Research Interests
Evoutionary Ecology of Vertebrates
My research focuses on the factors determining the distribution and
abundance of vertebrates with a current emphasis on how phenotypic
traits interact with ecological factors to shape natural amphibian
communities. I use an experimental approach with field populations,
working with chorus frogs (Pseudacris triseriata) and spring
peepers (Pseudacris crucifer) in a wilderness park on Isle
Royale, Michigan. Two current projects are described below:
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Tadpole interactions with their environment. This study focuses
on the importance of predators, food (algae and other
microorganisms), and physical factors (nutrients, temperature,
etc.) in in determining tadpole survivorship, growth and
ultimately their distribution and abundance.
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Population structure and habitat heterogeneity. This study
concentrates on the effects of population structure and habitat
heterogeneity on quantitative selection with special emphasis on
how phenotypes relate to ecological function, especially behavior,
morphology and plasticity.
Tropical Biology and Conservation
I have a general interest in the preservation of natural habitats and
have field experience in boreal, temperate and tropical habitats with
special emphasis on birds. Much of my work on the population dynamics
of frogs relates directly to understanding the maintenance of amphibian
populations (which are currently in a worldwide decline).
Selected Publications
- Smith, David C. (1981) Competitive interactions of the striped plateau lizard (Sceloporus virgatus) and the tree lizard (Urosaurus ornatus). Ecology, 62:679-687.
- *Meigs, James, David C. Smith and *Josh VanBuskirk. (1983) Age determination of the black-capped chickadee. Journal for Field Ornithology, 54: 283-286.
- Smith, David C. (1985) Home range, territory, and aggressive behavior in the striped plateau lizard. Animal Behaviour, 33: 417-427.
- Smith, David C. (1987) Adult recruitment in chorus frogs: effectsof size and date at metamorphosis. Ecology, 68: 344-350.
- Smith, David C. and *VanBuskirk, Josh. (1988) Winter territoriality and flock cohesion in the black-capped chickadee (Parus atricapillus). Animal Behaviour 36: 466-476.
- Smith, D.C. (1990) Population structure and competition among kin in the chorus frog (Pseudacris triseriata). Evolution, 44: 1529-1541.
- Smith, David C. and *VanBuskirk, Josh. (1995) Phenotypic design, plasticity and ecological performance in two tadpole species. The American Naturalist, 145(2): 211-233.
*Williams College student or alumnus
