The molecular basis of speciation remains one of the outstanding questions in evolutionary biology. Recent studies have indicated that the rapid evolution of reproductive proteins may be involved in the reproductive isolation and speciation. This proposal will investigate the function and evolution of reproductive genes in abalone of the genus Haliotis. These studies are designed to gain a further understanding of the process of speciation through the rapid divergence of reproductive molecules.
Although this proposal focuses on the genus Haliotis, it is relevant on a broader scale to all taxonomic groups. Rapidly evolving reproductive proteins have been observed in a wide array of plants and animals, such as diatoms, green algae, humans, and marine invertebrates. An understanding of why such great diversity exists in reproductive molecules is crucial in order to have a complete understanding of the molecules involved in reproduction. This proposal is aimed at extending knowledge on the mechanisms generating this diversity and its functional consequences. An active outreach program will integrate minority students in the research.
