The role of niche adaptability in the evolution of the harmful alga, Alexandrium catenella: Dinophyceae

Start year: 2024

Summary: This project will generate high-quality genomic resources from a bloom-forming dinoflagellate, for the first time from a genome in the common size-range for planktonic dinoflagellates of 30-120 Gbp. In-depth analysis of the A. catenella genome features, e.g. repeats, regulatory elements/binding sites, intron/exon junctions, and intergenic regions, will clarify their functional roles in the genome relative to bloom ecology, against the backdrop of evolutionary dynamics driven by extensive gene duplication, and genomic divergence at both the sequence and structural levels. Near-chromosomal genome assembly will further elucidate topological associated domains for inter- and intra-chromosomal interactions that enable long-range regulation of gene expression. Data and knowledge generated will enhance our understanding of how dinoflagellates have evolved to bloom, and how A. catenella became one of the most ecologically successful bloom-forming species worldwide

Acknowledgement of Country

UTS acknowledges the Gadigal people of the Eora Nation, the Boorooberongal people of the Dharug Nation, the Bidiagal people and the Gamaygal people, upon whose ancestral lands our university stands. We would also like to pay respect to the Elders both past and present, acknowledging them as the traditional custodians of knowledge for these lands.