Phylogenomic analysis of the genus Hypostomus (Ostariophysi: Siluriformes) using ultraconserved elements

• Grant number: 23/08377-8
• Support Opportunities: Scholarships in Brazil - Doctorate
• Start date: November 01, 2023
• End date: July 31, 2027
• Field of knowledge: Biological Sciences - Genetics - Animal Genetics
• Principal Investigator: Claudio de Oliveira
• Grantee: Lucas Fernando Peres Ramos
• Host Institution: Instituto de Biociências (IBB). Universidade Estadual Paulista (UNESP). Campus de Botucatu. Botucatu , SP, Brazil
• Associated scholarship(s): 25/08262-1 - Phylogeny of the Hypostomus cochliodon super-group (Siluriformes: Loricariidae), using UCEs and CT-scan techniques, BE.EP.DR

Abstract

Representatives of the family Loricariidae are widely distributed throughout freshwater habitats in tropical South America and southern Central America. In addition to their species richness, loricariids exhibit a wide range of morphological, physiological and ecological specializations, occupying many habitats and trophic levels. Recently studies developed by our research group, using molecular data as a basis, have presented new hypotheses about the relationships among members of Loricariidae, mainly at genera and subfamily level. A general review of the available literature shows the need to use newer and more efficient molecular markers, since many of the relationships among species of Loricariidae are still poorly resolved. In this sense, we are proposing the construction of a phylogeny employing data obtained with one of the most modern next-generation sequencing techniques to study the largest genus of Loricariidae, the genus Hypostomus. Thus, in the present study we will generate data for about 2,700 ultraconserved elements (UCEs), whose use in phylogenetic systematics has shown very promising results. The present study will provide a major advance in our knowledge of Hypostomus systematics, will allow hypotheses to be developed about the relationship among the species, and the use of additional information will permit the discussion on key characteristics in the diversification and evolution of the members of this genus. (AU)