
Current Projects

Genetics of Dalea foliosa
We are using up to 40 microsatellite loci for genotype-by-sequencing (GBS) of more than 40 populations of the federally endangered leafy prairie-clover. The end result will be the highest resolution genetic data set for this species to date, and it will inform future management decisions. This work is funded by the US Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS), and field and lab work are underway.

A new species of Phacelia
We are collaborating with Dr. Jon Evans (Sewanee, University of the South, TN) to describe a new species of Phacelia within the P. bipinnatifida complex. Our lab generated 18 microsatellite loci for genotype-by-sequencing (GBS) of populations from across the range of the species. These data, when combined with Jon's morphological and ecological data, support recognition of new species. This work is being funded by the Sewanee Herbarium, and a manuscript is in preparation.

Clonal structure of Sagittaria fasciculata
We used 36 microsatellite loci for genotype-by-sequencing (GBS) of 15 populations of the federally endangered bunched arrowhead. We are documenting extensive clonality in this species, which has significant implications for management strategies. This work is funded by the US Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS), and a manuscript is in preparation.

Clonal structure of Sarracenia oreophila
We are collaborating with Zach Irick and Dr. Dwayne Estes (Southeastern Grasslands Institute [SGI], Austin Peay University, TN) to document clonal structure and population connectedness in Sarracenia oreophila in Little River Canyon National Preserve, AL. Our lab generated 25 microsatellite loci for genotype-by-sequencing (GBS) of populations from a number of bogs both within and outside of LRC. These data, when combined with Zach's demographic monitoring data, will provide new insights for future management strategies. This work is being funded by SGI, and a manuscript is in preparation.

Clonal structure of Shortia galacifolia
We documented clonal structure in several sites of Shortia galacifolia and Shortia brevistyla, commonly known as Oconee bells. Our data suggest that clones are relatively small and that genetic diversity is high in the more widespread S. galacifolia, but we only detected a single genotype in S. brevistyla. More work is needed to understand the complex dynamics of these two species.