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Thesis Abstract – Tittler (2006)

Title:

Habitat Edge Effects and Their Impacts on Physiological Stress in Edge-Dwelling Vertebrates

Author and college:

Ethan Tittler, Pomona College

Date:

April, 2006

Degree:

Bachelor of Arts in Environmental Science

Advisor:

Gene Fowler, Pomona College

Abstract:

In this thesis. I have created an overview of two major fields of research physiological stress and habitat edge effects. For each topic, I include working definitions, summaries of pertinent historical findings, past and current research methodologies, and practical applications of the science by conservation biologists. Next. I combine the two fields of research to examine how edge effects impact the stress levels of vertebrates living in or passing by habitat edges. This particular combination, wherein edge effects are implicated as causing stress, is a relatively new field on which little research has been undertaken. For this reason, in the final chapter of my thesis I propose an experiment of my own that, if undertaken. would add nicely to the limited body of knowledge that exists on this topic. There are two major purposes behind this thesis. The first is to introduce the topics of physiological stress and edge effects in such a way that any reader can understand them and their importance to the wellbeing of our planet. The second is to summarize the scientific work that has been done so far, and point out the direction in which future research may go.

For more information:

Contact Gene Fowler – gene.fowler@pomona.edu