Overview
Topic status: We're looking for students to study this topic.
Cryptic species are groups of two or more biologically distinct species which show little or no morphological variation, and are thus very difficult to tell apart. While molecular tools can often help unravel cryptic species complexes, some complexes are so difficult to resolve that a molecular approach alone is insufficient. The Queensland fruit fly complex of tropical fruit flies is one such group, where diagnostics of the four nominal species within the complex requires several approaches including genetic, behavioural and morphological examination. As a case study, this project will use the Queensland fruit fly complex to compare the value of different diagnostic tools in resolving closely related species complexes. Amongst specific activities, the project will test if the taxonomically described species of the complex, Bactrocera melas, is biologically valid; and will explore the potential for parsimony analysis to accurately incorporate greatly divergent datasets, for example molecular data versus behavioural data. The project will participate within, and have direct impact on, international projects attempting to resolve other fruit fly species complexes.
- Study level
- PhD
- Supervisors
- QUT
- Organisational unit
Science and Engineering Faculty
- Research area
- Keywords
- entomology, pest management, plant biosecurity, fruit fly
- Contact
- Please contact the supervisor.
Associate Professor Anthony Clarke
Dr Mark Schutze
