Research Program
As an evolutionary biologist, my research interests fall within two broad areas:
(1) understanding species diversity through integrative taxonomy and collections-based research, with a focus on Amazonian freshwater fishes; and (2) the application of phylogenetic methods, population genomics, high-throughput sequencing, and comparative morphology to infer patterns and processes of diversification and biogeography.
Some of the projects and research activities that I am currently involved in are:
Research Description
1. Systematics, Taxonomy, and Evolution of Armored Catfishes (Hypostominae, Loricariidae)
The Amazon Basin harbors an extraordinary diversity of freshwater fishes, among which the family Loricariidae stands out for its remarkable species richness and striking morphological variation in form and coloration. Despite this diversity, many Brazilian lineages remain poorly studied from a taxonomic perspective, particularly when compared to taxa occurring outside the Amazonian domain.
My research focuses on the description and revision of neglected species using an integrative approach that combines morphological and molecular data. On the morphological side, I employ comparative anatomy, especially cranial morphology, using 3D imaging techniques such as high-resolution X-ray computed tomography (HRXCT) and digital reconstructions. On the molecular side, I apply phylogenetic and comparative genomic methods, including analyses based on ultraconserved elements (UCEs).
By integrating these approaches, my work aims to clarify species boundaries, infer phylogenetic relationships, and estimate divergence times, ultimately contributing to a better understanding of the evolutionary history of Amazonian armored catfishes.
Peckoltia sabaji
Suspensorium morphology comparasion among Hypancistrus species by Araújo et al. (2024)
Potamobatrachus trispinosus - VU IUCN
2. Population genomics of fish species impacted by damming in the Amazon rivers
This study aims to investigate the population structure of fish species threatened with extinction due to the loss of lotic habitats (rapids) due to the implementation of hydroelectric dams in rivers of the Amazon basin. By analyzing the genetic structure of these species, we hope to contribute to the understanding of the evolutionary processes that shaped fish diversity in the Amazon and to support conservation strategies.