DNA barcoding of macroalgae associated with mangroves of São Paulo State coast

• Grant number: 18/13807-3
• Support Opportunities: BIOTA-FAPESP Program - Regular Research Grants
• Start date: February 01, 2019
• End date: November 30, 2021
• Field of knowledge: Biological Sciences - Botany - Plant Taxonomy
• Principal Investigator: Daniela Milstein
• Grantee: Daniela Milstein
• Host Institution: Instituto de Saúde e Sociedade (ISS). Universidade Federal de São Paulo (UNIFESP). Campus Baixada Santista. Santos , SP, Brazil
• City of the host institution: Santos
• Associated researchers: Levi Pompermayer Machado ; Marília Cunha Lignon ; Mutue Toyota Fujii

Abstract

Mangroves are coastal ecosystems that lie between terrestrial and marine environments, characteristic of tropical and subtropical regions, and subjected to tidal variation. Although considered one of the most important ecosystems on Earth, mangroves are threatened by anthropogenic activities. Mangroves of São Paulo State coast occupy an area of approximately 270 km2, in conservation units, preservations areas and highly impacted environments. Mangrove forests shelter macroalgae species, collectively named "Bostrychietum", that are very important to this ecosystem, because they contribute as primary producers. Although species diversity of macroalgae associated with mangroves is considered low, little is known about the genetic diversity of these organism. Considering these information, this project aims a floristic survey of macroalgae associated with mangroves of São Paulo State coast, based on DNA barcoding. By the conclusion of this project, it will be possible to access macroalgae genetic diversity. These data will allow the development of an historical record of species occurrence based on collection locations along the mangroves, by the creation of species list and deposition of DNA sequences in public databases. (AU)