Novel Phylogenomic Approach to Study Coral Algal Symbionts

Samantha Kratman

Algal symbionts are critical for the well-being of coral reefs. Dinoflagellates in the family Symbiodiniaceae establish a nutritional photosymbiosis with corals. Unfortunately, increasing marine heat waves break down symbioses between corals and Symbiodiniaceae. Therefore, surveys of Symbiodiniaceae diversity and evolutionary history are crucial to understand coral reef resilience. Traditional genetic markers uncovered the vast genetic diversity of Symbiodiniaceae but have limitations. We aim to establish novel genomic markers (UCEs) to study symbiont diversity and evolution.  

Major: 
Biology
Exhibition Category: 
Health and Life Sciences
Exhibition Format: 
Poster Presentation
Campus: 
University Park
Faculty Sponsor: 
Raúl Augusto González-Pech
Poster Number: 
167