Casey Gilman

Evolution and adaptation of lizards

I am generally curious about the evolution of reptiles, and am interested in integrating comparative physiological ecology with evolutionary ecology and functional morphology to better understand the adaptations that lead to the amazing diversity found in these animals.

The effects of perch stability on jumping performance and kinematics in green anole lizards (Anolis carolinensis)

One of my interests in lizard adaptation is how animals physically deal with the challenges of their environment. Arboreal anoles often rely on jumping as a means to evade predators, pursue prey, defend territories, and simply move around their habitats. These lizards must jump from both stable perch sites, such as trunks and branches, as well as from more precarious perch sites like narrow branches, twigs, and leaves. Although jump kinematics have been examined using stable jump sites, there is currently no data available on how perch instability affects jumping. In this study I am measuring jump distance, jump duration, jump height, jump velocity, and acceleration in the green anole Anolis carolinensis from perches of varying flexibility.

The effects of novel competition on diet in Anolis carolinensis and Anolis sagrei: a stable isotope study

I am currently working with Yoel Stuart (PhD Candidate, Harvard University) on his project examining the evolutionary consequences of novel competition in anoline lizards. Anolis carolinensis, native to North America, has been greatly affected by the introduction of the invasive species Anolis sagrei. Yoel is examining habitat use and morphometrics in a unique natural experiment testing the hypothesis that the introduction of A. sagrei causes habitat shifts in A. carolinensis. I am using stable isotope analysis to look at dietary changes associated with these shifts.http://people.umass.edu/cgilman/