Phylogenetic Analysis of Blepharoneura (Diptera:Tephritidae)A Test of New Methods and Hypotheses About the Evolution of Host Choice (Systematic Biology/Teacher Enhancement): VPW

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Through a phylogenetic analysis of a monophyletic species group of Blepharoneura (Diptera: Tephritidae), sets of hypotheses are tested that address two major aspects: 1) evolution of host choice in phytophagous insects; 2) evolution of science and education. This effort tests a new method for discovering morphological characters, utilizing public involvement, and stems from observations that untrained observers recognize patterns overlooked by specialists. Curious children are ideal untrained observers. The investigator will work with teachers, visit classrooms, explain the research, and ask students for help (How can we tell these flies apart?). The process generates new characters for the investigator, and involves students and teachers in the process of working on a real problem in science. Methods and collaboration include: field work in Costa Rica, Mexico, Peru, and Venezuela with volunteers from UMBC; isozyme electrophoresis; cytology; morphological character discovery with children and teachers in the elementary Science Integration Project, UMBC; and phylogenetic analysis. The study is significant because it will generate and integrate interactions between: systematics and ecology, and science, education, and the public; and, provide a powerful model for these interactions. The project furthers VPW program objectives to provide opportunities for women to advance their careers in science or engineering through research, and to encourage other women to pursue careers in these areas through the investigators' enhanced visibility as role models on the host campuses. In this project, the proposed activities which contribute to the second objective include: working with and training elementary and middle school teachers and students, and involving them with research through the Elementary Science Integration Project (UMBC); training teachers and volunteers for field work using the National Aquarium resources; participating in two seminar series at UMBC; and serving as a lecturer for the University President's Commission on the Status of Women.