Mattheau Comerford

Tuesday, April 9th

In-Person Meeting
Virtual Zoom Option
7:30 PM EST

Why nothing in ecology or evolution makes sense, except in the light of the other: Testing Eco-Evo Dynamics Through the Beak of the Red-Shouldered Soapberry Bug

Dr. Mattheau Comerford
University of Massachusetts Boston

Abstract:  Eco-evolutionary dynamics refer to the cyclic interaction between evolution and ecology, where an organism’s ecological interactions can influence the evolution of a trait, and conversely, evolutionary changes can impact ecological interactions. Due to the often contrasting time scales at which ecology and evolution operate, the rapid life history of insects offers a unique opportunity to study these crucial feedback loops. In this context, I have utilized the red-shouldered soapberry bug (Jadera haematoloma) to investigate eco-evolutionary theory from both perspectives. Firstly, I explored a less-studied form of evolution known as spatial sorting. Secondly, I described the first known example of a hemipteran insect acting as both a plant-pollinator and a seed-predator.

NOTICE: We will be holding hybrid meetings to accommodate audience members from around the world.

For those able to attend, we will have an informal dinner at 6:00 pm at Cambridge Common Restaurant with the speaker, followed by our formal meeting (~7:30 – 9:00 pm) in room MCZ 101 of the Museum of Comparative Zoology (there will be signs to help direct). The meeting will begin with club announcements, followed by a 60-minute presentation by the invited speaker and Q&A. Membership is open to all.

Elio Challita

Tuesday, March 12th

In-Person Meeting
Virtual Zoom Option
7:30 PM EST

Talk Title: Uncovering the mysteries of insect waste removal: Why and how sharpshooter insects use droplet superpropulsion!

Dr. Elio Challita
Harvard Microbiotics Laboratory

Abstract: Consuming food and eliminating waste are essential processes for all living organisms. While the impact of feeding on animal anatomy and behavior has been extensively researched for over a century, the role of excretion in shaping and limiting animal behavior remains largely unexplored. In this presentation, I will explore how tiny sharpshooter insects, measuring just a few millimeters, efficiently remove their substantial waste by employing droplet superpropulsion – a process that allows them to propel droplets at speeds surpassing the underlying actuator through precise timing. I will also discuss the evolutionary reasons behind their adoption of this unique droplet ejection mechanism, drawing upon energetic and scaling principles.

NOTICE: We will be holding hybrid meetings to accommodate audience members from around the world.

For those able to attend, we will have an informal dinner at 6:00 pm at Cambridge Common Restaurant with the speaker, followed by our formal meeting (~7:30 – 9:00 pm) in room MCZ 101 of the Museum of Comparative Zoology (there will be signs to help direct). The meeting will begin with club announcements, followed by a 60-minute presentation by the invited speaker and Q&A. Membership is open to all.

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