Evolutionary Ecology
RESEARCH THEME

We are broadly focused on questions in the evolutionary ecology of plants. Our
model organisms are typically long-lived herbaceous perennials, such as weedy
plantains and rare orchids. With this broad assemblage of plants, we both
theorize and experimentally test ideas dealing with two broad subjects:

1. Life history evolution

2. Evolution of interactions

3. Population dynamics

4. Conservation ecology

5. Fungal population and community ecology

Here are a few of the specific topics that we cover:

Vegetative dormancy in long-lived plants

Evolutionary context of reproductive schedules

Mycorrhizal symbiosis and coevolution

Evolution of senescence

Evolution of complex life histories

Demographic estimation methods

Macroevolution in plants and fungi
Copyright 2010 Richard P. Shefferson.  All rights reserved.
Research Interests