Functional Morphology

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Scientific Interests

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Functional morphology of visual systems

For a vertebrate the retina is both, a sensor-array and an imaging-computer to open the window to the photic environment - for the comparative morphologist it is a complex of characters, that tells us stories about functional aspects, ecology, diversity and evolution of alien visual senses. Currently we study several aspects of the functional eye/retina-morphology of selected teleost and mollusc species. An important methodological approach is the 3D reconstruction of neural networks (in essential parts) based on BFSEM data.

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Functional morphology of hearing structures in teleosts

The hearing ability of fish is primarily based on the perception of sound-induced vibrations of the sagitta (otolith) and corresponding deflections of sensory cilia in the macula sacculi. In addition to the direct excitation of these structures, some fish groups have developed a mechanism that transmits sound-induced swim bladder vibrations (e.g., via Weberian ossicles) to the sagitta, thus extending their audible frequency range to higher frequencies. In collaboration with Dr. Tanja Schulz-Mirbach and researchers at the Paul Scherrer Institute in Switzerland, we are investigating the involved 3D structures and their 4D movement patterns in situ (i.e., natively and within the intact fish head) in representatives of the Cypriniformes and Siluriformes using high-speed synchrotron tomography, retrospective gating, and temporally resolved surface rendering.

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Functional morphology and evolution of gastropods

A major project of our research group, led by Prof. Dr. Gerhard Haszprunar until 2022, was the 3D reconstruction of numerous small and micro mollusks (with a focus on gastropods). A key objective was to expand the morphological character matrix beyond often simple shell structures in order to correctly classify the animals systematically and to better understand their evolutionary processes. Furthermore, the project investigated adaptations to dwarfism, interstitial lifestyles, and various aspects of reproduction and excretion.

Dr. Timea Neusser is now continuing this malacological research in our workgroup, primarily using biogeographical and genetic methods.

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Contributions to biodiversity research

Zoological diversity is the legacy of adaptive radiations and thus a visible expression of the fascinating evolutionary processes on this planet. As morphologists and marine biologists, we aim to contribute to the visualization, understanding, and appreciation of animal biodiversity. In addition to group-specific studies (e.g., pycnogonids, tree hoppers, decapods), a systematically more diverse and temporally broader study is being conducted in collaboration with Prof. Dr. Roland Melzer in the Brijuni Marine Protected Area and adjacent marine areas.

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Cooperation projects (3D microscopy)

We are always happy to receive inquiries from those interested in 3D microscopy and 3D reconstruction for joint projects. So far, we have collaborated with scientists from the fields of sperm research, neurobiology, biomedicine, botany/mycology, and protistology.

Teaching