Dissertation Enhancement: Testing the Independent Origin of Compound Eyes in Ostracoda (Crustacea): A Step Beyond Character Mapping

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9975062CunninghamThis award supports dissertation enhancement research by Todd Oakley on understanding the evolutionary history of compound eyes in a diverse group of primitive crustacea. The research merges phylogenetic analysis with sensory ecology, and addresses an interesting question in arthropod evolution, the "enigma of invertebrate sight". The research will be conducted in collaboration with experts J. Lowery and A. Parker at the Australian Museum.The intent of the proposed research is to test whether the compound eyes of ostracods evolved independently of other anthropod eyes, by using the history of eye structural genes, photosensitive opsims, and phylogenetic mapping. Two main directions of research will be accomplished in this project: molecular and morphological studies. Australia is home to some of the most notable expertise in ostracod morphologies, and collaboration with experts there will be a valuable enhancement to the dissertation research. It is also expected that the international experience will enhance the student's education and permit new international collaboration.