Genetics of biological invasions

Description of impact

Utilization of the methodology of molecular genetic analysis for the populational identification of invader species and study of the biological problems produced in the process of colonization. After habitat loss, invader species are the second greater threat to the biodiversity and one of the main sources of global change. This problematic issue affects especially continental waters (rivers, lagoons and dams), one of the habitats where the invader species cause strong ecological impacts of big economic transcendence. Moreover, biological invasions represent singular opportunities to study evolutionary processes in a human time scale. Among the species invaders studied in this line, it is worth mentioning the zebra mussel (Dreissena polymorpha), one of the invertebrate invaders with greater ecological and economic impact, and the mosquito fish (Gambusia holbrooki), a continental exotic fish introduced to fight the mosquitos of our lagoons. Both species are classified within the 100 more dangerous invasive species according to GISP (Global Invasive Species Programme). These species, together with the Asian clam (Corbicula fluminea) are the current object of study of the group from projects in course.