School of Animal Biology

Rachel Binks

Thesis

Reproductive and Genetic Ecology of the Australian sea urchin Heliocidaris erythrogramma (Valenciennes 1846)

Summary

Heliocidaris erythrogramma is one of the most common sea urchin species endemic to temperate Australian waters.

The species exhibits unique and relatively unexplored features:

(1) Extensive variation in colouration and spine morphology within and among populations, and

(2) A highly modified reproductive system whereby larvae are provided with nutritive yolk; this has implications for gamete dynamics, larval development and dispersal capacity.

These two factors combined make H.erythrogramma an ideal species for studies of population genetics and evolutionary processes. My project aims to explore population dynamics of H.erythrogramma in Western Australia with respect to:

1. Patterns of gene flow and population connectivity over broad and fine spatial scales

2. Ecological and genetic characteristics of morphological variants

3. Gamete compatibility among morphological variants and populations

Why my research is important

This research will provide the first extensive documentation of H.erythrogramma in Western Australia with regard to basic biology and distribution as well as addressing more specific evolutionary questions.

This research, therefore, will not only be an important contribution to the current understanding of fundamental evolutionary processes in marine systems, but it will also provide a wealth of data that is vital to the conservation and management of our precious marine ecosystems.

Funding

• Australian Post-Graduate Award
• Holsworth Wildlife Research Endowment
• School of Animal Biology, UWA