Where do you work and what do you do?  

 I am a PhD candidate in the Department of Genetics at the University of Georgia. I am doing my thesis research in the lab of Dr. Doug Menke. My research is focused on studying how genes are regulated to build parts of the body during embryonic development, and how changes during embryogenesis can lead to the evolution of novel forms and structures.

What aspects of anole biology do you study, and what have you learned? 

 I am studying the genetic and developmental processes underlying the morphology of limbs in anoles. Although the ecology and evolution of these lizards has been extensively studied, we know relatively little about the underlying mechanisms that have contributed to the evolution of different structures within this genus. One of the most apparent differences among anole species is limb size, which is adapted for the particular microhabitat that each species resides within. Differences observed in adult limb lengths between several species of anoles seem to be due to changes that occur early in embryonic development. I’ve learned that since the genes and signaling pathways underlying limb development are highly conserved, changes in gene regulation may underlie many of the differences in limb morphology observed between species. My current work is focused on comparing DNA sequences in the genomes of different species to find regions involved in regulating genes important for the development and evolution of limb morphology.

How and why did you start studying anoles? 

When I first joined the Menke lab at UGA, our efforts were transitioning into more studies in anoles. I instantly fell in love with the brown anole as a model organism for studies of evolutionary developmental (evo-dev) biology.

What do you love most about studying anoles? 

 For the past few decades, studies of gene function in reptiles have lagged behind other major vertebrate groups. I enjoy being able to contribute to establishing the brown anole as an emerging model organism to investigate the genetic and molecular mechanisms of evolution in reptiles. I am also happy to get out of the lab every once in a while to catch anoles and bring them back for us to study!

What is your favorite anole species? 

 Tough to choose of course, but Anolis grahami is one of my favorites because of its striking colors of greens and blues. 

Where can people learn more about you and follow you online? 

Website: aaronevodevo.wixsite.com/aaronevodevo

Twitter: @aaronevodevo

Instagram: @aaronevodevo

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