Welcome

The primary focus of the Adams lab is to understand the evolution of phenotypic diversity. Generally, we wish to know what ecological and historical processes are responsible for patterns of phenotypic diversification. To answer this question, we combine theoretical and empirical approaches in our studies of vertebrates (mostly herpetofauna). Much of our research is directed towards understanding evolution in Plethodontid salamanders. Our work examines how ecological and historical forces affect phenotypic adaptation in this group, and subsequently impact the evolution of species interactions, evolutionary diversification, speciation, and community structure. We also develop new analytical and statistical tools for examining patterns of phenotypic variation and diversity.

Dean AdamsDr. Dean Adams
Associate Professor
Department of Ecology, Evolution, and Organismal Biology
Iowa State University
241 Bessey Hall
Ames, IA 50311
(515) 294-3834
dcadams@iastate.edu
Dean's abbreviated CV

Much of the research described in these web pages is supported in part by NSF CAREER grant DEB-0446758 and supplements, and was previously supported in part by NSF grant DEB-0122281.