Details of Award

NERC Reference : NER/A/S/2003/00419

Repeated genetic patterns across a faunal 'suture zone'.

Principal Investigator:: Professor J Mallet, University College London, Genetics Evolution and Environment
Grant held at:: University College London, Genetics Evolution and Environment

ENRIs:: Natural Resource Management; Global Change; Biodiversity
Science Topics:: Environmental Genomics; Quaternary Science; Population Genetics/Evolution; Systematics & Taxonomy

Abstract:: The very high species diversity around the Amazon basin allows highly replicated biogeographic tests to be made. However, most existing biogeographic theories about neotropical and Amazonian diversity have been tested only using morphological characters and geographic distributions, and the explanation for diversity is still contested because of a lack of predictive models and hard data. This project employs a novel and modern experimental design to analyse sequences of mtDNA and nuclear genes, and search for repeated genetic patterns in a 'suture zone' (zone of correlated hybrid zones and contact zones) between an Amazonian and an extra-Amazonian fauna near the Andes in Eastern Peru, in order to test between conflicting models of Neotropical diversification. The results apply recently obtained understanding and expertise in the genetics and ecology of speciation to problems which have world importance in the fields of Quaternary science, biodiversity processes, and conservation.

Authorised funds only

This grant award has a total value of £244,279

Total - Staff	Total - T&S	Total - Other Costs	Total - Equipment	Total - Indirect Costs
£129,392	£11,530	£31,646	£12,190	£59,521

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