Doctoral Student
Population Genetics
Research Interests: Marta is currently working in a genetic study with Florida and Puerto Rico manatee population. The main goal of this research is to address the subspecies question, determine the population structure of manatees in Florida and Puerto Rico, as well as look into physical malformations due to inbreeding. In order to accomplish this I will analyze 1600 samples from Puerto Rico and Florida collected over the past 15 years, using nuclear DNA microsatellite specially designed for the species.
Looking at the nuclear DNA allows us to provide critical data in support of scientific-based resource management. As a result we will be able to make recommendations to resolve the subspecies question, and look in greater detail into local geographic patterns, like in Puerto Rico, where there is a geographic delimitation on the distribution of the mtDNA haplotypes, or support the subdivisions established by behavioral studies in Florida population. We will also be able to monitor demographic trends (e.g. population size, replacement rates, and movement) in both populations by supporting the existing photo identification catalogue. In addition to the population/conservation analysis and stock identification, DNA fingerprinting (identifying individuals) and famiy printing (establish parent-offspring relationships) are among the capabilities of the technique.
Research Topics:
Genetic tools for a better definition of the Puerto Rico and Florida populations of manatees (Trichechus manatus).
Advisors:
Ashanti J. Pyrtle (Major Advisor)
David Mann
Mike Tringali
Contact Information:
martar@marine.usf.edu |
