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| Genetics Program |
The native birds of Hawaii have been devastated by the introduction of avian malaria, among other factors. I have been working to elucidate the dynamics and origin of avian malaria in this system. Using mitochondrial DNA sequences from Plasmodium and Haemoproteus (the blood parasites causing malaria), we have identified variable regions which will be useful in creating a worldwide phylogeny of these parasites. With this, we hope to identify the geographic and taxonomic origin of the Hawaiian parasite, as well as gain an understanding of how parasites move in time and space. In the future, I hope to use functional markers related to disease resistance in order to investigate differences in susceptibility. I would also like to determine to what extent malaria parasites have shaped the evolution of birds.
Revision: March 2003