Dr.

Biography

Our research focuses on the often-overlooked larval phase of various arthropod groups, particularly those with highly differentiated larval stages such as many crustaceans and insects. These larvae play significant roles in ecosystems, not least due to the biomass they represent. We investigate the diversity of morphology in these larval stages using modern imaging techniques such as super macro photography, microscopy, and micro-computed tomography (µCT scanning), combined with various contrast methods. The observed morphologies are placed within an evolutionary phylogenetic context, and the breadth of their variations is quantitatively assessed. In addition to modern animals, we examine exceptionally preserved fossil larvae, allowing us to track changes in the morphology of these developmental stages over geological timescales. Ultimately, this approach enables us to quantitatively capture the morphological diversity of ecologically significant groups over time, providing valuable foundations for more ecology-oriented fields such as biodiversity research and conservation biology.

Research Interests