Matthias Hasenbein

Ph.D. Candidate

Degrees:
B.Sc. Biology Technische Universitaet Muenchen Germany
M.Sc. Biology Technische Universitaet Muenchen Germany

Research Interests:

My PhD research is a collaborative project between the Technische Universitaet Muenchen, Germany, and the University of California at Davis and a collaboration between Dr. Fangue`s laboratory (Department of Fish and Wildlife, UC Davis) and Dr. Connon`s laboratory (School of Veterinary Medicine: Anatomy, Physiology and Cell Biology UC Davis). Currently, I am working on the specification of the fundamental niche for turbidity and salinity for all three life stages (Larvae, Juvenile, and Adult) of the Delta smelt (Hypomesus transpacificus). The delta smelt is an endangered fish species and is endemic to the San Francisco Bay Delta System. Turbidity and salinity are considered to be very important habitat parameters for the distribution on the one hand and for the completion of the delta smelt`s life cycle on the other hand. The delta smelt is very sensitive to any kind of change in its habitat and thus is also considered to be an indicator species for the ecosystems health. To assess the niche I am using biochemical and molecular methods and technologies. In particular cortisol, glucose and lactate levels on the biochemical level as well as RNA-extraction, cDNA synthesis, microarray technology and qPCR to assess the stress responses on the molecular level. With my research I hope to aid resource managers in making informed decisions in support of delta smelt conservation.

In my Master's program I focused on fish biology with a strong emphasis on ecology of riverine ecosystems. I worked on the quality assessment of spawning grounds for brown trout (Salmo trutta) and European grayling (Thymallus thymallus). Additionally, I worked on the aspects of invasive species and examined the population ecology and growth traits of the signal crayfish (Pacifastacus lenisuculus).

I am very happy to be part of Nann Fangue's lab and for having the chance to work with such great people. I’m eager to learn more about fish physiology and the linkage between physiology and ecology.

Publications:

Hasenbein, M., Werner, I., Deanovic, L.A., Geist, J., Fritsch, E.B., Javidmehr, A., Foe, C., Fangue, N.A., Connon, R.E. (2014) Transcriptomic profiling permits the identification of pollutant sources and effects in ambient water samples. Science of the Total Environment, 468-469, 688-698.

Hasenbein, M., Komoroske, L.M., Connon, R.E., Geist, J. & Fangue, N.A. (2013). Turbidity and Salinity Affect Feeding Performance and Physiological Stress in the Endangered Delta Smelt. Integrative and Comparative Biology, 53, 620-634.