Aquatic Ecosystems Working Group
Researchers:
#eDNA #Metabarcoding #BiodiversityMonitoring #InlandWaterBiology #GeneticMonitoring #EndemicSpecies #InvasiveSpecies #PopulationGenetics #MarineMammals #GenomicResearch #TranscriptomeAnalysis #AquaticEcosystem #ClimateChange #ConservationGenetics #AdaptationGenetics #GeneticDiversity #ConservationBiology #WaterResources #EcosystemHealth #Sustainability #Microplastics #MarinePollution
The Aquatic Ecosystems Working Group aims to contribute to the sustainability and conservation of biodiversity in marine and inland water habitats (sea, lake, river, etc.) by conducting genetically and ecologically based research in these ecosystems. The group develops advanced molecular biology and bioinformatics methods to study the genetic structure and population dynamics of aquatic organisms, monitor ecosystem health, and generate data for conservation biology. Key research areas include the molecular-level identification of endemic, rare, and invasive species, biodiversity monitoring using eDNA metabarcoding, and the creation of local genetic databases . Specifically, aquatic biodiversity is continuously updated and local genetic databases are created using eDNA metabarcoding.
The group evaluates the population genetics, migration dynamics, and conservation status of marine mammals using genomic data; and develops genetic monitoring strategies for endangered species. Furthermore, it researches the genetic diversity of rare aquatic species in Turkey's marine and inland water ecosystems, providing scientific data support for biodiversity policies.
Through analyses at the whole genome and transcriptome levels, the genetic responses and adaptation mechanisms of aquatic organisms to environmental stressors are being revealed. Genome-based research, in particular, is being conducted to assess the impact of climate change on aquatic ecosystems.
