University of New Hampshire
McNair Scholar, 2024
Major: Biomedical Science and World Languages
Mentor: Dr. Elizabeth Harvey
Research Title: Syndiniales Dinospores' Metabolic Strategies for Survival and Infectivity in the Absence of a Dinoflagellate Host
Abstract:
Parasitism is a widespread ecological strategy that influences marine ecosystem dynamics. Syndiniales are an order of unicellular protists within the phylum Dinoflagellata, and most members are parasitic. Species within the Syndiniales Order are ubiquitous in marine environments and significantly impact plankton population dynamics and biogeochemical cycling. Most Syndiniales have complex life cycles that often include a free-living stage. However, despite their importance, there is little knowledge of the fate of free-living dinospores. Recent genomic evidence and preliminary laboratory work suggest dinospores may possess metabolic capacities outside a host. This study aims to explore survival mechanisms of Syndiniales spores in the absence of their dinoflagellate host, Scrippsiella sp., and will identify how particular dissolved organic compounds influence their growth, survival, and infectivity. Understanding Syndiniales' interactions with their environment and hosts is necessary to address issues related to marine food webs and carbon cycles. This study will provide insights into predicting and managing harmful algal blooms that contribute to marine environment conservation and sustainable management.
