Current Projects:

This project investigates the thermal tolerance limits of the crayfish species Procambarus spiculifer, with an emphasis on determining both the minimum and maximum temperatures that this species can withstand. Understanding the thermal boundaries of crayfish is crucial for predicting their distribution, survival, and potential responses to climate change.

Investigating the Thermal Tolerance of Procambarus spiculifer

Seasonal Dynamics of Crayfish Populations: A Year-Long Study Investigating Density and Sex Ratios in a Stream Ecosystem

Investigating seasonal variations in crayfish populations, specifically focusing on changes in density and sex ratios within a particular stream ecosystem. Through systematic and regular sampling over the course of a year, this study aims to provide comprehensive insights into the dynamic nature of crayfish populations in response to environmental/seasonal fluctuations (e.g. light, temperature).

Crayfish of the Barrier Islands

Crayfishes are important components of freshwater systems, however little is known regarding the life history, population dynamics and genetic structuring of most crayfish species. Currently, we are attempting to employ molecular genetic techniques to elucidate the population structure and evolutionary history of freshwater crayfish across the barrier islands of Georgia. As crayfishes are increasingly being recognized as a cryptically diverse group, this research has the potential to identify evolutionary significant populations throughout the barrier islands. Such findings would have important implications for conservation planning and management throughout the barrier islands and coastal drainages.

Larval Development in the Hawaiian Shrimp

Halocaridina rubra

Anchialine ecosystems are coastal landlocked bodies of brackish waters that fluctuate with the tides due to simultaneous subterranean connections to both the ocean and freshwater aquifers. Unfortunately, little is known regarding the development of organisms that inhabit these unique environments. One organism endemic to these habitats is the Hawaiian shrimp, Halocaridina rubra. We are currently attempting to formally document the larval development of these shrimp utilizing the state-of-the-art Visionary Digital BK Plus imaging system here at Georgia College.

WeeseLab