Evolutionary and Ecological Genetics

In this program we use molecular genetics to explore the relationships between populations and species of reef organisms. Such studies allow us to infer the evolutionary history of several groups of reef fish and corals. Stock structure and population connectivity is also ascertained and has application to management of reef fisheries and conservation of biodiversity.

Ongoing research programs:

• Hybridization in reef fishes, including damselfishes, gobies and serranids: Dr Lynne van Herwerden (Staff), Dr Philip. Munday (Research Fellow), and Professor J. Howard Choat (Adjunct Staff).

• Phylogenetic studies of several taxa including: surgeonfishes, parrotfishes and angelfishes: Professor J. Howard Choat (Adjunct Staff), Dr Lynne van Herwerden (Staff), Professor David Bellwood (staff).

• Population studies & phylogeography of species including damselfishes, parrotfishes, surgeonfishes, serranids, pseudochromids, reef sharks, acroporid corals: Dr Lynne van Herwerden (Staff), Dr Line. Bay (ARC CoE), Professor Geoff Jones (Staff), Dr M Julian Caley (Adjunct Staff), Professor J. Howard Choat (Adjunct Staff), Dr Philip. Munday (Research Fellow), Professor Terry.Hughes (ARC CoE).

Research Laboratories