Morphological variation in Gonionemus Vertens among latitudinal gradient of population

Presentation Type

Abstract

Faculty Advisor

Paul Bologna

Access Type

Event

Start Date

25-4-2025 10:30 AM

End Date

25-4-2025 11:29 AM

Description

The sudden emergence, increasing abundance, and distinct sting characteristics of Gonionemus vertens (GV) have raised significant global concern, attracting the attention of researchers due to its unique origin, distribution patterns, and ecological impact. Notably, GV populations from the Northwestern Pacific exhibit heightened sting potency, like those found along the East Coast of the United States, suggesting possible environmental or genetic influences. To investigate further, this study uncovered intriguing morphological variations, particularly in the number of radial canals, which are traditionally number four in GV but were observed to vary between three and five. Samples collected from four states between 2016 and 2024 revealed that three-radial-canal variants were more prevalent overall, although five-radial-canal individuals were more common in Connecticut, indicating potential regional influences. Additionally, GV specimens with abnormal radial canals first appeared in New Jersey in 2018, peaked in 2020, and continued to be observed annually through 2024, suggesting a persistent but fluctuating trend. These findings prompt further exploration into the causes and implications of these morphological anomalies, including potential genetic mutations, environmental stressors, and climate-related factors, while also examining whether these variations influence GV’s stinging ability, adaptability, or reproductive success. By shedding light on the evolving morphology of GV, this research contributes to broader discussions on species adaptation, ecological shifts, and the potential consequences of environmental changes on marine biodiversity.

Comments

Poster presentation at the 2025 Student Research Symposium.

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Apr 25th, 10:30 AM Apr 25th, 11:29 AM

Morphological variation in Gonionemus Vertens among latitudinal gradient of population

The sudden emergence, increasing abundance, and distinct sting characteristics of Gonionemus vertens (GV) have raised significant global concern, attracting the attention of researchers due to its unique origin, distribution patterns, and ecological impact. Notably, GV populations from the Northwestern Pacific exhibit heightened sting potency, like those found along the East Coast of the United States, suggesting possible environmental or genetic influences. To investigate further, this study uncovered intriguing morphological variations, particularly in the number of radial canals, which are traditionally number four in GV but were observed to vary between three and five. Samples collected from four states between 2016 and 2024 revealed that three-radial-canal variants were more prevalent overall, although five-radial-canal individuals were more common in Connecticut, indicating potential regional influences. Additionally, GV specimens with abnormal radial canals first appeared in New Jersey in 2018, peaked in 2020, and continued to be observed annually through 2024, suggesting a persistent but fluctuating trend. These findings prompt further exploration into the causes and implications of these morphological anomalies, including potential genetic mutations, environmental stressors, and climate-related factors, while also examining whether these variations influence GV’s stinging ability, adaptability, or reproductive success. By shedding light on the evolving morphology of GV, this research contributes to broader discussions on species adaptation, ecological shifts, and the potential consequences of environmental changes on marine biodiversity.