Study of composition and function of preen gland secretions in birds
2005 Impact statement- Dhondt, Andre Alfons
abstract
Birds apply oily secretions to their feathers as a protection against ectoparasites such as fungi, bacteria, and arthropods. By studying the chemical composition of these secretions and testing their function experimentally we will be able to discover new chemicals that can be used to prtect humans and animals from ectoparasites.
submitted by
- Dhondt, Andre Alfons | Professor and Edwin H. Morgens Professor of Ornithology, Cornell Laboratory of Ornithology
issue being addressed
We started this project because simple evolutionary thinking leads to the conclusion that, if birds produce costly and complex chemicals, they must do so because there is a benefit derived from this. Our discoveries will benefit society in multiple ways.
response
After having been supported for two years by a BBI fellowship, we successfully applied to NSF for funding for a project to investigate this further.
impact assessment
The studies have just begun, and we cannot yet point to benefits.
funding source description
Academic Programs Instructional Support (e.g., Institutional Challenge, Multicultural Scholars, Nat`l Needs, Hispanic Ed)
key personnel
- Eloy Rodrigues
- Edward Burt, Jr.
department, unit, division
- Cornell Lab of Ornithology Bird Population Studies (BPS) | research program
- Cornell Laboratory of Ornithology (CLO) | research institute
- Ecology and Evolutionary Biology (EEB) | Cornell department
mission focus
- research | project type
submitted as part of CALS annual faculty reporting, February 2006