Project Organization

This project is a collaborative research effort involving participants from several institutions. However, the majority of this project is a collaboration between researchers working at Tall Timbers Research Station and Land Conservancy, the University of Georgia, Mississippi State University, and the Albany Area Quail Project.

Summary

The ideas underlying many questions being investigated by this suite of research projects arise from the lack of knowledge and understanding pertaining to the reproductive ecology and population genetics of the Northern Bobwhite (Colinus virginianus). Bobwhite are perhaps among the most studied wild bird species. However, very little objective information pertaining to their mating system, degree of investment in individual offspring, and social system exists. Similarly, little information regarding the effects of habitat fragmentation, isolation of small populations, inbreeding, and gene flow among populations exists for this rapidly declining species.

Advances in molecular techniques, particularly the discovery and utility of microsatellite DNA (deoxyribonucleic acid), have allowed us to investigate many of these questions with a degree of objectivity unavailable in the past. Our techniques center around the use of several protocols similar to those set up in many labs throughout the country. Generally, these involve DNA extraction, the use of PCR-based amplification of microsatellite regions of interest, and fragment size analysis using a DNA sequencer. Data analysis is carried out using a combination of database software, "standard" statistical packages, freely-available populations genetics software, and in-house solutions.

Site Purpose

This site serves as a clearinghouse for information pertaining to the the bobwhite genetics project. The whole of this research project consists of several, interrelated sub-projects which are detailed below and explained in more detail upon following the appropriate links. Projects are linked and described according to the order in which they were started. The descriptions below contain information detailing the research question and the specific researchers examining that question.

Individual Projects