Eric Fuchs I am studying various aspects of the population
biology of Guaiacum sanctum, lignum vitae. G. sanctum is an endangered
tree species in Costa Rica where it predominantly occurs on dry limestone
sites. My research includes analyses of its demography, fine-scale
genetic structure, mating system and pollen movement patterns. I also
plan to genetically analyze samples from throughout its range in Central
America and the Caribbean.
Monica Poelchau My interests lie in processes leading to population
divergence. I am particularly interested in the interplay of gene
flow and selection in tropical plants. I am currently studying the
population genetics and local adaptation of three sympatric shrub
species along a severe moisture gradient in Panama.
Dorset W. Trapnell (post-doctoral) I am studying the dispersal, breeding patterns
and genetic structure of the epiphytic orchid, Laelia
rubescens, in the seasonally dry tropical
forest of Guanacaste Province in Costa Rica. Both allozyme and chloroplast
markers are being employed for the purpose of addressing these research
questions.
Mohamed Saad Zaghloul (post-doctoral) Southern Sinai (Egypt) is characterized by very
rugged mountainous topography that produces numerous microhabitats
supporting high species richness and diversity although it is a
part of extremely arid zone. During the last thirty years human
activities have increased that strengthen the drought stress in
the area and have resulted in a long list of endangered species
including the endemic ones. Along with the conservation activities
going on there, my research is on population ecology and genetics
of Acacia tortilis
(Fabaceae), (the only multipurpose true tree in the area) and the
genus Ballota
(Lamiaceae), and their implications for conservation and rehabilitation
of the species in their natural habitat.
