New research on global warming shows impact on the tropics
The impact of global warming has become obvious in high-latitude regions such as Alaska, Siberia and the Arctic, where melting ice and softening tundra are causing profound changes. But, contrary to popular belief, the most serious impact will likely be in the tropics, says a group of researchers led by ecologist Josh Tewksbury, assistant professor in the Department of Biology. More...
A team of four UW Biology scientists have been studying plant growth as part of U.S. Department of Energy and Japanese Science and Technology Agency-funded grant focusing on plant material, or biomass, suitable for producing fuel. In the process the researchers discovered that gene signals that make plants grow to their normal size may also keep the plants from wallpapering themselves with too many densely clustered stomata. 
Gerold Schubiger, a UW Biology professor, and Anne Sustar, a research technician in his laboratory, used groups of cells, called imaginal discs, in fruit fly larvae to provide an easily controlled system to study regeneration. Imaginal discs convert genetic information that determines the specific tissue into which the cells will develop in the adult fly. For example, leg discs form only adult legs and wing discs form only adult wings. 
The Botany Greenhouse provides research and education services not just to the Department of Biology, but to the whole University and the greater Seattle community. Students and faculty throughout the University pursue inquires at the Greenhouse, which also gives free public educational tours of its diverse collection of plants from around the world. 
Together this dog and his trainer, Heath Smith, search for sign from grizzlies in Alberta, Canada. They are part of a novel and non-invasive animal tracking program started at the Center for Conservation Biology. This program is one of several at the department that conducts research to help save the lives of endangered species.
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