New approaches to measuring the composition and nutrient status of single phytoplankton cells. Phytoplankton support 90% of aquatic food webs, and are responsible for nearly half of global primary productivity. Conversely, blooms of some phytoplankton, often associated with excess nutrients, can cause major environmental problems, including fish kills and risks to human health. However, current methods for determining the nutrient status of phytoplankton are time consuming and ignore the complex ....New approaches to measuring the composition and nutrient status of single phytoplankton cells. Phytoplankton support 90% of aquatic food webs, and are responsible for nearly half of global primary productivity. Conversely, blooms of some phytoplankton, often associated with excess nutrients, can cause major environmental problems, including fish kills and risks to human health. However, current methods for determining the nutrient status of phytoplankton are time consuming and ignore the complexity of responses of different species in mixed populations. This project will develop new, rapid, ways of examining the nutrient condition of individual algal cells, which will be of considerable use to the water industry as well as to our understanding of aquatic ecology.Read moreRead less
Population genetic structure and habitat specialisation in amphibians. This will be the first study to uncover the initial stages of ecological speciation in a fully natural setting, which will solidify Australia's leading position in evolutionary biology. The project promotes active international collaboration and bolsters the vibrant intellectual community here at home. Many Australian undergraduate and PhD students will participate in cutting-edge science and develop connections with overseas ....Population genetic structure and habitat specialisation in amphibians. This will be the first study to uncover the initial stages of ecological speciation in a fully natural setting, which will solidify Australia's leading position in evolutionary biology. The project promotes active international collaboration and bolsters the vibrant intellectual community here at home. Many Australian undergraduate and PhD students will participate in cutting-edge science and develop connections with overseas colleagues, helping Australia maintain its prominent international reputation in the future. The work also advances knowledge and appreciation of the natural world - a more urgent objective now than ever before. Ecological information is especially critical for amphibians, many of which are declining in Australia.Read moreRead less