Descripción del proyecto
Descifrar el mantenimiento de la diversidad en la apariencia por selección natural
La capacidad de un organismo para sobrevivir y reproducirse está determinada genéticamente por los alelos nuevos que aparecen en una población, que son las formas variantes de los genes. La variación genética permite que la selección natural aumente o disminuya la frecuencia de los alelos que ya existen en una población y suele permitir una mayor variación fenotípica. A través de un estudio de caso de los nudibranquios, el equipo del proyecto MOVAC, financiado con fondos europeos, examinará cómo se mantiene la variación del patrón de color en especies que presentan una coloración aposemática. El objetivo del proyecto es mejorar los conocimientos sobre la ecología química de estos importantes moluscos marinos sin concha y elaborar modelos teóricos aplicables a una amplia gama de procesos ecológicos y evolutivos.
Objetivo
The research programme outlined in this proposal addresses a key question in evolutionary biology: how diversity in appearance is maintained under natural selection. In particular, I will investigate how colour pattern variation is maintained in species that exhibit warning coloration. This in an especially intriguing area of research because theory predicts that warning signals should look the same in colour and pattern so that they are more easily recognized and avoided by predators. I will investigate this topic using a charismatic polymorphic species of nudibranch mollusc that is common to the coasts of the United Kingdom. Nudibranchs are shell-less marine molluscs with an astounding array of colours and patterns, which they use to either hide from predators (camouflage) or to deter predators by warning them of nasty chemical defenses (warning signals). Nudibranchs are popular spectacles to divers and underwater photographers, yet the anti-predator coloration of this taxon is relatively under-explored. Therefore nudibranchs offer an especially exciting avenue for future research. In addition, research into the chemical defences of nudibranchs has led to the discovery of novel compounds with medicinal value, and the proposed research will contribute to our knowledge of the chemical ecology of these important species. The results of this research project will be used to inform and shape future theoretical models, which will be applicable to a range of ecological and evolutionary processes. The programme will draw attention to a fascinating and unique species, generating international interest and bringing new insight into Europe's coastal ecosystems.
Ámbito científico
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MSCA-IF - Marie Skłodowska-Curie Individual Fellowships (IF)Coordinador
EX4 4QJ Exeter
Reino Unido