Research Grant
[Cite as https://purl.org/au-research/grants/arc/DP150104202]
Researchers:
Prof Mark Morrison
(Chief Investigator)
,
Professor Phil Hugenholtz
(Chief Investigator)
,
Professor Phil Hugenholtz
(Chief Investigator)
,
ARC Linkage Grant LP1701000985
(Funded by)
,
Prof Birger Moeller
(Partner Investigator)
View all 6 related researchers
Brief description Evolution of the marsupial gut microbiome and adaptation to eucalypt toxins. Eucalyptus leaves comprise all or part of the diet of some marsupials including koalas. Gut microbiota assist in the ability of these folivores to tolerate eucalyptus toxins although present understanding of this process is rudimentary. This project aims to use culture-independent molecular methods to identify and characterise gut populations involved in phytochemical detoxification by comparative analysis with diprotodont relatives that are not capable of digesting eucalyptus leaves. This will highlight evolutionary convergence of gut microbiomes in toxic folivores and reveal mechanisms by which microorganisms respond to and metabolise eucalypt toxins. A broader evolutionary context of marsupial digestive function will assist in ongoing conservation efforts.
Funding Amount $374,300
Funding Scheme Discovery Projects
- PURL : https://purl.org/au-research/grants/arc/DP150104202
- ARC : DP150104202