Data Without Borders ICE 2016: Difference between revisions

::One of the most ancient ecosystems in the southeastern U.S.A. is scrub, often associated with ridge systems that were most likely used as refugia during Pleistocene sea level changes. Following sea level stabilization, these habitats effectively remained islands due to unique soil composition and a lack of plant diversity leading to a myriad of floral and faunal endemics. In particular, arthropod endemics abound as in the grasshopper genus ''Melanoplus'' (Orthoptera: Acrididae: Melanoplinae). Many genus members possess short wings incapable of flight and are unable to easily disperse over large distances, which makes such Melanoplus species ideal candidates for examining speciation hypotheses. To test such hypotheses, the Puer Group, comprised of 24 species with related morphology, was chosen. The group spans five neighboring states (FL, AL, GA, SC, and NC), contains many scrub endemics, and its males exhibit great variation in genitalia. A good beginning for delving deeper into the group’s evolutionary history was determining current species ranges by georeferencing around 6,000 specimens, borrowed from various U.S. collections and gathered in the field during recent expeditions. Via the creation of maps, detailed field notes, and different type of anatomical imaging, the backbone of this project is to collate as much data as possible for the Puer Group. Then, it will be disseminated to a wide audience for a trio of purposes: 1) raise awareness of a fascinating system of study, 2) create a solid platform for future studies to build upon, and 3) demonstrate the utility of integrating multiple methods of investigation.