Featured Project

Evolution and Diversification of Crayfishes 

 In the past, the evolutionary relationships among crayfish species were not well understood, which made it difficult to apply modern comparative methods to study this group. However, recent advances have led to the reconstruction of several crayfish family trees, opening the door for more detailed comparative research. We use our understanding of the evolutionary relationships of crayfishes explore patterns of biodiversity among species, particularly focusing species that differ in their habitat.

Related Publications: 
- Evolutionary timelines help explain the evolution of parental care strategies 
- Habitat alters biogeographical and evolutionary patterns of body size in freshwater crayfishes [pdf]

Featured
​Project

The Evolution of Crayfish Color 

Animal coloration has long been a central topic in evolutionary biology. Many crayfishes, especially species that reside underground possess bright, conspicuous colors. Our research explores both why and how these crayfish are so colorful. 

We have shown that bright colors have evolved over 50 times independently throughout crayfishes and are trying to understand the potential function (or lack-thereof) of these colors. 
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Related Publications: 
- Correlated evolution of conspicuous colouration and burrowing in crayfish [pdf]
- Prevalence and potential evolutionary significance of color variants in freshwater crayfishes (Decapoda: Astacidea) [pdf]

Featured Project

Crayfish Claws as Sexually Selected Weapons

 []Competition to acquire a mate has led to some of the most exaggerated and perplexing animal traits, including narwhal tusks and the tail feathers of peacocks. However, our understanding of how these sexually selected structures evolve and diversify remains sparse. The conspicuous claws of crayfishes serve as both weapons during competition, and signals during communication, making them an ideal trait to investigate such questions. Specifically, we are interested in studying how crayfish claws have diversified in their size, shape, and pinching strength across species.

Related Publications: 
-Male crayfish (Faxonius obscurus, Decapoda: Cambaridae) claws are longer and stronger yet comparable in shape during the reproductive season [pdf]
-Claw morphology, claw strength, and fighting behavior in the New River crayfish Cambarus chasmodactylus James, 1966 (Decapoda: Astacoidea: Cambaridae) [pdf]