Associates projects
Christian Beisser & Patrick Lemell
Research of our working group deals with the evolution of complex integrated systems in vertebrates. By combining a variety of experimental approaches and techniques (e.g. high speed cinematography, µCT analyses, muscle physiology, histology,...) in a comparative framework, we try to gain insights into the evolution of such systems. As model system, we have chosen the feeding system in all kinds of vertebrates. We are especially interested in aquatic feeding modes, since this represents the origin of all feeding systems. Main groups that are investigated are secondary aquatic feeders, which reversed from typical (terrestrial) tetrapod life style. So, how does a feeding system that is adjusted for terrestrial demands readapt to efficiently work in water?
