Insect Responses to Climate Change in Antarctica and Ecosystem Consequences

Model reconstructions of the last glacial maximum (LGM ~20 000 years ago) in the Antarctic region suggest that all low-lying coastal areas were completely covered by ice - thus wiping out all terrestrial life. If true, this would mean the current biogeography of Antarctic insects is the result of different species colonising quite discrete locations since the LGM. This seems highly unlikely, not least because two of these species, Belgica antarctica (endemic to the Antarctic Peninsula region) and Eretmoptera murphyi (endemic to sub-Antarctic South Georgia) are flightless. Recent/post LGM colonisation is further debunked by RNA sequencing data, indicating 49 Myr separation between these two species [Allegrucci et al. 2012]. Thus, habitat refugia must have existed continuously since Antarctica split from the other Southern Hemisphere continents at least 28 MYA, and we hypothesize that endemic species possess unique adaptations to their respective environments.

Investigating the ecophysiology of these species, and the molecular processes underpinning their stress responses, offers incredibly powerful comparative models for probing their evolutionary biology and abilities to cope with climate change [Hayward, 2014; Kelly et al. 2014]. Using microclimate modelling we can also assess each species' capacity to extend their distribution into other parts of the Antarctic region [Pertierra et al. 2019]. Indeed, E. murphyi is already invasive within parts of the maritime Antarctic [Bartlett et al., 2019] and we have recently identified that this species is having a significant impact on soil nitrogen levels. In turn, this has potentially significant implications for the low-nutrient adapted plant and lichen communities, as well as the establishment potential of higher 'alien' plants.

This project will add a new dimension to an existing NSF-NERC grant (2020-2024) between UoB, BAS and USAP, as well as project partners in Chile and France. The project will investigate:

1. Adaptations that have allowed Antarctic insects to persist in this extreme environment for millions of years.
2. The implications of climate change on their future survival and distribution
3. Broader ecosystem consequences of invasive insect species within the Antarctic region, specifically on soil biogeochemistry.
Proposed timeline:

Year 1: Undertake preliminary ecophysiology and molecular biology training and initial assessments with pre-collected samples. Possible research visit to project partner lab in USA, Chile or France (travel restrictions permitting).
Initiate engagement with policy and industry project stakeholders, e.g., Scientific Committee on Antarctic Research (SCAR), International Association of Antarctic Tour Operators (IAATO).
First UK Conference end of Yr 1
Preparation of manuscripts for publication.

Year 2: Anticipated Antarctic field season - collection of fresh samples for return to UK, as well as field-based ecology, physiology and biogeochemistry experiments. Funding is subject to current BAS/NERC procedure of application for 'Collaborative Gearing Scheme' to cover Antarctic travel and field clothing costs).
Ongoing analysis of data and preparation/submission of manuscripts.
Organise public understanding of science event based around project.

Year 3: Continued comparative studies with Antarctic and sub-Antarctic species and soil samples in collaboration with project partners.
International conference and ongoing submission of manuscripts, as well as impact activities/stakeholder engagement.