Ultradian, circadian and seasonal clocks in Nasonia

Objectives: To investigate the expression and allelic variation of clock genes that govern ultradian, circadian, and annual rhythmicity of physiological traits in Nasonia. Clock gene expression in the brain will be analysed at different timepoints throughout the year from natural isolates and annual changes in clock gene haplotype frequencies will be recorded in natural populations. CRISPR/Cas9 mutagenesis of clock genes will reveal their effects on circadian, annual (seasonal) and ultradian (courtship) phenotypes.