Discovery Projects - Grant ID: DP0450050

Funding Activity

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Funded Activity Summary

Are natural clones specialists or generalists? Using a model system to test alternative hypotheses for the advantages of parthenogenesis. Parthenogenetic organisms are all-female and reproduce clonally. Through discovering why these unusual organisms are sometimes successful we can better understand the significance of genetic diversity and sex. The Australian arid zone is a ?hot-spot? for parthenogenesis, with at least five independent examples including a native grasshopper and one of its host plants. I will apply modern molecular tools and ecophysiological techniques to test the hypothesis that parthenogenesis is favoured in this grasshopper because it allows the fixation of locally adapted clones. This research will provide a unique insight into the selective forces operating in the arid zone, Australia's largest ecosystem.

Funded Activity Details

Start Date: 12-02-2004

End Date: 31-12-2007

Funding Scheme: Discovery Projects

Funding Amount: $300,000.00

Funder: Australian Research Council