Genomics of Kleptocnidy in Nudibranchs

Stolen organelles quite literally fuel much of Earth’s biodiversity. Nudibranch mollusks are small marine invertebrates that inhabit tidal pools around the world; two clades have convergently evolved the ability to acquire nematocysts, the stinging organelles unique to cnidarians. We are working to uncover what mechanisms these nudibranchs use to sequester and mature nematocysts from their food.

Currently seeking funding. This is a collaboration with Jessica Goodheart at the American Museum of Natural History.