Position
Senior Lecturer in Genetics
Organisation
Anglia Ruskin University
Ladybird research keywords
Harmonia axyridis, non-native species, intraguild interactions, predation,
DNA analysis, public engagement.
Description of work
My research interests span a diverse range of topics within the broad field of molecular
ecology. Generally I use a DNA based approach to probe ecological questions. Within
the context of the harlequin ladybird, Harmonia axyridis I am interested
in the impact that the harlequin is having on native ladybird species. I have developed
a DNA test that can pick up the DNA of the two-spot ladybird, Adalia bipunctata in a harlequin's gut. I hope to extend this test to other species as it has great
potential to identify what field collected harlequin ladybirds have been eating.
Key publications
Ormond, E.L., Thomas, A.P.M., Pell, J.K. & Roy, H.E. (submitted) Temporal and
spatial distribution, density and diversity of the entomopathogenic fungus Beauveria
bassiana in a conifer forest: a microcosm of adaptation. Mycological Research
McRobie,H., Thomas, A., & Kelly, J., (submitted) The Genetic Basis of Melanism
in the Grey Squirrel, Sciurus carolinensis. Journal of Heredity.
Thomas, A. (2008) Black Squirrels. Biological Sciences Review 21 (2): 39-41
Thomas, A. (2008) Black Squirrels. Mammal Review. July 2008
Karyistinou, A., Thomas, A.P.M. & Roy, H.E. (2004) Presence of haemocyte-like
cells in coccinellid reflex blood. Physiological Entomology 29: 94-96. |
Alison likes larvae... |
