Nov 2016: George Olah spent years collecting macaw DNA in south-eastern Peru and we used landscape data from the Carnegie Airborne Observatory to analyse spatial patterns of gene flow. We now know that macaws have relatively few natural barriers to dispersal, except very high mountain ranges.

Our new paper provides data about natural gene flow that will serve as a baseline for monitoring and preserving connectivity across the Amazon.

Olah G, Smith AL, Asner GP, Brightsmith DJ, Heinsohn RG, Peakall R (2016). Exploring dispersal barriers using landscape genetic resistance modelling in scarlet macaws of the Peruvian Amazon. Landscape Ecology DOI: 10.1007/s10980-016-0457-8. Read online.

Check out the 3-minute video documentary about this work:

June 2016: I have just started a postdoc at PLANTPOPNET HQ Trinity College Dublin, working on demographic landscape genomics.

We will explore how the environment shapes spatial genomic patterns in Plantago lanceolata, while also examining the influence of population growth and survival rates on genomic structure. The species has an enormous distribution (here's one from my backyard in OZ) and the global scope of the network allows us to examine demographic and genomic processes in native and non-native ranges. Ultimately, we will contribute new knowledge about plant performance and adaptation under global change.

May 2016: Our new paper by honours student Alice McDougall shows how rocks are being used to restore habitat for native species in a rapidly developing urban area.






McDougall A, Milner RNC, Driscoll DA, Smith AL (2016). Restoration rocks: integrating abiotic and biotic habitat restoration to conserve threatened species and reduce fire fuel load. Biodiversity and Conservation, DOI: 10.1007/s10531-10016-11136-10534 Abstract

March 2016: ... But careful consideration must be given to the size and shape of prescription burns to ensure that species can move through their habitat.

Our new research in Proceedings B explains why:

Smith AL, Landguth EL, Bull CM, Banks SC, Gardner MG, Driscoll DA (2016). Dispersal responses override density effects on genetic diversity during post-disturbance succession. Proceedings of the Royal Society of London B 283, 20152934 Abstract


Check the MEDIA coverage on this paper