Adaptive Responses of Phaeocystis Populations in Antarctic Ecosystems

Global climate change is having significant effects on areas of the Southern Ocean, and a better understanding of this ecosystem will permit predictions about the large-scale implications of these shifts. The haptophyte Phaeocystis antarctica is an important component of the phytoplankton communities in this region, but little is known about the factors controlling its distribution. Preliminary data suggest that P. antarctica posses unique adaptations that allow it to thrive in regions with dynamic light regimes. This research will extend these results to identify the physiological and genetic mechanisms that affect the growth and distribution of P. antarctica. This work will use field and laboratory-based studies and a suite of modern molecular techniques to better understand the biogeography and physiology of this key organism. Results will be widely disseminated through publications as well as through presentations at national and international meetings. In addition, raw data will be made available through open-access databases. This project will support the research and training of two graduate students and will foster an established international collaboration with Dutch scientists. Researchers on this project will participate in outreach programs targeting K12 teachers as well as high school students.全球气候变化正对南大洋诸多区域造成显著影响，深入认知该生态系统，有助于精准预测此类环境变迁带来的大规模连锁效应。定鞭藻类（haptophyte）中的南极海囊藻（Phaeocystis antarctica）是该海域浮游植物群落的关键组成部分，但目前学界对调控其分布的核心机制仍知之甚少。前期初步数据显示，南极海囊藻具备独特的适应性特征，使其能够在光照条件动态波动的海域中旺盛生长。本研究将拓展上述初步结论，系统解析影响南极海囊藻生长与分布的生理及遗传调控机制。本研究将结合野外实地调查与实验室受控实验，并运用一系列现代分子生物学技术，以深入阐明该关键物种的生物地理学特征与生理特性。研究成果将通过学术期刊发表、国内外学术会议报告等形式进行广泛传播。此外，原始实验数据将通过开放获取数据库面向公众公开。本项目将资助两名研究生开展科研工作并完成培养，同时深化与荷兰科研团队已有的国际合作关系。项目研究人员将参与面向K12教师与高中生的科普推广活动。