PhD opportunity to study effects of top predator introduction/removal Selective and developmental effects of predation and predation risk seem to encourage behavioural variation and covariance among behaviours. We use experimental evolution in guppies, using multiple small ponds, to study how and why predation might favour maintenance and/or increased trait variance and covariance, when traditional theory would suggest strong selection should erode variation.
Traits to be studied include behaviour, morphology, colouration and metabolism, as well as life history traits. We control for food abundance, and density, so that we may estimate the direct impacts of predation on evolution of trait variances and covariances. Given that top predators are increasingly being lost or over-harvested, understanding their potential impacts on trait variation is particular timely in a world where various forms of change are occurring and when variation is needed for adaptation to these changes. We are now well into year 3 of fish living with and without predators, and first data are now being collected. Thus, timing is perfect for a student to step in and study how predation affects trait variation. Those with a masters degree and/or a paper or two under their belt would be particularly competitive for a generous stipend and tuition waiver. Interested student should contact me directly with a brief introduction of their interests and skills, and a CV. Please email to pete.b...@deakin.edu.au https://www.researchgate.net/profile/Pete_Biro
