About This Project

Coral conservation is hindered by the inability to accurately identify species; we can’t conserve what we can’t identify! To address this challenge, we aim to identify better DNA markers for species identification using an innovative modern DNA-sequencing strategy. We will then design a cheaper and more rapid DNA-based method for routine detection. This will be piloted on ecologically important coral species in Kenya to augment reef restoration efforts and enable assessment of coral diversity.

Ask the Scientists

What is the context of this research?

Accurate identification of coral species is difficult because most species' physical features depend on their immediate environments [1,2], and some species are genetically similar at the genome regions traditionally used for species delineation due to the slow evolution of those regions [3]. Current genetic identification strategies entail sequencing multiple markers, which is both expensive and time-consuming. There is a need for better single markers. Modern sequencing technologies which target regions that differ in the genetic makeup of target individuals [4,5] have the potential to identify more informative markers. Once informative markers are identified, rapid and inexpensive protocols can be designed for routine testing.

What is the significance of this project?

A robust taxonomic framework is crucial for conservation management as we cannot protect what we cannot identify [6]. Estimation of genetic diversity, an important proxy for adaptability and survival, also requires definitive identification of species. Corals are in dire need of conservation given their risk of extinction due to climate change and other human impacts [7], but their taxonomy is problematic. East Africa is a hotspot for coral diversity, with underscores the region's economy. However, some species here have yet to be delineated, and generally corals genetics in the region is understudied due to lack of expertise and costs associated with DNA sequencing. Data generated from this study will contribute significantly to the conservation efforts by facilitating rapid inexpensive identification of coral species, and accurate determinations of genetic diversity.

What are the goals of the project?

This is an exploratory study aimed at genome-wide screening for taxonomically informative markers to establish an efficient, rapid and inexpensive identification framework. At least 180 tissue samples will be collected from nine (9) ecologically important coral species spanning four (genera) from the Western Indian Ocean in Kenya. DNA extraction will be done by commercial kit and libraries prepared for sequencing by the Illumina platform. Sequences will be used for phylogenetic analyses to identify chromosome regions that identify each species conclusively. DNA-based protocols will be designed, based on the identified markers, to aid subsequent sequencing and rapid inexpensive detection by PCR for routine use. Genetic diversity of the Kenyan corals will be assessed from the resultant data and established protocols will be tested on more species for reproducibility.