Study on the Effects of Environmental Changes on Wood Frogs

Derek Duplessis, Masters candidate with Bishop’s University and Université de Sherbrooke: studying the effects of environmental variability intensity on the degree of phenotypic trait integration and plasticity in the Wood frog.

Derek Duplessis is a Masters candidate studying the effects of environmental variability intensity on the degree of phenotypic trait integration and plasticity in the wood frog. His academic and professional journey has always been driven by a profound interest in reptile and amphibian species. After completing all his pre-university studies in English, he decided to continue his academic path in French, as he strongly believes in the power of a bilingual education. The crossover of languages, especially in this province, makes science stimulating and more accessible to the public.

Derek completed his undergraduate degree at l’Université de Montréal, obtaining a Bachelor of Science in Biological Sciences. He is currently a master’s student in Biology at l’Université de Sherbrooke under the supervision of Dr. Dany Garant (UdeS) and Dr. Patrick Bergeron (B.U.), which began in the summer of 2024. 

Growing up catching critters in his backyard, Derek knew from a young age that he wanted to pursue a career that blended his passion for catching frogs with contributions to science. Through volunteering and internships during his undergraduate degree, he further developed his passion for reptile and amphibian species, which are increasingly impacted by climate change and global warming. 

In the field of ecology, Derek appreciates the proximity between his office (where the analytical work happens) and the field (where the practical work occurs) at Bishop’s University. Being able to escape statistics and his computer by simply walking to the nearby marsh is truly the best of both worlds for an ecologist. He also values the strong community aspect at Bishop’s, where everyone knows each other, making it easier to build professional relationships with other students and faculty members—something that is often less feasible at larger universities. Additionally, the access to a bilingual work and learning environment was a significant draw for him. 

The main fields of Derek’s research project are Behavioural and Evolutionary Ecology, as well as Herpetology (the study of amphibians and reptiles). His current research aims to assess the effects of environmental variability intensity on the degree of phenotypic trait integration and plasticity in the wood frog (Lithobates sylvaticus). Using an experimental mesocosm design (the cattle tanks set up near the community and educational garden), he will study the degree of correlated responses between various phenotypic and behavioural traits subjected to different drying and temperature conditions. This project will enhance understanding of amphibian adaptability in response to climate change. 

Beyond his research, Derek is deeply committed to his field and the broader scientific community, actively engaging in activities and organizations like the Canadian Herpetological Society (CHS) that promote biodiversity and the conservation of Canadian reptiles and amphibians. 

Derek strongly believes in the accessibility of scientific data. He feels that progress can be more impactful when communities work together through accessible scientific information. This is particularly true in ecology, which has garnered increasing interest in recent decades due to climate change. Within ecology, herpetology has seen significant advancements recently, but much work remains. From small actions that individuals can take at home to mitigate their environmental impact to larger-scale efforts, collective action is crucial for preserving and protecting the planet’s biodiversity and ecosystems. Derek envisions the future of his field as not just focusing on ecology itself, but also on the collective efforts of various interdisciplinary branches of science that are key to solving climate changes and sustainability-related environmental challenges.

Joannie St-Germain M.Sc. (she/her/elle)
Research Officer
Office of Research and Graduate Studies
819-822-9600 extension 2242