Research projects – details

Current projects

Sex in Dragons

We are using novel genetic, molecular and cytological approaches to discover genes and chromosomes that control sex determination in GSD species, and to explore their homologues in TSD species. An ARC Discovery Project.

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Comparative reptile genomics

Was an ancient bird-like sex chromosome system ancestral to reptiles and mammals? We are addressing this question using comparative genome hybridization and molecular genetics of selected amniotes. An ARC Discovery Project.

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The New Guinea-Australia nexus

Using molecular approaches to probe biogeographical relationships between Australian and New Guinean freshwater turtles. A Hermon Slade Foundation Project.

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Pignosed Turtles of the Kikori

The pig-nosed turtle is important to the people of the Kikori region because of the value placed on its meat and eggs for food. This project aims to gather strategic data on the nesting biology and harvest of the pig-nosed turtle in the Kikori to inform effective community action for conservation and and for sustainable use of this important resource. Funded by Oil Search Ltd and WWF(PNG).

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The hidden life of the Common Snake-necked Turtle

Possibly our most well-studied turtle, yet radio-tracking is yielding many surprises on its secret terrestrial sojourns. Funded by the VC Scholarship Scheme.

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Broad-shelled Turtles in the Riverland

Are broad-shelled turtles rare and endangered or cryptic and secure? What are the drivers of their success in the lower Murray's riverland? This study will also look at molecular evidence of recent invasion of the Murray-Darling drainage system following the last glacial period. An ARC Linkage Project.

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Recently completed projects

Conservation biology of the Royal Turtle

Until recently thought extinct in Cambodia, the Royal Turtle, Batagur baska, may be making a comeback. A Wildlife Conservation Society Project.

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Monitoring wildlife trade

Developing molecular techniques for monitoring trade in our native wildlife — a case study using the northern snake-necked turtle (Chelodina rugosa). An AFP funded Project.

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Aboriginal harvest of Snake-necked Turtles

Assisting the Bawinanga Aboriginal Corporation to establish an indigenous enterprise based on the sustainable harvest of northern snake-necked turtles (Chelodina rugosa). An ARC Linkage Project.

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