Thom Lyons: BSc Honours project student, Year in Research Student, 2022 - present
I am currently a Zoology BSc student at Swansea University who first undertook an industrial placement with Dr Nichols’ research group.
I am studying the genetics of the pool frog (Pelophylax lessonae) reintroduction programme in Norfolk, UK. Using microsatellite-based genotyping, I am looking to understand the genetic diversity of the species and confirm that there is no sign of hybridisation with the marsh frog (Pelophylax ridibundus). I am also comparing the effectiveness of DNA extraction methods, which will be of use to future studies of pool frogs and other amphibians. I have previously worked on: · The Axolotl Goldilocks Zone: a study into the macroevolution of neoteny in Ambystomatidae · Investigating the effect of invasive rose (Rosa rugosa) on invertebrate and plant diversity in Crymlyn Burrows SSSI- Dynamic Dunescapes · Swansea Amphibian and Reptile Group · A case of tail bifurcation in Lissotriton helevticus on the Gower Peninsula |