상명대 생물정보학 연구실

Phylogenetic study of marine opisthobranch mollusks based on complete mitochondrial genome

This study aims to establish a comprehensive phylogeny that reflects the evolutionary history and characteristics of molluscan gastropods, key marine ecosystem components_​. By sequencing and analyzing mitochondrial genomes, constructing a molecular phylogeny, and comparing morphological classification results with existing hypotheses, this research seeks to enhance our understanding of their evolution. 

Opisthobranch specimens were collected from zoogeographically significant sites along the Korean coast via SCUBA diving. After morphological identification, genomic DNA was extracted and analyzed using next-generation sequencing (NGS). The obtained data were integrated with existing databases to establish a comprehensive molecular phylogeny of opisthobranchs.

Establishing phylogenetic relationships among marine organisms provides a scientific foundation for the effective management of marine biodiversity and the discovery of novel species with biotechnological potential. Additionally, this study provides essential data for developing marine model organisms to monitor global environmental changes, including global warming and ocean acidification.