Gregor Christa

Professor Gregor Christa is a faculty member in the Department of Chemistry & Biology at the Faculty of Mathematics and Natural Sciences, University of Wuppertal, where he leads the AG Christa research group focused on marine symbiosis evolution.

His work centers on two unique nudibranch systems:

• Sacoglossa: These sea slugs perform functional kleptoplasty by incorporating chloroplasts from Ulvophyceae algae into their cells, enabling photosynthesis.
• Nudibranchia: These obtain symbiotic algae either from the water column (e.g., Melibe) or by feeding on corals.

Current research encompasses the evolution and biodiversity of kleptoplasty, Sacoglossa population genetics, Ulvophyceae photophysiology, and comparative genomics of both nudibranch groups.

His laboratory operates within the Department of Chemistry & Biology at the University of Wuppertal, utilizing marine biodiversity for evolutionary studies.