Research
My primary research interests are morphology and molecular systematics of ray-finned fishes (Actinopterygii). My research training is in systematic ichthyology and evolutionary biology, and my background education is in marine biology and fisheries science. I have participated in a variety of morphological and developmental studies of teleost fishes, and I have conducted research on fish systematics, biogeography, and character evolution. A common theme of all of my recent research has been blending modern techniques of molecular systematics with traditional studies of morphology and development involving natural history museum specimens. Please click the link below to learn more about my research program.
American Pocket Shark, Mollisquama mississippiensis
The research endeavor that I have been working on recently is exciting to scientists and the general public alike. Just the second specimen of the enigmatic Pocket Shark was collected in 2010.
The American Pocket Shark produces a luminous fluid. Check out the new publication in Scientific Reports led by Julien Claes.
High resolution synchrotron X-ray tomography reviews details of the chondrocranium of the American Pocket Shark. Read the paper led by John Denton published in Journal of Anatomy.
Development of Teleost Caudal Fins
I have been studying the development of the caudal skeleton of Danio rerio and other teleosts using immunostaining and traditional clearing and staining in collaboration with E. O. Wiley and others at University of Kansas.
Morphology and Evolution of the Palatal Organ of Catostomidae
I have conducting a specimen-based study on the morphological variation of the palatal organ, chewing pad, and basioccipital bone of suckers and representatives of other cypriniform families.
Phylogenetic Systematics of Catostomidae
I have been studying sucker interrelationships with Hank Bart, Kenji Saitoh, and Masaki Miya using various mitochondrial and nuclear markers.