Mediation of Algal - Opisthobranch-Predator Interaction by Algal Secondary Metabolities

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Herbivorous opisthobranch molluscs such as sea hares have been a rich source of interesting secondary metabolites with potential biomedical applications. Hypotheses concerning the natural function of these compounds have been extant over the past two decades. However, our understanding of how these compounds mediate algal-opisthobranch-predator interactions is still very poor. The research proposed here will address 1) whether feeding by herbivorous opisthobranchs is deterred by algal secondary metabolites, 2) whether herbivorous opisthobranchs can sequester secondary metabolites only from algae that they normally consume, 3) whether secondary metabolites are distributed within herbivorous opisthobranchs so as to maximize their potential for deterring predators; or, alternatively, so as to minimize their toxic effect upon the opisthobranch, and 4) whether patterns of selective sequestration and modification of algal metabolites are most compatable with a) maximizing defensive properties of the opisthobranch, or b) minimizing toxic effects to the opisthobranch. The results of this research will advance our understanding of the ecology of herbivores that sequester plant secondary metabolites.