Interests:  ecological genetics, evolutionary ecology, phylogeography, conservation genetics, molecular ecology

Current projects with Sacramento perch (Archoplites interruptus):

• genetic bottlenecks and founder effects in populations

• historical phylogeography

• using genetic data for conservation

• variation in the major histocompatibility complex

• local adaptation of populations

Sacramento perch (http://www.photolib.noaa.gov/historic/nmfs/images/big/figb0413.jpg)

This species was once a dominant fish in the Central Valley and Bay-Delta Region of California; however, it remains in only a few locations in California and Nevada, all of which are outside its native range. Consequently, Sacramento perch are listed as a California “Species of Special Concern.”  I am collaborating with researchers in the labs of Dr. Peter Moyle and Dr. Joe Cech to develop a comprehensive restoration plan for this species using genetics, physiology, life history traits, and behavior.