David Zanatta

David Zanatta is a Professor in the Department of Biology at Central Michigan University (CMU), where he leads the Zanatta Lab and conducts research in molecular ecology and conservation genetics of freshwater mussels. He is affiliated with the Institute for Great Lakes Research and teaches courses in Conservation Biology, Ecology, Evolution, and Invertebrate Biology.

Education:

• B.Sc., Laurentian University, 1998
• M.Sc., University of Guelph, 2001
• Ph.D., University of Toronto, 2008
• Postdoc., Trent University, 2007–2008

His research focuses on evolutionary and ecological questions in aquatic systems, particularly the conservation of imperiled freshwater mollusks in the Great Lakes region. His lab combines field surveys with genetic analyses (mitochondrial DNA, microsatellites, DNA barcoding) to study population structure, postglacial biogeography, and host-fish relationships. A key area of study is the co-evolution between mussels like the Snuffbox (Epioblasma triquetra) and their host fish, such as the logperch. His work supports endangered species recovery through projects funded by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service.

The 15 most recent articles reflect strong interdisciplinary trends, combining molecular genetics, behavioral ecology, and conservation planning. They span topics including population structure, DNA barcoding, island biogeography, host specificity, and phylogenetics, with keywords indicating deep engagement in conservation biology, evolutionary genetics, and aquatic ecology.

Scientific Contributions:

• Developed genetic frameworks for conservation units in endangered mussels
• Advanced understanding of host fish infestation behavior
• Applied island biogeography to freshwater mollusks
• Established CMU’s Aquatic Habitat facility for propagation

David Zanatta actively mentors graduate and undergraduate students, with recent successes including thesis defenses by Gabby Sanfilippo, Dr. Nichelle VanTassel, and Dr. Shay Keretz. He collaborates with Dr. Daelyn Woolnough on host fish identification and has trained students such as Phil Mathias, Tonya Neuman, and Andy Harris, some of whom have presented at the North American Benthological Society. His lab’s work is critical for informing scientifically sound decisions in the recovery of some of the most endangered animals in North America.

Laboratory and Teams: The Zanatta Lab operates within the Department of Biology at CMU, with field sites across the Great Lakes and eastern U.S. It maintains molecular genetics capabilities and collaborates with federal and state agencies on conservation initiatives. The lab runs an aquatic habitat facility for host fish and mussel propagation, supporting federally listed species recovery.