Kristen Peach
PhD Candidate
University of California Santa Barbara
Research
Current Research:
In my thesis research I am exploring the genetic basis and ecological function of floral pigments, specifically those involved in pollinator attraction and plant defense. I am examining sources of variation in floral pigment and pattern in Clarkia unguiculata, a native California wildflower.
I am exploring the effectiveness of pigment as a pollinator attractant AND its effectiveness as a protective 'sunscreen'. Many plant species rely on flavonoids for protection from a variety of environmental stressors including ultraviolight light, heat and drought. In my final thesis chapter I am beginning to examine the effects of intraspecific variation (in floral pigment) on reproductive success in the field.
Future Directions:
I would like to continue to study plant biology, evolution & genetics in a postdoctoral fellowship. I am particularly interested in traits that facilitate growth and reproduction in stressful environments and predicted climate change conditions. I would like to expand my current experience and skills in image analysis and experimental lighting systems for horticultural and aquaculture (see below).
I am currently working as a graduate student researcher on an interdepartmental project that is exploring the use of new laser-based solid-state lighting systems in horticultural applications, investigating the impact of directional, high-brightness illumination on crop plants and native species.
Full Spectrum Photography to Quantify Floral Pigment and Pattern
'Bee Vision
C.unguiculata must attract pollinators (primarily ‘Clarkia bees’) for successful outcrossing. The retinal photoreceptors of hymenopteran bees allow them to perceive blue (430nm), green (535nm), and ultraviolet (340nm) light.
I have modified a digital camera to report objective measurements of the amount of blue, green, and UV light reflected and absorbed by different parts of flowers petals. I have modified an ImageJ program to extract measurements of many different metrics of pigment (ex. luminance, contrast, mean and standard deviation reflectance etc.) from these raw images.
