CHFA | Global Languages Senior Colloquium
Academic Level at Time of Presentation
Junior
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Major
Global Language/SpanishTeaching Certification
List all Project Mentors & Advisor(s)
Dr. Elena Picech Reisinger
Presentation Format
Oral Presentation
Abstract/Description
Morgan Elliott
Morgan Elliott is a Junior at Murray State University majoring in Spanish with a focus on teacher certification. Morgan loves to study the Spanish language and has a passion for teaching. In her spare time, she can be seen reading or spending time with her friends. Her next year will consist of an extended practicum study and a semester of student teaching. She will graduate in the spring of 2025, where she will then continue her studies to pursue a master’s degree.
The Andean Cat: How a Small Animal Makes a Big Impact on the Environment
In recent decades, climate change has been a prominent issue that has led to changes in the environment. One change it brings is habitat fragmentation. This leads a species to be less genetically diverse, weakening its population and eventually leading to extinction. In the region of the High Andes, (Perú, Bolivia, Chile, and Argentina), habitat fragmentation is affecting species such as the Andean Cat, the most endangered wild cat. Due to its elusive nature, not much research has been made, making its endangerment even more threatening. I investigate how the impending extinction of the Andean Cat will impact its environment. The extinction of the Andean Cat will have detrimental effects on both Andean wildlife and the human society surrounding it, as Andean Cats are a keystone species in their ecosystem. The extinction of one animal, especially a keystone species, causes a chain reaction that leads to the extinction of other wildlife that depend on specific species to maintain balance. This drastically alters the ecosystem, which would negatively impact not only local populations who live in and around the Andes, but scientific communities as well. I also research the various organizations that are working to prevent the Andean Cat from going extinct. Each organization educates the general public on conservation efforts. With contributions from as many as possible, the Andean Cat, as well as the rest of the High Andes, can be saved from the impending damage it faces.
Spring Scholars Week 2024 Event
GTL 400 Senior Colloquium
The Andean Cat: a Small Feline With a Big Environmental Impact
Morgan Elliott
Morgan Elliott is a Junior at Murray State University majoring in Spanish with a focus on teacher certification. Morgan loves to study the Spanish language and has a passion for teaching. In her spare time, she can be seen reading or spending time with her friends. Her next year will consist of an extended practicum study and a semester of student teaching. She will graduate in the spring of 2025, where she will then continue her studies to pursue a master’s degree.
The Andean Cat: How a Small Animal Makes a Big Impact on the Environment
In recent decades, climate change has been a prominent issue that has led to changes in the environment. One change it brings is habitat fragmentation. This leads a species to be less genetically diverse, weakening its population and eventually leading to extinction. In the region of the High Andes, (Perú, Bolivia, Chile, and Argentina), habitat fragmentation is affecting species such as the Andean Cat, the most endangered wild cat. Due to its elusive nature, not much research has been made, making its endangerment even more threatening. I investigate how the impending extinction of the Andean Cat will impact its environment. The extinction of the Andean Cat will have detrimental effects on both Andean wildlife and the human society surrounding it, as Andean Cats are a keystone species in their ecosystem. The extinction of one animal, especially a keystone species, causes a chain reaction that leads to the extinction of other wildlife that depend on specific species to maintain balance. This drastically alters the ecosystem, which would negatively impact not only local populations who live in and around the Andes, but scientific communities as well. I also research the various organizations that are working to prevent the Andean Cat from going extinct. Each organization educates the general public on conservation efforts. With contributions from as many as possible, the Andean Cat, as well as the rest of the High Andes, can be saved from the impending damage it faces.