Rapid increases in jellyfish abundance, i.e. 'jellyfish blooms', and invasive species are almost synonymous with global degradation of coastal marine ecosystems. As such, they receive most of the media attention given to jellyfish. Despite this high profile, understanding of jellyfish blooms and invasive species is severely hindered because species often cannot be reliably identified. This project will develop quantitative and statistical approaches to species identification based on DNA analyses. The goals are to (1) generate a robust approach to jellyfish species identification and (2) make the approach and resulting data accessible to biologists, educators, students, and resource managers for accurate identifications in the laboratory, classroom, and field.
In addition to reliable identification tools for species causing jellyfish blooms, this project will establish an evolutionary framework for interpreting biotic responses to environmental perturbations, including global climate change and species introductions. Tools and a synthesis of methods, data, and analyses will be made available via a website, further benefiting society by aiding in management of coastal ecosystems and fisheries and by contributing to ocean literacy. The project will increase minority participation in science through graduate and undergraduate research experiences at UC Merced and through outreach and education initiatives targeting school districts in California's rural Central Valley.
