Why Sequence Amphipod Crustaceans?
This project comprises preliminary directed genome and EST sequencing of two species of amphipod crustaceans. Parhyale hawaiensis is becoming an established “new model” organism for developmental studies within the arthropods. Jassa slatteryi is another related amphipod crustacean found to have an unusually small genome relative to other amphipods. These species have phylogenetically strategic positions with respect to current developmental models, to existing sequenced and in-progress genomes, and to each other. Both species have excellent potential as experimental organisms for studying developmental processes. Directed genome sequencing of regions of interest to the developmental biology and evolutionary biology communities will generate invaluable research tools. The genomic sequence surrounding developmental genes of interest is essential for comparative studies aimed at understanding cis-regulatory evolution. Expressed sequence tag (EST) sequences will help in the discovery of ad
