At the Gallant Lab, we undertake research on the genomic basis of electric signal diversity in mormyrid electric fish. We know that interspecific differences in electric organ discharges (EODs) are strongly related to species divergence and radiation in mormyrids; to the point that many species are only reliably identified by measuring their EODs. We also know that EODs are key players in ecological and social interactions. During my PhD, I studied the genomic foundations of divergent EOD characteristics. I expect this will help understand the evolutionary pressures and genomic changes that have contributed to mormyrid electric fish diversification and radiation processes.
|
I have assembled a master transcriptome from Paramormyrops kingsleyae. This was an important component in the annotation process of this species’ genome, achieved through the efforts of other laboratory members. This should prove to be a resource of paramount importance for our research group (and similar groups elsewhere) in the forthcoming years.
I have studied the transcriptional basis for the main divergent characteristics of EODs from the Paramormyrops species flock. I identified differentially expressed genes related to specific EOD differences, which contributes to our understanding of the genomic basis of electric organ evolution. |
Through my research on differential gene expression in Paramormyrops, I identified a gene, epdl2, that may contribute to electric signal diversification in mormyrids. I studied this gene in more detail with a molecular evolution analysis of this gene in Mormyridae. I discovered evidence of selection-driven functional specialization after tandem duplications in the rapidly speciating Paramormyrops.