Davinack Research Group @ Wheaton College
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WELCOME TO THE DAVINACK LAB
As a research group within a Primarily Undergraduate Institution (PUI), the Davinack Lab is engaged in undergraduate-driven research. We utilize several tools including but not limited to: phylogenetics, morphology, population genetics, DNA barcoding and eco-physiology, to understand how aquatic invasive species (AIS) survive, spread, become established and most importantly, maintain connectivity across a complex seascape or riverscape. We are particularly interested in marine invertebrates, especially polychaetes and molluscs.
Identification of polychaetes and mystery snails
Occasionally we receive polychaete samples from around the country to identify using morphological and molecular analyses. As a lab that is primarily interested in exploring aquatic biodiversity, we are more than happy to aid in any identifications free of charge with the explicit understanding that the data generated (e.g. gDNA, sequences) be attributed to the Davinack Lab if any presentations or publications arise from that data.
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If you are sending polychaete samples, please ensure that they are stored in at least 70-99% molecular grade ethanol. For gastropods, ensure that they are either dried, frozen or stored in 99% molecular grade ethanol
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Samples can be shipped to the following address:
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ATTN: Prof. Davinack
Biology Department
Mars Center for Science and Technology
Wheaton College
Norton, MA 02766
USA
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Outreach in the Davinack Lab: Infosession with Cape Cod Oyster farmers
Research out of pure curiosity is amazing but equally satisfying is applying that research to real world problems. This spring, Ava and I traveled to Yarmouth, MA to talk with oyster farmers on the Cape and I presented some of Ava's data that she gathered for her Honor's Thesis. We discovered a seasonal window that exist with Polydora websteri where infections only accumulate in oysters in the Fall with peak infestation occurring in colder months. This means there is a small window of opportunity from when larvae are released to when they settle which can be exploited to prevent infection. How? That's what we're brainstorming!