Research Grant
[Cite as https://purl.org/au-research/grants/arc/DP210100471]Researchers: Dr Ryan Phillips (Chief Investigator) , Gavin Flematti (Chief Investigator) , Prof Rod Peakall (Chief Investigator) , Prof Eran Pichersky (Partner Investigator) , The Australian National University (Managed by)
Brief description The evolution of specialised orchid pollination and its reversibility. This project aims to determine the changes in key floral volatile compounds underpinning pollination transitions, identify their molecular basis, and understand the ecological processes favouring reversals away from extreme specialisation. By focusing on pollination of sexually deceptive Australian orchids, this project would be the first to determine the molecular, chemical and behavioural basis of evolutionary reversals to more generalised strategies in a group of plants facing high risk of pollinator extinction. The expected outcome, a mechanistic understanding of how pollination transitions occur, would be internationally ground-breaking, and provide crucial insights to protect this diverse but highly threatened group of plants.
Funding Amount $427,250
Funding Scheme Discovery Projects
- PURL : https://purl.org/au-research/grants/arc/DP210100471
- ARC : DP210100471