Project description
Genome size and trait flexibility in relation to range size
Plant range size (the area a species occupies) predicts extinction risk and is shaped by evolutionary processes. Two key factors are trait flexibility (the ability to evolve traits) and genome size (the total DNA in a cell). Larger genomes can constrain trait evolution and hinder growth in nutrient-poor environments. Supported by the Marie Skłodowska-Curie Actions programme, the RANGE project will study the palm family (Arecaceae) to investigate how genome size and trait flexibility influence range size. It will also develop a method to estimate genome size using the size of leaf stomatal guard cells, advancing plant evolutionary ecology with a focus on cytogenetics to support conservation efforts.
Objective
Plant range size (geographic area occupied by a species), a key predictor of species’ extinction risk, is shaped by an interplay of evolutionary and ecological processes. Yet understanding how species’ biological traits interact with environmental factors to determine range size remains challenging. I hypothesize that plant trait flexibility (ability of traits to evolve to different trait states) and genome size (total DNA in cell’s nucleus) are two key biological factors that influence range size. Genome size imposes biophysical constraints on cell size and rate-related cellular traits (like cell cycle duration) impacting functional traits, e.g. photosynthetic rate, seed size. Large-genomed lineages with stronger biophysical constraints, are predicted to exhibit slower trait evolution compared to small-genomed lineages that, at the whole plant level, can impact where they can and cannot grow. High nutrient demand of large-genomes can also restrict species’ range size in nutrient-poor conditions. But it remains unclear how genome size’s effects on trait flexibility and diversification, influenced by abiotic factors, impact range size. I will address this knowledge gap by establishing a single quantitative framework using the widely distributed palm family (Arecaceae) as a model system. Palms possesses considerable genome size and trait diversity. A major methodological challenge of obtaining genome size data will be addressed by developing a method to predict genome size from leaf stomatal guard cell size. With a secondment and collaborating with a team of leading experts, I will expand my expertise on cytogenetics and evolution while acquiring new skills on ecological analyses, and develop my supervisory and leadership skills. Together, this project will lay the foundations for my future role as an independent group leader in plant evolutionary ecology with a focus on cytogenetics, to aid in conservation efforts.
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Keywords
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Project’s keywords as indicated by the project coordinator. Not to be confused with the EuroSciVoc taxonomy (Fields of science)
Programme(s)
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Multi-annual funding programmes that define the EU’s priorities for research and innovation.
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HORIZON.1.2 - Marie Skłodowska-Curie Actions (MSCA)
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Topic(s)
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Calls for proposals are divided into topics. A topic defines a specific subject or area for which applicants can submit proposals. The description of a topic comprises its specific scope and the expected impact of the funded project.
Funding Scheme
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Funding scheme (or “Type of Action”) inside a programme with common features. It specifies: the scope of what is funded; the reimbursement rate; specific evaluation criteria to qualify for funding; and the use of simplified forms of costs like lump sums.
HORIZON-TMA-MSCA-PF-EF - HORIZON TMA MSCA Postdoctoral Fellowships - European Fellowships
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Call for proposal
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Procedure for inviting applicants to submit project proposals, with the aim of receiving EU funding.
(opens in new window) HORIZON-MSCA-2024-PF-01
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2333 CR Leiden
Netherlands
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