JAMES R. MANHART

Associate Professor
Biology

Department of Biology
Texas A&M University
TAMU 3258
College Station, TX 77843-3258
Office: 305A Butler Hall (map)
Phone: 979.845.3356
Fax: 979.862.1922
E-mail: manhart@mail.bio.tamu.edu
Department Web page

Interests:
My lab is currently focusing on the use of microsatellite markers in investigations of rare and endangered and invasive plants. The rare and endangered species projects include Spiranthes parksii (Navasota Ladies’ Tresses), an orchid that is found primarily in nine counties in Texas and four species from extreme southern Texas, one of which is Astrophytum asterias (Star Cactus). We are using microsatellite markers to determine genetic diversity, breeding systems and population structuring in these species. These data will help in the development of Recovery Plans that will retain genetic diversity in extant populations and provide important information for the establishment of new populations, if that is deemed necessary. The research on rare and endangered plants is currently funded by USFWS and USGS.
Invasive species are major factors in placing native species at risk due to their invasion of natural habitats. In addition, there are large costs associated with their control, particularly in agriculture. We currently have projects that involve the use of microsatellite markers in Tamarix spp. (Salt Cedar), Arundo donax (Giant Reed) and Orobanche ramosa (Branched Broomrape). The Tamarix and Arundo projects are being done in collaboration with USDA scientists. While the approach is similar to the work on rare and endangered species, the ultimate goal is to provide information useful in the control and/or eradication of these invasive plants. The microsatellite markers can be used to “fingerprint” invasive plants and find which genotypes are susceptible (or not) to natural control agents being screened by USDA entomologists.