Insect diversity at multiple scales: from genes to communities

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Few single biodiversity programs span genes, species and communities, yet the three are linked: genetic diversity is the raw material for speciation; species are the currency for comparison of habitats and sites; and communities are strongly influenced by species interactions. By assessing diversity at all three scales, we move toward a greater understanding of mechanisms and resulting patterns of diversity. I explore insect diversity at genetic, species and ecological scales. My study taxon is the flies (Diptera), Canada's most diverse order of insects. My short-term objective is to document patterns of diversity at all three levels at multiple spatial scales, especially in the arctic where flies dominate. My long-term objective is to build a phylogenetic and ecological framework to address questions on the diversity and dominance of flies. We explore three themes: