Abstract

The present study will use occurrence, ecophysiological response, molecular diversity and in-depth environmental characterization to model macroalgal distribution ranges, estimate species niche of representative macroalgae, and predict their vulnerability and habitat suitability in the wake of global changes. The overall goal of the research proposed is to determine the role of environmental heterogeneity in the generation and maintenance of the high species diversity and endemism of algae in the sub-Antarctic and Antarctic ecoregions. The specific objectives are to: 1) Characterize biotically and abiotically the occurrence habitat of seven species representative of macroalgal diversity in the sub-Antarctic and Antarctic ecoregions; 2) Use multivariate mathematical models (e.g., environmental predictor variables from a range of representative habitats) to develop prediction estimates on the distribution of representative macroalgal types; 3) Assess and compare their eco-physiological performance in a range of sub-Antarctic and Antarctic habitats (using a cosmopolitan (generalist) and a specialist macroalgal species occupying each, the same habitat); and 4) Analyze genetic divergence among species and among habitat within species based on a large set of random genomic markers and the detection of signatures of selection.