Steve Vander Wall

Steve Vander Wall is a Professor and Biology Graduate Director at the University of Nevada, Reno. His research focuses on plant-animal interactions, particularly seed dispersal by rodents and birds in the Sierra Nevada region, and the mutualistic relationships between granivorous animals and coniferous plants.

• Ph.D., Biology, Utah State University (1980)
• M.S., Zoology, Northern Arizona University (1974)
• B.S., Biology, Northern Arizona University (1971)

His work examines seed dispersal mechanisms in pines and shrubs, the role of scatter-hoarding rodents in plant establishment, and how environmental factors like humidity and substrate type affect caching and pilfering behaviors. He also investigates the evolutionary implications of seed dispersal strategies and their ecological consequences.

Recent publications highlight trends in seed dispersal syndromes, cache pilfering dynamics, and the interplay between rodent behavior and plant reproductive success. Articles span topics such as mutualistic networks, granivore community interactions, and adaptive foraging strategies in fire-prone ecosystems.

As a graduate director, Vander Wall mentors students in ecological research, emphasizing field studies and experimental approaches to understanding animal-mediated seed dispersal. His office is located in Building FA, Room 259, University of Nevada, Reno.