Michael C. Fulbright

    I am primarily interested in the physiological ecology and functional morphology of ectotherms. Currently I am developing research questions related to the biomechanics and energetics of digestion of map turtles (Genus Graptemys).

    My Master's work investigated the thermal ecology and habitat selection of a population of western cottonmouths (Agkistrodon piscivorus) in Cheatham County, Tennessee. I used multivariate analyses to evaluate differences in habitat selection of adult male, adult female, and juvenile cottonmouths. I also collected data on the body temperatures of free-ranging cottonmouths, the range environmental temps available throughout my study area, and the preferred range of body temperatures cottonmouths selected under controlled conditions.