Marine landscape genomics in the investigation of tiger shark phylogeography, global adaptation, and conservation.

• Grant number: 23/10991-6
• Support Opportunities: Scholarships abroad - Research
• Start date: November 06, 2023
• End date: November 05, 2024
• Field of knowledge: Biological Sciences - Genetics - Animal Genetics
• Principal Investigator: Fernando Fernandes Mendonça
• Grantee: Fernando Fernandes Mendonça
• Host Investigator: Agostinho Antunes Pereira
• Host Institution: Instituto do Mar (IMar). Universidade Federal de São Paulo (UNIFESP). Campus Baixada Santista. Santos , SP, Brazil
• Institution abroad: Centro Interdisciplinar de Investigação Marinha e Ambiental (CIIMAR), Portugal

Abstract

This study aims to fill the existing gap in understanding the evolutionary processes and population dynamics of the tiger shark (Galeocerdo cuvier), a large-sized species with a global distribution and high mobility. To overcome these challenges, complete genome sequencing (DNA Whole Genome Sequencing - WGS) will be employed to extensively analyze data from different populations of tiger sharks in the Atlantic, Indian, and Pacific Oceans. This approach will provide a detailed insight into the genetic diversity, population structure, and adaptive potential of this species. Additionally, a marine landscape genomics approach will be applied to investigate how environmental and anthropogenic factors influence the genetics and adaptation of the tiger shark. This analysis will yield valuable information for effective management and implementation of conservation measures. The proposal to utilize DNA WGS and marine landscape genomics aligns with the current state of science and represents a significant advancement in understanding the genetic diversity and population structure of marine organisms, as well as their adaptation to constantly changing coastal and oceanic environments. The researcher's affiliation with the Evolutionary Genomics and Bioinformatics Group - Interdisciplinary Center for Marine and Environmental Research at the University of Porto will bring significant scientific and academic benefits. During this period, the researcher will have the opportunity to deepen their knowledge in genomics, next-generation sequencing techniques, and bioinformatic analysis of large datasets. This will empower the researcher to lead innovative and competitive research projects, foster international scientific collaboration, and contribute to the training of a new generation of scientists with expertise in genomics for the conservation of marine ecosystems.