The genetics of species formation in Amazonian birds: the case ofthe Silvered Antbird

This project aims to study how species form in the Amazon using the Silvered Antbird as a model. This species has diverged into two morphologically divergent forms. Where these forms come into geographic contact, populations appear morphologically and genetically intermediate suggesting they form a hybrid zone. To investigate the extent of genetic mixing between these forms I will use a genome-wide sample of tens of thousands of genetic markers sampled between eastern and western forms where they come into geographic contact. This data will be used to compare patterns of genetic merging, and to search for genes that may be important in promoting species formation.

Faculty Supervisor:

Jason Weir

Student:

Partner:

Universidade Federal do Pará

Discipline:

Life Sciences

Sector:

University:

University of Toronto

Program:

Globalink Research Award