The Dwarf Reptile Project

Current Research as M.S. Graduate Student:

In my current role as an M.S. graduate student, I am immersed in a compelling investigation focused on the life history evolution of five reptile species inhabiting the Channel Islands of California. My research delves into discerning variations in crucial traits such as clutch size, egg size, and the proportion of gravid individuals between mainland and island populations. This exploration aims to unravel the intricacies of life-history consequences associated with island dwarfism.

As an integral member of the Shared Molecular mechanisms Across Life history traits (SMAL) project, I actively contribute to this collaborative effort, which seeks to understand shared molecular mechanisms influencing diverse life history traits. Within this initiative, I am particularly engaged in the examination of field ultrasounds as a tool for observing and analyzing reproductive variables in insular dwarf reptiles on the Channel Islands of California. This multifaceted research endeavor holds the potential to enhance our comprehension of evolutionary dynamics in island ecosystems and contributes valuable insights to the broader understanding of life history evolution in reptilian populations.