kittyb
New member
I work in a genetics laboratory that studies early heart development. So far, we have only used Xenopus (X. laevis and X. tropicalis) in our work.
As a "side project," my PI is interested in the evolutionary development of the 1 atrium/1 ventricle system into a 2 atria/1 ventricle system. We want to use lungless salamanders as the model animal, as part of the argument revolves around the development of lungs.
I'm currently researching possible Plethodontidae species that would work well in our lab. I'm aware that they breed seasonally, and clutches are CONSIDERABLY lower in number than Xenopus (tens versus thousands). Being the person with the M.S. in animal reproduction and physiology, it falls on me to establish and maintain a colony. I would like to note that I'm very familiar with the care of reptiles, but my experience with amphibians has only involved frogs.
I'm looking for suggestions on which species (or at least genus) to look into. Aquatic and terrestrial species are both options, though I have found that some species require moving water and we most likely will not be able to set up that kind of system for them. It's also vital that the species is communal. And, for obvious reasons, species that are "easier" to care for and that breed well in captivity are best.
Thanks for any help you can offer!
As a "side project," my PI is interested in the evolutionary development of the 1 atrium/1 ventricle system into a 2 atria/1 ventricle system. We want to use lungless salamanders as the model animal, as part of the argument revolves around the development of lungs.
I'm currently researching possible Plethodontidae species that would work well in our lab. I'm aware that they breed seasonally, and clutches are CONSIDERABLY lower in number than Xenopus (tens versus thousands). Being the person with the M.S. in animal reproduction and physiology, it falls on me to establish and maintain a colony. I would like to note that I'm very familiar with the care of reptiles, but my experience with amphibians has only involved frogs.
I'm looking for suggestions on which species (or at least genus) to look into. Aquatic and terrestrial species are both options, though I have found that some species require moving water and we most likely will not be able to set up that kind of system for them. It's also vital that the species is communal. And, for obvious reasons, species that are "easier" to care for and that breed well in captivity are best.
Thanks for any help you can offer!