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Dr Ronald S Burton
Professor of Marine Biology; Director, Marine Biology Research Division (MBRD)
Scripps Institution of Oceanography
University of California San Diego
La Jolla, CA 92093-0202 USA
Phone: 858 822 5784 Fax: 858 534 7313 Email: rburton@ucsd.edu
Street Address: 8750 Biological Grade, 2140 Hubbs Hall, La Jolla, CA 92037 USA
Web address http://burtonlab.ucsd.edu/rsb/index
Ron Burton, Director MBRD
Photo: J Demian
The Burton lab has three primary research interests: (1) to understand the distribution of genetic variation within and among marine species, (2) to determine the functional significance of within-species genetic variation, and (3) apply genetic tools to gain understanding of the ecology and evolution of marine organisms. Most work in the lab focuses on copepods, sea urchins and abalone. The intertidal copepod Tigriopus californicus shows sharp genetic differentiation among populations and has become our model system for analysis of physiological and fitness consequences of genetic variation. Laboratory hybrids between populations often show reduced performance relative to natural populations. We are investigating the molecular basis for this hybrid breakdown. In this work, we are focusing on the role of mtDNA/nuclear gene interactions. Other work in the lab uses a variety of genetic markers to determine the role of dispersal and recruitment patterns in the population structure of sea urchins (Strongylocentrotus sp.) and abalone (Haliotis sp.). These species are the focus of intense fisheries management and conservation efforts, respectively, yet basic knowledge on dispersal and recruitment is lacking. We are using genetic approaches to help understand the ecology of the species and better inform management practices.
Male, intertidal copepod Tigriopus californicus
Photo: R Burton
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