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Details of Award

NERC Reference : NER/B/S/2003/00759

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Molecular phylogeny and evolutionary diversification of Lucinidae, the largest family of chemoautotrophic molluscs.

Grant Award

Principal Investigator:
Dr J Taylor, The Natural History Museum, Zoology
Co-Investigator:
Dr S Williams, The Natural History Museum, Life Sciences
Grant held at:
The Natural History Museum, Zoology
Science Area:
Marine
Earth
Overall Classification:
Marine
Science Classification details
ENRIs:
Biodiversity
Science Topics:
Palaeobiology
Palaeoenvironments
Systematics & Taxonomy
Population Genetics/Evolution
Abstract:
The discovery and exploration of hydrothermal vents has revealed communities of organisms nutritionally dependent on a symbiosis with sulphide-oxidising bacteria and bivalve molluscs are a major component of these communities. Subsequently, the symbiosis has been recognised in a range of shallow-water marine animals. Of the marine bivalve molluscs dependent on the symbiosis, members of the family Lucinidae are by far the most diverse, live in the greatest range of habitats and are geographically the most widespread. The objectives of this research proposal are to establish a DNA based phylogeny of the Lucinidae in order to interpret the evolution of (and adaptation to) chemoautotrophic symbiosis within this bivalve family. This will enable us to test ideas concerning the acquisition of the symbiosis, structural accommodations to the bacteria and diversification of lucinids into different habitats. More generally, the results will be relevant to understanding the evolution and diversification of sulphide -dependent communities, including hydrothermal vents and cold seeps. The work will be carried out in the Zoology Department, The Natural History Museum, London using species collected from habitats ranging from intertidal mangrove mud to hydrothermal vents.
Period of Award:
8 Nov 2004 - 7 Jun 2005
Value:
£18,799
(FY details)
Authorised funds only
NERC Reference:
NER/B/S/2003/00759
Grant Stage:
Completed
Scheme:
Small Grants Pre FEC
Grant Status:
Closed
Programme:
Small Grants

This grant award has a total value of £18,799  

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FDAB - Financial Details (Award breakdown by headings)

Total - StaffTotal - Other CostsTotal - Indirect Costs
£8,299£6,683£3,817

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