Shanice Piango, UWM graduate student, will present a talk about her work entitled, “Germplasm Conservation Strategies for Understanding Fertility in Giant Kelp (Macrocystis Pyrifera)”

The Abstract is as Follows:

My research explores the application of germplasm conservation strategies in seaweed, focusing on the fertility of stored gametophytes, microbiome interactions with antibiotic treatment, and germplasm longevity. As seaweed ecosystems face threats from climate change along with the rapidly growing seaweed aquaculture industry, germplasm conservation emerges as a key strategy for preserving biodiversity and supporting aquaculture. Germplasm conservation is instrumental in sustaining biodiversity and ecosystem services, particularly for improving the aquaculture of Macrocystis pyrifera. Our investigation delves into the challenges of declining gametophyte fertility over time, investigating gene expression differences between sexes and what genes play major roles in successful reproduction, examining the role of microbiome interactions and antibiotics in germplasm health, and assesses strategies to enhance the longevity and viability of stored seaweed germplasm.

The presentation will begin at 4:00PM in Lapham Hall N101, preceded by an informal reception from 3:45-4:00PM.