Phylogenetics, biogeography, and evolution of fishes

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The central focus of my research program is to investigate evolutionary patterns and processes of biodiversity in fishes. I use phylogenetic trees as invaluable tools for understanding taxonomy and species diversity, the effects of geography and paleogeography on lineage diversity, macroevolutionary consequences of shifts between habitat types, and adaptive evolutionary change in novel anatomical systems. In the work proposed here, my research group will infer phylogenetic relationships for two groups of fishes: the drum (Sciaenidae) and the Neotropical electric knifefishes (Gymnotiformes). Phylogenetic trees for these groups will form a basis for understanding the evolution of aquatic habitat transitions, and the evolution of electricity as a sensory modality.