrying about names, and perhaps schemes like Holdridge's life zones and various diversity indices do the same for ecology. While these have not gained acceptance at the level where they can be used in law (as far as I know), there may be hope for this. For instance, the public has embraced the concept of wind chill factor as a statistic more useful (when deciding what to wear) than mere temperature. *Getting back to the original question:* an appropriate answer for Is post oak native to Texas? need not be a mere yes or no. How about a detailed range map superimposed on a map showing political boundaries, perhaps with date information included? The viewer could decide for him/her self if a species whose range had one little projection into a corner of Texas should be considered native to Texas or not. It is always possible that different workers assembling the range data used different criteria for defining the species, but there is no avoiding that for historical data. *In summary:* let's use words, squishy or otherwise, when we're chatting, but when precision matters, let's present data that don't rely on artificial boundaries. Martin M. Meiss 2012/3/22 Wayne Tyson landr...@cox.net Ecolog and Ian, If the term is squishy, let's use more precise terminology . . . So what IS that precise terminology? WT - Original Message - From: Ian Ramjohn ramjo...@msu.edu To: ECOLOG-L@LISTSERV.UMD.EDU Sent: Friday, March 16, 2012 7:48 PM Subject: Re: [ECOLOG-L] Ecology terminology Re: [ECOLOG-L] definition of native I think we're missing the point here. The problem isn't with the definitions of native - it's an English word that's always going to have a range of meanings. In other words - it's a poor term for science. Is post oak native to Texas? is a less than ideal question, because the answer is binary - yes, or no. If you're really going to answer that question - as a scientist - you'd say that (some or all) of Texas lies within the (pre-settlement, historical, or whatever term you want to define) range of the species _based_on_[certain]_data_. With the obvious caveats, in the case of the US and Canada, that species ranges reflect ongoing migration since the end of the last ice age. Or, no, data suggest that TX is outside the native range of the species. Fighting over semantics or values is pointless. If the term is squishy, let's use more precise terminology, and be explicit about the uncertainty. Unless you're speaking to politicians, in which case you need to find a way to somehow convey an amount of certainty that can't be misconstrued, while still being nuanced enough that they can't (easily) turn what you say around to try to
[ECOLOG-L] Term Instructor Position
Unity College seeks a temporary Instructor for one semester to teach Marine Biology and, either Biology or Ecology courses. The position is for the Fall 2012 semester, beginning August 27th and ending December 17th. The instructor will teach two courses and their associated labs, including one section of Marine Biology and, either one section of first-year Biology or one section of Population and Community Ecology. For more information: http://www.unity.edu/AboutUnity/Jobs/FacultyJobListings.aspx
Re: [ECOLOG-L] Tannic stream chemistry.
Brian, I have been team teaching a Tropical Ecology course based on peer reviewed literature and other primary sources this spring. Tropical river systems was one of the topics we covered and we read the following article. It may not be everything you are looking for, but it might give you some place to start. Vegas-Vilarrúbia , T., J.E. Paolini, and J.G. Miragaya. 1988. Differentiation of Some Venezuelan Blackwater Rivers Based upon Physico-Chemical Properties of Their Humic Substances. Biogeochemistry 6:59-77. LaRoy LaRoy Brandt Department of Biology Truman State University 100 E Normal Kirksville, MO 63501 -Original Message- From: Ecological Society of America: grants, jobs, news [mailto:ECOLOG-L@LISTSERV.UMD.EDU] On Behalf Of Chalfant, Brian Sent: Friday, March 23, 2012 10:15 AM To: ECOLOG-L@LISTSERV.UMD.EDU Subject: [ECOLOG-L] Tannic stream chemistry. Estimable Ecologgers - Does anyone have any references on chemical characterization of tannic / blackwater streams? What are key chemical parameters that distinguish such streams? Dissolved organic carbon? pH? Alkali and alkaline earth metal cations? Something else? Some combination of these players? Are there different kinds of tannic streams? Visually, it's easy enough to see a stream looks like tea, but is there a suite of chemical parameters that correspond to this visual perception? Much obliged - Brian Brian A. Chalfant | -ologist Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection Rachel Carson State Office Building 400 Market Street | Harrisburg, PA 17101 Phone: 717.787.9639 | Fax: 717.772.3249 www.depweb.state.pa.ushttp://www.depweb.state.pa.us/ At what point in its course does the Mississippi become what the Mississippi means? - Thomas Stearns Eliot I can eat fifty eggs. - Lucas Jackson ... the ontogeny of a frog is an 'event,'... - J. S. Rowe 1. John called is true. 2. It is true that John called. - Karl Popper Just as I feared, her Buddhism has led directly to witchcraft. - Ned Flanders
[ECOLOG-L] Bamfield Marine Sciences Centre Naturalist Workshop
Bamfield Marine Sciences Centre Naturalist Workshop This workshop is aimed at kayak guides, camp leaders and interested naturalists who want to learn more about the biology and ecology of BC’s wild west coast. Our expert staff have years of experience and advanced degrees, so there will be something new for even the serious amateur naturalist. Discover how the the animals and plants of our coastal ecosystem interact and function, enhance your naturalist toolbox, and network with others passionate about the coast. Costs: $200 for one full day and two half-days. Includes workshop fees and all meals from dinner Friday through lunch Sunday. 12% HST will be added to all costs Accommodation: $108 per room per night. Rooms can be shared with up to 4 people. We can help facilitate room sharing. The not-so-fine print: Minimum enrollment 12, maximum 24. Deposit of 50% of final cost is required by March 20th. Information and registration: www.bms.bc.ca/pubed.html pub...@bms.bc.ca 250-728-3301 ext. 226
[ECOLOG-L] Job: Assistant Director Institute for Regional Conservation
Position Description: Founded in 1984, The Institute for Regional Conservation (IRC) is dedicated to the protection, restoration, and long term management of biodiversity on a regional basis, and to the prevention of regional extinctions of rare plants, animals and ecosystems. IRC is a standard setter in applied conservation science, utilizing deep expertise in ecologic and restoration management for species conservation across fragmented landscapes. An intellectual leader in protected areas and land management in South Florida, IRCs forward guard approach is now being tested in the Caribbean Basin and beyond. The Institute is a 501c3 organization. IRC seeks a dedicated, entrepreneurial leader to steward its mission and to oversee daily business operations. This entails leading staff to restore ecological communities and protect endangered species; fostering public awareness of IRCs programs; and deepening and extending collaboration, research, and networking among government, academic and private land-owner partners. The ideal candidate will have working knowledge of the science of restoration ecology, not for profit business practice, and experience with land management agency partnerships. The successful candidate will possess a recognized reputation in organizational management, proven leadership abilities, a high degree of autonomy and accountability while remaining a part of a larger team, a passion for biodiversity, clear evidence of successful working relationships with partners in both the public and private sector, and skills to represent the Institute effectively to stakeholders and to the public. Minimum qualifications include: 1) a masters in conservation science (or commensurate experience); 2) demonstrated leadership in a broad spectrum of business management domains; 3) excellent written and oral communication skills; 4) computer proficiency in MS Office, accounting, statistical, and ArcGIS software; 5) a proficiency in grant writing and reporting; and 6) a valid vehicle operators license, own vehicle and willingness to travel. Other formal management training (e.g. MBA or equivalent experience), online publishing, and wilderness travel experience are preferred. Applications should include: 1) a letter describing the applicant's qualifications and experience related to the position; 2) a curriculum vitae; 3) names and addresses of three references; and 4) a one-page writing sample such as an abstract for a grant proposal, published paper, or a press release. Please email all application materials as pdf attachments to robert.heinz...@gmail.com. The position is accountable to the Executive Director. The position requires living in Southeastern Florida. Responsibilities: · Day-to-day operational management and development of IRCs conservation programs, including coordinating teams, setting priorities, and advising senior management on needs to be addressed. · Liaise with contract partners and other stakeholders in the execution of projects, ensuring reliable invoicing, reporting, and relationship development. · Provide/oversee operations, including HR, IT, and finance. · Provide budgetary oversight and reporting to ED and Board of Directors. · Work with staff to develop and carry out effective fundraising, communication, education, display, and public outreach related to plant conservation. · Ensure application, acquisition of, and adherence to appropriate government permits and memoranda of understanding. See our website for further details about our program: http://www.regionalconservation.org/http://www.regionalconservation.org/ Salary commensurate with experience; IRC is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Review of applications will begin on April 15, 2012, but applications will be accepted until the position is filled.
[ECOLOG-L] IGERT Program Coordinator
IGERT Program Coordinator Position: We are searching for a program coordinator for our interdisciplinary graduate program in Genetic Engineering and Society: The case of transgenic pests. The program is funded by the National Science Foundation through its Integrative Graduate Education Research Traineeships program (IGERT). The program coordinator is responsible for the day to day administration under the supervision of the program director. Salary: $33,000 to $36,000 Responsibilities: Recruitment of students: *Advertise our program through email/phone contacts with faculty and administrators at other colleges/universities. *Maintain and enhance Website. *Communicate with potential applicants and connect these applicants with appropriate IGERT faculty. *Coordinate application process with PhD graduate programs in four NCSU colleges. *Maintain communication with applicants throughout the recruiting period. *Develop and maintain filing system for applications. *Arrange student visits in coordination with Co-PIs. Course arrangements: *Work with course instructors to make arrangements for July-August course in Latin America. * Provide logistic course support from the US during the course. *Assist in developing materials for the Latin America course as well as courses taught on campus. *Assist with logistics of campus courses Student and program coordination: *Assist students with applying for NC residency, fellowship payments, and coordinating IGERT and departmental responsibilities. *Track appointments of graduate students to the program. *Maintain files and progress reports for all students *Coordinate logistics of student group projects *Coordinate logistics for outside seminar speakers * Make arrangements for IGERT symposia, meetings, and social events *Develop materials for annual NSF assessment and external evaluation of program *Assist executive committee members with tasks. *Assist subcommittees with tasks. Financial: *Set up fellowship payments through the graduate school *Track program finances through graduate school and by use of online tracking system *Keep the IGERT director updated on finances Required Qualifications: Background in biological and social sciences Excellent interpersonal skills Excellent verbal and written communication skills Computer technology skills Desired Qualifications: Experience in coordinating similar programs International experience Spanish Contact: fred_go...@ncsu.edu or see NCSU position 00102546 AA/EOE. In addition, NC State welcomes all persons without regard to sexual orientation. Persons with disabilities requiring accommodations in the application and interview process please call (919) 515-3148. Final candidates are subject to criminal sex offender background checks. Some vacancies also require credit or motor vehicle checks. If highest degree is from an institution outside of the U.S., final candidates are required to have their degree verified at www.wes.org. Degree must be obtained prior to start date. NC State University participates in E-Verify. Federal law requires all employers to verify the identity and employment eligibility of all persons hired to work in the United States.
