Florida Tech Presents Lifelong Learning Lecture Series at Disney Vero Beach Resort Starting Feb. 19
MELBOURNE, FLA.—Florida Institute of Technology will begin a Lifelong Learning Lecture series with four spring lectures at the Disney Vero Beach Resort beginning Feb. 19. The series, presented by Florida Tech professors, is $50. For more information, visit the Lifelong Learning website at http://www.fit.edu/lifelong-scholar-society, send an email atpdpregistration@fit.edu or call (321) 674-8382.
Wednesday, Feb. 19, 4 p.m.
Global Climate Change: A Real Threat to Florida and the Planet
Presenter: Richard Aronson, professor and head, Biological Sciences, Florida Institute of Technology
Aronson’s research on the environmental impact of global climate change has taken him from Melbourne to locales as diverse as Belize, Panama, the Florida Keys, and Antarctica. Although climates and marine life vary widely around the world, the impact of climate change can be felt in all regions of the globe and has affected the evolution of native species. This important conversation will explore the long-term ecological challenges caused by climate change and the efforts being made to overcome them.
Thursday, March 6, 4 p.m.
Using Science to Enhance Sport Fishing
Presenter: Aaron Adams, director of operations, Bonefish and Tarpon Trust and research associate professor of Biological Sciences, Florida Institute of Technology
The worldwide populations of bonefish species have been declining rapidly in recent years. By studying the habitat, migration and breeding habits of these fish, Adams is working to preserve them for future generations to enjoy. A renowned scientist, author and angler, he is uniquely qualified to provide a thorough understanding of the challenges facing the offshore sport fishing industry today from an ecological perspective and to devise and implement successful conservation methods.
Thursday, March 20, 4 p.m.
Reviving and Preserving the Indian River Lagoon
Presenter: Jonathan Shenker, associate professor of Biological Sciences, Florida Institute of Technology
Shenker’s research focuses on a very diverse range of fish and fisheries issues. The ultimate goals are to characterize and analyze the biological and ecological factors affecting fish populations and to assist in the development of fish and habitat management strategies. Many projects focus on processes affecting reproduction, larval growth, survival and the ultimate recruitment of the early life history stages into adult populations. All of these areas are critical to the well-being of the Indian River Lagoon; its continued health is vital to the economy and culture of Florida’s east central coast.
Thursday, April 10, 4 p.m.
Using Aquaculture to Mitigate the Adverse Environmental Impact of the Aquarium Industry
Presenter: Junda Lin, professor of Biological Sciences and director of the Institute for Marine Research, Florida Institute of Technology
Virtually all of the marine fishes and invertebrates marketed in the aquarium trade industry are collected from coral reef ecosystems. Extensive and destructive collection of these animals can directly deplete the target species that is already under threat from habitat loss or degradation and indirectly damage the delicate coral reef ecosystem. Aquaculture of marine ornamental species is recognized as a viable alternative to wild collection. Lin has studied the basic biological processes of several shellfish and fish species, evaluated their aquaculture potential and developed cultivation technology. This will reduce the potential for damage to these fragile ecosystems and allow for expansion of commercial aquarium enterprises without depleting the wild stock.
