This dissertation will establish the phylogeny of Eunicidae, test the monophyly of the family and its genera, and analyze ontogenetic and along-the-body variation of features. We will use multiple sources of evidence - molecules, morphology and development - to produce more informative hypotheses of primary homology and consequently a more robust phylogeny. This will allow us to revise Eunicidae and its genera and to test the phylogenetic content of traditional polychaete morphological characters. It will also offer a background for future phylogenetic studies of annelids concerned with similar issues of homology of highly modified, variable or serially repeated structures. We request funding for Ms. Silva to conduct developmental studies using specific staining and confocal microscopy at the Smithsonian's Fort Pierce lab, and to travel to Dr. Ken Halancych's lab (Auburn University) in order to learn molecular techniques specific to annelids. This funding will allow us to expand the project from one that uses traditional anatomical characters and molecular markers to a more robust study incorporating ontogeny and new genetic characters. Broader impacts: This study will train a graduate student in developmental and molecular genetics of annelids, and strengthen ties between labs at George Washington University, Smithsonian Institution, and Auburn University.
