Research Interests
Phil studies the systematics of west coast sea cucumbers (Echinodermata: Holothuroidea) and sea stars (Asteroidea). He has described six new species of sea cucumbers, and clarified the identity of several other species using traditional taxonomic methods, and analysis of mitochondrial DNA in collaboration with Dr M.J. Smith and colleagues at Simon Fraser University.
Based on his research, Phil has published three identification guides for the west coast from Southeast Alaska to Puget Sound, one for sea cucumbers, one on sea stars and, in 2007, a handbook on brittle stars, sea urchins and feather stars. He has also published scientific papers on sea stars and sea cucumbers as well as nudibranchs and snails. He writes popular articles on many aspects of marine invertebrates.
Present Research
- Preparation of a chapter on sea cucumbers for a book on marine invertebrates of Chile.
- Collection and documentation of deep sea echinoderms of British Columbia from 200 m to a depth of 2300 m in collaboration with Dr. Jim Boutillier of the Pacific Biological Station, Fisheries and Oceans Canada.
- From the deep sea collection, a new species of stalked crinoid, a new species of sea star and many new records and range extensions.
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