Evolutionary ecology and environmental conservation

Evolutionary theory unifies the biological disciplines by providing a common thread that explains both the unity and diversity of biological systems. Understanding the evolution of these systems requires an appreciation of the context in which evolution occurs. Ecology is that context.

Our lab focuses on the evolutionary ecology of individuals, populations, and species. Most of this work falls into two broad themes. First, we study the co-evolution between brood parasites and hosts. Brood parasites are species that lay their eggs in the nests of other species, thereby parasitising the parental efforts of the hosts. Our work focuses on the adaptations of brood parasites to their peculiar lifestyle and the defences of the hosts against parasites. We study koels (parasite) and crows (host) to investigate these questions using a combination of field observations and experiments.

A second theme is to investigate how an understanding of evolution and adaptation might help us better predict population-level patterns. Under this broad theme, we use mosquito larvae as a model system in which to understand inducible anti-predator strategies with the intent to better predict demographic outcomes in the presence and absence of predation. How do larvae detect predators, how do they respond, what are the costs and benefits of these responses; and how do the costs and benefits combine to affect population dynamics?

Continuing with this theme, we are beginning a series of studies of evolution, adaptation, and consequences for population dynamics in the context of environmental change. This work is based in the Himalayas, and will look at mechanisms (survival, reproduction) that influence how climate and habitat change affects phenology, demography, and geographic range of wild species. In addition, an ongoing project is examining the population genetics and evolutionary history of Lantana camara, an invasive plant that, after having been brought to India 200 years ago, has spread all over the country.

A final key interest is in public participation in ecological research. Our lab runs the Citizen Science Programme at NCBS, in which volunteers from across India are asked to contribute primary data addressing ecological questions. Our first Citizen Science project, MigrantWatch, tracks the timing of migration to and from India of roughly 300 species of long-distance migratory birds. A second project, SeasonWatch, recruits volunteers to monitor the timing of flowering, fruiting, and leaf-flush of about 100 species of trees.