Philipp Laboratory

The Philipp laboratory conducts research that ranges from very basic to quite applied and from molecularly- oriented laboratory studies to behaviorally-oriented field studies and their combinations. We use molecular genetic techniques to address basic questions in fish population biology and in the process, to help solve natural resource management and conservation biology problems.

Currently, we have a protein electrophoresis laboratory, a DNA laboratory, a fish processing laboratory, and we extensively use the Aquatic Experimental Pond Complex.

Our laboratory group also does extensive work in fish reproductive behavior. This includes looking at the factors that impact parental care, impacts on reproductive success, and impacts of catch-and-release angling on recruitment. Much of this research is conducted in the field at the Queen's University Biological Station in eastern Ontario.

Greenhouse Services

The Illinois Natural History Survey greenhouses at the Natural Resources Building and at the Natural Resources Studies Annex are maintained for the research and educational programs of the Survey's scientific staff. The overall responsibility for the greenhouse rests with the Assistant Chief, with advisory oversight provided by a Greenhouse Committee. Outside individuals and groups that are not part of the Survey, but whose projects are compatible with the Survey's mission, may rent space at our greenhouse facilities at times when that space is not required for Survey programs.

The services that we offer are greenhouse space, seeding, potting, transplanting, watering, fertilizing and pest control (chemical and biological). We can provide soil mixes, soiless mixes, pots, flats and other supplies upon request. The greenhouse staff is able to advise users regarding how to grow healthy plants in the greenhouse and in growth chambers. Greenhouse maintenance and repairs are done on a weekly basis, or more often if needed, to ensure proper functioning of lighting, temperature, humidity, and automatic irrigation systems. Our fees are based on square feet used per week, and vary with the maintenance level and supplies requested by the user.

For more information contact us at 217-333-7091 or email us at jmoncada@inhs.uiuc.edu.