How connected are marine populations? Comparing life histories of endemic and non-endemic reef fishes to investigate the mechanisms behind self-recruitment. [ 2003-01-01 - 2006-12-31 ]

Research Grant

Researchers: Swearer, Stephen (Chief Investigator)

Brief description How connected are marine populations? Comparing life histories of endemic and non-endemic reef fishes to investigate the mechanisms behind self-recruitment. Recruitment of pelagic larvae plays a fundamental role in benthic marine populations, yet the sources and destinations of recruits are unknown for nearly all marine species. Because endemic species rely on retention of locally spawned larvae, they provide a novel opportunity for investigating the mechanisms allowing self-recruitment. I propose to compare the life histories and microchemical signatures in larval otoliths of endemic and closely related non-endemic reef fishes to determine the mechanisms and prevalence of self-recruitment. The results will broaden our understanding of how marine populations are replenished, information critically needed for marine conservation and resource management.

Funding Amount $355,000

Funding Scheme Discovery Projects

View this grant in the ARC Data Portal