Assistant Professor of Biology, Cumberland University
Michael C. Fulbright
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Michael C. Fulbright
I am a new faculty member at Cumberland University in Lebanon, TN. My research interests are broad, but mainly I am focused on the physiological ecology and functional morphology of vertebrates. Currently I am finishing my dissertation which involves investigating the functional and physiological adaptations to durophagy (eating hard things) by map turtles (Graptemys spp.).
My Latest Research
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My dissertation research focuses on several biomechanical and physiological aspects of feeding in female map turtles with different trophic morphologies. Currently I am measuring bite forces, handling times, and SDA in response to feeding on different prey items in mega- and microcephalic turtles.
*Photo by Brad Moon
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In collaboration with my former labmate David Penning, I am examining differences between the terrestrial and arboreal defensive strikes of ratsnakes. We have found some interesting results regarding the scaling of this performance measure, which I am prepping for publication.
Brad Moon and I were featured in an article about a wandering alligator snapping turtle found on the University of Louisiana's campus. For more information, click on the image to the left for a video and article.