"Scientific research involves going beyond the well-trodden and well-tested ideas and theories that form the core of scientific knowledge. During the time scientists are working things out, some results will be right, and others will be wrong. Over time, the right results will emerge."
Lisa Randall
Research Focus:
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Conservation, ecology, taxonomy and evolution of the Genus Cuora
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Studying the phylogeny and taxonomy of Genus Cuora.
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Active field research to gain a better understanding of the species native ecology to improve captive husbandry and set the path for future release projects.
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Linking protective measures for species conservation in the field, in-situ and ex-situ.
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Studying the genetic composition and best population sizes to guarantee the long-term survival of this Genus in captivity and in nature and manage/advice the Studbooks accordingly.
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Actively collaborating with the Studbooks for the different Cuora species to improve captivey husbandry and to conserve the species through captive breeding with the best possible genetic variability.
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Raise awarness of this imperiled Genus via Publications, Presentations and local awareness raising.
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Surveying the Chinese Turtle Market dynamics and the growing Chinese Turtle Farming Industry.
Publications:
Conservation of Asian Tortoises and Freshwater Turtles: Setting Priorities for the Next Ten Years. Recommendations and Conclusions from the Workshop in Singapore, February 21-24, 2011.
Horne, B.D., Poole, C.M., Walde A. (eds).
2012
Turtles in Trouble: The World’s 25+ Most Endangered Tortoises and Freshwater Turtles—2011.
Turtle Conservation Coalition [Rhodin, A.G.J., Walde, A.D., Horne, B.D., van Dijk, P.P., Blanck, T., and Hudson, R. (eds)].
2011
Lunenburg, MA: IUCN/SSC Tortoise and Freshwater Turtle Specialist Group, Turtle Conservation Fund, Turtle Survival Alliance, Turtle Conservancy, Chelonian Research Foundation, Conservation International, Wildlife Conservation Society, and San Diego Zoo Global: 54 pp.
Cuora yunnanensis.
Van Dijk, P.P., Blanck, T. & Lau, M.
2010
The IUCN Red List of Threatened Species 2010: e.T5957A97360350. https://dx.doi.org/10.2305/IUCN.UK.2010-1.RLTS.T5957A11964406.en.