The Other Blue Planet - Dave Strayer Lecture at Cary Institute

This Friday, March 10, 2017 at 7 p.m. join the Cary Institute of Ecosystem Studies for a lecture by ecologist David Strayer. For more than three decades, Strayer has explored the ecology of freshwaters. Join him for an inspiring lecture showcasing inland waters and the fascinating plants and animals that call them home. Earth had been dubbed the Blue Planet because oceans cover 71% of its surface. But there are other waters on our planet – the innumerable lakes, ponds, marshes, rivers, streams, and ground waters that make up inland waters. These inland waters cover a mere 1% of Earth’s surface, yet they are home to a diversity of life out of proportion with their size. For instance, 1/3 of all of the world’s known fish species live in inland waters. On this exploration of inland waters, topics to be discussed include: epic floods, lakes that have the pH of battery acid, catfish that come up onto the beach to eat pigeons, animals that photosynthesize, plants that eat animals, freshwater mussels that seduce fish, the world's largest water lilies and smallest flowering plants, life in outer space, and the problems of sex. Strayer is an Emeritus Senior Scientist at the Cary Institute. His research programs include invasive zebra mussels in the Hudson River, sustainable Hudson River shorelines, and the ecology of pearly mussels. He is the author of numerous scientific publications, popular news articles, and books, including The Hudson Primer: The Ecology of an Iconic River. Recently, Strayer authored an opinion piece on the Clean Water Act and efforts to repeal the Waters of the United States rule. “Keep Our Waters Safe from Polluters,” can be found at: https://www.caryinstitute.org/newsroom/keep-our-water-safe-polluters.The lecture will take place in the Cary Institute auditorium located at 2801 Sharon Turnpike, Millbrook, NY. Seating is first come first served. For more information call (845) 677-5343 or visit www.caryinstitute.org.