M atthew Fain is analyzing previously unstudied genes in the world's 15 crane species. By focusing on different genes than those examined by other scientists, Fain hopes to resolve mysteries about crane evolution, heredity, and behavior. Most crane species are threatened or endangered. I'd like to combine that into a complete evolutionary story about the whole family. He gleans clues from DNA tests run on crane blood.
Results help determine how closely crane species are related.
Fluid samples are provided by the International Crane Foundation in Baraboo, Wisconsin. The foundation keeps a colony of cranes for conservation purposes and draws blood during routine health checks. Experts there also have contacts with other crane organizations and share material from cranes in faraway places, he says. Fain's findings may also explain some of the behavioral differences between species. For example, each crane species exhibits its own distinctive courting ritual.