Date of Award
Fall 12-1-2024
Document Type
Thesis
Publication Status
Version of Record
Submission Date
August 2026
College Granting Degree
Harriet L. Wilkes Honors College
Thesis/Dissertation Advisor [Chair]
Kelsie Bernot
Thesis/Dissertation Co-Chair
Tracy Mincer
Abstract
Recent studies have revealed Anaplasma phagocytophilum as a new pathogen that has started to affect gopher tortoise populations throughout Florida. This study investigated how the pathogen, A. phagocytophilum, has potentially begun to spread amongst the gopher tortoises in the Abacoa Greenway and the Florida Atlantic University Preserve (FAUP). To investigate these tortoises, blood samples were taken from multiple specimens from Range VI of the Greenway and FAUP. DNA isolated from these samples were then analyzed for the presence of A.phagocytophilum utilizing PCR and gel electrophoresis, followed by Sanger sequencing. This research demonstrated that A.phagocytophilum has not made its way to the Greenway or FAUP. These findings will hopefully contribute vital information to help maintain gopher tortoise populations throughout southeast Florida.
Recommended Citation
Tonkin, Elena, "ANAPLASMA PHAGOCYTOPHILUM’S EFFECT ON GOPHER TORTOISES OF SOUTH EAST FLORIDA" (2024). Harriet L Wilkes Honors College Theses. 55.
https://digitalcommons.fau.edu/etd_honors/55