Molecular systematics, taxonomy, and functional morpohology of the hemichordates

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The pattern of relationships among the three major deuterostome taxa, the nature of the deuterostome ancestor, and the evolutionary origin of the chordates can only be understood with reference to a robust deuterostome phylogeny. Deuterostomes consist of three major phyla: the echinoderms, hemichordates and chordates.  Research from my lab include i) molecular phylogenetic analysis of the deuterostomes with emphasis on the hemichordates, ii) the taxonomy and zoogeography of 29 new species of enteropneust, iii) the form and functional significance of gill slits in Enteropneusta, and iv) the composition and function of epithelial granular cells in the Enteropneusta. These studies are needed to resolve the evolution of the deuterostomes, the branch on the tree of life to which we belong, and they are crucial to appreciating and preserving the diversity of life in our oceans.