On status of taxocene of genus Portunus in Western Atlantic Ocean based on evidence from systematic and DNA analysis

Resumo

The principal question of this project is to know the status of taxocene of the genus Portunus, looking at species divergence phylogenies, and comparing regional populations (either synonymizing some names thought to be valid or subdividing some species complexes along the Western Atlantic Ocean). Also, some species from other oceans might be included as external groups in the comparison. This genus is a common component of commercial catches throughout the world, and no recent information appears to be available about it. The 16S mtDNA techniques as well as comparative morphological studies will be used to explain evolutionary biology of the genus Portunus. The study perhaps will include some comparisons of zoea I stages when available. All this can contribute to a better understanding of contemporary genetics and evolutionary history in this diverse genus. I suspect it will also lead to some generic taxonomic level revisions. (AU)