Robert E. Colombo II

Robert E. Colombo II is Professor of Biological Sciences at Eastern Illinois University, where he directs research on fish population responses to anthropogenic impacts. His office is located in room 2027 of the Life Science building.

Research focuses on commercially and ecologically significant species in lotic systems, examining harvest effects, invasive species impacts, and habitat alterations. Current projects include:

• Demographics and movement of catfish/sturgeon in the Wabash River
• Restoration impacts on Kickapoo Creek ecosystems
• Dam removal effects on Vermilion River communities
• Silver carp reproductive ecology in Illinois River tributaries
• Larval fish assemblages in the Wabash River
• Wastewater effluent impacts on aquatic biota

Publications demonstrate expertise in fisheries assessment techniques, population demographics, and restoration ecology. Recent work examines aging methodologies, demographic recovery patterns, and spatial dynamics of invasive species.

Advising includes supervision of multiple graduate students researching fish ecology, population dynamics, and habitat restoration. Fieldwork encompasses major Midwestern river systems including the Wabash, Mississippi, and Illinois Rivers.