Meeting Abstract
The field of conservation physiology employs physiological measures (e.g., metabolites, glucocorticoids, immune factors, etc.) to understand how organisms and populations respond to changes in their environment. Although the discipline is growing rapidly, there are a number of opportunities that will allow for improved application of physiological knowledge to conservation goals. We will introduce the major themes of the symposium by highlighting five considerations for the continued integration of ecological, evolutionary, and applied endeavours: i) recognizing opportunities for applied components in ecological and evolutionary physiology studies; ii) combining multiple measures of physiology and behaviour; iii) taking into account the context-dependency of physiological variables; iv) combining a within-individual and population-level approach; v) considering the temporal and logistical limitations of working with populations of conservation concern. Drawing on evidence from a range of taxa and physiological systems, and our own work on baseline glucocorticoids in Tree Swallows (Tachycineta bicolor), we will demonstrate how current theoretical and empirical approaches in physiology can contribute to a diversified conservation toolbox.
