Join us for the exciting presentation “Uncovering the Hidden Biodiversity of Streams through Environmental DNA” by Dr. Tiffany Garcia. Learn about what environmental DNA is and how it is changing the world of research. After or before learning about the science and Dr. Garcia, come visit us at a field station to participate in an eDNA science experiment that Dr. Garcia organized for our field stations!
Freshwaters illustrated will also be showing short films over wildlife and water! Possible topics of shorts will include: March of the Newts, lamprey, bull trout, the Oregon chub recovery or Oregon spotted frogs.
(Brief Presentation Introduction): Conservation efforts depend on knowing where animals spend their time, but what if some animals are hard to catch? Dr. Tiffany Garcia will talk about a new aquatic survey method that detects animal DNA floating in the water, which lets us track where, when, and how many animals are present without having to catch them. Information on the hidden biodiversity in our streams and ponds is incredibly useful for tracking the movement of invasive species invasive species
An invasive species is any plant or animal that has spread or been introduced into a new area where they are, or could, cause harm to the environment, economy, or human, animal, or plant health. Their unwelcome presence can destroy ecosystems and cost millions of dollars.
Learn more about invasive species , monitoring animals of conservation concern, and learning about species interactions that are new to science.
Dr. Tiffany Garcia is a Professor in the Department of Fisheries and Wildlife at Oregon State University. Her research interests lie in quantifying the direct effects of environmental stressors on amphibian populations as well as the indirect effects on associated aquatic pond and stream communities. Her overall goal is to dissect the mosaic of factors influencing aquatic communities, population genetics, and amphibian life histories across landscapes.
Freshwaters Illustrated creates immersive visual stories that introduce viewers to the beauty, wonder, and value of freshwater ecosystems. They produce short format films for web and feature films for broadcast and education.