Primnoid octocorals aligned atop a small ridge at 1430 meters depth on Manning Seamount. (Image copyright of the Mountains in the Sea Research Team; IFE; and NOAA)
Primnoid octocorals aligned atop a small ridge at 1430 meters depth on Manning Seamount. (Image copyright of the Mountains in the Sea Research Team; IFE; and NOAA) |
In general, our research focuses on the evolution of deep-sea benthic invertebrates and the processes that generate the surprisingly high species diversity observed in this environment. What factors isolate populations and lead to genetic and morphological differentiation in this vast, continuous habitat? Little is known about the genetic population structure of deep-sea species, and the geographic extent over which they maintain interbreeding populations remains a major unresolved question in marine biology. To identify barriers to dispersal and gene flow, we examine genetic variation at a variety geographic scales at both the intra-and interspecific levels. By design, the results of the population-level analyses of variation lead to taxonomic and systematic inquiries at and above the species-level and therefore contribute to the recent increased interest in marine biodiversity. The current focal group of our studies is deep-sea coral. Octocorals (e.g., sea fans and sea whips) and black corals are relatively common in the cold waters of the deep sea, particularly where hard substrates rise from the bottom and current speeds are greater. You can read about specific projects using the links at left. |
Research funding provided by the National Science Foundation 
and NOAA's Office of Ocean Exploration
