Combining experiments, genomic tools, and an eco-evolutionary framework to understand the biotic basis of harmful algal blooms

Although evolution is considered a gradual process recent evidence suggests that adaptation can be rapid, particularly when there is genetic variation and selection is strong. Determining whether rapid evolution happens predictably in nature, both at the phenotypic and genomic levels, is crucial to understanding the origins and maintenance of biodiversity. Harmful algal blooms (HABs) pose a challenge to freshwater biodiversity conservation that may force organisms to adapt rapidly. Interestingly, in some cases the keystone zooplankton species Daphnia has been shown to feed extensively on enough cyanobacteria to remediate HABs. Rapid evolution is the most likely mechanism but this has not been investigated. My Mitacs internship centres on developing a new genomic tool for monitoring clonal variation in Daphnia that is reliable, rapid, and low cost. This method will be used to analyze Daphnia samples from a multi-generational HABs exposure experiment. The results generated will address the importance of genetic variation in driving ecological outcomes, resulting in new management strategies for mitigating HABs.

Faculty Supervisor:

John Fryxell

Student:

Partner:

Washington State University

Discipline:

Earth science

Sector:

Environmental Science and Technology; Sustainability & the Environment; Life Sciences (not health)

University:

University of Guelph

Program: