research studies

research studies » current studies

In 2008, Morris Animal Foundation will fund nearly 200 new and continuing studies for dogs, cats, horses, llamas/alpacas, and wildlife as well as more than 40 veterinary student projects.

We also have numerous studies nearing completion. You can search our current study database by species and/or disease to learn more about the studies we are funding in the areas you care most about. The results will also show you whether a study is available for sponsorship.

Category



Disease/Species



Study



D07ZO-404: Epizootiology of Mycoplasma Transmission in Gopher Tortoise Populations

principal investigator: Dr. Carolina Perez-Heydrich, University of Florida

needs sponsorship

Year: 2 of 2. $27,000

The gopher tortoise is currently listed as a Species of Special Concern by the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission and was recently approved for uplisting to threatened status. One factor suggested in the species' population declines is mycoplasmal infections in the upper respiratory tract. Unfortunately, there is no clear understanding of the disease processes such as transmission rates within populations or the consequences of disease. This study will analyze these issues. Using field studies, the researchers will estimate transmission rates and project the potential ecological consequences of the disease on gopher tortoise populations. The information will provide important guidelines for management strategies. This grant will provide hands-on training for a Ph.D. student.

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