We investigate:

  • How novel adaptations originate

  • How evolutionary history and present-day selection shape adaptation

  • Role of predation and competition in adaptive evolution and community formation

  • When plasticity buffers or facilitates adaptive evolution and biological invasions

  • How morphology and physiology shape animal behaviour

  • Ways in which animals communicate, compete and choose mates

  • Origin and “function” of animal play

Agius guam
Draco wing
Study systems are selected based on the conceptual question being addressed.

These include:

  • Caribbean anole lizards
  • Southeast Asian gliding lizards
  • amphibious fish
  • ants
  • kangaroos
  • experimental rock islands

This takes us to the Caribbean, Malaysia, Philippines, remote Pacific and Indian Ocean islands, and outback NSW.