Dissertation Research: Connectivity and Intra-Population Structure of Western South Atlantic Green Sea Turtle (Chelonia mydas) Foraging Populations

American Museum Natural History, New York NY

Investigators

Abstract

Robert DeSalle DEB- 0407722 DDIG Abstract Connectivity and Intra-Population Structure of Western South Atlantic green sea turtle (Chelonia mydas) foraging populations Genetic methods will be employed to test hypotheses about the dynamics of major Western South Atlantic green sea turtle (Chelonia mydas) foraging groups. In this approach major objectives are to: 1) Determine genetic relationships between the study populations and other regional green turtle breeding and feeding aggregations; and 2) Obtain an unprecedented picture of the mating dynamics and population structure of these turtles. The scientific significance of the study derives from otherwise unobtainable insight into how these turtles move in time and space, relationships of genetic composition of the turtles and key biological factors, and conservation priorities. This information enhances basic knowledge of population structure of these turtles in a key but inadequately researched area, with applications to other species worldwide. In the course of the project, education and training are promoted, and underrepresented groups from geographically disparate regions are included. In addition, a sustained partnership between scientists in Brazil and the United States is expanded, and results are communicated in various languages to diverse audiences. The broader impacts of the research thus include benefits from the diversity of participating programs, frequent presentations and workshops, improved research content and infrastructure, and broad dissemination of results.