Scientific Projects
Phylogenomics of the WIO Snake-Eyed Skinks (Cryptoblepharus)
We use whole genome data to assess the radiation pattern of Cryptoblepharus to the Islands of the Western Indian Ocean (WIO) and understand species emergence and delimitation within this recent clade by applying a wide range of methods. This ought to provide further details on their taxonomy and evolutionary history, as urgently needed in this obscure complex.
In cooperation with Prof. Dr. Jochen Wolf, Dr. Oliver Hawlitschek, and Dr. Mozes Blom.
The Dietary Spectrum of Agama picticauda Across its Invasion Front
Using metabarcoding techniques on gut samples, I uncover the dietary spectrum of Agama picticauda across its invasion front in Florida, Grande Comore, and Réunion. This data has long remained the missing piece to evaluate the impacts of these novel, urban predators on native ecosystems. In cooperation with Kathleen C. Webster and Prof. Dr. Alexander Keller.
Systematic Catalogisation of Comoran Arachnofauna
The arachnofauna of the Comoro Islands situated between Madagascar and Africa has yet to be systematically documented. The volcanic origin of these Islands promise many species that are still unknown to science. I am employing opportunistic sampling attempting to expose previously undocumented species.
Pangea Conservatory
As many species introduced to cultivation fade due to fluctuations in popularity, lack of cultivators, or inability to further propagate them, I made it my mission to conserve and preserve reptiles and spiders in ex-situ cultivation. This does not only benefit the cultivators, but also decreases pressure on wild populations due to availability of ethically bred specimens.
