Ecophysiology and global changes
The Ecophy team studies how animals respond to environmental stressors (climate change, habitat degradation, pollution). To do this, physiology must be integrated. Indeed, the link between the environment (e.g. climate) and ecological responses (e.g. timing of reproduction) involves physiological processes, such as hormones. Hormones whose proper functioning can be altered by contaminants (endocrine disruptors). Another example: the study of energy requirements (metabolism) makes it possible to predict the future distribution of species in the context of climate change. Our laboratory experiments (manipulation of temperature, hygrometry, exposure to contaminants) are based on numerous devices (climatic and metabolic chambers), on the skills of the biological analysis service and are coupled with population monitoring in the field. The models (reptiles, amphibians and birds) cover the main metabolic orientations of vertebrates (ectothermic-endothermic), in various environments (temperate, tropical, polar).
How do vertebrates respond to environmental stressors?
By analysing stress hormones we measure the quality of the environment and reveal the vulnerability of species.
Loss of habitats
Impact of urbanization on sparrows
Ecotoxicology
What is the impact of pollutants on amphibians?
Physiology and adaptation
How will seabirds adapt to global changes in the Arctic?
Program
Amphibians and Reptiles: Sentinels of Agricultural Practices
Presentation of ECOPHY in video
The team
Students and Post-docs

Faustine Degottex Féry
PhD student

Jean-Pierre Vacher

Nicolas Van Zele
Doctorant