Early-life period is the most vulnerable life stage for externally reproducing aquatic animals when a strong selective pressure is expected to shape phenotypes and produce habitat-dependent adaptations. While considerable effort has been made to understand mechanisms of adaptation later in life, adaptations to early-life stressors and the repeatability of evolutionary solutions across species range are virtually unexplored. For instance, humic habitats which pose a considerable challenge for fish due to low pH, strong light, temperature and oxygen stratification are common in boreal regions. In the most extreme humic lakes often the only fish species able to reproduce is Eurasian perch (Perca fluviatilis). Recent Omics studies have helped to uncover some aspects of perch adaptation to humic conditions. By applying an integrative approach, the aim of this PhD project is to elucidate genetic and physiological mechanisms expected to be important for early-life adaptation to humic environment which so far remained unknown. Project is divided into three chapters investigating population-dependent responses of i) perch gametes ii) embryos and iii) yolk-stage hatchings to humic water exposure. PhD student will analyse and compare morphological, growth, movement and gene expression data. Experiments requiring specific permits will be conducted in collaboration with research groups in Sweden and Estonia.
Mokslinis vadovas / supervisor: Kristina Noreikienė
Kontaktai / Contacts:
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