Research Interest
Macroecology, Community ecology, Freshwater ecology, Conservation science, Global changeFaculty Advisor(s)
Dr. Xingli GiamDegree Pursuing
PhDEducation
University of Texas at Austin, BSA Biology, 2016
Texas State University, MSc Wildlife Ecology, 2020
Research
Broadly, I am interested in the impacts of human stressors on vulnerable wildlife and human communities. The former subject is explored by my research on the effects of hydroelectric dams on freshwater biodiversity in the tropics. The latter subject is explored by my research on the linkages between industrial land use change and socio-demographic disparities in the U.S. through the lens of freshwater systems. I utilize large datasets to discern patterns across space, time, and taxa. Understanding these relationships is vital to develop applied science that can directly inform managers, stakeholders, and policymakers.
Publications
Espinoza, Z., and F. Weckerly. 2021. A comparative analysis of adult sex ratios in polygynous and monogamous mammal populations. American Midland Naturalist. 186:305–314.
Espinoza, Z., and F. Weckerly. 2021. Drivers of a temporal change in the adult sex ratio of a population of Roosevelt elk (Cervus elaphus roosevelti). Journal of Mammalogy (in review).