Persistent Digital Identifiers (UIDs)
ORCID :
https://orcid.org/0009-0000-5865-4400
Subject Area
Biological Oceanography, Marine Ecology
Pollution
Activities
I am currently part of the DINOHAB project where we analyze HAB-forming dinoflagellates in Guanabara Bay - RJ - Brazil. The project has 2 main lines: sample collection and analysis and data analysis and interpretation.
Sample Collection and Analysis
- Water Sample Collection: Water samples collected seasonally at representative points in Guanabara Bay, using Van Dorn bottles at different depths (surface, thermocline, and bottom).
- Morphological Analysis of Microplankton: Dinoflagellate cell density (cells·L⁻¹) are determined using optical microscopy for quantification and identification, based on taxonomic guides.
- Collection for Molecular Analyses: Water samples are filtered onboard to retain the genetic material of dinoflagellates, which are stored in liquid nitrogen or at -80°C for preservation.
- Collection of Environmental and Physicochemical Data: During collections, data such as temperature, salinity, and nutrient concentrations (nitrate, phosphate, and silicate) are recorded to characterize the habitat.
Molecular and Bioinformatics Analyses
- DNA Extraction and Sequencing: Genomic DNA are extracted from filters, and the SSU rDNA gene will be amplified and sequenced using two approaches: Sanger Sequencing (for target species) and Metabarcoding (for broad community characterization).
- Bioinformatics and Taxonomic Analysis: Sequencing data will be processed using bioinformatics pipelines for filtering and abundance table construction. Sequences will be compared with reference databases for taxonomic assignment and species identification, including potential HAB-forming species.
- Phylogenetic Analysis: Phylogenetic trees will be constructed using bioinformatics algorithms and software to investigate the presence of phylogenetic signals that link HAB-forming capacity to specific dinoflagellate lineages.
Data Analysis and Interpretation
- Integrated Data Analysis: Genetic, phylogenetic, and environmental data are analyzed in an integrated manner. This includes assessing genetic diversity, comparing community composition at different points and periods, and performing statistical tests (ANOVA, correlation).
- Correlation between Genetics and HABs: The relationship between the genetic characteristics of species and their ability to form HABs is being investigated, identifying genetic groupings (clades) associated with these events. Comparative analysis methods will be used to test for the presence of a phylogenetic signal.
Skills
Strong technical skills in marine biology (fieldwork, taxonomy, microscopy, ecology), molecular biology (DNA extraction, PCR, sequencing), and bioinformatics (data processing, phylogenetic and statistical analysis).
Beyond technical expertise, essential soft skills include attention to detail, problem-solving, critical thinking, teamwork, effective communication, organization, and adaptability.
