We are interested in evolutionary ecology – to learn how ecological factors shape evolutionary trajectories and how evolutionary adaptations and constraints modify species ecology. We combine fieldwork with controlled experiments in captivity using behavioural, genetic, histological and physiological approaches.
Using freshwater fish as our study models, we investigate:
1. The role of invasive species in rapid evolution
2. Assembly and integration in Anthropocene fish communities
3. Coevolution in brood parasites
4. Reciprocal host-parasite coevolution
5. Evolution of ageing and its life history consequences
6. Sexual selection, mating system evolution, and their role in diversification
7. Mechanisms of (fish) embryo adaptations to extreme environments
Our primary study organisms are bitterling fishes (Acheilognathinae), cuckoo catfish (Synodontis multipunctatus) and African annual fishes (genus Nothobranchius).