My thesis research focuses on patterns of paternity and pollination in rare and threatened species of Asclepias (milkweed) in Illinois. Using microsatellite genotyping analysis, we can (attempt) to determine where the paternal plants are in relation to the maternal plants, figure out male mating success rates, and correlate pollinations with population size, habitat, and landscape among many other exciting things!
The findings from paternity and pollination studies can be essential to informing restoration, conservation, and genetic rescue efforts of threatened plant species.
Background picture: Federally threatened Asclepias meadii or Mead's Milkweed
The findings from paternity and pollination studies can be essential to informing restoration, conservation, and genetic rescue efforts of threatened plant species.
Background picture: Federally threatened Asclepias meadii or Mead's Milkweed