New Short Talks: Biologists Marlis and Michael Douglas on What DNA Can Tell Us About the Health of Wildlife

Michael and Marlis Douglas.
University Relations

Michael and Marlis Douglas.

In this edition of Short Talks From the Hill, a podcast from the University of Arkansas, Marlis and Michael Douglas, both professors in the Department of Biological Sciences, talk about the role of DNA testing in their work as wildlife biologists.

In their research, the Douglases have worked with many kinds of animals, from brown tree snakes in Guam, to large fish in Bhutan, to deer in Arkansas.

"We use DNA as our Rosetta Stone to understand migrations of animals, to understand the genealogical relationships, how they relate to one another," says Michael.  "We also figure out how much genetic variability is within a population so when you lose a lot of genetic variability that puts you in very dangerous straits for conservation and management."

In each case, DNA provided insight into whether a species was flourishing, or not, which helps resource managers make sound decisions. In Arkansas, for example, the Douglases are using genetic testing to determine how groups of deer move throughout the state so that wildlife officials can better control the spread of chronic wasting disease. The disease, which is incurable, infectious and fatal, affects deer, moose and elk. Most cases in Arkansas are in or  around Newton County.

"Our genetic studies studied primarily how do deer move across the landscape and what might be barriers and what might be corridors," said Marlis.

To learn more about the Douglas' research go to ResearchFrontiers.uark.edu, the home of research news at the University of Arkansas. Listeners can also find Short Talks From the Hill podcasts under the "Local & Podcast" link at KUAF.com.

Short Talks From the Hill highlights research and scholarly work at the University of Arkansas. Each segment features a university researcher discussing his or her work. For more information and additional podcasts, click on the Multimedia link at ResearchFrontiers.uark.edu.

Contacts

Matt McGowan, science and research communications officer
University Relations
479-575-4246, dmcgowa@uark.edu

Headlines

Food Scientists Show Rice Malt Has Potential to Play a Bigger Role in Beer

With Arkansas growing about half of the rice in the United States, and shortages of traditional raw materials such as barley, evaluating rice cultivars for use in malted brewing was one goal of U of A researchers.

Electrical Engineering and Computer Science Senior Design Projects Reviewed by Alumni

Students condensed their design work into senior design projects and presented them for department alumni and other industry professionals, gaining insights from peers and faculty members.

An Evening With NWA Soldier Songs and Voices: The Healing Power of Music

Members of the Northwest Arkansas chapter of Soldier Songs and Voices will share their experiences and perform music in the Pryor Center atrium at 6 p.m. on Friday, April 5.

University Not Pursuing Full External Management of Custodial and Grounds Services

Following an evaluation process that provided the U of A with the opportunity to learn more about its current operations compared to the market, the university will maintain its current workforce.

NAHJ UARK: Free Churros and Sodas During J-Days Celebration

 The U of A chapter of the National Association of Hispanic Journalists will offer churros and sodas on the north patio of Kimpel Hall from noon to 2 p.m. Thursday. Stop by and support your local journalist.

News Daily