Michael Donoghue, Sterling Professor of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology, Department of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology, Yale University

Why do leaves come in such an extraordinary variety of shapes and sizes?  Global patterns in the distribution of different leaf forms provide clues, and multiple hypotheses have been proposed to explain such diversity. Recent work on the evolution of Viburnum (a popular group of shrubs) complements studies of global patterns and adds a new hypothesis to the mix. Michael Donoghue will discuss the Viburnum research, its relevance to understanding climate change, and the processes by which diverse ecosystems come into existence. 

Presented in collaboration with The Arnold Arboretum of Harvard University

The Evolution Matters Lecture Series is supported by a generous gift from Drs. Herman and Joan Suit.