Island Biology Interest Group

I received a Ph.D. in Evolutionary Biology from the University of Lisbon in 2008 and I am currently working in the Island Biodiversity, Biogeography and Conservation research group (IBBC) of cE3c. My research focuses on the study of the phylogeography of phytophagous insects (genus Cixius). I am also interested in the ecological mechanisms shaping species diversity in insular habitats.

I have been involved in the study of experimental evolution in Drosophila species, particularly the ecological and evolutionary mechanisms that constrain outcrossing between closely related species. I have also studied thermal adaptation in closely related Drosophila species. Further, I collaborated in the study of insect-plant interactions and the role of ants as seed dispersers. I have also participated in biodiversity surveys in both Madeira and Azores archipelagos. 

My current research is driven by the following objectives: 1) understand the diversification of the genus Cixius in Macaronesia 2) study the patterns and drivers of biodiversity patterns of insects in insular habitats.