Center for Tropical Research December 2002 Newsletter

The CTR conservation genetics laboratory hosted a visit from two colleagues from West Africa during October and November, 2002. Dr. Blaise Kadjo and Mr. Bertin Akpatou, researchers at the Centre Suisse de Recherches Scientifiques in Abidjan, Cote d’Ivoire, came to the lab to learn various techniques for understanding the molecular genetics of mammal and bird populations in their native country. They have been involved in field studies for a CTR research project focusing on the importance of evolutionary processes in ecological gradients that exist in riverine, montane, savannah and rainforest ecosystems in West Africa. UCLA graduate student, Debra Pires, facilitated training for Blaise and Bertin, who will apply their training to future research that will refine conservation policies and practices in their home country. During their stay in California, they also participated in the CTR workshop on Rainforest Diversification and Conservation, and had the opportunity to visit the UC Berkeley Museum of Vertebrate Zoology.