conditions. One such peatland specialist is Coenonympha tullia (the Large Heath butterfly). This species has undergone a 58% decrease in its distribution since the 1970s due to habitat loss. Two key habitat factors predictors C. tullia population presence: the abundance and depth of Eriophorum vaginatum tussocks (Hare’s-tail Cotton-sedge), the caterpillar food source, and the number of Erica tetralix (Cross-leaved Heather) flowers, the main nectar source for adults. Other strong predictors of C. tullia populations are areas with high peat water content, low oxygen, and low nutrient levels, as such, C. tullia could act as a proxy for peatland health.
Project Overview
This study will use population genetics to examine diversity and gene flow of these peatland species, use drone imagery to map habitats, and combine genetic and landscape information to evaluate the impact of landscape on C. tullia and its resources across Scotland's peatlands aiming to informing conservation management strategies.
This PhD will combine field, laboratory, and desk research, offering training in ecology, bioinformatics, and geoinformatics, alongside stakeholder engagement skills. The University of Plymouth and The James Hutton Institute will provide academic supervision, and Butterfly Conservation who will provide key guidance and stakeholder engagement throughout the PhD.
This project presents an excellent opportunity for an enthusiastic recent graduate to undertake an exciting and timely conservation research project as well as develop advanced skills in genetic and landscape data analysis. For enquiries or questions please contact Victoria.Buswell@hutton.ac.uk or mairi.knight@plymouth.ac.uk.
Funding
This project is funded by the University of Plymouth’s NERC-funded Centre for Research Excellence in Intelligent and Sustainable Productive Systems (CRISPS), The James Hutton Institute Joint Studentship Awards, and Butterfly Conservation.
Requirements
This is a 3.5 year full-time PhD studentship and requires a 2.1 in a relevant BSc subject, UK citizenship and a full clean driving license.
