Exploring marine animal behaviour at Plymouth University

From sharks to dolphins and hermit crabs to whales, a team of Plymouth University scientists will be sharing their knowledge of a variety of aquatic species.

Professor of Behavioural Ecology and Deputy Director (Research) of the Marine Biological Association, David Sims will focus on the behaviour of the UK’s largest marine animal, the basking shark, which typically grows to a length of eight metres and weighs more than five tonnes.

Marine Conservation lecturer Simon Ingram will reflect upon his experience at sea and in Scotland researching coastal bottlenose dolphins. He will be followed by Marine Biology lecturer Mark Briffa, who specialises in the study of hermit crabs.

Paul Wright, Associate Director of the University of Plymouth Marine Institute, and host for the event said: “The evening is set to offer an exciting view into learning more about animal behaviour and with such a breadth of in-house expertise in marine research we hope members of the public will seize the opportunity to come along.”

Each talk will last about 20 minutes and Director of the Marine Institute Professor Martin Attrill will close the evening with a Q&A session.

The event is free and open to the public and starts at 6.30pm on Thursday 24 November 2011 in the Devonport Lecture Theatre, Portland Square Building, Plymouth University.

ENDS