Research Themes

Paleomiddens

Phylogeography

= aDNA

We are examining genetic variation over the late Quaternary by characterizing the ancient woodrat DNA (aDNA) contained within fossilized fecal pellets. Biogeographic and evolutionary histories are routinely inferred from modern molecular phylogeographic structure, but usually cannot be corroborated by the fossil record. Population history is seldom known independent of its genetic consequences and hence many biogeographic and evolutionary models based on modern phylogeography remain unverified. In western North America, there is an unprecedented opportunity to conduct phylogenetic analyses of both modern and ancient woodrat (Neotoma) populations at comparable spatial resolution. We know of no similar opportunity worldwide. Our current research effort directly compares modern and late Quaternary molecular phylogeographic structures in Neotoma. To date, we have demonstrated that good quality ancient DNA can be extracted from the fossil woodrat pellets contained within the midden matrix and have refined appropriate amplification and sequencing protocols. Although initial results came from investigations conducted at UNM by students and myself, this work is now being conducted collaboratively.  My colleagues include: Julio Betancourt at the U.S. Geological Survey, Hendrik Poinar at McMaster University in Canada, and Jim Patton at the Museum of Vertebrate Zoology, Berkeley.  We are currently working on a pilot project that is generating very interesting results and plan on submitting a proposal to NSF in the near future.