The evolution of a miniaturized body form has occurred many times in vertebrate animals. This project will investigate the evolutionary process of miniaturization within the diminutive skinks in the genus Sphenomorphus from the Philippines. These lizards have evolved miniaturized species during multiple, independent events, allowing for a test of correlation between morphological development and adult body form. The incorporation of genetic data, adult morphology, ecology, and ontogenetic development allows for an integrative approach to understanding the evolution of miniaturized body form in skinks.
This study will be the first integrative examination of ontogenetic change associated with miniaturization in lizards. Furthermore, this study is the first phylogenetic examination of a diverse group of Southeast Asian skinks that have a long history of taxonomic ambiguity reaching back to the 19th century. Fieldwork will be conducted in collaboration with Filipino students from multiple universities, allowing training in field methodologies and developmental biology. Collection of molecular and morphological data will involve the training of undergraduates at the University of Kansas, providing them with experience in scientific research. All data collected will be available to the public through an online database of skink morphology and taxonomy.
