Native to the North Atlantic Ocean, sea lampreys have been around long before the dinosaurs. The jawless, finless parasitic fish—that sucks the blood and consumes the flesh of its prey—has caused the fisheries industries in the Great Lakes to collapse upon its arrival as an invasive species during the mid-1900s.

Barbara Zielinski, professor of biological sciences and the Great Lakes Institute for Environmental Studies, will discuss the sea lamprey’s behaviour, its devastating impact on fisheries in the Great Lakes, the research conducted to control them, and the management of its populations in the region at 7:30 p.m. June 17 at Canada South Science City, 930 Marion Avenue.

Dr. Zielinski’s lab, which recently won a major grant from the Great Lakes Fishery Commission for cellular neurological research, focuses on olfactory systems (the sense of smell) in fish and behavioural responses to sex pheromones released by the fish. Her team studies how these can be used to control the invasive species.

Her lecture is part of the Science Café series, the interactive discussions of important science research for the general public. Sponsored by the Faculty of Science and the Office of Research and Innovation Services, the series offers discussion of important science research for the general public.

Attendees to Wednesday’s event will have the opportunity to meet a sea lamprey. For a poster and more details, visit www.cssciencecity.com, or call 519 973 3667.