Channel: MBARI (Monterey Bay Aquarium Research Institute)

Category: Science & Technology

Tags: biodiversitygenetics biologybiologyjellyfishdeep seactenophore definitionctenophorezooplanktondeepcmonterey bay aquariumcomb jellymonterey baymarine biologydeep sea creaturesdiversitygeneticsednagelatinous zooplankton

Description: Ctenophores (pronounced “TEEN-o-fours”), also known as comb jellies, mesmerize with their beauty, but these ubiquitous gelatinous animals remain poorly studied, largely due to their delicate nature. MBARI researchers are leveraging the power of genetics to learn more about comb jellies. Since comb jellies are so delicate, they can be challenging to study. MBARI uses submersibles and scuba to carefully collect these fragile, gelatinous animals. Genetic analysis of these specimens has revealed surprising details. In fact, our researchers have uncovered several new species and some familiar species aren’t who we thought from their appearance alone. This work lays the foundation for reading genetic fingerprints across the family tree of comb jellies. In the future, we'll be able to detect comb jellies by the DNA they leave behind in seawater. Learn more: mbari.org/ctenophore-genetics Christianson, L., S. Johnson, D. Schultz, and S.H.D. Haddock (2021). Hidden diversity of Ctenophora revealed by new mitochondrial COI primers and sequences. Molecular Ecology Resources. doi.org/10.1111/1755-0998.13459 Production team: Raul Nava, Kyra Schlining, Nancy Jacobsen Stout, Susan von Thun Video editor: Kyra Schlining Music: MA_Originals_Silhouettes (MotionArray) Follow MBARI on social media: Facebook: facebook.com/MBARInews Twitter: twitter.com/MBARI_News Instagram: instagram.com/mbari_news Tumblr: mbari-blog.tumblr.com LinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/monterey-bay-aquarium-research-institute-mbari-