To whom it may be of interest,
I teach a course in science research at a high school in Commack, NY on Long Island.
One of my 11th grade students and I came up with a research idea for a science project.
This student is serious and has experience in molecular biology.
I use Lumbriculus variegatus in my classroom for labs and projects for students.
This aquatic organism is known in captivity to reproduce asexually. In nature it probably
also has sexual reproduction but as far as I know it has not been observed.
So we think it would be interesting to investigate the degree of genetic similarity among
worms that have been purchased from different companies throughout the US. The are sold as fish food.
What is the degree of genetic variation in populations of these worms.
I was looking for advice on this idea. Is it feasible is it possible? do you think we are
framing the question properly?
Any suggestions contacts or ideas that anyone could contribute would be greatly appreciated.
Thanks
Rich
Commack High School
