Much the world’s current biodiversity is relatively young, formed to a large extent by recently developed ecological settings (Seehausen et al. 2008). Consequently, the balance between reproductive isolation and gene flow, mainly regulated by local environmental conditions, is subject to change with serious implications for species integrity. This is especially concerning considering increases inhuman-induced ecological changes at local, regional and global scales.
Beyond precipitating extirpation/extinction, anthropogenic activities can have more subtle impacts on biodiversity. If ecological conditions keeping species and population together become more heterogenous, ecological diversification and speciation can occur (sometimes very quickly). Conversely, and much more alarmingly, when ecological conditions keeping species apart become more homogenous, reverse speciation can ensue.
In this research group, we focuses on better understanding and characterising the ecological factors (natural or anthropogenic) leading to speciation, or potentially its reversal. To this end, we apply and explore various techniques (mostly genetic/genomic) to clarify the status and evolutionary potential of various species, in efforts to better inform their management and ultimately their conservation.
Beyond precipitating extirpation/extinction, anthropogenic activities can have more subtle impacts on biodiversity. If ecological conditions keeping species and population together become more heterogenous, ecological diversification and speciation can occur (sometimes very quickly). Conversely, and much more alarmingly, when ecological conditions keeping species apart become more homogenous, reverse speciation can ensue.
In this research group, we focuses on better understanding and characterising the ecological factors (natural or anthropogenic) leading to speciation, or potentially its reversal. To this end, we apply and explore various techniques (mostly genetic/genomic) to clarify the status and evolutionary potential of various species, in efforts to better inform their management and ultimately their conservation.
Natural Resource Sciences
Faculty of Agriculture and Environmental Sciences
Faculty of Agriculture and Environmental Sciences