Evolution of Life in the City - Next in Science Series

Explore the fascinating world of urban evolution in this Radcliffe Institute talk by James S. Santangelo, a graduate student in evolutionary ecology at the University of Toronto Mississauga. Discover how cities, often viewed as "anti-life," serve as living laboratories driving evolutionary changes in species. Learn about the global phenomenon of urbanization and its impact on genetic adaptations. Delve into a case study on white clover (Trifolium repens) and the genetics of cyanogenesis, examining unexpected patterns of hydrogen cyanide (HCN) distribution in urban environments. Investigate the factors influencing HCN clines, including frost and snow, and explore theoretical models of evolution in urban settings. Gain insights into the role of genetic drift and gene flow in shaping urban evolutionary patterns. Conclude with a broader perspective on urban evolution as a global phenomenon, challenging traditional views on cities and their impact on biodiversity.