Lecture explores fossil teeth research on ancient ecology

April 6, 2006

GAINESVILLE, Fla. — University of Florida/Florida Museum of Natural History doctoral student Larisa Grawe DeSantis will describe research to reconstruct ancient environments from tapir teeth from 2-3 p.m. April 9 as part of the Florida Museum’s Science Sunday lecture series.

The presentation, “Reconstructing Past Environments: Utilizing Fossil Teeth to Infer Ancient Ecology,” will discuss how fossils from the eastern United States are being used to recreate the density of forests and grasslands during the Neogene period, and why tapirs are particularly helpful in revealing secrets of the past.

Science Sunday allows adults to enjoy lectures while children are entertained with free, age-appropriate activities on related themes guided by Florida Museum docents and staff.