But gold mining in particular can have tragic consequences downstream due to toxic contamination that threatens aquatic life, natural predators, and native Ecuadorians. Participants will work with Drs. Alan Heyvaert and Peter Richerson of UC Davis and representatives of local indigenous communities to capture insect and fish specimens and collect sediment samples from river and floodplain areas. Findings will help scientists better understand mercury's complex role in ecological systems. The team will stay in villages in the lowland rainforest near Tena, traveling to different sites on the Napo River and its tributaries, sometimes by small boat.
Weather is humid and warm, with cool nights.
Knowledge of Spanish and adaptability to rustic conditions helpful.