Cryptogamic Botany (Bryology):

We are one of only a few cryptogamic botany (i.e., moss, lichens, ferns, fungi) labs in Canada. Much of our research focuses on bryology in relation to molecular and taxonomic diversity in the context of conservation biology. We are investigating molecular variation within and among populations and species in relation to each species' biology and ecology. This research builds on our previous research concerning patterns of habitat specificity in relation to the conservation of locally endemic species. Several new projects include barcoding lichens, ferns and fungi (mycorrhiza) using quantitative PCR techniques.

Floristics:

We are the authors and custodians of the Flora Ontario Integrated Botanical Information System (FOIBIS). In addition, we are studying floristic patterns in bryophytes, lichens nutmegs, cucurbits and invasive species in relation to variation in intraspecific molecular markers. Our long-term ecological research projects record patterns of native species diversity and impacts of anthropogenic disturbance within our quantitative biodiversity database (QBD). This database is crucial for developing hypothesis on mechanisms that control patterns of diversity.

Taxonomy:

Our team is presently working on the systematics and taxonomy of Myristicaceae (nutmegs), Gurania (cucurbits), Fabaceae, Pteridophyta (ferns), Bryophytes (mosses and liverworts) and Lichens (crusts). We are writing 20 generic and 4 family treatments in the Flora of North America. and have published several books (Wetland Plants of Ontario, Ontario Plant List), and serve as chief editors on many others (Wildflowers of Ontario, Plants of Central Ontario, Plants of North Eastern Ontario).

As a member of the Canadian Bar Code of Life Network, we are one of the few labs worldwide developing a molecular identification system for plants PDF. Using a group of species with a broad taxonomic coverage we have begun evaluating a number of target sequences for their utility in DNA barcoding at our molecular identification lab adjacent to our collections room. Currently we are barcoding the Flora of Ontario, and selected neotropical taxa.

In 2007, we will be developing a high throughput identification system for plants, which can utilize small fragments of leaves, roots, stems, pollen, seeds or flowers. This newly constructed Biodiversity Institute of Ontario facility was constructed with the assistance of a $9.8 million dollar grant form CFI. It is our standard protocol to voucher all specimens used in creating plant barcodes, including the mounting of herbarium specimens and cryopreservation of DNA. Intraspecific variation is assessed across multiple populations within the range of each species concept. Projects from this unique facility will be available via CBOLD and FOIBIS.

Our research focuses taxonomy of bryophytes, but includes the classification and nomenclature of the Flora Ontario (FOIBIS), including the classification of a new species of fern found along the Coast of Lake Superior.

As a member of the Canadian Bar Code of Life Network, we are one of the few labs worldwide developing a molecular identification system for plants. Using a group of species with a broad taxonomic coverage we have begun evaluating a number of target sequences for their utility in DNA barcoding at our molecular identification lab adjacent to our collections room.

Ethnobotany:

Our research program investigates the nomenclature and classification of plants by Aboriginal cultures from around the world. We investigate the classification processes of different cultures and try to understand common patterns and mechanisms for biological classification including links to our molecular identification research program.

We are also investigating the diversity of herbal products and foods within native ecosystems using aboriginal knowledge as a catalyst for research. This includes the development of a protocol for the molecular identification of herbal products at various stages of industrial production.