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Employment and Research Listings
Predator-induced phenotypic plasticity in Trinidadian guppies
Phenotypic plasticity is defined as the capacity for a single genotype or individual to produce multiple phenotypes (i.e. physical appearances) in response to different environmental conditions. In this study, we investigate the role of predator-induced changes in the chemical environment on patterns of phenotypic plasticity in behavior and morphology. We use Trinidadian guppies (Poecilia reticulata) and their common predator the pike cichlid (Crenichicila alta) as a model system. Guppies possess specialized club cells in their skin that when broken open release a chemical alarm substance. Pike cichlids also release a chemical signal, that in combination with feeding upon guppies, result in a chemical environment with a strong signature of high mortality. In nature, guppies either occur in headwater streams without predators or in downstream streams with many predators. In guppy populations without predators, males develop bright colors that are used in attracting females, whereas in populations with predators males develop dull colors which are thought to reduce drawing the attention of predators. In the research proposed here, we are rearing out second generation lab born fish in the presence or absence of these predator cues. Specifically, we are investigating how the chemical environment alters male coloration and female mate preference. Our experiments will compare the preference of females for males that have developed in the two chemical environments. We test the prediction that males will develop less coloration and females will prefer dull males in the presence of the predator cue, whereas in the absence of the cue males will develop brighter colors and females will prefer brighter males. The results of this study will have important implications for our understanding of the role plasticity plays in the initial colonization of new environments.
Prerequisites
evolution, genetics, behavior
Contact Information
Dr. Ghalambor (
cameron1@colostate.edu)
Student Research Assistant Position - Fall 2009, Spring and Summer 2010
The McKay lab in BSPM (Plant evolutionary genetics laboratory) is
seeking an undergraduate student to assist in ecological research techniques. The successful applicant will learn plant growth and care techniques as well as take part in plant physiological data generation. Duties you will be trained for include plant care, growth measurements, sample preparation for isotopic analysis, ecophysiological measurements on plants (e.g. gas exchange, water relations), and general lab maintenance tasks. Some data entry, programming, and data quality control is also part of our research, so experience/interest in this area is a plus. The student assistant will work closely with graduate students and postdoctoral fellows. This position is available immediately and continues through summer semester 2010, with the prospects of continuing through your undergraduate studies.
This position is available for work study students. We are looking for a work study student who can work independently, is highly responsible, and shows interest in plant science and/or ecology.
Please send a one page resume and cover letter as a single pdf file to
Barbara.Gibson@Colostate.edu. Also, please send the confirmation for your work-study award from your RAMWeb page to the listed e-mail address.
Colorado State University is an equal opportunity/affirmative action employer and complies with all Federal and Colorado State laws, regulations, and executive orders regarding affirmative action requirements. The Office of Equal Opportunity is located in 101 Student Services. In order to assist Colorado State University in meeting its affirmative action responsibilities, ethnic minorities, women, and other protected class members are encouraged to apply and to so identify themselves.
