Genomics of Marine Larval Evolution and Development

Abstract

Synopsis Functional and ecological genomics in emerging marine models is shaping our views on new and fundamental biological questions. Representing a wealth of morphological, behavioral, and developmental adaptations, marine organisms are a key group for studying ancestral and shared body plan patterns, as well as some of the most intriguing novelties in animals. Here, we outline key questions, resources, and approaches to advance our understanding of marine larva biology and evolution that were covered in the recent symposium “Genomics of marine larval evolution and development.” Over 2 days, researchers from multiple continents, career stages, and research interests, covering a range of taxonomic diversity, contributed to three emerging topics: (1) Understanding the genetic basis of larval morphology and behaviors; (2) Finding the genomic basis for body plan development and novel morphologies; and (3) Constructing genomic tools in development for comparative insights. In this short piece, we highlight some of the most relevant findings on how different developmental modes and larval forms evolve.