October 19, 2022 — Persistent drought in the West has helped bring climate change to the forefront of the public consciousness. Indicia of a warming planet—relentless heatwaves, drained reservoirs, and raging forest fires—have applied pressure to humans and their environment, prompting discussions about the long-term sustainability of a fossil fuel-based economy.
Water in the West visiting researcher Eric Palkovacs is writing a book that explores the challenges associated with balancing water needs of fish and people, and how the West can move toward a more sustainable water future. Below, the University of California Santa Cruz professor of ecology and evolutionary biology discusses existential threats facing migratory fishes and why it’s important to save them from extinction.
Can you describe your research interests?
My work focuses on the intersection between people, ecological changes in populations, the evolutionary responses of populations, and how we can use our understanding of ecological and evolutionary theory to help us manage and conserve populations. I study coastal freshwater and estuary systems, particularly anadromous fishes—migratory fishes that spawn in freshwater habitats, migrate to the ocean to mature, and then return to freshwater to spawn. I’ve worked on salmonids, sturgeon, and other migratory fishes.