Do fish have tongues? Dr. Hernandez will answer that question as she discusses a few evolutionary novelties in the group of fishes she studies, the Cypriniformes, which includes minnows, suckers, and carp. Her research focuses mainly on the anatomy, function, and evolutionary history of the palatal organ, a tongue-like structure on the roof of the mouth of these fishes that significantly impacts how they are able to feed. We will also learn about the role played by the palatal organ in the feeding behavior of Asian carp, an invasive species that is outcompeting native fishes.
Luz Patricia Hernandez is a professor at George Washington University who researches evolutionary vertebrate morphology, evolution and development of morphological innovations, morphological evolution of Cypriniformes and Cyprinodontiformes, vertebrate development and pattern formation, and craniofacial development. She holds a PhD from Harvard University, an MS from the University of South Florida, and a BS from Eckerd College.