From Species to Systems: The Relationships of Desert Organisms (In-Person Seminar)
Have you ever wondered how some plants evolved to attract hummingbirds while others rely on bees? Or how prey species avoid predators, and how predators, in turn, refine their hunting strategies? Then join us for an enlightening evening with Dr. Marie Simovich, renowned professor, naturalist, and co-author of the iconic A Natural History of the Anza-Borrego Region. Dr. Simovich, or “Ree,” will guide us through the fascinating world of Community Ecology in the desert—exploring how different species interact and depend on one another for survival.
Just as human communities are made up of diverse roles—teachers, plumbers, farmers—desert ecosystems are composed of species playing vital roles, such as predators, prey, and pollinators. Over time, these organisms have developed complex, interdependent relationships that enable them to thrive together in this harsh environment. Ree will illuminate the many ways desert creatures interact, from plant-pollinator partnerships to predator-prey dynamics, as well as fascinating adaptations like mimicry and parasitism. This is your chance to gain a deeper understanding of these intricate interactions and the delicate balance that sustains life in our desert ecosystem. Don’t miss this unique opportunity to uncover the secrets of desert ecology!
REGISTER TODAY!
Date: Friday, March 7, 2025
Time: 7:00 p.m.–8:30 p.m.
Location:
In-person: Steele/Burnand Anza-Borrego Desert Research Center
401 Tilting T Drive, Borrego Springs, CA 92004
*While we highly recommend attending the seminar in person for optimal presentation visibility, a Zoom link will be provided upon registration for those who are unable to attend in person and wish to participate virtually.
Cost:
Non-Member: $15
ABF Member: $10
Student: $5
*Please note that as the Anza-Borrego Foundation is a non-profit organization, all program costs are used to support current and future education programs, including subsidized programs that seek to increase access to the outdoors.
Scholarships: A limited number of scholarships are available for those with financial hardship. If you’d like to request a scholarship, please reach out to [email protected] with a two–three paragraph description about why you’d like to attend this program and your need for a scholarship.
About The Presenter:
Marie Simovich received her BS and MS from Cal Poly Pomona. She received her PhD from UC Riverside studying a spadefoot toad hybrid zone in the Sonoran Desert and did postdoctoral research at the Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County on the genetics of whiptail lizards of the Sonoran Desert. She then taught Population Biology, Conservation Biology and Desert Biology at the University of San Diego for 31 years. During that time, she also did research on the population biology of the crustaceans found in ephemeral wetlands including desert playas.
Cancellation Policy: Cancellation requests must be received at least seven days before the event if you wish to receive a refund. Please note that ABF may cancel a program due to inclement weather or low attendance, with 24-hour notice, if possible. If ABF cancels a program, we will issue a full refund or credit.
