Chromosome Lab
In this lab, scientists study the fine structure of butterfly chromosomes with several of the highest quality light microscopes.
Butterfly chromosomes are almost unique because they can break apart at any point along their length an rejoin without fatal consequences to offspring. This fission and fusion allows frequent recombination of genes or small groups of genes (known as "jumping genes"), and thus promotes rapid evolutionary adjustments to changing conditions in the environment. The resulting genetic variation prepares organisms for environmental changes that might affect their survival.
Genetics Lab
Genetics research sheds light on how various organisms and lifestyles evolved and how they are still adapting to changing conditions today.
Much of the research here deals with the molecular aspects of genetics, such as sequencing (or mapping out) DNA strands in the chromosomes and mitochondria of Lepidoptera. We can also sequence RNA and protein molecules. Today, considerable research on the nature of life and relationships between organisms occurs at this molecular level. For example, scientists here study molecular patterns to reconstruct the evolutionary history of butterflies and moths and to help identify newly discovered species. Other genetic studies explore how DNA controls cell development, and Lepidoptera are model organisms for this type of research.
SEM Lab
To study tiny Lepidoptera structures, scientists use scanning electron microscopes (SEMs) that can clearly show 3-dimensional structures not easily seen with a light microscope.
SEMs magnify objects from 40 to 1 million-times natural size. Study of insects such as Lepidoptera usually use a range from 40 to 5,000-times. SEMs use a beam of electrons that bounce off structures and shows every tiny detail in scales, antennae, compound eyes and minute sensory organs and cells used for hearing, touch, sound and even chemical detection.
Special Projects Lab
In this lab we conduct species conservation projects.
Current Project: Breeding the Miami Blue. The Miami Blue (cyclargus thomasi bethunebakeri) is a small blue butterfly. Once abundant in South Florida, it is now critically endangered. In this lab we have established a captive breeding population and are reintroducing the Blues into conservation areas such as Everglades and Biscayne National Parks. The goal is to increase population numbers in the wild and expand the range of this butterfly from one small remnant colony on Bahia Honda Key to historically occupied areas.