Life Sciences Seminar: Secrets and surprises of green microalgae
Life Sciences Seminar
The green diversity under our feet: Secrets and surprises of green microalgae
Dr. Elena L. Peredo
Assistant Professor
Thomas H. Gosnell School of Life Sciences, RIT
Abstract:
Green microalgae are unicellular green plants that share an evolutionary history, basic physiology, and genetic background with terrestrial plants. Despite this close relationship, they continue to conceal many secrets! Microalgae can be found in a wide range of habitats, including marine, freshwater, and terrestrial environments. They exhibit remarkable endurance capabilities, thriving in extreme temperature variations, high concentrations of toxins, radiation, and even high salinity. On land, microalgae are part of the biological soil crusts. For a long time, we were unaware of the incredible diversity of species residing in these soils. Today, we understand that terrestrialization has been achieved by green microalgae on multiple occasions. In many clades, this is a relatively recent development and closely related aquatic species are known, offering an unparalleled opportunity to investigate the adaptations necessary to survive the low humidity conditions typical of terrestrial environments. In this seminar, we will delve into the fascinating world of these microorganisms, exploring some of their morphological and physiological adaptations. Additionally, we will investigate the genetic basis of their remarkable desiccation tolerance.
Speaker Bio:
Assistant Professor at RIT, Elena Lopez Peredo is interested in how plants adapt to new environments. Dr. Peredo achieved her PhD at the University of Oviedo (Spain) working on quantifying the genetic stability of hops plants after in vitro culturing. She was a Fulbright scholar at UCONN working on biogeography, speciation, and genomic adaptations to aquatic environments in submerged green plants. At the Marine Biological Laboratory, Dr. Peredo worked on plant-microbe interaction over a range of environments and in the genetic basis of transition to land. In August 2023, Dr. Peredo moved to the College of Science at RIT.
Intended Audience:
Beginners, undergraduates, graduates, experts. Those with interest in the topic.
To request an interpreter, please visit myaccess.rit.edu
Event Snapshot
When and Where
Who
Open to the Public
Interpreter Requested?
No