How do animals manage threats of the natural world? Dr. Alicia Mathis, Missouri State University’s biology department head, strives to answer this question. She’s a behavioral ecologist, meaning she studies animals’ behavior in relation to natural habitats. This allows her to learn how it affects their ability to survive and reproduce. One focus in her lab is antipredator … [Read more...] about A small fish experiences major threats to survival
In Hollywood, death is usually dramatic and loud. But for most living organisms, it’s slow and silent. To keep an eye on the health of several at-risk species, Missouri State University’s biology department has a contract with the National Park Service (NPS). Since 2004, this relationship has allowed students and faculty to conduct research at 15 national parks. They … [Read more...] about Health of many species studied through parks partnership
Under rocks and logs, in burrows and underwater, Dr. Alicia Mathis finds fascinating creatures to study. Mathis, head of the biology department at Missouri State University, focuses her research on the behaviors of tiny amphibians and fish. One of the most common things these animals need to communicate about is predation risk. It’s been understood that alarm cues are received … [Read more...] about What can amphibians tell us about human health?
The work of Dr. Alicia Mathis was recently recognized at a basketball game Maroon Minute: Dr. Alicia Mathis, head of the biology department at Missouri State University, focuses her research on the behaviors of tiny amphibians and fish, but also on the second largest salamander in the world, the hellbender, which is listed as an endangered species. Missouri is the only state … [Read more...] about Maroon Minute recognizes the work of Dr. Alicia Mathis
Back row: Justin Shew (alumnus), Adam Crane (alumnus), Dr. Mathis, Whitney Heuring (alumna). Front row: Katie Gardner (undergraduate), Ben Dalton (staff), Paige Farmer (undergraduate), Sarah Heimbach, Colton Lynn This summer, members of Dr. Alicia Mathis’ research lab gave several presentations at the annual meetings of the Animal Behavior Society and the Missouri … [Read more...] about Biology students, faculty present research at summer conferences