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Jenniffer Paniagua

Integrative Biology
University of Puerto Rico, Rio Piedras Campus
I love nature. I love being in contact with it. I believe that the best places are the ones that haven't been touch by humans. The ones that you just hear birds, feel the wind and see wildlife. I consider myself kind, funny, and creative. I like reading books, learning new things, and visiting new places. I am also really excited about this summer!
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Scent variation: its role in attracting both pollinators and herbivores in Evening Primroses (2015)
Ecology, Genetics, Population Biology, Reproductive Biology

What is the genetic structure of Hyles lineata populations in the Western United States? My project focuses on the White-lined moth, Hyles lineata, of the family Sphingidae. They are native to North America and are known from every state of the US except Alaska and Hawaii, making it one of the most commonly encountered sphingids. Although it tends to be more common in the western states. Something fascinating about H. lineata is that they can travel long distances each night (up to 20 miles), which is not usual in either butterflies or moths. However, there is some lack of information about their population genetic structures because it is really difficult to keep track of them due to their fast and long distance flying skills. For this reason, using DNA extractions, PCR and sequencing we are trying to understand more about the behavior and complexity of this intriguing insects.

Final Presentation/Poster