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Marine Molecular Ecology & Evolution Lab (MMEE)

Simon F.S. Li Marine Science Laboratory | CUHK

About us

We are broadly interested in:
exploring the fields of ecology, evolution and systematics concerning marine invertebrates, with a particular focus on decapod crustaceans.

Research

Copyright © 2024 - 2025MMEE Lab@CUHK​. 版權所有。

Simon F.S. Li Marine Science Laboratory
The Chinese University of Hong Kong 
Hong Kong SAR

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Phylogeny and evolution of Decapoda Crustacea

We have worked on the phylogeny and evolution of decapods for almost 20 years. Our goal is to create a fully dated genus-level molecular phylogeny to investigate how trait evolution drives speciation and to clarify the drivers of diversification in marine environments and improve classification for decapods.

Omics study on the ecology and adaptation of marine invertebrates

We are interested in the mechanisms driving speciation and adaptations in the herbivorous Sesarmidae crabs. Our phylogenetic analyses indicate that their herbivorous lifestyle and ability to degrade lignocellulose play significant roles in their speciation and ecosystem functioning.

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Marine biodiversity

Apart from crustaceans, we are also interested in other marine invertebrates, including octocorals and their associated species, sea slugs, horse crabs, and sea urchins. We surveyed their abundance and distribution in Hong Kong to contribute to long-term monitoring programs and conservation policy decisions.

Freshwater ecology

We are interested in how artificial catchwaters impact on freshwater ecosystems, such as the genetic connectivity and diversity of targeted freshwater species. We examined the effects of water catchment on the community structure and ecosystem functioning of obstructed streams.

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