Research

Image-based monitoring of insects

We are developing a novel line of research around the use of cameras to observe species and species interactions in natural ecosystems. We focus on plants and insects and use detection and classification algorithms to process millions of images recorded at multiple sites. We use a combination of commercially available camera solutions and embedded systems with imaging processing capabilities for tracking individual insects through time. We are also advancing lab-based methods for specimen-based research primarily using the BIODISCOVER technology. We use these tools for a range of studies as described below.

Phenology

The timing of life history events is a key element of species responses to climate change. We study how phenology varies among different levels of biological organisation from trophic variation down to different populations of the same species of plant or between males and females. Most of this work is based on the long-term observations at Zackenberg in Northeast Greenland.

Body size

In efforts to maximise fitness one strategy is to grow as large as possible. We found that male and female wolf spiders of multiple species translate the resources provided by extended arctic growing seasons into larger adult body sizes. It appears, however, that males and females have slightly different growth priorities probably because early maturation is an advantage for males in several species as it may increase mating success.

Range shifts

Species distribution models are now routinely used to project range shifts under climate change. We are particularly interested in further understanding to what extent species actually track climate as it is undergoing directional change. There is now substantial evidence to suggest that species are not in equilibrium with current climate and past human activities, historical climate, and biotic interactions appear to contribute to the complexity.

Butterfly conservation

Butterfly species are particularly sensitive to environmental change and many species are suffering from land use and climate change. At the same time, efforts to restore habitats have proven successful given targeted efforts. We are interested in documenting change and supporting conservation actions. We are working on multiple species, but most of this work focuses on the Danish population of the Marsh fritillary (Euphydryas aurinia).