The researchers aim to understand the genetic diversity of cryptophyte photosynthesis in the context of their ability to capture a broad spectrum of available light. These genomes will provide a valuable resource to researchers studying cryptophytes, microalgal photosynthesis and systematics, and marine metagenomics by providing a better catalog of the diversity within this clade of algae. The proposed species span all major clades within the phylum. Furthermore, they include freshwater and marine species, as well as PE- and PC-containing species spanning the diversity of cryptophyte coloration (Hoef-Emden 2008). Two species adapted to extreme environments (the Arctic and Southern Oceans) are also included.
Proposer: Jeffry Dudycha, University of South Carolina