Our research seeks, using DNA and RNA, to better understand human interactions with aquatic ecosystems. Although we cannot see DNA or RNA with the naked eye, these molecules guide the function of all organisms on Earth and can serve as innate tags, gauges of activity, and evolutionary markers. Cataloging and comparing molecular genetic characters across populations and ecosystems provides insight into how organisms develop and interact, a field of study known as ecological genetics.
Much of our ecological genetic work is metagenomics, investigating genetic material obtained directly from environmental samples. Major efforts include microbial biomineralization of nutrients in aquaponics systems (tracking the microbial metabolic processes that moderate nutrients), epidemiological metagenomics (detecting and monitoring for disease causing organisms in the environment), detection and quantification of parasites and disease-causing organisms in heterogenous environmental backgrounds (Dermo and MSX in oysters, Bacillus in soils, and influenza from environmental isolates), and quantification of functional and taxonomic diversity of microbes in riverine and estuarine ecosystems.
The EGL also provides services to the industry and government including ploidy confirmation by flow cytometry for diploid and triploid adult and larval fish and shellfish (grass carp, black carp, striped bass, trout, and oysters), genetic mixed stock analysis for estimating harvest composition, and genetic biodiversity assessment. Contact us at 603.862.4200 for information on contracting these services.
Research Interests
Conservation, ecological, and aquaculture genetics
Biomineralization of nutrients in aquaponics systems
Disease metagenomics
Riverine and estuarine ecosystem metagenomics
Oyster nutrient assimilation
Vertebrate and invertebrate strain evaluation for aquaculture
Flow cytometric analysis of ploidy
Mailing address:
University of New Hampshire
Department of Biological Sciences
38 Academic Way
Durham, NH 03824
(603) 862-4200