Historical Biogeography & Distribution Modeling

Historical Biogeography and Distribution Modeling

Our research uses phylogenetic, ecological, and spatial modeling approaches to understand how historical processes and environmental factors have shaped the geographic distributions of birds. By integrating phylogenies with ecological niche models and biogeographic analyses, we investigate patterns of diversification, range evolution, and species limits across multiple avian groups.

Ecological niche divergence in the Dumetia atriceps species complex
In collaboration with Dr. Naraine Barve and Dr. Vijay Barve, we are exploring taxonomic limits within the Dumetia atriceps complex using ecological niche modeling. This project tests whether the four currently recognized subspecies occupy distinct ecological niches, which could indicate processes of ecological divergence and potential cryptic speciation within the group.

Historical biogeography of corvids
Working with Dr. Sumudu Fernando, we investigate the historical biogeography and distribution dynamics of the Corvidae (crows, ravens, and jays). Using phylogenetic frameworks and spatial analyses, this research aims to reconstruct how major dispersal events, geographic barriers, and environmental change have influenced the evolutionary history and global distribution of this diverse bird family.

Biogeography of African passerine radiations
In collaboration with Dr. Utku Perktaş and Dr. A. Townsend Peterson, we study the historical biogeography of predominantly African passerine groups, including weaverbirds (Ploceidae) and cisticolids (Cisticolidae). Using phylogeny-based biogeographic methods, we examine patterns of diversification, range evolution, and historical dispersal across the African continent.

Together, these projects aim to reveal how ecological conditions, historical climate change, and geographic barriers have shaped the diversification and distribution of birds across different regions of the world.