I am continuing my master's thesis research on western and Yosemite toads.  Phylogenetic analysis has shown that the greatest genetic divergence in this species complex occurs near the site of the Transverse Ranges, which marks a split between two major clades (see dendrogram below).  Furthermore, each well-supported clade contains members of both B. canorus and B. boreas species.  This result that somewhat contradicts our understanding of the current taxonomic division between these two species. Implications of this research are critical in light of the fact that the Yosemite toad has been petitioned for listing as an endangered species.  Management decisions must be guided by an accurate understanding of the true evolutionary relationships of these species.

     In collaboration with the US Forest Service, I am conducting a conservation genetics study of Yosemite toads that focuses on filling in areas of the range that have yet to be examined using molecular techniques.  The goal is to gain a comprehensive understanding of the distribution of genetic diversity throughout the entire range of the Yosemite toad so that management decisions may be made using complete information.