Evolutionary progression in cephalopods using molecular techniques and new approaches to morphology
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2021-05Author
Taite, Morag
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Abstract
Cephalopods evolved during the Cambrian and were once the
dominant lifeforms in the world’s oceans. Several groups of the 800
living cephalopod species have diversified due to their rapid
response to drivers of evolution and different adaption strategies.
My research aims to investigate their evolutionary history and
relationships, and answer different questions about cephalopod
biology and systematics, using a variety of molecular techniques
with the support of morphology.
Chapter 2 uses DNA barcoding to determine the diversity and
abundance of cephalopods within warm-core eddies in the North
Atlantic. I identified different taxonomic groups which need to be
reviewed, expanded the known distribution of six species, provided
the first sequence for two known species and identified a potential
new species Todarodes cf. sagittatus.
Chapter 3 investigates the distribution of deep-sea octopuses in
the North east Atlantic, also using DNA barcoding. I discuss the
taxonomic and systematic issues of the groups represented in this
study, extend the known depth range for one species and identify a
potential new Muusoctopus species.
Chapter 4 uses genome skimming to build a phylogeny of the
Octopodiformes. I provide whole mitochondrial genome sequences
and 18S rRNA genes and 28S rRNA for twenty Octopoda specimens
comprising 18 Cirrata and Incirrata species.
Chapter 5 uses CT scanning to investigate the internal anatomy of
cirrate octopods. I discuss the non-invasive imaging techniques that
have been used in cephalopods, along with their advantages and
disadvantages. My research shows how different molecular techniques can be used
to answer certain questions and will contribute to improving the
cephalopod tree of life.