Continuing our Spring Lecture Series on geology, soils ecology and related topics, part 2 in the series will be presented via Zoom from 6:30p.m. to 7:30p.m. on Wednesday, March 29th.  It features Hugh Safford, Research Ecologist with UC Davis and Chief Scientist of Vibrant Planet, presenting, Vegetation Ecology, Patterns of Plant Species Diversity and Endemism, & General Ramblings on the GeoEcology of California “Serpentine.” 

Ultramafic “serpentine” geologic substrates are well-known for their profound effects on vegetation structure. Serpentine in California also supports a disproportionately high number of native and endemic plant species. The presence of serpentine in California is closely tied to the geological and tectonic history of the state, and patterns of diversity and endemism are driven by a complex suite of factors. Serpentine is also a major source of heavy metals in our ground and surface waters, and asbestos in our air. Hugh will address these topics and others while conducting a virtual field trip through some of the more iconic serpentine localities in California, plus Q&A at the end.

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