The Shubin Lab

Natalia K. Taft

• Postdoctoral Scholar
• Ph. D., University of Massachussetts, Amherst (2009)
• M.S., University of Massachussetts, Amherst (2006)
• CV | E-mail

I am broadly interested in evolution, development and biomechanics, using fish skeletal tissues as a model system. My current research focus is the evolution and development of a key vertebrate character, the dermal fin rays of fishes. The presence of fin rays is the defining characteristic that separates fins from limbs. However, fin rays are complex and diverse structures that have significance beyond this role as bookmark in the fossil record.

A tremendous diversity of median and paired fin morphology and function has been described from among the almost 28,000 described species of extant fishes. In addition to their diverse modes of swimming, fish also use their fins for walking, climbing, and even aerial locomotion. Fin rays -- the dermal component of fins -- provide the support and flexibility that allows this amazing behavioral and functional diversity. Despite their critical functional significance, very little is known about the morphological diversity, functional anatomy, evolution and development of this vertebrate character.

The pectoral fin rays of fishes provide an excellent model system in which we can gain an integrative understanding of the evolution and developmental processes that have given rise to the diversity of form and function in a key character of vertebrates. Accordingly, in the Shubin lab I am using a variety of approaches to understand the functional morphology, evolution and development of the fin rays in extant and fossil fishes.

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