Keitt Lab

Kathrine (Kate) D. Behrman

Education: 

BS   University of California Santa Barbara, Mathematics, 2005.

BA   University of California, Santa Barbara, Biology, 2005.

Santa Fe Institute, Complex Systems Summer School, 2009.

PhD  University of Texas at Austin, Section of Integrative Biology, 2006 - present.

Publications:

Behrman, K. D. and M. Kirkpatrick, Submitted to American Naturalist. Species Range Expansion by Beneficial Mutations. 

Behrman, K.D. and T.H. Keitt, 2009. Predictive Breeding Niche Model for an Isolated Population of Bachman's Sparrow (Aimophila aestivalis) - Final Report, Texas Army National Guard.

Research Interests: 

-The Effect of Scale-

I am interested in understanding the scale at which environmental variables shape spatial patterns of diversity, biomass, and ecosystems.  By using scale-specific techniques, I hope to gain a better understanding of these processes and also incorporate this information into models to create more accurate predictions of these spatial patterns and determine how future changes will affect these patterns. 

-Niche Modeling of Bachman's Sparrow Breeding Habitat-

Advances in ecological niche modeling have provided valuable new tools for conservation and management over the last decade. We are studying a population of Bachman's Sparrow that is spatially isolated by a significant distance from its nearest neighbor in the piney woods of east Texas.  A niche model was created by using several climate variables, topographic variables, and satellite imagery.  This model will aid land management decisions by directing monitoring efforts to areas most suitable for breeding and identifying marginal habitats in need of restoration.  <!--EndFragment-->
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-Species Range Expansion by Beneficial Mutations-

Some species' range limits occur because there is no genetic variation for the trait that limits the range.  The survival of beneficial mutations may allow for adaptation and further range expansion.  Anthropogenic changes to global climate have highlighted the importance of adaptation for species survival.  New mutations may play a key role in adaptation.  In this paper, we create a theoretical model to begin studying this process.