Research Interests

Comparative developmental physiology.

Embryos of birds and reptiles are being examined. The particular emphases are: 1. how is sufficient oxygen exchange effected; and 2. how the gas exchange process may have influenced the evolution of live bearing in reptiles and mammals. Current work centers on chorioallantoic vascular density in avian and reptilian eggs and factors which affect growth.

Cardiorespiratory function and control as it relates to adaptation and acclimation to hypoxia.

The role of increased hemoglobin oxygen affinity and blood volume are of particular interest.

Insect cardio-respiratory physiology.

The gas exchange process and its control are being examined. The role of diffusion in insect gas exchange is being studied in attempt to determine how this process may influence the control of gas exchange and the evolution of the insect respiratory system.