Research
Teaching
BIO 204
(Cell Biology)
BIO 345
(Animal Physiology)
BIO 485
(Herpetology)
BIO 495
(Sea Turtle Biology)
BIO 498
(Internships)
Students
Physiological Ecology of Marine Vertebrates
Amanda Southwood
Assistant Professor
Ph.D., University of British Columbia (2002)
M.Sc., University of British Columbia (1997)
B.Sc., Auburn University (1993)
Dept. of Biology and Marine Biology
University of North Carolina - Wilmington
601 S. College Rd., Wilmington, NC 28403
tel (910) 962-4064
fax (910) 962-4066
southwooda@uncw.edu
My research interests revolve around the central question of how animals function in their environment. I have been involved in a wide variety of studies, ranging from diving physiology to chemical ecology, but am particularly interested in the thermal biology of marine reptiles. Past work in this area of specialization includes laboratory and field studies of the effects of seasonal changes in temperature on metabolism, respiration, heart rate, and behavior of juvenile green sea turtles (Chelonia mydas), and an investigation of the effects of diving and swimming patterns on body temperatures of leatherback sea turtles (Dermochelys coriacea). I have a strong interest in applying results from objective scientific research to promote sound management and conservation of endangered species, and have worked with collaborators in government, academia, and non-profit organizations towards this goal.