Matthew S. Leslie

ABSTRACT

The systematic relationships among the lunge-feeding whales (rorquals; family Balaenopteridae) have been difficult to resolve, resulting in a history of taxonomic confusion. I am approaching this problematic group using a combination of traditional taxonomy and cutting-edge research techniques. I am integrating DNA sequencing of Ultra-Conserved Elements for molecular systematics, morphological examination and re-description of a Miocene rorqual for anchoring early divergence dates, and pioneering the use of drones to test subspecific relationships within blue whales. This presentation will provide highlights and updates on these ongoing initiatives aimed at the resolution of evolutionary relationships among rorqual whales.