Past Projects

Analysis of a hyper‐diverse seed dispersal network: modularity and underlying mechanisms

Mutualistic interactions involving pollination and ant‐plant mutualistic networks typically feature tightly linked species grouped in modules. However, such modularity is infrequent in seed dispersal networks, presumably because research on those networks predominantly includes a single taxonomic animal group (e.g. birds).

For the first time, we examined the pattern of interaction in a network that includes multiple taxonomic groups of seed dispersers, and the mechanisms underlying modularity. We found that the network was nested and modular, with five distinguishable modules. Our examination of the mechanisms underlying such modularity showed that plant and animal trait values were associated with specific modules but phylogenetic effect was limited. Thus, the pattern of interaction in this network is only partially explained by shared evolutionary history. We conclude that the observed modularity emerged by a combination of phylogenetic history and trait convergence of phylogenetically unrelated species, shaped by interactions with particular types of dispersal agents.

Balthasar Dubs, Birds of Southwestern Brazil

(Catalogue and Guide to the Birds of the Pantanal of Mato Grosso and Its Border Areas)

One of the first bird guide books of the region was completed at Fazenda Barranco Alto -Balthasar Dubs, Birds of Southwestern Brazil, Catalogue and Guide to the Birds of the Pantanal of Mato Grosso and Its Border Areas

You can browse this and many other books in the library at the lodge.

analysis of evaporative lakes in nhecolandia, pantanal basin, brazil

Presentation on evaporation and the geology of the lakes.