Research Interests

Systematics of Ctenophore; redescription of nuda and cydippida

During a time of high biodiversity loss, a complete species census and understanding of each species’ biogeographical range are a top priority. Although this knowledge has increased immensely for many groups of organisms, there are many for which our knowledge is very limited. Ctenophores are such a group. Due to a lack of reliable literature, poor preservation/sampling methods, and the existence of considerable undescribed diversity, progress in understanding the systematics of Ctenophora has been stifled. Among the different taxa classified within Ctenophora, the polyphyletic class Cydippida and pre-Lineaus class Nuda are the least understood due to their varying morphology. By utilizing global invertebrate collections and collaborating with several international scientists, this project will generate a reliable series of species descriptions that will aid future studies and allow further research to determine Cydippida and Nuda’s diversity and distribution accurately. This project aims to produce a reliable series of research-grade illustrations for each of the known species of Cydippida and Nuda, highly detailed written descriptions for each species, and a collection of genetic material.