We are interested in the factors that have lead to the evolution of soldier behaviour, and have used a range of techniques from molecular ecology to experimental manipulations in the field. I am also interested in the fauna of epiphytic ferns in the high canopy of SE Asian rainforest. We are trying to establish the importance of these ferns as hotspots of biodiversity in the canopy. Ant tending influences soldier production in a social aphid. Orientation in the intertidal saltmash collembolan Anurida maritima.
Soldiers effectively defend aphid colonies against predators in the field.
Ecological constraints on independent nesting in facultatively eusocial hover wasps. The evolution of soldiers in aphids.