Plant ecology and hydrology

Our visit to University of Córdoba was productive and successful. Dr. Maria Jose Polo and Dr. Cristina Aguilar presented their work on hydrological models of the Guadalquivir River. Dr. Rafael Villar presented research on plant functional traits and relationships with plant and ecosystem functioning. We are developing research to examine plant functional traits and community changes along riverine environmental gradients, as well as incorporating vegetation changes and subsequent hydrological/biotic feedbacks into models.  We will be considering students interested in pursuing this line of research. Other areas of research that integrate physical and biotic interactions will be developed by VCU Biology and UCO faculty.  During our visit we also enjoyed great food (the essence of the CPEL lab) and wonderful friendship.