Dissertation Research: Development and Evolution of Pigmentation Patterns

9520771了解导致 相关物种个体之间的差异是理解 模式与过程 的 生物多样性 这些机制可以包括基因序列的变化，特定基因表达的变化， 在生长发育和环境的影响。 这项研究的目的是描述一组密切相关的物种中色素模式的发展。 与泰国科学家的合作将提供必要的数据，并加强两国的研究工作。 在发展过程中的增长率和模式的变化的分析将被用来测试模式的形成模型。 颜色图案的分布将是 与系统发育相关性和生境选择的比较，以确定格局变化的进化顺序和对特定生态环境的适应在控制格局形成中的重要性。 这项研究计划的结果将阐明导致格局形成变化的发展机制及其生态意义。 它将有助于了解物种之间生物多样性的起源和持久性。

9520771 Understanding the mechanisms that lead to differences between individuals of related species is one key to understanding the pattern and process of biological diversification. Such mechanisms can include changes in gene sequences, changes in the expression of particular genes during growth and development and environmental influences. This research is aimed at characterizing the development of pigment patterns in a group of closely related species. Collaboration with scientists in Thailand will provide essential data and enhance research efforts in both countries. Analysis of growth rates and changes in patterns during development will be used to test models of pattern formation. The distribution of color patterns will be compared with phylogenetic relatedness and habitat choice, to determine the evolutionary sequences of pattern changes and the importance of adaptation to particular ecological circumstances in controlling pattern formation. The results of this research program will shed light on the developmental mechanisms that result in changes in pattern formation, and on their ecological significance. It will aid in understanding the origin and persistence of between species biological diversity.