Characterization of Soil Bacteria

The field of microbial ecology is rapidly growing with an increased recognition of the importance of bacteria in cycling of nutrients and plant interactions. One of the first research projects to be developed at DTCC is the characterization of bacteria from various soils from Delaware and surrounding states.  The culture-dependent aspect of this project has been incorporated into the Microbiology laboratory and the culture-independent aspect has been incorporated into Biotechnology I.

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Some of the studies that have branched off from the main project are antibiotic production by Streptomyces isolated from soils, culturing of Acidobacteria, and correlation of Pseudomonas physiology with soil characteristics. DTCC students are also investigating the role that nickel resistant bacteria play in growth promotion of plants in the heavy metal rich soil of nearby serpentine barrens. These studies are being done in collaboration with scientists at the University of Delaware and Delaware Biotechnology Institute.

Big Brown Bat (Eptesicus fuscus) Population Studies

The White Clay Creek Preserve, PA is home to a maternity roost of big brown bats. DTCC students are using molecular techniques to investigate the genetics of the bats that return to the roost each year. Emergence counts and video taping of the roost entrance are being used to explore the seasonal dynamics of the colony members. This year in collaboration with scientists and students from Delaware State University, DTCC students are using DNA barcoding to investigate the variation in big brown bat diet with the availability of insects throughout the season. Techniques learned at Bat Conservation International workshops, such as mist netting and acoustic monitoring, are allowing faculty and students to monitor the usage of habitats within the preserve by different species of bats. The data is provided to the PA Game Commission to assist with their monitoring of the effects of White Nose Syndrome on the state bat populations.

White Nose Syndrome (Geomyces destuctans) Imaging

White nose syndrome is a fungal disease that has killed over 7 million bats since appearing in a cave near Albany, NY in the winter of 2006-2007. Scientists are postulating that the lethal effects of G. destructans are due to fluid loss or disruption of thermoregulation due to extensive tissue damage on the wings. Students and faculty from DTCC have been working with scientists at Delaware Biotechnology Institute and Delaware State University to use fluorescent and scanning electron microscopy to determine the wing membrane surface area that is covered by G. destructans during an infection.

DNA Barcoding of Maidenhair Ferns

The maidenhair ferns growing on serpentine barrens near the Pennsylvania-Mayland border have traditionally been identified as Adiantum pedatum var. aleuticum. In 1991, they were elevated to species status as Adiantum aleuticum. However, considerable skepticism exists in the field botanical community as to whether they are, in fact, distinct from Adiantum pedatum. Maidenhair ferns from several serpentine barrens are being sampled and vouchered, and several chloroplast DNA markers are being sequenced to determine their species.  These studies are being done with advice from regional botanical experts. In the course of obtaining sampling permits, we have also made useful contacts with botanists in the Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources, The Nature Conservancy in Pennsylvania, and the Friends of the State Line Serpentine Barrens.