Kaila Wheatley Kornblum, postgraduate researcher, CDT SuMMeR: Cohort 1

Marine and freshwater Biology (BSc Hons – thesis on the drivers and dynamics of shark fisheries and conservation) and marine population genetics (MRes in Bioscience – thesis on the factors driving long-finned pilot whale mass stranding events in the Falkland Islands). Co-Founder, Biologist, Trainer and Dive Instructor at the Red Sea Project an international non-profit organisation dedicated to the protection and conservation of the marine ecosystems and biodiversity of the Red Sea.

I am interested in how population genetics combined with a multidisciplinary approach can assist in the implementation of effective conservation strategies by feeding into policy and legislation. Population genetics is a very powerful tool that can give valuable insights into the structure and dynamics of populations but comes with the risk of missing contemporary processes. This can be avoided by using a holistic and transdisciplinary approach to address complex biological questions which I find interesting as it combines approaches from different disciplines to give a more thorough understanding of the question or subject. 

The Pink Sea Fan (Eunicella verrucosa), is a cold-water octocoral, ranging from the north of Ireland to the Mediterranean Sea. Recognized as a priority species under the UK Post-2010 Biodiversity Framework and a Species of Principal Importance (UK Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981), many marine protected areas (MPAs) in the UK are designed to safeguard priority species like E. verrucosa. However, to effectively design MPAs, a comprehensive understanding of population connectivity and limiting factors at range edges is imperative.

Our multidisciplinary research approach integrates molecular ecology, histology, and ocean dynamic modelling to unravel E. verrucosa’s life history and connectivity. The molecular ecology approach employs whole genome sequencing (WGS) to capture genetic variations across the species' range. This enables us to explore fine-scale connectivity patterns and evidence of genetic adaptation to environmental extremes at range edges.
Histological analysis aims to elucidate reproductive processes, determine the timing of gonadal development as well as growth rates and temperature-related pelagic larval duration (PLD).

Additionally, partial tracking models (PTM) simulate larvae connectivity throughout the species' range, helping to identify key populations that uphold gene flow to edge populations, adding a contemporary component to support our genetic research. Furthermore, these models facilitate the assessment of particle dispersal, offering insights into potential settlement regions.

In summary, we aim to evaluate the effectiveness of the current MPA network in preserving connectivity within Pink Sea Fan populations. By integrating genetic insights, biological data, and modelling techniques, we strive to contribute valuable information for the conservation of this remarkable species.

I like the multidisciplinary approach a lot and think it’s a great opportunity to learn and adapt a more holistic approach to research questions. Furthermore, I think it is very exciting to get the opportunity to learn how research feeds into policies and legislation and a great prospect to be part of that process. In addition to the multidisciplinary approach, I value the associated patterns of the project a lot as it’s an amazing opportunity to learn from experts in their field, facilitate science, work together towards conservation and build a network.