Research themes
Primarily directed towards answering a basic, but still poorly understood riddle: how do new species arise? His group focuses on evolution and ecology of butterflies and moths (Lepidoptera), particularly near the species boundary. The Lepidoptera form 15-20% of the world's described species, yet are poorly known genetically.
(1) Hybridization and evolution in Heliconius butterflies
(2) Taxonomy, mimicry and biogeography in the Ithomiinae
Although his primary interests are in genetic and systematic studies of populations, geographic forms, and speciation, many of his results have obvious implications for conservation of endangered taxa. He remains committed to and interested in topics such as insecticide resistance, safety concerns about the release of genetically modified organisms (GMOs), and in the biodiversity and conservation applications of his work.
URL: http://www.ucl.ac.uk/taxome/jim/
Primarily directed towards answering a basic, but still poorly understood riddle: how do new species arise? His group focuses on evolution and ecology of butterflies and moths (Lepidoptera), particularly near the species boundary. The Lepidoptera form 15-20% of the world's described species, yet are poorly known genetically.
(1) Hybridization and evolution in Heliconius butterflies
(2) Taxonomy, mimicry and biogeography in the Ithomiinae
Although his primary interests are in genetic and systematic studies of populations, geographic forms, and speciation, many of his results have obvious implications for conservation of endangered taxa. He remains committed to and interested in topics such as insecticide resistance, safety concerns about the release of genetically modified organisms (GMOs), and in the biodiversity and conservation applications of his work.
URL: http://www.ucl.ac.uk/taxome/jim/
