Date: Thursday, May 15th, 2025
Location: The Newberry Library | 60 West Walton St | Chicago IL | Google Maps
Time: 5:30 pm CT (Social Time)
6:00 pm CT (Presentation)
Title: Biogeography: The Science of Mapping Life and How it Matters in Conserving Species
Speaker: Richard Condit

Abstract: Biogeography is a sub-discipline within the scientific fields of ecology, evolution, and conservation. I will give a brief history of the concept, for example, Darwin’s use of biogeography in the Origin of Species. Then I will give examples of how maps are used
in scientific studies with emphasis on my own research using distribution maps of tropical trees. The maps provide rapid visual tools for understanding important patterns, especially habitat requirements for any species. Maps can also be used to identify species at high risk of extinction. Indeed, little in ecology or evolution makes sense except in the light of maps.

Speaker Bio: Richard Condit has studied dynamics and diversity of forests across the world, especially in tropical South America and Africa. His research covers ecological theory, demography, and environmental variation, and he has published over one hundred research reports and two books, including a Field Guide to Trees of Panama and Costa Rica. He also works on mammals and birds, including a long-term study of populations of the northern elephant seal in Calfornia. He retired from a research position at the Smithsonian Tropical Research Institute, but remains active in research and continues mentoring young scientists.