Summary
Genome sequencing reveals adaptation to salinity, pressure and temperature in marine species.
In depth
Studies include coral genomes, adaptation of icefish antifreeze genes, deep-sea animals' pressure adaptations. eDNA and metabarcoding survey biodiversity. Marine natural products are drug leads.
Genomics supports stock identification, tracking larval connectivity and breeding aquaculture species. Environmental genomics monitors biodiversity.
Example: genomic data show how Antarctic fish evolved antifreeze proteins.
Marine genomics sequences the genomes and metagenomes of ocean life to understand its adaptation, evolution and function. Studies of cold-adapted Antarctic icefish revealed loss of haemoglobin genes; deep-sea animals show changes in genes for pressure and light; corals reveal genes for heat tolerance and symbiosis.
Metagenomic projects such as Tara Oceans and Craig Venter's Sargasso Sea survey found enormous numbers of unknown microbes and genes, including light-sensing proteorhodopsin. Environmental DNA (eDNA) from water samples detects species without capture. Applications include aquaculture breeding, conservation and discovery of enzymes and drugs.
Example: genomes of oysters show expanded stress-response genes.
Frequently asked questions
What is Marine Genomics?
Genome sequencing reveals adaptation to salinity, pressure and temperature in marine species.
Which area of biology covers Marine Genomics, and how advanced is it?
Marine Genomics is one of the 54 topics in Marine & Environmental Biology. It is rated Advanced, so it suits learners who want specialist depth. Related topics in this area include Coral Bleaching, Deep-Sea Life, Marine Symbiosis.
Why does Marine Genomics matter?
It is an inventory of genetic diversity.
Can you give an example of Marine Genomics?
Ziconotide, a painkiller, comes from cone snail venom.
What should I learn before Marine Genomics?
Work through the Beginner topics in Marine & Environmental Biology first, such as Oceans, Ocean Zones, Plankton, then return to Marine Genomics. Advanced topics assume the Intermediate vocabulary.
What topics are related to Marine Genomics?
The closest topics to Marine Genomics are Coral Bleaching, Deep-Sea Life, Marine Symbiosis, Hydrothermal Vent Ecosystems. Comparing them side by side is a good way to see how the ideas connect.
How can I check that I understand Marine Genomics?
Read the summary and the in-depth section, then use the quick check on the interactive lesson for Marine Genomics. To practise the whole of Marine & Environmental Biology, use the Marine & Environmental Biology quiz.
How is Marine Genomics different from Coral Bleaching?
Marine Genomics: Genome sequencing reveals adaptation to salinity, pressure and temperature in marine species. Coral Bleaching: Heat stress causes corals to expel their symbiotic algae, turning white and risking death. Read both side by side and note what each one explains.
How should I study Marine Genomics step by step?
First, read the summary and write the definition in your own words. Second, read the in-depth section and note any example. Third, compare it with Coral Bleaching and explain the difference aloud. Finally, take the Marine & Environmental Biology quiz and come back to this page for any question you miss.