New approaches to ancient DNA: using novel substrates to characterise DNA preservation and past biodiversity in warm-climate ecosystems
Access Status
Open access
Authors
Grealy, Alicia Catherine
Date
2016Supervisor
Prof. Michael Bunce
Dr James Haile
Type
Thesis
Award
PhD
Metadata
Show full item recordFaculty
Science and Engineering
School
Environment and Agriculture
Collection
Abstract
Retrieving ancient DNA (aDNA) from fossils in warm, tropical environments remains a challenge. This thesis describes the development and application of next generation sequencing technologies in the search for warm-climate aDNA. Methods to extract, enrich and sequence aDNA from fossil ‘bulk bone’ and avian eggshell are successfully explored from sites in Australia and Madagascar. Collectively, the research provides new insights into past biodiversity and evolutionary processes in climates not previously considered conducive to DNA preservation.