Prof. Lior David
Associate Professor
Academic Curator of the Fish Collection, NNHC HUJI
Animal Sciences, Room: 002
Genetics and evolution of complex traits in fish and yeast.
Table of Contents
Prof. Lior David
Research Interests
My research interests are in genetics and evolution of complex traits in fish. I have broad interests in fish biology, addressing basic research questions and developing genetic solutions to challenges in aquaculture and fish conservation. My group is using a myriad of genetic methodologies, from genome-wide screens to specific gene studies. I study immunogenetics, host-pathogen interactions and mechanisms of fish disease resistance, focusing on common carp and related cyprinids. I also study, the genetics of colors in the ornamental carp, Koi. Carps provide us with great opportunities to use comparative genomics for studying the evolution of the above-mentioned complex traits following a whole genome duplication.
My group is interested also in the evolution of genetic sex-determination mechanisms in fish. We identify the genes determining the sex of progeny in various fish species from different families. For each family, we study sex determination is several related species to identify the features of ancestral or newly evolved sex-determination mechanisms.
I also study genetics of native fish populations. We want to understand factors driving changes in fish species assemblages in their natural habitats. We employ DNA barcoding for species identification and DNA markers for population genetics.
Finally, based on our research insights, we develop solutions to practical problems. For instance, we breed disease resistant carp strains to support sustainable aquaculture. We develop safe and efficient technologies for hatchery production of mono-sex or sterile fish progeny groups, to support improved and environmentally-safe fish production in aquaculture. We also develop genetic tools for monitoring changes in native fish populations to support their conservation.
Research Projects:
- Evolution of complex traits following genome duplication.
- Development of carp strains genetically resistant to viral infection of CyHV-3 and studying resistance mechanisms.
- Understanding how host disease resistance affects host-pathogen interactions.
- Genetics of colours in the Japanese ornamental carp (koi)
- Evolution of sex determination mechanisms in fish
- Development of genetic tools to produce mono-sex or sterile fish progenies.
- Genetic variation and biodiversity of fish species and populations.
- Development of tools to study and monitor native fish biodiversity.
