Project Overview
The Influence of Whole Genome Duplication (Polyploidy) on Fern Gametophyte and Sporophyte Physiology
Department(s)
Biology
Abstract
This research project delves into the impact of polyploidy, or whole-genome duplication (WGD), on the physiological processes of ferns, with a specific focus on both gametophyte and sporophyte stages. Polyploidy is a significant driver of plant evolution and diversity, contributing to a notable percentage of speciation events in both angiosperms and ferns. It has been identified across most major lineages of land plants. Polyploidy generates novel genetic combinations, influencing genomic and functional attributes that can dramatically alter a species' ecology and its ability to respond to environmental changes.
Despite its prevalence, the ecological consequences of polyploidy remain underexplored. Some studies suggest that allopolyploids can exhibit intermediate or transgressive ecological and physiological traits compared to their diploid parents, potentially offering increased ecological tolerance or plasticity. This adaptability may confer fitness advantages, allowing polyploids to outcompete diploid competitors and establish in novel habitats, especially under environmental changes predicted by the IPCC, such as increased temperatures and more frequent droughts.
Ferns, which often exhibit polyploidy, play crucial ecological roles in shaping community assembly and ecosystem processes. However, our understanding of how ploidal level influences fern distribution and ecological success is limited. This project aims to fill this gap by comparing the physiological responses of diploid and polyploid ferns to climate stressors, focusing on the gametophyte stage, which is crucial for species establishment and persistence.
The study will involve six eastern North American Dryopteris species, forming two triads of diploid progenitors and allotetraploid hybrids. We hypothesize that gametophytes of diploid species and their allopolyploid progeny will exhibit different physiological responses to temperature and drought stress, with potential implications for their ecological roles and responses to climate change.
Through experimental analysis and data collection, students will gain insights into plant adaptation mechanisms, contributing to evolutionary biology research and developing valuable laboratory skills. This project offers a unique opportunity to explore the phenotypic and ecological impacts of polyploidy, enhancing our understanding of fern ecology and their potential resilience to global change.
Student Qualifications
Ideal candidates will have a background in biology or a related field, with coursework in plant sciences being particularly beneficial. Prior laboratory experience is preferred but not required. Students should possess a keen interest in plant physiology and evolution, and demonstrate strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
Number of Student Researchers
2 students
Project Length
8 weeks
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