Graduate student Paul Kemp proposes to study the relationship between tissue and shell growth in gastropods, using a combination of shell morphometrics, computer modelling and controlled growth experiments. Based on his published undergraduate thesis, Kemp hypothesizes that variations in the growth rate of body tissue has a profound effect on the both the thickness and coiling geometry of the snail's shell. In that study, Kemp found striking shell differences within a species that differed principally in food supply. He proposes to raise populations at varying levels of food and calcium in the substrate. The project has broad implications not only for systematic practices among gastropod workers, but for the integration of biological and morphometric studies. Systematists will gain new insight into the direct effects of environemntal conditions on those characteristics often used to distinguish species. Paul Kemp is a quadriplegic. The proposal requests a specially modified microcomputer-based image analysis system. This award will support a valuable dissertation research project, allow Mr. Kemp to pursue a career in research, and aid in the design and development of research equipment for spine-injured scientists.
