Adjustable temperature array for characterising ecological and evolutionary effects on thermal physiology

1. To accurately characterise a species’ thermal niche and aid in predicting effects of climate change we must not only include information on thermal tolerances and physiological responses to changing temperatures, but also incorporate ecological effects and evolutionary processes that may shape a species’ niche. However, quickly and practically collecting data on key factors such as adaptation potential, behaviour, effects of species interactions, plasticity, and thermal tolerances is logistically challenging. 2. We have therefore created an adjustable temperature array (ATA) to assist with experimental ecology and evolution research. ATA’s are a row of independent temperature points controlled and set by the user and made from commercially-available parts. This allows the user to create unique thermal landscapes relevant to their study organism(s) and question(s). Further, the option of using an enclosed cage allows the user to answer questions at the individual, population, or commu...