C-MAIKI
Center for MICROBIOME Analysis
through Island Knowledge & Investigation
the
INSTITUTE
Christopher Muir
Assistant Professor
School of Life Sciences
E-mail: cdmuir@hawaii.edu
MY RESEARCH
The Quantitative Evolutionary Physiology lab integrates experiments, phylogenetic comparative methods, and advanced quantitative tools to study physiological adaptation using plants as model systems.
C-MĀIKI SYNERGY
Leaf anatomy affects the supply of carbon dioxide for photosynthesis and the ability of leaves to stay hydrated. Leaf anatomy may also determine what types of microbes can colonize and survive inside the leaf. I am excited to collaborate and learn about how leaf anatomy affects the microbiome and the potential for tradeoffs between abiotic and biotic selective forces.
IMPACT TO HAWAII
The Hawaiian archipelago is a global hotbed of adaptive radiation. Traditionally, biologists ascribed this diversification to the variety of abiotic niches in close geographic proximity. However, the role of novel biotic interactions in shaping the biodiversity of Hawaiʻi is still poorly explored. By understanding how native species evolved to the unique ecology of Hawaiʻi we can make better conserve and restore habitat.
