How do ecological niche shifts influence rates of morphological and molecular evolution?

Overview

Topic status: We're looking for students to study this topic.

Animals that occupy highly distinct ecological niches typically have also undergone a period of rapid morphological (e.g. anatomical) evolution. "Living fossils" on the other hand often occupy ecologically distinct niches, yet are thought to have slowly evolving morphologies. This project seeks to explore this paradox and investigate the relationship between ecology and rates of morphological and molecular evolution. The focus will be provided by a small number of species that have undergone a period of rapid morphological evolution (e.g. echidnas, marsupial moles), several living fossils (e.g. platypus, musky rat-kangaroo) and relatives of the members in each of these groups. Research will involve comparative analysis of ecological, DNA and morphometric data. DNA sequencing could provide an additional component.

This project may include research visits to the Australian Museum.

Study level
Honours
Supervisors
QUT
Organisational unit

Science and Engineering Faculty

Research area

Biogeoscience

Keywords
marsupial
Contact
Please contact the supervisor.