Pumas trigger a trophic cascade in a human-dominated landscape, Chinmay Sonawane, Evening Lecture

Chinmay Sonawane, Ph.D. Candidate, Biology, Stanford University

Pumas trigger a trophic cascade in a human-dominated landscape

Large predators can shape ecosystems by reducing prey abundance and inducing fear-driven changes in the behavior of their prey and smaller predators, which may consequently affect lower trophic levels. However, these natural chains of influence, known as trophic cascades, have mostly been studied in places with relatively low human activity. As some predators coexist with people in human-dominated landscapes, an important question is raised: can large predators still fulfill their ecological functions while living alongside humans, as the "super-predator?" At Jasper Ridge Biological Preserve ('Ootchamin 'Ooyakma), a suburban preserve, pumas look like they are doing exactly that.

Tuesday, March 11, 2025

4-5 PM Reception

5-6 PM Lecture & Q&A

Sun Field Station, JRBP('O'O)