Understanding specificity and flexibility in coral symbioses

Chief Investigator

Coral health is underpinned by complex interactions between the host animal and its symbiotic partners, probably the most important of which are the photosynthetic alga. The interactions of reef-building corals with their photosymbionts are thought to be highly specific, but as yet the bases of this specificity and the nature of the dialogue that must occur during the establishment of a mutualistic relationship are unclear. By making use of model systems and recent advances in DNA sequencing technology, this study seeks to understand these molecular interactions, specifically in the context of some unique features on both sides of the interaction.

01 Jul 2024 - 30 Jun 2027

N/A