LOS PENASQUITOS LAGOON - CSUF
Spring 2016 - Present
Southern California coastal wetland evolution: Using the geologic record to understand the shift from a late Holocene oyster reef to salt marsh​
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Ostrea lurida is the only oyster species native to the US Pacific coast. Although this species was once common throughout southern California, the past 200 years have seen a serious decline in abundance. Recent restorative efforts have targeted anthropogenic influences, but within the recent geologic record there is evidence of oyster decline that pre-dates human interference. Evidence of paleo-oyster communities has been observed as buried shell layers within modern salt marshes. Therefore, in order to improve management and restoration of this fishery, we must also understand the natural drivers that may adversely affect oysters in the region. In order to do this, we are investigating the evolution of a southern California salt marsh that once supported an oyster reef community during the Late Holocene.
NORTH SLOPE, AKÂ - KECK GEOLOGY CONSORTIUM
Fall, 2015
I completed an independent research project interpreting fine-scale sedimentary structures and quantifying bioturbation in samples from northern Alaska that were deposited during the Late Cretaceous. My findings were consistent with previous work in the North Slope, showing a prograding deltaic system. In contrast to other outcrops of the same formation, there was minimal biologic activity, which may suggest rapid currents or decreased oxygen levels at the time of deposition.
COSTA RICA - ORGANIZACIÓN PARA ESTUDIOS TROPICALES
Spring, 2015
Spring semester of my junior year in undergrad was spent in a research-based biology program in Costa Rica. I completed two independent projects:
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A study based in the Palo Verde National Park focused on the relationship between the pit-building behavior of antlion larvae and the grain size of their surrounding sediment, as an example of predator decisions for trap location. My research found that antlion larvae prefer fine grained sand regardless of their size, and that they will even seek out finer sand for pit-building.
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Mate choice in female Dendrobates pumilio, specifically the morphotype that resides at the La Selva Biological Station. My study examined the physiological characteristics of males and quantified the hue of their red coloring to determine if their coloring is a signal for physical fitness. There was no correlation between physical fitness and red hue.