Westminster College Biology Major Presents Research

Matthew Myers, a senior biology major at Westminster College, recently presented his research, "Ciliate Infection in Zebra Mussels," at the Slippery Rock Watershed Coalition Student Symposium.

"The zebra mussel is an invasive mollusk species that has plagued U.S. waters and clogged intake pipes since its introduction to the Great Lakes in 1985," Myers writes.  "Because of their efficient filter feeding capacity, zebra mussels are prone to parasitic infections from ciliates.  This study analyzed the infection of zebra mussels using two ciliate species, Paramecium and Blepharisma, to determine a correlation between mussel length and infection intensity."

Myers is a son of Larry and Diane Myers, Greensburg, and a graduate of Hempfield Area High School.  Myers worked with Dr. Joseph Balczon, associate professor of biology, on the research.

Felicie Reid, a senior environmental science major at Westminster College, was the symposium moderator.  She is a daughter of Keith and Catherine, North Lima, Ohio, and a graduate of South Range High School.

 The Slippery Rock Watershed Coalition Symposium was designed to create a forum for providing an opportunity for community groups and students to present activities and findings to their peers, the public, and environmental professions. 

Students from Carnegie Mellon University, Grove City College, Slippery Rock University, Thiel College, and Westminster College presented their research, projects and discoveries relating to water quality, biology, environmental education, soil science, and ecosystem recovery.

Contact Dr. Ann Throckmorton, associate professor of biology and chair of the department, at (724) 946-7209 or e-mail athrock@westminster.edu for more information.

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