2024-2025
Genetic diversity and connectivity between populations of protected marine invertebrates in the Balearic Sea (ConnectAMBgen)
This project focuses on studying the genetic populations of three emblematic and protected marine invertebrate species in the western Mediterranean: the mollusk Dendropoma lebeche (a species with direct development, without a planktonic larval stage), the solitary infralittoral coral Balanophyllia europaea, and the anemone Calliactis parasitica (both of which have planktonic larvae, offering greater dispersal and connectivity potential between populations).
To achieve this, we will employ genotyping-by-sequencing techniques (ddRAD-seq) to analyze population structure and gene flow. The objectives of the project are threefold: (1) to assess the abundance and distribution of these species in the Balearic Sea; (2) to estimate population parameters such as effective size, genetic structure, connectivity, dispersal capacity, and demographic history for each species; and (3) to compare patterns of population distribution and structure between marine protected areas (MPAs) and unprotected locations.
By integrating genetic insights with ecological data, this study aims to deepen our understanding of these species’ population dynamics and inform conservation strategies in the Mediterranean.
IP: Marta Bassitta Sánchez (UIB)
Source of funding: Government of the Balearic Islands.
