The role of phenotypic plasticity in the adaptive heat response of an exploited coral reef fish

Climate change is causing rapid environmental shifts, resulting in high levels of multiple stressors impacting diverse species. To avoid extinction, species need to adapt quickly to those stressors. As coral reef ecosystems are disproportionately affected by climate change, the species within them are vulnerable to environmental changes. One mechanism by which species can adapt rapidly is acclimation through phenotypic plasticity. Due to its importance in recreational and commercial fishing, as well as its ecological importance as a top predator, the common coral trout (Plectropomus leopardus), is an ideal species to assess the ability of coral reef fish to acclimate to heat stress through changes in gene expression. This study will identify key genes involved in the adaptive thermal response of this species. This research will be valuable in developing and implementing management plans for species that are ecologically and economically valuable, such as P. leopardus.

Faculty Supervisor:

Daniel Heath

Student:

Partner:

The University of Queensland

Discipline:

Life Sciences

Sector:

Education

University:

University of Windsor

Program: