Genealogical Analysis of Tropical Tree Populations

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This research will study those factors that give rise to the distribution of genetic variation within populations of tropical trees. A statistical technique, genealogical reconstruction will utilize several genetic loci to identify the parents of seeds and established seedlings. Once the parents of these individuals have been identified, several questions concerning the development and maintenance of fine-scale genetic structure can be answered. Dr. Hamrick will be able to measure the distance pollen moves and to determine whether the immigration of pollen plays a significant role in shaping the genetic composition of these populations. He will also be able to measure seed dispersal distances and to determine which adult individuals are effective in reproducing the next generation. The importance of this research is its potential to provide a better understanding of the mechanisms that play a role in the reproductive biology of tropical tree species. This information could be used in the effective design and maintenance of conservation areas. It could also be important for attempts to regenerate tropical forests after their destruction. Finally, this research will provide basic information concerning the ecology and evolution of tropical tree communities.