Projects
Spatial and environmental determinants of eco-evolutionary dynamics: anthropogenic environments as a model (SPEEDY). University of Antwerp
Implementing a multi-species approach in eco-evolutionary dynamics: zooplankton as a model system. KU Leuven
Evolutionary and ecological processes can occur at the same temporal and spatial scales and can therefore interact. A growing number of excellent studies have provided increasing evidence for the importance of such eco-evolutionary dynamics. Most of these studies focus on the eco-evolutionary implications of evolution in single species. In nature, however, communities consist of multiple species that might all evolve simultaneously. It is ...
SPatial and environmental determinants of Eco-Evolutionary DYnamics: anthropogenic environments as a model (SPEEDY) Ghent University
Spatial variation plays a key role in eco-evolutionary responses to environmental change. The way in which local populations, communities and ecosystems react to environmental change may critically depend on the interaction between local and regional responses. We here conduct an integrated study of eco-evolutionary dynamics along strong gradients in anthropogenic disturbance, covering replicates of habitats along (semi)natural-rural-urban ...
Parallel evolution and eco-evolutionary dynamics in city ponds – from evolution to nature-based solutions in coupled human-natural systems KU Leuven
There has been an upsurge in studies on adaptive evolution in cities over the past five years because of its high relevance in the context of population resilience and persistence, and the need to improve biodiversity conservation across anthropogenic landscapes. This proposal builds on the exceptionally well-documented multi-trait urban evolution in water fleas (Daphnia) in Flanders. I aim to address a number of key knowledge gaps in the ...
Eco-Evolutionary dynamics in the community assembly of Daphnia gut microbiome KU Leuven
The gut microbiome exerts a profound effect on the development, physiology and behaviour of its host and plays an important role in the rapid adaptation of host individuals to changing environmental conditions. While much research has been done in recent years in evaluating the mechanisms driving community assembly in gut microbiomes, there is a very limited understanding of the underlying eco-evolutionary processes involved in shaping the ...