Most mosses rely on external water transport and absorption over the entire plant surface a condition known as ectohydry. Morphological structures (i.e., papillae) facilitate water uptake by capillary action; however, the way these water-related traits develop, function, and/or reflect adaptation to different environmental regimes is an area that remains poorly understood in mosses. This research aims to (1) understand the molecular mechanisms underlying leaf cellular development in relation to ectohydry and (2) identify cell types and their developmental trajectories critical to dehydration/hydration cycles in S. caninervis.
Funding: Katherine Esau Postdoctoral Fellowship
Leadership:
S. Brady
Labmembers:
Javier Jauregui-Lazo