Implications of climate change on the evolution of virulence in a parasitic dinoflagellate

Henry Göhlich, PhD student in WE 5822/1-1

Our research project aims to investigate how predicted changes of environmental conditions, i.e. ocean acidification and warming alter life history traits and pathogenicity of the dinoflagellate Hematodinium and the resistance of its host species N. norvegicus. We will use a serial passage experiment to assess the evolution of Hematodinium pathogenicity and the ability of the two species to adapt to environmental changes. The evolutionary implications of species-specific adaptation potential under changing ocean conditions will be valuable for estimating the future host-parasite dynamic and overall risk of Hematodinium infections on N. norvegicus. Knowledge of how future ocean conditions affect the free-living stages and infection patterns of Hematodinium may help to estimate future stock sizes and distributions of N. norvegicus and subsequent management decisions that may be required to ensure the sustainability of the Norwegian lobster fisheries in the coastal area of the Skagerrak and Kattegat region.