Evolution of Life Histories in Marine Invertebrates

Marine invertebrates have a dizzying array of life histories that include diverse types of larvae, methods of reproduction (sexual and asexual), and modes of growth (solitary and colonial). Due to repeated evolution of similar life histories in different lineages, it is hypothesized that specific life histories have evolved due to selection for a particular fitness advantage. In previous and current research we aim to use particular species to test hypotheses for advantages of particular life histories in an effort to explain why they may have evolved.