Geckos are a species-rich and diverse (1200+ species, 108 genera) group of lizards with a worldwide distribution and a long evolutionary history (~200 million years). In order to provide a framework for evolutionary and comparative biological questions, the researchers will analyze gecko phylogenetic relationships using molecular and morphological data for 900 species of geckos, adding 300 additional species to their existing DNA sequence dataset and scoring 700 morphological characters for use in phylogenetic analyses. The researchers will study the evolution of vision, reproduction, locomotor ecomorphology, and thermal physiology in light of the relationships uncovered. Phylogenetic information will be used in conjunction with traditional museum studies to prepare taxonomic revisions and monographic treatments of major groups of geckos including the most successful and species-rich genera.
Field and museum components of the research will provide opportunities for students to participate in research in regions of global biodiversity conservation priority and will add to existing biodiversity collections and databases. Students from underrepresented groups will be actively recruited for the project. This study will promote interactions between primarily undergraduate institutions and larger research institutions, helping to broaden training in molecular phylogenetics and comparative biology for students.
