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Current Research

Crayfish on hand

Assessing Impact of Invasive Crayfish Removal on Endangered Species in San Francisquito Creek (CA)

By trapping and removing crayfish, the laboratory works to benefit the threatened threespine stickleback and endangered frog populations.

 

Newt studied by students

Newt Rehabilitation

The laboratory began working with the National Park Service in 2025 to rescue, quarantine, and rehabilitate California newts (Taricha torosa) in Arroyo Sequit.

 

Santa Monica Bay

Looking Back to See Ahead: Using long-term monitoring data to predict species persistence across the NSMBW

The laboratory is helping collect and analyze data for the Proposition 50 long-term data monitoring grant, using long-term data to quantify the impacts of recent fire, drought, and numerous other ecological conditions on freshwater populations of amphibian species and chaparral species.

 

newt in gloved hand

USGS Partnership

The laboratory's annual summer research in collaboration with the United States Geological Survey (USGS) contributes to a greater understanding of our local biodiversity, and helps to ensure the sustainability of these important natural resources for future generations.

 

Pond

Medicinal Leech Project

This project aims to to better understand medicinal leeches' (Hirudo medicinalis) sensory mechanisms and establish controlled parameters for future experimental studies.