Project Overview
Field Ecology of Earthworms
Department(s)
Biology
Environmental Studies
Abstract
Earthworm communities in the Northeast consist of a mix of native species and exotic species from Europe and Asia. Although we know a great deal about exotic species from Europe, we know relatively little about the other two groups of species. This work aims to fill gaps in our understanding of native earthworms and Asian exotic species in the pheretimoid group. The work will include a mix of field and lab data collection and data analysis. Some of the field work will occur in remote locations, and some short-term travel is required.
Student Qualifications
Applicants should be curious about animal ecology and physiology. Prior coursework in organismal biology (e.g., BIOL 181) is beneficial but is not required. Students should be comfortable handling earthworms and spending time in the field, including time during adverse conditions (e.g., hot, rainy).
Number of Student Researchers
4 students
Project Length
10 weeks