SDHS Monthly Meeting - August 2025

SDHS August Member Meeting: “Think You Know Reptiles?” – A Talk on Monophyletic Classification in Diapsid Reptiles

Date: Tuesday, August 19th, 2025
Time: 7:00 PM PST
Location: Balboa Park, Casa Del Prado, Room 104, San Diego, CA

Speaker: Gannon Cruz Stephen
Title: Think You Know Reptiles?
Topic: Monophyletic Classification in Diapsid Reptiles

Join us for an engaging and educational talk with Gannon Cruz Stephen, a 10th-year Organismal Biology student at California State University, Long Beach. Gannon will lead a slideshow presentation on monophyletic classification in diapsid reptiles, discussing how reptiles are classified in the modern-day and what we can learn from their evolutionary history.

In this talk, Gannon will explore:

• What monophyletic classification is and how it relates to the group we call "reptiles"

• The relationship between turtles and crocodiles – why they are more closely related than you might think

• The evolutionary history of diapsid reptiles and their development

• Fascinating examples of extinct reptiles found in the fossil record and how they connect to the reptiles we know today

About the Speaker:
Gannon is an Organismal Biology major focusing on biology and zoology. He has a passion for herpetology and recently interned in the Peruvian Amazon, where he gathered valuable data on species in the region. Gannon’s dedication to understanding the connections between extinct and modern reptiles is reflected in this fascinating talk that will deepen your understanding of reptile evolution.

What to Expect:

• Detailed presentation on monophyletic classification and its relevance in herpetology

• Slideshow visuals showcasing reptiles’ evolutionary history

• Opportunity to ask questions during and after the presentation

• Meet like-minded herp enthusiasts in our community

• Light refreshments will be provided

This is a great opportunity for anyone interested in reptiles, evolution, and the fascinating history of these ancient creatures.

RSVP now and join us for an informative and thought-provoking discussion!

Note: This event is open to all ages, though some content may be more suitable for ages 12 and up.