Project description
Arthropods possess some of the most diverse and specialised body plans in the animal kingdom, yet much of their internal anatomy remains poorly documented due to the challenges of studying structures enclosed within rigid exoskeletons. Advances in micro-computed tomography (micro-CT) now allow researchers to visualise and reconstruct internal anatomy in extraordinary three-dimensional detail without destroying specimens. This project will generate a high-resolution 3D anatomical atlas of given arthropod species using micro-CT imaging, with a particular focus on musculature and its relationship to exoskeletal structure and function. The student (Masters) will digitally reconstruct muscle systems, appendage mechanics, and, where possible, internal organs across a range of arthropod groups, integrating these data with questions of biomechanics and evolutionary adaptation. Outcomes will provide valuable anatomical resources for comparative biology, improve understanding of arthropod functional morphology, and generate new insights into how internal systems evolved alongside the extraordinary diversity of arthropod body plans.
Note: You need to register interest in projects from different supervisors (not a number of projects with the one supervisor).
You must also contact each supervisor directly to discuss both the project details and your suitability to undertake the project.