January 30, February 6, 13, 20, & 27 @ 1PM–3PM 

Using her ongoing work in Maine to give examples, Emma Perry will introduce you to tardigrades and their diversity. Beginning with an overview of their biology and their relationships within the Animal Kingdom, you will learn how to collect tardigrades from a range of habitats and methods of identification. Perry will use a variety of images she has taken from her slide collection and prerecorded videos along with 3D models of various structures to demonstrate the various features and methods she will be sharing with you.

As you continue to identify and characterize new species of tardigrades, there are few complete keys to species of a genus. Instead Perry will share with you the tools to identify and describe the important taxonomic traits of any tardigrades you find, how to identify them to genus, and what resources you need to complete your identification.

Tardigrade biogeography is poorly documented in many places including Maine. There is only one publication describing tardigrades from a handful of moss collected off a tree in the grounds of a hotel in Bar Harbor, Maine. So far, Perry has found 22 additional species just near campus with her students, and she is currently describing a freshwater species from near her home.

There is so much opportunity for you to get involved, even with tardigrades from your back garden!

Hosted by Eagle Hill Institute.

This workshop requires registration. Registration is free, but tuition cost is $175.

You can REGISTER HERE.