Research Projects in the UAntwerp database

Abstract

Restoring Ecosystems to Stop the Threat Of (Re-)Emerging Infectious Diseases: There is a growing body of evidence that landscape degradation is linked to zoonotic spillover risk. Large scale restoration is increasingly being touted as an effective solution for mitigating against a range of anthropogenic impacts and is also hypothesised to protect against zoonotic disease spillover. However, little is known about the mechanisms with which restoration may provide this protection. It is commonly assumed that restoration mirrors in reverse the processes that occur during degradation; however, it is likely that this relationship is in fact asymmetric. Rarely can restored landscapes be returned to a state similar to that of pristine ecosystems, and often restored landscapes need to fulfil a range of environmental and socioeconomic requirements that inherently prevent them from doing so. Additionally, the spatiotemporal scale necessary to effect positive change is context dependent, and the type of restoration necessary to protect against zoonotic spillover is currently unknown. Ecosystem restoration can vary widely in type, scale and context and can also change how humans interact with their environment, which may have unexpected consequences for zoonotic disease spillover. Given the complexity of these interactions and their effect on disease, it is vital that we understand how restoration specifically might impact wildlife disease and emergent spillover risk

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Leirs Herwig
• Co-promoter: Kirkpatrick Lucinda

Research team(s)

• Evolutionary ecology group (EVECO)

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

Biological invasions are a major threat to our ecosystems. At the same time, they might harbour answers to central questions in biology, because they mirror a process that is critical for the evolution of biodiversity – the colonisation of habitats with novel selective pressures. Under such conditions, evolution can be exceedingly fast if it can dispose of sufficient genetic variation to act upon. A process that is increasingly found to generate functional genetic variation and contribute to rapid adaptation in both invasive species and natural systems is hybridisation. In this project, we develop novel genomic methodology to uncover rapid evolution during the devastating invasion of Sulawesian biodiversity hotspots by human-made flowerhorn hybrid cichlids. Our recent fieldwork confirmed that flowerhorns have expanded rapidly in Sulawesian ancient lakes and have had a strong negative impact on population densities of an endemic fish adaptive radiation of hybrid origin. Taking advantage of an extraordinary collection of pre- and early-invasion samples of both invaders and endemics, we will apply innovative population genetic and machine learning approaches to both systems to (1) illuminate the role of hybrid ancestry in rapid evolution by assessing whether it provides a target for selection and how it contributes to ecologically relevant traits, and (2) uncover recent changes in the fragile balance between diversifying selection and hybridisation of endemic incipient species.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Svardal Hannes

Research team(s)

• Evolutionary ecology group (EVECO)

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

The Congo basin is a biodiversity hotspot for various plant and animal taxa, but also for infectious diseases. Several zoonotic infections naturally circulate in the region and frequently emerge from wildlife reservoirs. Many of these are transmitted via arthropod vectors such as ticks. Domestic animals like dogs can relatively easily transport ticks and their infections from natural to human-dominated habitats. Tick-borne infections that normally circulate among wildlife thus have an important ecological potential to emerge in human populations. To be able to mitigate the risk of emergence of tick-borne infections, we identify two major needs in Tshopo province, Democratic Republic of Congo: (1) increased capacity of carrying out laboratory tests for the (early) detection, identification and characterization of zoonotic infectious diseases, and (2) increased awareness of the risks posed to both humans and domestic animals themselves by ticks infesting domestic animals. In this Short Initiatives project, we propose to leverage the past and ongoing research on biodiversity, zoonoses and tick ecology at the Centre de Surveillance de la Biodiversité of the University of Kisangani to (1) include the laboratory skills and capacity to detect and characterize zoonotic and tick-borne infections locally, and (2) to increase awareness and the capacity to mitigate tick-borne infections in the local communities. Our actor of change will be Steve Ngoy, an expert in tick ecology, biosafety procedures and mammal sampling. He will undergo extensive training at UAntwerp and KU Leuven to conduct advanced molecular laboratory assays on ticks collected from domestic animals. Additionally, he will work alongside master students to raise awareness of tick-borne infections in local communities and educate them on safe tick removal techniques, while increasing his collection of ticks from domestic animals. The laboratory skills will next be propagated to other researchers at CSB-UNIKIS through a local laboratory training workshop. Taken together, we foresee that this project will significantly contribute to the epidemic and pandemic preparedness in Tshopo, DRC.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Gryseels Sophie

Research team(s)

• Evolutionary ecology group (EVECO)

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

The overall aim of this project is to contribute to building an open research ecosystem for long-term ecological studies. Specifically, the project will develop tools to connect the open-data platform for long-term population studies on birds "SPI-Birds" (https://spibirds.org/en) with other relevant spatial and temporal datasets containing information on land-use, vegetation and climate. Metadata and scripts will be added to the open platform, allowing researchers to test hypotheses on large-scale ecological linkages requiring a wide geographic coverage of data. As a pilot and demonstration study, the project will test hypotheses on the role of forest characteristics and land-use data (e.g. urbanization) in modulating the synchrony between bird phenology (timing of breeding) and climate variation. The project will link up with the new FAIRBIRDS project (ERA-net) dedicated to the development of open data and software platforms.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Matthysen Erik

Research team(s)

• Evolutionary ecology group (EVECO)

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

The main applicant, Biobest Group N.V., is worldwide leader in biological pollination and biological control in protected crops. An important pillar within Biobest is the free technical service that is offered when a grower buys products. A technical advisor of Biobest will visit the grower weekly or biweekly to discuss and optimize the IPM strategy. Due to the yearly growth of 15 to 20%, Biobest faces many challenges concerning recruitment, training and logistics. An accurate, reliable and trustworthy advice starts with a good monitoring of pests and beneficials in time and space. Unfortunately, monitoring comes with a cost, which is often a hurdle for many growers. Therefore, Biobest is searching the market for affordable alternatives and invested a lot of resources in new innovative technology. Crop-Scanner is Biobest's monitoring tool for data input. Flying insects can be caught with yellow sticky traps. For this purpose, Biobest developed the Crop-Scanner add-on Trap-Scanner, which is an algorithm that identifies six different pests and beneficials on smartphone pictures. Recently, this system was optimized in collaboration with the company PATS (The Netherlands) to a fully automatic system with a fixed camera (Trap-eye). March 2021 Biobest invested 7.5 million euro in the Canadian company Ecoation. This company offers a visual attractive dashboard where growers can enter real-time monitoring data and visualize heatmaps. The ultimate goal of Biobest is a self-learning prescriptive DSS that will 1) give automatic IPM advice, and 2) increase the efficacy of the released beneficials. The roadmap towards this goal started with detailed monitoring data (descriptive analytics) followed by a rule-based decision support system (DSS) (IF THEN ELSE model). This project will focus on the next step, the predictive analytics. In short, this step describes population models that 1) predict whether a pest is under control or not based on the number of beneficials on the plants, or/and 2) predict population densities of predator and prey in the near future. Simple one on one predator-prey models were already developed in the LA-Traject PeMaTo (nr: 140948) (Moerkens et al., 2021, Brenard, 2020). Mathematical models based on differential equations are the standard in population ecology (Gause et al., 1936). However, the scientific novelty lies in the complex ecological dynamics that occur once multiple pests and predators are present. The added value of artificial intelligence within the field of population ecology will be investigated.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Leirs Herwig

Research team(s)

• Evolutionary ecology group (EVECO)

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

Arthropod borne viruses (arboviruses) rely on hematophagous arthropods as a vector for the transmission to a vertebrate host, either an animal or human. During enzootic transmission periods, arboviruses survive in sylvatic cycles using a variety of vertebrate species of which many are currently not identified. This project aims to gain more insight in the ecology and life cycle of these viruses and their vertebrate hosts. I will focus the research on the African continent, since several zoonotic viruses originated in West-, Central- and East Africa. I will mainly target small animal wildlife, such as rodents and bats, with the intention to determine their contribution to the persistence and spread of arboviruses. I hypothesize that these small, but high density and turnover rate, species are an important reservoir that supports sylvatic cycles during epizootic periods. These species often live in proximity to humans, creating spillover opportunities. To examine the hypotheses, I will screen wildlife samples across Africa and perform genetic analyses on the arboviral RNA. Additionally, host species, distribution ranges, phylogeographical relations and transmission models will be determined and created. The results will contribute to a better understanding of arbovirus occurrence and spread in wildlife, leading to an improved prediction, prevention, and control of arbovirus epidemics in wildlife and to a certain extent in humans.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Gryseels Sophie
• Fellow: De Kesel Wim

Research team(s)

• Evolutionary ecology group (EVECO)

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

The central objective of INVABIO is to strengthen biodiversity policies by tackling the implementation gap resulting from the complexity of assessing case-specific biodiversity impacts in permitting and sanctioning decisions. INVABIO will develop a novel value assessment framework that focusses on individual specimens or habitats to qualitatively and quantitatively assess impact gravity. Hence, we merge ecological, legal and economic perspectives into a unified interdisciplinary INVABIO framework aimed at increasing the effective implementation of biodiversity conservation law. As a secondary objective, INVABIO will address the lack of detailed information on value assessment practices in permitting and sanctioning decisions by a coordinated data collection effort for Flanders and create a unique picture of the practical implementation of EU biodiversity legislation. We will evaluate and compare legally allowed (permitted) and illegal (sanctioned) actions in terms of their true biodiversity impacts. To that end, four datasets will be collected, processed and analysed by all partners of the project. These can be divided into two types of which the first pertains to document analysis of: 1. Environmental permits 2. Administrative penalty decisions 3. Criminal sanction decisions and the second type (4th dataset) concerns a survey of officials and practitioners with anonymised data. So this survey will not collect any personal data or sensitive information from the participants. Participants will be contacted in different ways: via calls in newsletters or through professional organisations, via direct emails, via calls on the project website and via snowballing. We will not have a complete list of all email addresses that will receive the call. We do not keep track of IP addresses. We only request information on gender, age group, nationality and occupation. So we cannot identify participants. Combining the INVABIO framework with the current assessment strategies will allow us to identify the dominant perspectives used, comment on the scientific validity of these strategies and formulate promising avenues for improvement. INVABIO allows to identify priority areas for a better execution of biodiversity policies and to develop strategic guidelines for policymakers. Throughout we will be attentive to the applicability of research outcomes to other EU countries. As to dissemination and valorization, INVABIO will construct a web platform which will bring together the different insights and outcomes. The INVABIO web platform will act as a decision support tool for regulatory authorities involved in implementing biodiversity-related legislation by providing access to a unique dataset. Moreover, and based on the INVABIO framework, an interactive tool will allow users to retrieve specific and science-based guidelines for assessing the gravity of biodiversity impacts.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Matthysen Erik

Research team(s)

• Evolutionary ecology group (EVECO)

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

Adaptive radiations are showcases of evolutionary processes, characterised by rapid diversification of an ancestral lineage into an array of closely related species. We still don't understand how speciation, normally a slow process, can occur in such rapid bursts. Recent genome-wide molecular studies suggest that rapid diversification might be fueled by cross-species hybridisation. In this project, I will obtain an integrative picture of the effects of hybridisation on the creation and maintenance of diversity in an adaptive radiation. The sailfin silverside fishes in Lake Matano, Sulawesi, are a rare case of adaptive radiation showing indications of both historical and ongoing hybridisation with an ancestral riverine lineage. This makes sailfin silversides uniquely suited to investigate the interplay of hybridisation and speciation in situ. I will perform the first genome-wide characterisation of the sailfin silverside radiation. Using whole-genome sequencing and innovative statistical approaches, I will resolve evolutionary relationships within the radiation, address the role of historical and ongoing hybridisation during diversification, and identify links between genetic exchange and ecological divergence. By establishing a thorough genomic context for all species of the radiation I advance the silverside radiation as a new model system in evolutionary biology and drive the development of statistical approaches that will be beneficial for future evolutionary research.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Svardal Hannes
• Fellow: De Keyzer Els

Research team(s)

• Evolutionary ecology group (EVECO)

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

Epidemics and pandemics- most of them caused by zoonotic and vector-borne emerging diseases- are globally threatening our health and welfare at an alarming pace. Prevention of future disease outbreaks will be pivotal to secure human welfare and demands transformative change. "Biodiversity-is-good-for-our-health" has become a new paradigm in disease risk mitigation. Consequently, nature restoration targeting biodiversity recovery - isolated or in combination with public health interventions - has been identified as a major disease risk mitigation tool. While there are thousands of ongoing and planned nature restoration projects globally, we lack knowledge a) if such restorations indeed interrupt the infect-shed-spill-spread cascade and mitigate disease risk, b) or if they rather amplify the risk and c) on success factors characterizing restorations that mitigate disease risk. BEPREP will fill this lack in knowledge and provide practical guidance. In spatially and temporally replicated field studies and experiments in case studies in Europe and the tropics, we will study a)-c) and reveal the causal mechanisms of infection dynamics and of drivers along the infect-shed-spill-spread cascade. BEPREP's participatory and transsectorial approach by actively involving indigenous and local communities will enable the identification of success factors of best practice restorations and interventions, incl. nature-based solutions, to guide future biodiversity recovery measures that promote healthy ecosystems. These success factors will contribute to a) interrupt the infect-shed-spill-spread cascade and b) ultimately prevent disease outbreaks. The results of BEPREP help to create a European society prepared and responsive to disease risk. BEPREP will hence accelerate the ecological transition required to meet EU's Biodiversity Strategy for 2030 as a core part of EU's Green Deal and support a green recovery following the COVID-19 pandemic

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Leirs Herwig
• Co-promoter: Kirkpatrick Lucinda

Research team(s)

• Evolutionary ecology group (EVECO)

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

The aim of the project is to develop a fully operational and robust data collection workflow for the long-term monitoring of the import of exotic animals and wild meat into Belgium and of the associated health risks. We aim to increase the knowledge of the scale and diversityof the (illegal) trade in exotic animals and wild meat, and of its associated pathogens. We propose to establish a centralized database of the incoming exotic animals and derived products imported into Belgium; to enable the sharing of this database among the different federal public services, agencies and other stakeholders; to set up optimized in-field protocols for data gathering and biological sampling; and to set up workflows for laboratory pathogen testing and species identification. In this way, an efficient and durable work programme for monitoring the import of legal and illegal exotic animals and animal products will be established. Such a strategy will enable future evaluations the impact of implemented measures concerning border controls and sensitization, and to have an evidence-based assessment of the riskof emerging infectious diseases through this trade. For this multidisciplinary project we partner with experts from various scientific institutions: Royal Belgian Institute of Natural Sciences and Royal Museum for Central Africa (animal taxonomy and diversity), Sciensano (zoonotic pathogens), Biology Department - University of Antwerp (disease ecology and tissue databases). We will be further advised bythe Belgian Biodiversity Platform (biological databases) and Belnet (federal database IT). Furthermore, we will invite experts from theconservation agencies Wildlife Conservation Society, WWF, and Traffic to be part of the Follow-up committee. Naturally, the relevant federalpublic services and agencies (customs, FASFC, FPS Health,...) will be closely involved in all discussions.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Leirs Herwig

Research team(s)

• Evolutionary ecology group (EVECO)

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

The adaptive radiation of amphipods in Lake Baikal has brought forward more than 340 species (20% of the world's freshwater amphipods), making it one of the largest species flocks after the famous African cichlid radiations, and one of the only large radiations in temperate climates. Despite this iconic status the radiation has not yet been subject to detailed genomic investigation. During my PhD I was able to demonstrate excessive amounts of parallel adaptation among the transcriptomes of species of this adaptive radiation. In this project, I will use genomic approaches to test whether the previous results could be explained by hybridisation and adaptive introgression. These processes have been shown to occur in other adaptive radiations, but their functional role in rapid diversification is still debated. My preliminary resultsindicate that hybridization between two independent lineages of Baikalian amphipods emerged in the period when fast speciation started. Furthermore, I found intriguing signals of positive selection on introgressed loci. Additional data and specific methodology developed in this project will enable me to disentangle the processes governing speciation in this group. Profiting from strong relevant experience of the host laboratory I will re-analyze available transcriptomic datasets together with newly sequenced genomes. I will map precise directions of hybridization at the phylogenetic tree, describe functional associations of introgressed loci, test selection signatures associated with introgression, and estimate the extent to which repeatable ecomorphological traits are underpinned by "reusable" elements of ancestral genomes. This research has groundbreaking potential in providing a direct test of a potential catalysing role of hybridization in fast speciation in this system

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Svardal Hannes
• Fellow: Burskaia Valentina

Research team(s)

• Evolutionary ecology group (EVECO)

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

In this project, we empower local scientists to protect the unique biodiversity of the Malili Lake System, Sulawesi, through collaboration and training in innovative genomic methods to assess endemic biodiversity and its threats. We build partnerships to assess local biodiversity (species identification, delineation, distribution, abundance) and understand the ecological impact of invasive alien species. To ensure that our partner institute is on board with novel developments in genomics research and sequencing technology, we equip their lab for genome sequencing and provide in depth training through collaboration, internships, and workshops. We build a multi stakeholder partnership between involved research institutes, NGOs, local communities and local policy makers. The knowledge created in this project is made available to local communities through development and dissemination of educational materials. By increasing environmental literacy, we increase the personal and emotional involvement of local actors in nature and environment, empowering local actors to become agents of change.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Svardal Hannes

Research team(s)

• Evolutionary ecology group (EVECO)

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

Biodiversity loss in hotspots of biodiversity is, among other socio-ecological factors, key to understand, prevent and react to future pandemics. However, despite this knowledge, the current COVID-19 crisis highlights the limitations of the implementation of One Health approaches. A main limitation is the lack of context-adapted solutions that stakeholders could easily implement on the field. To overcome this, BCOMING will build on past international projects to co-construct innovations with all stakeholders of biodiversity hotspots to reduce the risk of infectious disease emergence through biodiversity conservation and disease surveillance strategies. The activities of the project will be implemented in Europe and three tropical biodiversity hotspots in Southeast Asia, West Africa and the Caribbean and will have the following expected impacts: - BCOMING will lead to a better understanding of the mechanisms underlying the impact of biodiversity on the risk of infectious disease emergence - Participatory tools developed will facilitate the design of context-adapted biodiversity conservation and restoration strategies that reduce zoonotic risk - The surveillance strategies and pathogen detection tools developed will improve the capacities to detect emergences and stop future epidemics before they can turn into pandemics The consortium constitutes a strong multi-actor group of partners with a history of successful cooperation including academics from biomedical, environmental and social sciences, private companies, NGOs, local and international stakeholders who bring together the wide range of disciplines and expertise required to reach all the expected outcomes of the call. The embedment of BCOMING in the Prezode initiative will help to scale up the project innovations and disseminate cutting-edge socio-economic environmental strategies.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Leirs Herwig
• Co-promoter: Sluydts Vincent

Research team(s)

• Evolutionary ecology group (EVECO)

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

In recent years there has been growing attention for scientific research on zoonotic and wildlife-borne pathogens, further accelerated by the current pandemic of the zoonotic virus SARS-CoV-2. Owing to a continuing series of successful third-party research grants, our Evolutionary Ecology research group has significantly expanded its research on zoonotic and wildlife pathogens, with a growing group of PhD students, postdocs and even ZAP working on these topics. At the same time, there are increasing expectations for biosafety measurements when processing tissue samples of wild animals, which should be processed under at least biosafety level 2. For these reasons, we currently lack sufficient infrastructure to process samples of our extensive and growing mammal specimen collection simultaneously for the various ongoing projects and under the required biosafety conditions; significantly hindering progress on our wildlife-pathogen research. We therefore request a bundle of equipment that together will increase the safety of our work procedures and significantly augment the throughput of wildlife samples we can process for detection and characterization of pathogens. The requested bundle is meant to expand our currently available infrastructure, and contains equipment to further outfit a newly renovated lab room dedicated for processing potentially infectious and/or contamination-prone samples (a biosafety cabinet, refrigerated centrifuge, thermoshaker), for storing newly collected samples and RNA extracts (an -80°C ultrafreezer), and to perform pathogen whole genome sequencing (a PCR cabinet, a Nanodrop). The resulting state-of-the art lab facilities will allow for successful continuation of the current 10+ infectious disease projects and will leverage the expanding Evolutionary Ecology group's leading expertise in zoonotic and wildlife pathogen research.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Gryseels Sophie

Research team(s)

• Evolutionary ecology group (EVECO)

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

The past century has seen unprecedented changes of natural biotopes due to human activities, in Africa perhaps even more than elsewhere. This has affected the distribution and dynamics of infectious diseases, particularly zoonotic infections, transmitted from wildlife to humans. In addition, changes in human demography, agriculture and other human activities in the environment, including health care interventions, have also changed the disease dynamics. Understanding the relative contribution of these factors may help in predicting what the effects can be of future environmental changes to the spread of diseases. This FED-tWIN profile will use museum collections and historical archives to retrospectively study the impact of environmental and anthropogenic changes on vector and disease dynamics. Despite their enormous potential, this 'unexplored heritage' is vastly underused in epidemiological research. Here we will combine longitudinal series of vector collections and zoonotic disease carriers from the RMCA and, in a later stage, also other institutes, with historical archives such as medical records, aerial pictures and scientific publications. By taking a multidisciplinary approach, combining ecology, geography, modeling and semi-quantitative methods, we will document the changes in the presence, diversity and distribution of pathogens, vectors and animal reservoirs and relate these to changes in 1) human demography, 2) climate, and 3) land cover and land use on the spread of vector-borne and zoonotic diseases. By including socio-ecological studies and historical records of disease control efforts, we can draw lessons in order to improve current health policy ('historical epidemiology'). RECORDED has a perspective of 10 years, but as a starting point we will focus on three vector-borne diseases that are strongly affected by environmental and anthropogenic change and that fall within the expertise of and/or historical documentation at both institutes: schistosomiasis, sleeping sickness and bubonic plague. The initial geographical focus lies on Kisangani (DRCongo), in the heart of the Congolese rainforest, because of the wealth of historical archives and collections that exist in our museums due to our colonial history, but also because it is a fast-growing economical center, linked with Kinshasa through the Congo River. Due to increased globalization, changing disease dynamics in Kisangani will therefore also be linked to other areas in the world.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Leirs Herwig
• Fellow: Mariën Joachim

Research team(s)

• Evolutionary ecology group (EVECO)

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

Eco-evolutionary dynamics are key to adaptation and biological diversification in heterogeneous environments. These eco-evo interactions also steer the three processes of dispersal (departure, transfer and settlement), and therefore the organization of biodiversity in space. A qualitative and quantitative theory is to date lacking. The research network will merge existing research communities on eco-evolutionary dynamics and dispersal ecology. The research network will promote the integration of these fields, not only by stimulating mobility, but also by the further development of collaborative experiments and synthesis actions. More specifically, network will organise a variety of activities, including the organisation of symposia, workshops as fostered by postdoctoral mobility between the Flemish and International partners.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Matthysen Erik

Research team(s)

• Evolutionary ecology group (EVECO)

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

Many important zoonotic viruses in humans such as Ebola, Zika and the HIV-precursors have emerged, and continue to do so, from Afrotropical mammals in the Congo basin. This region also holds one of the highest mammal diversities in the world, of which thousands of specimens are stored in the museum collections of RBINS, RMCA and CSB-UNIKIS. From the same region, KU Leuven stores thousands of archived pathology specimens of human origin. These are not just collections of mammal tissues and human biopsies: the genomic material of the viruses that these hosts had been carrying have been stored safely in these tissue collections as well. The main objective of the proposed project is to estimate the emergence potential of zoonotic viruses from the Afrotropics. We will do so through reconstructing virus evolutionary histories in relation to their hosts, based on virus genomic data generated from our tissue collections. We will test whether particular taxonomic or ecological groups of mammals hold a higher diversity of viruses, and/or viruses with higher cross-species emergence potential. This project connects a consortium of expert virologists, evolutionary biologists, phylogeneticists, museum curators and taxonomists. We believe that through working together, the proposed project will lead to ground-breaking new insights into the relationships between host taxonomy, host traits and the relative probabilities for different viruses to emerge in new host species – such as humans.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Gryseels Sophie

Research team(s)

• Evolutionary ecology group (EVECO)

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

A crucial factor to predict the persistence and spread of infections in natural systems (and potential spill-over to humans) is the capacity of so-called reservoir hosts to maintain the infection and transmit it to others. This is known to vary greatly between species, but also within species and through time, although this part of the variation is often less well understood. In this proposal we focus on between- and within-individual variation in infectiousness in a natural population, using a bird-tick-Borrelia system as model. Great tits are among the most important reservoirs of Borrelia garinii, one of the main causal agents of Lyme disease. We will study how the capacity of birds to transmit these bacteria to feeding ticks varies between individuals, how it varies through the annual cycle, and whether stressful episodes may reactivate infections in birds that previously were not infective. We will do this in a well-studied population where we can repeatedly test the infectiousness of the same individuals and relate this to their age, sex, condition and other factors. We will also keep a small number of birds in captivity to study year-round variation in infectiousness in standard conditions. We will challenge birds with moderate stress levels of ecological relevance (e.g. variation in food quality, or brood size). Ultimately we will study how temporal and individual variation affects the basic reproduction number R0 of the infection in nature.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Matthysen Erik

Research team(s)

• Evolutionary ecology group (EVECO)

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

Smallpox constituted one of the deadliest diseases of all time. Combining efficient transmission, with a high death rate (30%), this virus regularly caused epidemics that claimed millions of lives. Although the disease was successfully eradicated through mass vaccination, closely related poxvirus species are still emerging. Among these, monkeypox virus is most of concern. Circulating in wildlife in the rainforests of Central Africa, it often contaminates populations living close to the forest. Once infected, humans develop an illness that strongly resembles smallpox and they can spread the virus to other people, like household contacts or health care workers. Alarmingly, recent numbers indicate that monkeypox cases are increasing. Unfortunately, the disease is relatively understudied as outbreaks mainly occur in remote areas, with poorly equipped surveillance systems. The goal of this project is, therefore, to study the mechanisms behind monkeypox transmission. To this end, we will use a multidisciplinary approach that studies all aspects of the transmission chain: the animal reservoir, animal-to-human spillover, virus shedding in infected patients and spread of the disease within households. This project is unique as it ingrates studies in both animals and humans to finely dissect the mechanisms of monkeypox transmission. The outcomes of this project will be crucial to prevent and control future monkeypox epidemics and will contribute to overall pandemic preparedness.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Leirs Herwig

Research team(s)

• Evolutionary ecology group (EVECO)

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

The expression of osteoderms (bony deposits embedded in the dermal layer of skin in vertebrates) is thought to provide many adaptive functions, including protection against predators or sexual rivals, and aiding in thermo- and hydro-regulation. Cordyline lizards are a subfamily of Southern African lizards that exhibit substantial variation in this adaptive trait. Within this group, the Cape cliff lizard (Hemicordylus capensis) shows extensive intrecific variation. However, little is known about the evolutionary basis for this variation. This project aims to unravel the genomic basis of variation in osteoderm expression in this species, using an integrative approach that combines genomic and transcriptomic methods with phenotypic data. To this end, genetic material will be collected in the field, allowing me to assemble a reference genome for this species and produce genomic data from populations that differ in their environments. I will combine these data with phenotypic data to test for associations between genomic differentiation and phenotypic variation. Furthermore, I will collect and analyse transcriptomic data to test for differential gene expression associated with osteoderm expression variation. Overall, this project will shed light on the evolutionary basis of an ecologically important functional trait. The high-quality genomic resources to be produced will provide useful tools for the research community.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Svardal Hannes
• Co-promoter: Laukens Kris
• Co-promoter: Van Damme Raoul
• Fellow: Leitão Henrique

Research team(s)

• Evolutionary ecology group (EVECO)

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

Animals have evolved three strategies to prevent and survive infections: i) avoiding the encounter with infectious agents (i.e., avoidance), ii) limiting parasite proliferation (i.e., resistance), iii) reducing the damage caused by the infection (i.e., tolerance). However, these strategies induce costs for hosts resulting in a trade-off between defence mechanisms and fitness traits (e.g., growth, reproduction). These trade offs may differ depending on factors like the type of parasite, the infection probability, host life history, age and personality. In disease ecology, personality traits, such as boldness and exploration, have been linked to the probability of infection in many host-parasite systems. However, it is not yet clear whether personality also can explain heterogeneity in defence strategies among individuals. I will address this knowledge gap using the multimammate mouse Mastomys natalensis and two of its parasites (Morogoro virus and a nematod Trichuris mastomysi) as model system. In particular, I will 1) experimentally test mice response against a macro- and microparasite infection, 2) determine the correlation between resistance, tolerance and avoidance, 3) investigate the link between these three defence strategies and host personality and 4) integrate information from laboratory experiments with observations of wild populations.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Leirs Herwig
• Fellow: Piscitelli Anna Pia

Research team(s)

• Evolutionary ecology group (EVECO)

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

Artificial light at night (ALAN) is increasingly recognized as a substantial threat to biodiversity, in particular to nocturnal species. Due to their light-based sexual communication system, are fireflies and glow-worms especially vulnerable to interference of artificial lights. Recent work has shown that ALAN strongly reduces mate-finding and mating success in European common glow-worms (Lampyris noctiluca), which implies a strong potential selection on traits that may counter these effects. This species is used as a model to study effects of ALAN because it is widespread, easy to capture, and has a simple communication system with non-signalling males being attracted to stationary flightless females. First I will elucidate the exact mechanisms underlying the negative effects of ALAN on mating success by performing behavioural tests and electrophysiological recordings evaluating the responses of males to different light colours. Next, I will explore whether populations are evolving adaptations to cope with this selection pressure by comparing glow-worms both in wild-caught and common garden individuals, from populations with high and low ALAN levels. I will examine several candidate behavioural responses in males, females and larvae, as well as male visual sensitivity, and evaluate whether population differences are a result of phenotypical plasticity or genetic adaptation. Finally I will examine whether impacts of ALAN can be generalized to related glow-worm species.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Matthysen Erik
• Fellow: Van den Broeck Mira

Research team(s)

• Evolutionary ecology group (EVECO)

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

RNA viruses have a profound impact on human health and society. In particular, viruses that were previously unknown and that newly emerge in humans from an animal source can have catastrophic impact on the global human population. Virologists are well aware that most of the virus diversity that infects non-human animals is unknown to us, but the extent of the discrepancy between our assumed knowledge on RNA virus diversity and what remains to be discovered has recently become starkly clear through the characterization of relatives of well-known mammalian and human viruses – such as Influenza, Filoviruses, Coronaviruses – in very different vertebrate groups such as reptiles and fish. In this doctoral project, I propose for a PhD student to search for RNA viruses in sequence datasets both publicly available and that we generate ourselves using our extensive vertebrate sample collections. To accomplish this search efficiently, we will leverage on recent advances in sequencing technologies to optimize protocols for unbiased detection of diverse members of important virus families such as Arenaviridae, Coronaviridae, Hantaviridae, Paramyxoviridae, and Retroviridae, in archived animal specimens. We aim to demonstrate that (potentially divergent) relatives of known members of these common virus families also infect vertebrate phylogroups that are usually neglected in virus surveillance efforts. Using the novel vertebrate virus diversity data, we aim to update our understanding of the evolutionary histories of important virus families and test the "prisoner-of-war" hypothesis, that virus evolution over long evolutionary time-scales is directed by host adaptation, ultimately leading to the restriction of rates of viral evolution by the rate of evolution of their hosts. I expect this doctoral project to lead to four high impact manuscripts and will substantially improve our understanding of the drivers of evolutionary divergence and adaptation of RNA viruses.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Gryseels Sophie
• Fellow: Dharmadhikari Tanmay

Research team(s)

• Evolutionary ecology group (EVECO)

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

Most research on the eco-epidemiology of bat-borne viruses is conducted on "one host–one virus" systems. Here, we propose to characterize patterns in the structure of the bat virome at the community level to go beyond the one host-one pathogen paradigm. This project aims to investigate the exchange of viruses between different species and families of bats, and livestock in East Africa by analyzing the structure and dynamic of viral communities in Tanzanian bat communities using a comparative metagenomic approach. We aim at examining the role of host community composition, roost type, and phylogeny in shaping viral diversity as well as identifying patterns in the structure of bat virome. We will also investigate the role of seasonal bat reproduction as a driver of viral community structure and further assess whether certain bat species and/or periods may be at higher risk for pathogen transmission. Besides, the exploration of potential silent circulation of bat-borne viruses in livestock will help to assess if spillovers of bat-borne viruses to other hosts are stochastic events or if the frequency of these events is underestimated. Together, these results will provide important elements for understanding patterns of viral diversity in bat communities and are expected to alter the general view of bat-borne disease ecology.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Leirs Herwig
• Co-promoter: Gryseels Sophie
• Fellow: Joffrin Léa

Research team(s)

• Evolutionary ecology group (EVECO)

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

Large carnivores in Ethiopia are decreasing in numbers and in geographical range mainly due to human population pressure and fragmentation, urbanization, habitat loss followed by low political interest for wildlife conservation. To formulate strategies to mitigate these threats, it is important to understand large carnivore occupancy, estimate density, examining conflict status, predict landscape connectivity and evaluate population viability. The aim of this research project is therefore: 1. To understand factors that determines the presence and density of large carnivores in the Omo valley. 2. To evaluate landscape connectivity of protected area for movement of large carnivores in the Omo valley. 3. To examine human-large carnivore conflict status in the study sites. 4. To evaluate population viability of globally threatened large carnivores in the Omo valley. Addressing the aforementioned objectives will allow us to work with stakeholders towards improved conservation action.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Leirs Herwig

Research team(s)

• Evolutionary ecology group (EVECO)

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

Fishing cat is a medium size wild cat distributed in South and Southeast Asia. It is a globally 'Vulnerable' and nationally 'Endangered' in IUCN redlist. Despite their threatened status, limited information is available about fishing cats in the wild. In Nepal, they are distributed along the Terai region (southern plains) with discrete populations in Koshi Tappu Wildlife Reserve, Parsa, Chitwan, Bardia and Shuklaphanta National Parks. Outside the Protected Areas (PAs) fishing cat is recorded from Jagdishpur reservoir (a Ramsar site). But a linkage between these populations is not well understood. To fill the information gap, this project is designed to study distribution, status, ecology and population linkages of fishing cats as well as their relationship with local communities in Nepal. I will assess the population abundance and density of Fishing Cats in Nepal's protected areas using camera trap based capture re-capture method. I will collect non-invasive genetic samples from their scats in different sites, representing the Fishing Cat sub-populations of Nepal. I will test the hypothesis that Fishing Cat populations of different protected areas are genetically distinct due to absence of connecting habitat corridors. Through scat samples, I will also analyse the diet of Fishing Cats. I will also radio-collar 6 – 10 Fishing Cat individuals to assess the home ranges and landscape use pattern in natural habitats and close to fish farms. I will conduct the semi-structured questionnaire survey with local communities to understand their perception towards Fishing Cat conservation and threats. The study will contribute on Fishing Cat Conservation by providing crucial information on their ecology and identifying priority actions for their long-term survival in Nepal.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Leirs Herwig

Research team(s)

• Evolutionary ecology group (EVECO)

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

Apart from consuming and spoiling animal feed, and damaging infrastructure in and around farm buildings, rodents are a considerable threat to animal health and One Health. They can cause direct stress on pigs and poultry but are mainly important as carriers of pathogens. These include economically very significant diseases like Swine dysentery, Aujeszky's Disease, PCV2 and Encephalomyocarditis. Wild brown rats can carry Influenza A and might act as an intermediate for the transmission of avian influenza between wild birds and poultry. For some other diseases like African Swine Fever, rodents may act as mechanical reservoirs or they may support ticks that can carry ASF. Rodents also play a role in the epidemiology of leptospirosis and salmonellosis or in spreading antibiotic resistant bacterial strains such as livestockassociated MRSA. They can pick up the infection from infected pigs or poultry and spread it within and between farms, they can act as a bridge between wild fauna and livestock, and they can maintain the infection locally when a farm is emptied and decontaminated after a disease outbreak or livestock turnover. Thus, there are very good reasons for rodent management on pig and poultry farms. An important approach has always been the use of rodenticides. However, concerns about the environmental safety of the most common rodenticides has led to changes in the European and national regulations that restrict their use and pose new challenges for efficient rodent management on farms. There is also the problem of resistance against these poisons. This project RODENTGATE will investigate the rodent-related risks for animal health in the pig and poultry industry and how this might change with altered rodent control. Ecologically-based rodent management is a strategy that combines an Integrated Pest Management approach with a thorough knowledge of the rodent ecology, enabling interventions to be precisely targeted in time and space, whilst being ecologically and economically sustainable. This requires a very good understanding of the rodent demography, life history, space use, dispersal capacities as well appropriate documentation of pathogen presence and transmission patterns in the rodent population. Proper understanding of transmission mechanisms is crucial since killing hosts may have unexpected effects on the spreading of an infection. RODENTGATE's specific objectives are 1) to document changes in disease risk for pigs and poultry when classical rodent management around farms is prevented and rodent populations around farms change in abundance or composition and 2) to propose appropriate evidence-based and economically sustainable strategies for the ecologically-based management of rodents and rodent-borne infections around farms. These questions will be addressed by a multidisciplinary consortium of scientists from Belgium, UK, Germany, The Netherlands, and Poland, using a combination of analysis of existing data, sampling rodents, environment and livestock on farms, molecular diagnosis of pathogens, field work on rodent population biology and movements, ecological modelling, control strategy development and communication with the pig and poultry industry and pest control industry.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Leirs Herwig
• Co-promoter: Sluydts Vincent

Research team(s)

• Evolutionary ecology group (EVECO)

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

In this network we bring together scientists studying various aspects of the evolution and ecology of viruses occurring in (African) wildlife. Among these wildlife-viruses are zoonoses: infections that naturally circulate in non-human animals and occasionally infect humans. Some of these zoonotic infections do not efficiently transmit among people, so that their appearance and that of their associated disease in humans relies mostly on the presence and repeated contact between the natural animal hosts and people and the human pathological response. These types of infections are typically studied by ecologists, immunologists and pathologists. Other zoonotic infections may not reach humans very often, when for example they naturally occur in more elusive animals. In most instances these zoonotic infections reach a dead end in humans, but some may spread efficiently among people as soon as they emerge in humans, such as the novel coronavirus SARS-CoV-2. Such pathogens are either already by chance 'pre-adapted' to the human host, or can quickly evolve the necessary properties to efficiently infect and spread among humans. Epidemiologists and evolutionary biologists then typically study these latter types of infections. To prepare public health actions to rapidly respond to each of these different types of zoonotic viruses, a better understanding of how these viruses behave in natural settings before reaching humans is required. The key to this understanding lies in the patterns of their evolutionary histories, natural transmission ecology and the variation in response elicited by various hosts. Furthermore, many infections cannot be strictly categorized in either of the two types mentioned above, but reach and cause disease in humans as the result of a complex interplay between natural-host ecology, pathogen adaptive evolution, epidemiology, and the immunological and pathological response in humans. Research on those kinds of infections could thus strongly benefit from a synergy between different disciplines: animal fieldwork, molecular biology, genomics, bioinformatics, ecological and epidemiological modeling, computational phylogenetics and immunology. Flanders contains world-class research groups studying these aspects of zoonotic and other wildlife viruses, and we wish to ensure the continuation of this knowledge capacity and further build to expand it. To achieve this, we need to exchange research ideas, expertise-specific scientific insights, animal samples, and skill- and toolsets for field, laboratory and analytical work; and we need to train our early-career researchers with the necessary sets of state-of-the art skills. We aim to formalize a Scientific Research Network on the ecology and evolution of wildlife and zoonotic viruses between research groups with complimentary expertise but overlapping research interests. The objective of this network is to stimulate interaction between complementary Flemish research groups and mutually benefit from existing international networks. The ultimate goal is to maintain and further increase the quality of the research in Flanders and develop partnerships for joint interdisciplinary projects and generally stimulate network-building for early-career researchers in infectious disease ecology and evolution. We will realise this networking through the organization of annual summer workshops. These advanced-level workshops will primarily be targeted at early-career postdoc researchers from the partner groups, offering exposure to different research angles to understand similar ultimate questions in zoonotic infection evolutionary ecology. Further inspiration will be provided by senior network partners and additional invited top international scientists. The workshops will also offer hands-on opportunities to learn different skills and toolsets. These can then be further elaborated through exchange visits to the international partners for training in state-of-the-art analysis techniques.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Leirs Herwig

Research team(s)

• Evolutionary ecology group (EVECO)

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

Understanding how biodiversity evolves is a defining question in evolutionary biology and instrumental in conservation and mitigation in the face of global change. Recent work, including ours, suggests that new combinations of old genetic variants are a driving force in rapid adaptive diversification. There is a large body of theory predicting that inversions – chromosomal rearrangements in which a segment of a chromosome is reversed end to end – play a decisive role in this process, for example, by linking together adapted alleles. There is strong evidence for the role of inversions in adaptation of natural species, but we are lacking a quantitative assessment of the role of inversions in diversification of a large group of related species. We will fill this gap by characterising the occurrence, evolution, and role of inversions across the fishes of the extraordinarily diverse Lake Malawi cichlid adaptive radiation. For this, we will combine innovative molecular and computational approaches with a unique set of hybrid crosses between species up to two million years divergent.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Svardal Hannes

Research team(s)

• Evolutionary ecology group (EVECO)

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

The area of the northern East African rift-valley lakes, Kivu, Edward and Albert (KEA) is one of the most enigmatic regions in terms of its biogeography. The region is situated at the intersection of three major ichthyo-geographic provinces (Nilo-Sudan, East Coast and Congo), features a turbulent tectonic history and likely acted as a species reservoir during recent climatic changes such as the major drought some 15.000 y BP, which resulted in a complete desiccation of Lake Victoria. We suggest to combine classical taxonomy with state-of-the-art genomic methods to provide a comprehensive characterisation of the heavily understudied fish fauna of this region. This work will provide key insights into the regions' bio-geographic history, evaluate its role as a species refuge, and test its previously suggested role as the origin of the about 600 species of the Lake Victoria haplochomine cichlid radiation. Our research hypothesis is that an out-of-Kivu origin for cichlids and non-cichlids and the role of refuges of the KEA lakes shaped to a large extent the ichthyo-diversity of the region. While well-studied in temperate regions, the role of refuges in tropical freshwater fishes remained largely overlooked, which makes this study challenging and innovative. We will perform a region-wide COI-scan of the non-haplochromines of the region and complement with additional nuclear markers when necessary. We will then solve the taxonomic issues revealed, to create the necessary solid base to forward evolutionary and biogeographic scenarios. Two genera are already earmarked for morphometric revisions, the small cyprinids of the genus Enteromius and the catfish genus Amphilius. Because of the uninformative nature of the results of standard sequencing techniques in haplochromines, we will concentrate on RAD-sequencing for this group. We will complement samples from the region to an ongoing small-scale project that is concentrated on Lake Edward, to the mutual benefit of both projects. For this, the samples need to be properly identified. Major obstacle here is the lack of knowledge of the Lake Albert assemblage. Hence, a morphometric revision is included. We will also use RAD-sequencing for selected non-haplochromines in order to acquire the necessary detail to finetune the evolutionary and ichthyo-geographic scenarios. These include the species-rich genus Enteromius and the widespread cichlid, Oreochromis niloticus, and catfish Clarias gariepinus. For the latter, unpublished data indicate also an out-of-Kivu scenario. All analyses can be executed based on material collected during the HIPE-project, but one expedition to the Kivu area is planned to collect complement the samples for genetic studies. If necessary, DNA will be extracted from preserved collection specimens. As outputs, we envisage a database of genetic barcodes and RAD sequences for the fishes of the region, revisions of key fish groups (haplochromines and others), phylogeographics and evolutionary history reconstruction for several important fish groups, and formulation of a scenario for the ichthyo-geography of the KEA region.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Svardal Hannes

Research team(s)

• Evolutionary ecology group (EVECO)

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

Tracing the evolutionary origin of species can be a challenging task, especially when these species cross-breed and thereby cloud the genetic record of their evolution. Fast-developing techniques in acquiring genetic information have improved to the point where complete genomes can be routinely sequenced. One of the upcoming questions is how to make optimal use of this massive amount of data. This research project combines the above challenges, by using complete genomes of a group of cross-breeding cat species from Latin America. The objective is to optimize the use of vast genomic data to elucidate evolutionary history in a complex context of hybridization and other confounding processes. Various international partners are involved, and I will set up a close collaboration between the University of Antwerp and PUCRS, a Brazilian university with expertise in Neotropical carnivores. Part of the data required for this project is already available at PUCRS, where I contributed to the preliminary results that guide the two objectives of this project: (1) use complete genomes, including from museum specimens, to clarify the evolutionary relationships between the different species of small spotted cats in Latin America, and (2) complement the first objective with novel methods based on alternative genomic markers and partitions to maximize the amount of information that can be gained from these genomic sequences.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Svardal Hannes
• Fellow: Lescroart Jonas

Research team(s)

• Evolutionary ecology group (EVECO)

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

Herbivorous insects are among the most species-rich groups of animals. Although it is not clear how this large diversity arose, one major factor is thought to be the evolutionary interaction between plants and insects. The wide variety of toxins in plants and of specialized detoxifying mechanisms in insects resulted in co-evolution and insect radiations. Nevertheless, different groups of specialized insects are sometimes observed in novel host plants. This might result in a series of host-plant shifts which might eventually result in speciation. The underlying mechanisms are largely unknown but it has been suggested that microbes could play a major role (the microbial facilitation hypothesis). There is increasing evidence that multicellular organisms are intimately associated with microbes, which can have a big impact on their phenotype. This project aims to investigate the microbial facilitation hypothesis by focusing on specialized frugivorous tephritid flies feeding on Cucurbitaceae plants that were recently observed on unconventional host plants. In a first phase, we will assess whether different cucurbit feeding fruit flies have similar microbiota and metabolic responses to cucurbits. Second, we will explore how the flies own metabolic machinery and their microbiota respond to novel host plants. In the last experiment, we will investigate how disrupting their microbiota affects insect fitness.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Backeljau Thierry
• Fellow: Hendrycks Wouter

Research team(s)

• Evolutionary ecology group (EVECO)

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

Grey wolves (Canis lupus) have recently recolonized large parts of western Europe, where they had been extinct for over a century. Although this is considered a conservation success, it has also led to livestock depredation as an unwanted side-effect. Presently, there are no methods to sustainably reduce depredation in vast pastoral areas where livestock fencing is not feasible or ecologically desirable, which threatens the coexistence of wolves and pastoralism. Here I propose to test the effectiveness of aversion conditioning in wild wolves to prevent sheep depredation. Using those principles, I intend to test and develop new methods that can be used in various pastoral regions across Europe and that can condition free ranging wolves to (i) avoid cues that could be equipped on sheep and (ii) to avoid sheep prey because of condition food aversion and/or (iii) to avoid sheep wearing an aversive cover. Autonomous conditioning traps will be dispatched around pastures and inside wolf pack territories and monitored by camera traps. Those conditioning traps should allow wolf self-delivery punishment and would provide self-conditioning experience. If efficient, such measures could help preventing depredation where current methods either conflict with habitat connectivity, fail, or need support.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Leirs Herwig
• Fellow: Chastel Matthieu

Research team(s)

• Evolutionary ecology group (EVECO)

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

We currently lack a detailed understanding of how organisms rapidly adapt to environmental changes, which is key in evaluating and predicting human impact on nature, uncovering the genetic basis of adaptive traits, and gaining insight into fundamental evolutionary processes. Evolutionary response to a direct form of human impact, fishing,has often been discussed but evidence from natural systems is scarce. To address this, I will investigate genetic and phenotypic changes in Malawi cichlid fish following ~40 years of intense fishing. In particular, I will address life-history trait changes. Genome sequencing of museum specimens collected before and during fishing will give unprecedented insight into genes under selection. Extensive genomic resources available for Lake Malawi cichlids will allow me to investigate the evolutionary history of genes used in recent adaptation. I will leverage the ease of breeding cichlids in the lab to experimentally quantify genetic and environmental differences in traits implicated in fisheries-induced evolution. Furthermore, I will use state of the art (ancient) DNA and RNA sequencing technologies and bioinformatic methods to identify the genomic signature & molecular pathways involved in rapid life history adaptation. The combination of genome sequencing and controlled breeding experiments will greatly advance our understanding of how genomes can rapidly adapt to fishing and the link between selective pressures, phenotypes and genotypes.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Svardal Hannes
• Co-promoter: De Boeck Gudrun
• Fellow: Hooft van Huysduynen Alexander

Research team(s)

• Evolutionary ecology group (EVECO)

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

We currently lack a detailed understanding of how organisms rapidly adapt to environmental changes. However, gaining such an understanding is key in evaluating and predicting human impact on nature, can uncover the genetic basis of adaptive traits, and give insight into fundamental evolutionary processes. The most direct form of human impact on animal populations is hunting or fishing. Evolutionary responses to fishing have been often discussed, but direct evidence from natural systems is scarce. To address this, we will investigate genetic and phenotypic changes in Malawi cichlid fish following ~40 years of extremely intense fishing. We have recently produced genome sequencing data of 510 individuals of weakly and intensely fished populations from present day and from 18 years ago that will be analysed in this project. Combining this with innovative genome sequencing of museum specimens collected before and during fishing will give unprecedented insight into genes under selection. Furthermore, we will leverage the ease and relative speed of breeding cichlids in the lab to experimentally quantify genetic and environmental differences in traits life history traits implicated in fisheries-induced evolution. Integrating phenotypic measurement with the genomic differentiation measures into a quantitative genetics framework will allow us to directly test whether selection has acted on life history traits. Finally, we will characterise gene expression levels through transcriptome sequencing of tissues important in growth and maturation in weakly and intensely fished populations at different life stages. This will provide insight into adaptation at an important intermediate layer between genotypes and phenotypes. In summary, the combination of genome sequencing of recent and historic natural populations with controlled breeding experiments and transcriptome sequencing will greatly advance our understanding of the link between selective pressures, phenotypes and genotypes and has the potential to uncover how genomes can rapidly adapt to fishing.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Svardal Hannes
• Fellow: Sawasawa Wilson

Research team(s)

• Evolutionary ecology group (EVECO)

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

OMEgA studies emerging zoonotic diseases in Afrotropical mammals by investigating the ecology of the infections and the evolutionary aspects of the diversity of the pathogens and their associated natural hosts. Our two main objectives are to (i) unravel how the phylogeography, evolutionary history and ecology of hosts can provide insights about the diversity, origin and distribution of these zoonotic pathogens; (ii) discern which ecological mechanisms and environmental changes (climate, landscape, biodiversity loss, …) may facilitate host switching of pathogens or maintain host specificity, even in the absence of a strong molecular barrier. To address these questions, we will use Next-generation sequencing (NGS) methods to screen specimens and tissues from museum collections as well as freshly collected material for the presence of pathogens, to verify the hosts' taxonomy, the phylogenetic and ecological relationships among host species, and the distribution ranges of genetically discrete host populations. The resulting information on the hosts' taxonomy, biology, the transmission ecology of reliably identified pathogens inferred from their presence, diversity, host specificity and evolution will allow us to answer the profiles' main objectives. These findings will not only increase our fundamental knowledge on parasites/pathogen diversity, but also address important One Health aspects as they will shed new light on the conditions that result in zoonotic pathogens switching hosts from wildlife humans. Crucially, our results will contribute towards a better understanding of the relative contributions of anthropogenic global changes (climate change, erosion of tropical forests, changing landscape and human activity patterns) to the emergence of novel zoonotic pathogens, some of which pose potential global health risks.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Leirs Herwig
• Fellow: Gryseels Sophie

Research team(s)

• Evolutionary ecology group (EVECO)

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

Recent genome studies suggest that hybridisation and genetic exchange among closely related species is more common than previously thought. Consequently, a central question in the study of biodiversity is the effect of genetic exchange on the formation and maintenance of species diversity. With more than 800 closely related species, the Lake Malawi cichlid fish adaptive radiation provides an intriguing model to study the frequency and evolutionary role of interspecific genetic exchange. Malinsky et al. (2018) found strong evidence for extensive gene flow early on in the Malawi radiation and made some links to adaptation. However, due to limitations in sampling and statistical inference methods, we are still lacking a comprehensive picture of the abundance and evolutionary role of genetic exchange in Malawi cichlids and in most other organisms. In this project I will establish a genomic framework for the joint inference of species relationships and genetic exchange, applying it to a unique dataset of more than 2000 genomes from 276 Malawi cichlid species to gain unprecedented insight into the abundance of genetic exchange between different populations, species and genera. Furthermore, I will refine a statistical method I developed during my Master's to test whether selection has acted on exchanged genetic material. In summary, this project will yield widely applicable genomic tools and insight into the role of gene flow in one of the most intriguing vertebrate radiations.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Svardal Hannes
• Fellow: Gresham Sophie

Research team(s)

• Evolutionary ecology group (EVECO)

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

The livelihood activities of rural communities in Ethiopia are performed at the expense of biodiversity in areas with a high degree of contacts between humans and the wildlife. This project is aimed at improving academic and research capacity at Wolaita Sodo University (WSU) focusing on ecological interactions at the human-wildlife interface and generating better knowledge of human-wildlife conflict to elucidate possible mitigation measures. The intermediate results (outputs) anticipated from the project include, description of the human-wildlife conflict and its economic impact, investigation of zoonosis epidemiology with emphasis on leishmania-sis, investigation of wetland to dryland shifts and its effects on small mammal populations and conflicts. The spatial and temporal data on human-wildlife conflicts will be collected. The results will be translated into policy briefs and disseminated to local communities, stakeholders and policy makers for actions. Improved human wellbeing (protected environment, enhanced crop productivity and better health) would be the key impacts envisaged by the project.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Leirs Herwig

Research team(s)

• Evolutionary ecology group (EVECO)

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

The emergence of biodiversity through evolution is a defining question in evolutionary biology and instrumental in conservation in the face of global biodiversity change. Much of the evolution of biodiversity on Earth was driven by adaptive radiations – bursts rapid speciation over relatively short evolutionary timescales. Ongoing adaptive radiations allow us to study the rapid emergence of biodiversity in real time. The Malili Lakes in central Sulawesi, Indonesia, also called Wallace's Dream Ponds, are a diversity hotspot, supporting multiple adaptive radiations and high degrees of endemism in various groups, such as snails, shrimp, crabs, and fish. One of these adaptive radiations, the sailfin silverside fishes (genus Telmatherina) have diversified in the lakes producing ~20 species and morphotypes with many different phenotypic and ecological adaptations. While these sailfin silverside fishes have been well characterised ecologically and morphologically, their genomes have not yet been investigated and their evolutionary relationships are still largely unresolved. During the past year, analysing whole genome sequencing data, I found that three of the species of sailfin silverside fishes form a hybrid swarm, meaning they continually hybridise, while remaining distinct species. My own analysis during the first year of my post-doctoral research has shown that these three species are more difficult to distinguish on a genomic level than previously anticipated. Therefore, I now request funding to sequence 60 additional samples (20 of each of these three species), to identify genomic regions of differentiation between the three species. In this project, I will perform a detailed genomic characterisation of the differences and similarities between the pure (not hybridised) forms of these three species. Using whole genome sequences of 20 individuals of each of the three species, I will construct the genomic landscapes of divergence between species pairs of pure (non-hybridised) individuals, by calculating divergence statistics such as dxy and FST, over small windows of the genome. This will allow me to identify regions which show genomic peaks of species divergence (high values of FST or dxy), and 'valleys' of low divergence (high similarity). This funding specifically will allow me to uncover information about the genomes of three of the species which are the focus of my post-doctoral research. The results on the genomic architecture of and the landscapes of divergence between these three fish species will be indispensable for the correct interpretation of my results throughout all the publications of my post doc and beyond. Being the first genomic investigation of an enigmatic and threatened adaptive radiation in an understudied diversity hotspot and taking steps towards addressing a cutting-edge research question, the results of this project will be of major scientific interest. This project will help me with setting up this study system, and gaining skills for genomic analysis, which are important steps towards developing my own line of research building on my post-doctoral research.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: De Keyzer Els

Research team(s)

• Evolutionary ecology group (EVECO)

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

Most research on the eco-epidemiology of bat-borne viruses is conducted on "one host–one virus" systems. Here, we propose to characterize patterns in the structure of the bat virome at the community level to go beyond the one host-one pathogen paradigm. This project aims to investigate the exchange of viruses between different species and families of bats, and livestock in East Africa by analyzing the structure and dynamic of viral communities in Tanzanian bat communities using a comparative metagenomic approach. We aim at examining the role of host community composition, roost type, and phylogeny in shaping viral diversity as well as identifying patterns in the structure of bat virome. We will also investigate the role of seasonal bat reproduction as a driver of viral community structure and further assess whether certain bat species and/or periods may be at higher risk for pathogen transmission. Besides, the exploration of potential silent circulation of bat-borne viruses in livestock will help to assess if spillovers of bat-borne viruses to other hosts are stochastic events or if the frequency of these events is underestimated. Together, these results will provide important elements for understanding patterns of viral diversity in bat communities and are expected to alter the general view of batborne disease ecology.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Joffrin Léa

Research team(s)

• Evolutionary ecology group (EVECO)

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

Restoring Ecosystems to Stop the Threat Of (Re-)Emerging Infectious Diseases: There is a growing body of evidence that landscape degradation is linked to zoonotic spillover risk. Large scale restoration is increasingly being touted as an effective solution for mitigating against a range of anthropogenic impacts and is also hypothesised to protect against zoonotic disease spillover. However, little is known about the mechanisms with which restoration may provide this protection. It is commonly assumed that restoration mirrors in reverse the processes that occur during degradation; however, it is likely that this relationship is in fact asymmetric. Rarely can restored landscapes be returned to a state similar to that of pristine ecosystems, and often restored landscapes need to fulfil a range of environmental and socioeconomic requirements that inherently prevent them from doing so. Additionally, the spatiotemporal scale necessary to effect positive change is context dependent, and the type of restoration necessary to protect against zoonotic spillover is currently unknown. Ecosystem restoration can vary widely in type, scale and context and can also change how humans interact with their environment, which may have unexpected consequences for zoonotic disease spillover. Given the complexity of these interactions and their effect on disease, it is vital that we understand how restoration specifically might impact wildlife disease and emergent spillover risk.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Leirs Herwig

Research team(s)

• Evolutionary ecology group (EVECO)

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

To mitigate and prevent zoonotic disease to humans, it is necessary to understand how pathogens are transmitted in populations of their wildlife reservoir. In fact, most wildlife pathogens circulate endemically within communities of multiple host species that differ in density, susceptibility, infectiousness and behaviour. One of the main questions within this one-health perspective is whether increasing biodiversity will lead to a decrease or increase in infection prevalence, termed the dilution and amplification effects, respectively. In this project, we will investigate these mechanisms focusing on viruses in rodent communities using a unique combination of empirical data, existing sample sets, and state-of the art metagenomic sequencing and modelling. More specifically we will integrate a CRISPR-Cas-based host depletion technique into existing metagenomic sequencing pipeline that will allow us to deplete any target (e.g. host gene, adapters) of any type (DNA or RNA), in any sample (acellular vs cellular), and in any species. This will greatly expand the diagnostic range for human and wildlife samples at ITM and UAntwerp and more importantly provide a more in-depth understanding of the ecology and evolution of zoonotic viruses.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Leirs Herwig
• Co-promoter: Mariën Joachim

Research team(s)

• Evolutionary ecology group (EVECO)

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

Cryptobenthic clingfish of the genus Gouania are Mediterranean endemics. The genus currently includes five species that primarily separate along an axis of body elongation, with slender and stout morphotypes that independently evolved in the Adriatic Sea and the eastern Mediterranean basin. This makes Gouania an ideal model to study parallel evolution driven by strong natural selective forces on different levels such as genes, genomes, morphology or ecology. My PhD project builds upon promising and intriguing findings of my Bachelor's and Master's theses. As an important first step, I fixed the taxonomy of the genus Gouania, which also led to the first published chapter of my PhD thesis and forms the basis for further in depth investigation of this system. The second chapter of my PhD investigates the role of diverging microhabitat choices in sympatric Adriatic species of Gouania and the third illuminates the phylogenetic context of the Gouania radiation based on whole genomic data. Even though these previous chapters investigated crucial ecological and (macro)evolutionary factors that explain the diversity observed in Gouania, understanding and comparing the speciation potential of organisms unfolds best at a level of distinct populations within a species. This brings me to the host-group in Antwerp (Prof. Svardal) who is highly specialised in population genomic analyses. Therefore, for my final PhD chapter, which will be the major focus during my BOF funded stay in Antwerp, I aim to illuminate the drivers of local population structure of sympatric Gouania species, G. pigra and G. orientalis, from the island of Crete and an island closer to the mainland. Crete is interesting in this context, because it flanks two major marine biogeographic regions and is embedded in complex oceanographic circulation systems that show high seasonal fluctuations, which can drive population connectivity of marine animals. Gouania have a rather sedentary lifestyle as adults and dispersion can only happen during a short pelagic larval phase. Therefore, similar patterns of high geographic population structure would be expected in the investigated species. However, preliminary COI barcoding data suggests divergent population genetic patterns within the two species, whereby populations of G. orientalis from Crete seem to be more strongly isolated than G. pigra populations. By analysing whole genome population data from several sites, I aim to investigate microevolutionary processes in these two species such as population structuring, demographic history as well as recent events of hybridization and introgression (incl. their potential direction), to identify reasons for the contrasting patterns of geographic structure observed between the two species. My stay at the University of Antwerp will be crucial for this endeavour, because, having studied similar questions in other systems, Prof. Svardal and his group will provide essential expertise. Additionally, I will run Lagrangian simulations to model passive larval migration patterns, which will help to explain geographical structure observed in the dataset. Altogether, the results of this project will contribute to the general understanding of speciation and population dynamics of low-dispersing organisms in the marine realm, a group often neglected in the design and management of marine (protected) areas.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Svardal Hannes
• Fellow: Wagner Maximilian

Research team(s)

• Evolutionary ecology group (EVECO)

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

Accurate and reliable dietary knowledge is of fundamental importance when wanting to understand an organisms' ecology and life history. As such, a plethora of indirect, often invasive, strategies and methods to quantify diet components in animals has been developed. However, most of these methods suffer from prey bias and limited accuracy, in addition to being labour intensive and requiring taxonomic expertise to correctly assign prey items to their correct taxonomic unit. In an attempt to evade these limitations, DNA-based methods, particularly DNA metabarcoding, have been suggested as a viable alternative to study dietary ecology. The majority of metabarcoding studies to date engage specialized facilities employing short-read platforms to perform these studies, but the new, portable, low-cost MinION from Oxford Nanopore Technologies' is shifting the paradigm. The proposed study seeks to develop a time- and cost effective approach to correctly evaluate dietary composition in the field, using the MinION.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Diedericks Genevieve

Research team(s)

• Evolutionary ecology group (EVECO)

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

Although most emerging infectious diseases originate from animals, the ecological mechanisms that explain how parasites persist in wildlife and spill-over to humans are not well understood. Collecting data during outbreaks is difficult because epidemics usually remain undetected until they spillover to humans and wild animals are not part of surveillance programs (e.g. in contrast to livestock). As part of my postdoc project, I will investigate how zoonotic bacteria persist in rodent communities in sub- Saharan Africa. I will disentangle the rodent community to check which rodent species are reservoirs of these bacteria and which are secondary host. This will allow to test two import questions in disease ecology: (i) Which factors drive the persistence of multi-host pathogens?; (ii) Does the rodent community structure affect co-infection patterns. To test these questions, I trapped rodents in the Democratic Republic of Congo and Tanzania in different habitats where the rodent communities differ. While I initially proposed to screen these samples using two model bacteria (anaplasma and bartonella) that we frequently find in rodent communities using PCR and Sanger sequencing, the additional BOF funding will be used to screen samples on the presence of all bacteria using MinION sequencing. The MinION is a third-generation sequencer with the capacity to sequence large DNA fragments reads. This will significantly improve the quality of the work as it will allow to screen all samples on all possible pathogenic bacteria in multiplex. Indeed, metagenomics sequencing will detect many more pathogens that infect multiple rodent host and co-occur in the same individual. Therefore, it is clear that this approach will allow to answer the two research questions more convincingly.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Mariën Joachim

Research team(s)

• Evolutionary ecology group (EVECO)

Project website

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

Arthropod borne viruses (arboviruses) rely on hematophagous arthropods as a vector for the transmission to a vertebrate host, either an animal or human. During enzootic transmission periods, arboviruses survive in sylvatic cycles using a variety of vertebrate species of which many are currently not identified. This project aims to gain more insight in the ecology and life cycle of these viruses and their vertebrate hosts. I will focus the research on the African continent, since several zoonotic viruses originated in West-, Central- and East Africa. I will mainly target small animal wildlife, such as rodents and bats, with the intention to determine their contribution to the persistence and spread of arboviruses. I hypothesize that these small, but high density and turnover rate, species are an important reservoir that supports sylvatic cycles during epizootic periods. These species often live in proximity to humans, creating spillover opportunities. To examine the hypotheses, I will screen wildlife samples across Africa and perform genetic analyses on the arboviral RNA and antibodies . Additionally, host species, distribution ranges, phylogeographical relations and transmission models will be determined and created. The results will contribute to a better understanding of arbovirus occurrence and spread in wildlife, leading to a better prediction, control, prevention of arbovirus epidemics in humans.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Gryseels Sophie
• Fellow: De Kesel Wim

Research team(s)

• Evolutionary ecology group (EVECO)

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

Adaptive radiations are showcases of evolutionary processes, characterised by rapid diversification of one ancestral lineage into an array of closely related species. We still do not understand how speciation, normally a slow process, can occur in such fast bursts. Recent genome-wide molecular studies suggest that rapid diversification might be fueled by cross-species hybridisation. In this project, I will obtain an integrative picture of the effects of hybridisation on the creation and maintenance of diversity in an adaptive radiation. The sailfin silverside fishes in Lake Matano, Sulawesi, are a rare case of adaptive radiation showing indications of both historical and ongoing hybridisation with an ancestral riverine lineage. This makes sailfin silversides uniquely suited to investigate the interplay of hybridisation and speciation in situ. I will perform the first genome-wide characterisation of the sailfin silverside radiation. Using whole-genome sequencing and innovative statistical approaches, I will resolve evolutionary relationships within the radiation, address the role of historical and ongoing hybridisation during diversification, and identify links between genetic exchange and ecological divergence. By establishing a thorough genomic context for all species of the radiation I advance the silverside radiation as a new model system in evolutionary biology and drive the development of statistical approaches that will be beneficial for future evolutionary research.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Svardal Hannes
• Fellow: De Keyzer Els

Research team(s)

• Evolutionary ecology group (EVECO)

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

This research project aims to support ACIAR to invest diligently and effectively in jurisdictions that face governance challenges, risks and constraints. The aim of this project is to provide guidance to ACIAR on possible partners and commissioned organisations that can effectively and appropriately be engaged to work within ACIAR research projects focused primarily on upland agricultural issues in Myanmar, and to explore potential research and development pathways with non-government agencies. Specific objectives of the project are: 1. Collate who (Non-government, international research and development providers, private sector, key individuals) is working in relevant upland environments (CDZ and Shan State). This will include the potential for CGIAR centres to be direct partners in upland cropping systems. 2. Assess the track record and execute a preliminary due diligence of promising future partners. 3. Identify high priority research and development gaps in agricultural systems that align with the strategic objectives of ACIAR, with assessment of practicality of executing an effective investment without funding government agencies. Desktop analyses and remote interviews have been identified as the most effective and appropriate approach for this project. A small number of discussions with relevant individuals in Australia and within institutions such as the CGIAR will also be held either via phone calls or online where appropriate.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Leirs Herwig

Research team(s)

• Evolutionary ecology group (EVECO)

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

This project consists of three parts. First we will compile the present scientific knowledge and facts on abundance and infection prevalences of ticks, and translate this to a practical guideline for tick-related management of the green domains of the Province of Antwerp. Secondly we will estimate infection risk in all provincial domains through field work. We will collect ticks on risk locations (walking trails, play zones...) and reference locations (forest) and analyse the prevalence of pathogens (Lyme Borreliosis) through molecular means. Third, we will implement a training program for managers of provincial domains to share and translate the obtained information.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Matthysen Erik

Research team(s)

• Evolutionary ecology group (EVECO)

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

Although most emerging infectious diseases are caused by animalborne pathogens that originate from wildlife, the ecological mechanisms that explain how these pathogens spread and persist in the natural environment remain unclear. This research gap arises from the practical challenges of gathering convincing field data due to the stochastic nature of epidemics and the fact that these are longterm, population-level processes. In this project, I propose to investigate how differences in rodent communities influence the prevalence, persistence and control of pathogens that infect multiplehost species. These mechanisms lie at the root of an ongoing debate in conservation biology: whether biodiversity loss will lead to an increase or decrease of infectious disease that might spillover from animals to humans. The work will be based on the analysis of a unique collection of rodent samples that were captured during earlier fieldwork performed in the DRC and Tanzania and will be tested on the presence of different pathogens. By combining this data collection with additional field experiments and mathematical models, my project will test three main hypotheses: (i) pathogens tend to infect multiple host species, (ii) pathogen persistence is often driven by a key host species, and (iii) targeting this key host species suffices for pathogen control.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Leirs Herwig
• Fellow: Mariën Joachim

Research team(s)

• Evolutionary ecology group (EVECO)

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

The Natal multimammate mouse is probably the most widespread African rodent. In West-Africa it carries Lassa virus, which can be transmitted to humans and can cause lethal haemorrhagic fever; in other regions of Africa it carries closely related arenaviruses, but these are not pathogenic to humans. These viruses seem to be restricted to certain geographic regions because they are specific to genetically different subgroups of this mouse species. In Tanzania, three of these subgroups carrying three different non-pathogenic viruses come into contact. It is therefore an ideal place to investigate what happens to these subgroups when they meet and how this affects their arenaviruses. More specifically, I will describe the divergence of the host subgroups, characterise the hybrid zones where the subgroups come into contact, assess the association of different arenaviruses with their host subgroups and study arenavirus evolution and viral load in the hybrid zones. This research will yield insights into speciation processes and help to understand the geographic distribution and evolution of arenaviruses, which is crucial to predict future emergences and to plan interventions.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Leirs Herwig
• Fellow: Cuypers Laura

Research team(s)

• Evolutionary ecology group (EVECO)

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

SARS‐CoV‐2 has its origin in an Asian bat species, but it is now clear that it can infect various unrelated mammal species in addition to humans. Given the circulation of the virus among humans, they may transmit it to wildlife; should this happen, a new reservoir may emerge that will be extremely difficult to control. This should be avoided, but it is not yet clear which naturally occurring species in Belgium are susceptible to the virus. Virus entry in a host cell happens through binding to the ACE2 protein, and is further facilitated by the host's furin and TMPRSS2 proteases; these proteins occur in all species, but their sequences (and thus the structural properties that are required for interaction with the virus) may differ, and that determines whether the host is susceptible to infection. To determine which species possibly can become infected, we will determine the sequences of the involved genes for the different Belgian mammal species. In collaboration with the protein specialists of the Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences we will map the possible structural and functional implications of variations in amino acid sequences and on this basis evaluate which native mammals potentially could become a reservoir. Based on this, specific measures can then be developed to avoid the creation of such a reservoir.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Leirs Herwig

Research team(s)

• Evolutionary ecology group (EVECO)

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

This project will investigate how biodiversity conditions (dis)favour spill-over of infectious agents into human populations in African forests. This is crucial for predicting and controlling the risk of new outbreaks under changing biodiversity scenarios. In order to investigate this process, we propose 1° to link changes in biodiversity to changes in communities of reservoirs and the pathogens they carry and 2° to link differences in these reservoir communities to human health. The proposed research activities will focus on Monkeypox and Ebola viruses but a broader spectrum of pathogens will be included so that we can cover a range from pathogens that are relatively common in a variety of small mammals (MPXV) to pathogens that are rare and found in very few species only (EBV). The proposed study will be conducted in DR Congo and Côte d'Ivoire, in areas where these emerging diseases have been observed before and make optimal use of the large sample collections that have been collected earlier in these areas by the consortium partners.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Leirs Herwig

Research team(s)

• Evolutionary ecology group (EVECO)

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

Our project aims at elucidating the interlinkages between biodiversity and diseases at local and European scales using standardized assessments of biodiversity and disease risks. This project will address this issue by integrating new key research directions, i.e. host microbiome and multiple pathogen diversity levels on one hand, seasonal and multi-annual dynamics on the other hand, including climate change scenarios, and interactions with socioeconomic contexts. These scientific questions are an essential prerequisite to improve existing modelling of the relationship between biodiversity and diseases, and to develop a framework, which enables to provide predictions with regard to the human and animal health impacts of ecosystem management practices, biological conservation strategies and/or climate changes on human and animal health. As such, these questions must and will be addressed in collaboration with main local and European stakeholders and policy makers. Our results will be disseminated to a larger audience, through a wide array of communication channels, and considering appropriate language and national/socio-professional specificities of the different members of the public targeted.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Leirs Herwig

Research team(s)

• Evolutionary ecology group (EVECO)

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

The Flemish Government has commissioned a study on animal-friendly pest control methods agains rats and mice. The roject is run by INBO, UAntwerp has been subcontracted as an external advisor for this project.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Leirs Herwig

Research team(s)

• Evolutionary ecology group (EVECO)

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

Most epidemiological models for infections target a single pathogen, but in reality hosts are commonly infected by more than one pathogen. Moreover, many models assume random or even homogeneous mixing of individuals within defined categories and do not account for heterogeneity of host characteristics or behavioural changes as a consequence of infection. In this project, we will address these questions with an African rodent population as a model system. Using a vast set of existing capture-mark recapture data of multimammate mice Mastomys natalensis in Tanzania, with over 9,000 blood samples collected during monthly captures since 2007 and still ongoing, we will be able to investigate co-infections with several pathogens, describe positive and negative associations between these pathogens and carry out a longitudinal study on the dynamics of the transmission of these pathogens. Using experiments both in the lab and in large field enclosure (0.5 ha) we will collect data about the mutual interactions of the pathogens at the transmission level, and the effects of (co-)infections on contact rates and behavior (and vice versa), taking heterogeneity into account. These data and insights will be the basis for the development of mathematical models that take these issues into account.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Leirs Herwig

Research team(s)

• Evolutionary ecology group (EVECO)

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

Species that look very similar are not always closely related. Numerous examples of so-called convergent evolution have been reported: the flippers of penguins and dolphins, the wings of bats, birds, and insects, and the striking similarity between the eyes of humans and squids. Although structures look similar, the mechanisms of how they developed can be different. The Lake Victoria region (lakes Edward, Kivu, Albert, Victoria), is inhabited by 700 species of cichlids, a family of perch-like fishes that evolved very rapidly. Each of these species inhabits a single lake, and many species look very similar, both within a lake and between lakes. How they are related to each other has, however, remains unknown. Their young age and many similarities make these cichlids a perfect system to investigate how similar forms arise. Are they more closely related to each other or did they evolve independently from each other, and if so, which mechanisms underlie their similarity? For this, we will collect morphological and genomic data from 100 species from four distinct lakes. Similarities between species will be quantified, how similar species are related to each other will be genetically determined, and the regions of their DNA that contribute to their similarity will be determined. This will allow us to determine how these young species are related to each other and how similarities emerge within distinct species of cichlids from the Lake Victoria region.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Svardal Hannes
• Co-promoter: Van Steenberge Maarten

Research team(s)

• Evolutionary ecology group (EVECO)

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

Outbreaks of zoonotic diseases (diseases transmitted from animals; e.g. Ebola) in recent years have highlighted the important role that wildlife may play in disease transmission. This is particularly true in situations where humans and animals live in close proximity, and where animals are stressed due to habitat modification. Transmission depends on whether an infected individual contacts a susceptible individual and the likelihood that a susceptible individual is then infected. Habitat alteration changes resource availability and distribution, with consequences for how often animals contact each other, and can increase stress, with consequences for disease susceptibility. Therefore, understanding how environmental stress is going to change disease transmission is of fundamental interest in disease ecology. Here, I propose to use the multimammate mouse to explore how environmental stress influences survival, behaviour and virus transmission. I will use a range of approaches to assess physiological responses to stress in both laboratory and field experiments, combined with state of the art devices to record behaviour in wild, free living rodents. A prolific breeder, the multimammate mouse hosts several zoonotic diseases, and thrives in human dominated landscapes. Therefore , not only is this a pioneering study which will deliver exciting fundamental insights, but understanding how disturbance influences transmission in this species is also of applied interest

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Leirs Herwig
• Fellow: Kirkpatrick Lucinda

Research team(s)

• Evolutionary ecology group (EVECO)

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

Herbivorous insects are the most diverse group of animals. Although it is not clear how this large diversity arose, one major factor is thought to be the co-evolution between plants and insects . The wide variety of defensive toxins in plants and presence of specialized detoxifying mechanisms in insects resulted in the formation of several species. Nevertheless, different groups of specialized insects are sometimes observed in novel host plants. So we get a chronology of diet range expansion followed by specialization on different plant species. The underlying mechanisms are largely unknown but it has been suggested that microbes could play a role in this process (the microbial facilitation hypothesis). Recently, it has become clear that multicellular organisms are intimately associated with microbes that live inside/on their bodies and can have a big impact on the animal. This project aims to address these questions by focusing on specialized frugivorous flies feeding on Cucurbitaceae plants that were recently observed on atypical host plants (Solanaceae). In a first phase, we will assess whether different cucurbit feeding fruit flies have similar microbiota and metabolic responses to cucurbits. Second, we will explore how the flies own metabolic machinery and their microbiota respond to novel host plants. In the last experiment, we will investigate how impairing their microbiota affects the capacity of the flies to attack plants.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Backeljau Thierry
• Fellow: Hendrycks Wouter

Research team(s)

• Evolutionary ecology group (EVECO)

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

Ticks are the most important vectors for transmitting diseases, which may cause deaths and are frequently associated with long-term suffering and high costs. During the last decades, ticks carrying disease-causing microorganisms in humans and animals have increased in numbers and spread to new areas. Thus, the number of people and animals afflicted by tick-borne diseases are on the rise. The reasons are complex and may include climate change, increased urbanisation and other human influences on ecosystems. It is challenging for health services and authorities to be updated on optimal strategies for prevention and management of Borrelia infections and TBE, and to keep up with newer tickborne microorganisms and diseases, and to give adequate information to a concerned public. Evidence-based and cost-effective strategies for control of tick-borne diseases are currently the weakest chain in surveillance. NorthTick aims to meeting these challenges regarding tick-borne diseases, by providing a multi-disciplinary and transnational joint effort to improve public health service delivery regarding: (i) risk assessment (ii) efficient preventive measures (iii) optimal diagnostic strategies (iv) best patient management recommendations NorthTick will enhance cooperation between academic institutions, national/regional health authorities, patient organizations and other NGOs, industry and policy makers to develop and exchange knowledge on how to curb the rise in tick-borne diseases and associated burden on society.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Matthysen Erik

Research team(s)

• Evolutionary ecology group (EVECO)

Project website

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

The 100s of closely related but ecologically diverse species of Lake Malawi cichlid fishes provide an exceptional model to study the genomic mechanisms involved rapid adaptation and diversification. We have recently found that Lake Malawi cichlids harbour genomic regions of exceptionally high genetic diversity. In this project the student will analyse recently produced whole-genome sequencing data of 100s of Lake Malawi cichlid fish species to infer the evolutionary origin of genomic regions of high genetic diversity. For example, the student will test whether these genetic variants were brought into the ancestor of Lake Malawi cichlids by hybridisation with a divergent lineage of cichlid fish and whether this variation has been maintained by balancing selection. In a second step, the student will use population genetic methods to test for the role of these genetic variants in ecological adaptation and speciation of cichlid fish species. A specific application of this will be recent adaptation of populations to heavy fishing. Preliminary evidence suggests that genetic variation in regions of high ancestral diversity is under differential selection between weakly and heavily fished populations. The student will use statistical genomic techniques to test this systematically.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Svardal Hannes
• Fellow: Camacho Garcia Julia

Research team(s)

• Evolutionary ecology group (EVECO)

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

In recent years, large-scale scientific initiatives have spurred the development of affordable lightweight tracking devices such that movement data are now collected in unprecedented quantities for a huge variety of species. Yet, appropriate tools to exploit the full potential of these tracking data are lagging behind. However, if we really want to capitalize on big movement data we must invest in an enhanced inference, particularly by combining heterogeneous and very high resolution data streams. And we have to pay attention to spatio-temporal patterns in the clustering sequences of movements or behaviours, which have almost virtually been ignored. To this end, a multidisciplinary consortium was established uniting leading experts in animal behaviour, moving object analysis, space-time or species-distribution modelling, spatio-temporal visualisation, and pattern recognition. By bridging disciplines within and across research areas, this multidisciplinary consortium has both the capacity to promote the development of analytical tools as well as to boost population and community ecology by building a new, integrated framework for the interpretation of state-of-the-art tracking data. We will follow a sequential approach by initially synthesizing how short-term behavioural responses and phenotypic adjustments within individuals, as well as consistent among-individual differences, impinge on movement ecological processes. This will set the stage for exploiting the full potential of tracking data, to understand behavioural responses, conspecific interactions and decision-making.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Matthysen Erik

Research team(s)

• Evolutionary ecology group (EVECO)

Project website

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

Donation to the Universiteitsfonds in order to stimulate research in the field of conservation biology. The Department of Biology decides how to use these funds for for grants or salaries for researchers.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Leirs Herwig

Research team(s)

• Evolutionary ecology group (EVECO)

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

Cases of Lyme borreliosis, a disease transmitted to humans by the castor bean tick (Ixodes ricinus), have increased in recent years. To take efficient action it is important to know at which locations, frequently visited by humans, infected ticks can be found. Other studies have shown that certain forest types contain more ticks than others but it is not known what determines the spatial distribution of ticks within a suitable area. In this PhD project, I will investigate the distribution of ticks within forest, with respect to the amount of visitors frequent each location. Subsequently I will examine why ticks end up in this specific location. One aspect that may lead to the observed tick distribution is the location where ticks drop off their hosts after feeding on them, be it deer or smaller animals. To look into this, I will investigate where in our study areas hosts spend their time and where ticks prefer to drop off. Lastly, we will determine in the field which circumstances lead to high mortality among ticks. In these circumstances, there is lesser for intervention. Our findings will be summarized and translated into management recommendations for forest managers and policy makers. This will allow them to organise and manage forests in a more efficient way and reduce tick densities more efficiently. This will save time and money and minimize public health risks for visitors.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Matthysen Erik
• Co-promoter: Heylen Dieter
• Fellow: Van Gestel Mats

Research team(s)

• Evolutionary ecology group (EVECO)

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

Many animal species carry diseases which can spill over to humans, with severe health and economic consequences. Therefore, there is considerable interest in understanding how these diseases are maintained in wild animal populations. Like humans, many animals do not mix randomly with others, yet accurately quantifying contact behaviour data is hard, even for large or observable species, and often requires substantial investment of both time and money. For small, nocturnal species such as rodents, surveying contact behaviour in the wild has been impossible. We have developed cutting edge Social Contact Network (SCoNe) loggers that weigh less than 1.5g, can be attached as a collar for up to 28 days and can log interactions between up to 70 animals at a time. We will use these to investigate contact behaviour in the multimammate mouse in Tanzania to understand virus transmission. These mice transmit diseases such as Lassa fever and plague, and can have several litters a year of more than 20 young. As a result, they become extremely abundant, causing huge crop damage. Understanding how mice behaviour varies through population changes, and how this influences transmission will help protect crop yields and inform public health strategies, as well as answering fundamental questions about disease transmission. Due to their small size and open source design, SCoNe loggers will be easily adapted by other researchers, shedding light on behavioural interactions for a range of species.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Kirkpatrick Lucinda

Research team(s)

• Evolutionary ecology group (EVECO)

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

This funding will be used to initiate research projects as proposed in my tenure track ZAPBOF application and is intended to bridge the time between project start and acquisition of external research funding.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Svardal Hannes
• Fellow: Svardal Hannes

Research team(s)

• Evolutionary ecology group (EVECO)

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

Animal personality is the phenomenon that behaviour is consistent through time, meaning, for example, that some individuals are always more aggressive than others. Any behaviour can be defined as a personality trait, as long as it is repeatable through time, but personality traits are generally divided into five categories: boldness, exploration, activity, aggressiveness and sociability. Highly explorative individuals may be more likely to encounter mates and thus have high reproductive success, for example, but they may also be at an increased risk of encountering parasites, pathogens, and predators. These fitness costs of personality are understudied, but may have important implications for disease dynamics. Using the natal multimammate mouse (Mastomys natalensis) - Morogoro arenavirus study system, I will examine the possible links between personality traits, immune functioning, and infection risk. Specifically, I will 1) establish whether M. natalensis show evidence of consistent personality traits and if any traits are correlated, 2) investigate whether host personality traits are associated with viral infections in free-living populations, 3) determine whether there is a relationship between some personality traits and immune system function, 4) experimentally test whether infection alters the expression of personality traits, and 5) use epidemiological models to explore the potential effects of personality on virus transmission dynamics in free-living populations.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Leirs Herwig
• Co-promoter: Matthysen Erik
• Fellow: Vanden Broecke Bram

Research team(s)

• Evolutionary ecology group (EVECO)

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

The Natal multimammate mouse is probably the most widespread African rodent. In West-Africa it carries Lassa virus, which can be transmitted to humans and can cause lethal haemorrhagic fever; in other regions of Africa it carries closely related arenaviruses, but these are not pathogenic to humans. These viruses seem to be restricted to certain geographic regions because they are specific to genetically different subgroups of this mouse species. In Tanzania, three of these subgroups carrying three different non-pathogenic viruses come into contact. It is therefore an ideal place to investigate what happens to these subgroups when they meet and how this affects their arenaviruses. More specifically, I will describe the divergence of the host subgroups, characterise the hybrid zones where the subgroups come into contact, assess the association of different arenaviruses with their host subgroups and study arenavirus evolution and viral load in the hybrid zones. This research will yield insights into speciation processes and help to understand the geographic distribution and evolution of arenaviruses, which is crucial to predict future emergences and to plan interventions.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Leirs Herwig
• Fellow: Cuypers Laura

Research team(s)

• Evolutionary ecology group (EVECO)

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

The overall aim of this sabbatical leave is to expand our research into responses of animal populations to climate change, and to explore new research avenues and collaborations. The model system is the seasonal timing (phenology) of insectivorous birds in relation to tree phenology, building on several long-term datasets that we have available. More specifically I will focus on the role of phenology at the level of individual trees, a hitherto understudied aspect of this complex system. The first specific aim is to analyse a unique and recently acquired dataset on phenology of 1600 trees in a long-term study site of bird populations. A side aim is to update my own research skills in analytical softwares. A second aim is to explore possibilities of remote sensing technique that would allow to charachterize individual tree timing at large scales, with the aim to set up novel collaborations and projects. A third specific aim is to increase the visibility of our research group in international collaborations by participating in expert workshops and joint international publications of longitudinal data. Finally I will engage in a thorough exhange of expertise concerning tree phenology and climate change with the PLECO group at University of Antwerp, an internationally leading group in this matter, with the aim to produce a perspective paper and new research proposals.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Matthysen Erik

Research team(s)

• Evolutionary ecology group (EVECO)

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

In this project we analyze previously collected field data on the abundance of ticks and prevalences of important pathogens. Ticks were collected in about 20 parks and forested areas in and around Antwerp. Based on the outcomes we make policy recommendations on how to deal with tick-borne health risks in an urban area.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Matthysen Erik

Research team(s)

• Evolutionary ecology group (EVECO)

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

Cases of Lyme borreliosis, a disease transmitted to humans when bitten by the castor bean tick (Ixodes ricinus), have increased in recent years. To take efficient action it is important to know at which locations infected ticks can be found. In past research it has been shown that certain forest types contain more ticks than others. Up to now, however, it is not known what determines the spatial distribution of ticks within such a suitable area. In this PhD project, we will investigate the distribution of ticks on a fine scale, and examine what contributes to the ticks ending up in specific locations. One aspect that may lead to the observed tick distribution is the location where ticks drop off their hosts after they have fed on them, be it deer or smaller animals. To look into this, we will investigate where in our study areas hosts spend their time and, among these locations, where ticks prefer to drop off. Once detached from the host, ticks can still move around. We will confirm whether or not this movement is random. Lastly, we will determine in the field which circumstances lead to high mortality among ticks. In these circumstances, there is no need for intervention. Our findings will be summarized and translated into management recommendations for forest and natural area managers. This will allow them to design and manage greenspaces in a safer way and combat ticks in a more directed way, saving both time and money while minimizing public health risks of visitors.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Matthysen Erik
• Co-promoter: Heylen Dieter
• Fellow: Van Gestel Mats

Research team(s)

• Evolutionary ecology group (EVECO)

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

Anthropogenic climate change represents a major threat to biodiversity as well as to human wellbeing. Climate change mitigation strategies such as the UN-REDD+ (Reducing Emissions from Deforestation and Degradation) program aim at protecting and enhancing biosphere carbon (C) stocks, by conserving tropical rainforest systems. However, when forests are protected for their C stock, will the biodiversity (BD) be conserved as well? Components of forest BD may overlap to different degrees, trade off with, or be largely independent from those that intervene in C storage potential. Studies on the spatial congruence of C and BD find no consistent relationship. We argue this is probably due to the large scale analysis and the use of few BD parameters. In this project we will look into the relation between BD and C on a fine scale using data from in the Central Congo basin, an understudied region. The C stock and several species groups were sampled in up to 21 plots in the Yangambi Biosphere Reserve (YBR, DR Congo). We will first describe 'biodiversity', a fundamentally undefined term, with a set of BD parameters. Further, we will investigate the relationship between C and BD at both the level of the 21 study plots and, using spatial extrapolation, across the YBR as a whole. Lastly, we will assess the effect of several C conservation strategies on BD and test if it is possible to maximise both C and BD conservation.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Leirs Herwig
• Co-promoter: Verheyen Erik
• Fellow: Van de Perre Frederik

Research team(s)

• Evolutionary ecology group (EVECO)

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

The Natal multimammate mouse is probably the most widespread African rodent. In West-Africa it carries Lassa virus, which can be transmitted to humans and can cause lethal haemorrhagic fever; in other regions of Africa it carries closely related arenaviruses, but these are not pathogenic to humans. These viruses seem to be restricted to certain geographic regions because they are specific to different genetic lineages of this mouse species. In Tanzania three of these lineages carrying three different non-pathogenic viruses come into contact. It is therefore the ideal place to investigate what happens to these lineages when they meet and how this affects their arenaviruses. The first will yield insights on speciation processes and the second will help to understand the geographic distribution and evolution of Lassa virus, which is crucial to predict future emergences and to plan interventions.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Leirs Herwig
• Fellow: Cuypers Laura

Research team(s)

• Evolutionary ecology group (EVECO)

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

Understanding the processes underpinning behaviour such as competition, predation, sociality or disease transmission requires the ability to monitor in great detail the nature of interactions between individuals. Until recently, this has been restricted to large, captive or easily observable species. However, new advances in miniaturisation mean that it is now possible to gather datasets of unprecedented spatio-temporal resolution for ever smaller animals. Such systems need to be tested and calibrated to ensure that they do not fundamentally alter individual behaviour, and to ensure that data collected from such systems is free from bias.We have developed miniature tags which simultaneously transmit, and detect and log the transmissions of other tags. This project will allow us to test methods of tag attachment (ensuring that any stress to the animal is kept to a minimum), monitor physiological or behavioural changes caused by the tags (should be minimal to prevent changes to rodent behaviour after being tagged) and to calibrate the tags in a field realistic setting. We will use the tags to conduct a large, field realistic study which will parametrise highly detailed disease transmission models; design and construction of the tags will be open source to allow other researchers to also use the technology on other taxa.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Kirkpatrick Lucinda

Research team(s)

• Evolutionary ecology group (EVECO)

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

During 15 months a study will be conducted into possible management scenarios and their impact on stray cats in Flanders. The aim is to provide cities and communities with an instrument that identifies different management options for their areas. To this end, the theoretical cost-benefit model (Høgasen et al.) is adapted to the Flemish context. The project is a collaboration between the Laboratory of Ethology (Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University Ghent, Belgium - Prof. Christel Moons and Ciska De Ruyver), Odisee University (Belgium - Els Peeters), Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale (Italy - Paolo Dalla Villa), and the University of Antwerp (Belgium - Prof. Herwig Leirs and Lucinda Kirkpatrick). The project is financed by the Department of the Environment of the Flemish government.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Leirs Herwig

Research team(s)

• Evolutionary ecology group (EVECO)

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

In May 2017 an Ebola-outbreak occurred in Likati, Bas-Uélé, DR Congo. In contrast to previous outbreaks, good information was available about the identity and whereabouts of the primary case (the person acquiring the infection from nature). This offered an opportunity for targeted ecological research looking for the potential reservoir of Ebolavirus. This funding allowed a team from UAntwerpen and RBINS to take a leading role in an an expedition together with several other Congolese and international experts.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Leirs Herwig

Research team(s)

• Evolutionary ecology group (EVECO)

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

Pest monitoring is the basis for good biological control. In this research project we will develop an ecological monitoring system, whereby the ratio of pest and beneficials in tomat and pepper greenhouses is taken into account in the decision support system. This ratio is indispensable to determine the control strategy.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Sluydts Vincent

Research team(s)

• Evolutionary ecology group (EVECO)

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

The interaction between parasites and hosts is generally considered as one of the main driving forces in evolution. Evolution can occur if individual characteristics ("traits") are at least partly inherited, and are subject to natural selection. Therefore, to study the evolution of parasite traits, it is necessary to follow the success of individual parasites throughout their life-cycle. In many parasite species this is nearly impossible, except in highly artificial laboratory conditions. We will study the variation and heritability of parasite traits in ticks that are specialized on songbirds. We will breed ticks in the lab, and allow individual ticks to feed once per stage (larva, nymph or adult) on great tits taken from a wild population. In this way we will have information on the genetic relatedness of individual ticks as well as individual birds used in the study. This allows us to study to what extent variation in parasite success (feeding success, survival, number of eggs) is due to genetic variation in the parasite, or genetic variation in the host, or a combination of both. We will also study whether ticks that are highly successful on great tits do less well on other birds, and vice versa. Similarly we will study whether great tits vary in their ability to resist, or at least tolerate infestation by ticks, and whether birds that do better against one tick, are also successful against other tick species.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Matthysen Erik
• Co-promoter: Heylen Dieter
• Co-promoter: Van Dongen Stefan

Research team(s)

• Evolutionary ecology group (EVECO)

Project website

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

This project focuses on strengthening the academic capacity of the University of Kisangani in response to and response to outbreaks of eruptive fevers in the Democratic Republic of Congo by training staff and students in epidemiology and epidemic management, and implementing a pilot project, targeting Monkeypox virus, with health personnel from the Aketi Health Zone (Bas-Uele Province). The project includes a research component concerning the zoonotic origin of the Monkeypox virus. The results of this project will lead to improved capacity to investigate and control outbreaks of eruptive fevers in the country.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Leirs Herwig
• Co-promoter: Verheyen Erik

Research team(s)

• Evolutionary ecology group (EVECO)

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

Animal personality is the phenomenon that behaviour is consistent through time, meaning, for example, that some individuals are always more aggressive than others. Any behaviour can be defined as a personality trait, as long as it is repeatable through time, but personality traits are generally divided into five categories: boldness, exploration, activity, aggressiveness and sociability. Highly explorative individuals may be more likely to encounter mates and thus have high reproductive success, for example, but they may also be at an increased risk of encountering parasites, pathogens, and predators. These fitness costs of personality are understudied, but may have important implications for disease dynamics. Using the natal multimammate mouse (Mastomys natalensis) - Morogoro arenavirus study system, I will examine the possible links between personality traits, immune functioning, and infection risk. Specifically, I will 1) establish whether M. natalensis show evidence of consistent personality traits and if any traits are correlated, 2) investigate whether host personality traits are associated with viral infections in free-living populations, 3) determine whether there is a relationship between some personality traits and immune system function, 4) experimentally test whether infection alters the expression of personality traits, and 5) use epidemiological models to explore the potential effects of personality on virus transmission dynamics in free-living populations.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Leirs Herwig
• Co-promoter: Matthysen Erik
• Fellow: Vanden Broecke Bram

Research team(s)

• Evolutionary ecology group (EVECO)

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

Diversity at all levels of biological organization is shaped by processes related to selection, drift, dispersal and - dependent on the level of organization - speciation/mutation. These ecological and evolutionary processes interact at small to large temporal and spatial scales and generate tightly linked eco-evolutionary dynamics. They thereby affect population responses to environmental change, including the potential for evolutionary rescue. To date, most of these insights are generated from theory and experimental work based on single species or small interacting units (two or three species, e.g. predator-prey). Species do, however, not live in isolation, but in interacting networks. These biotic interactions typically range from positive mutualistic interactions (pollinator or mycorrhizal networks), over neutral to negative antagonistic interactions (in foodwebs and disease networks). Despite the awareness that losses or changes of biotic interactions will eventually impact functional aspects of ecosystems (ecosystem health), they remain a neglected component of biodiversity. The eco-evolutionary dynamics of biotic interactions need to be considered if we aim to move the field of ecology towards a predictive science. Because interactions may evolve by selection in communities, and because the number of interactions exponentially increase with the number of species in networks, ecologists have most often considered them as a black box and rely on statistical approaches that lack a mechanistic foundation to forecast species' responses to global change. This FWO-funded research network aims to advance the field of eco-evolutionary interactions by stimulating advanced collaborations within the research community. The network brings together researchers that are specialized in the field of ecology and evolution, though tackling research questions by means of different approaches and model systems. The proposed multi-disciplinary research community includes both theoretical and empirical biologists, using various aquatic, terrestrial and microbial model systems, and integrates research groups with strong methodological and conceptual expertise in genomics and bio-informatics, network analysis and computation biology. The network will stimulate multidisciplinary collaborations in order to raise the level of eco-evolutionary research in Flanders and to foster its use in predictive ecology. This will be achieved by means of active research collaboration among partners, the organization of specialized workshops to develop conceptual perspectives and synthesis papers, and the organization of bi-annual symposia for graduates, postdoctoral fellows and staff.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Matthysen Erik

Research team(s)

• Evolutionary ecology group (EVECO)

Project website

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

This project represents a research agreement between the UA and on the onther hand IWT. UA provides IWT research results mentioned in the title of the project under the conditions as stipulated in this contract.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Leirs Herwig

Research team(s)

• Evolutionary ecology group (EVECO)

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

The main goal of this project is to evaluate and compare the performance and the constraints in the use of the two mostly used systematic conservation planning tools, Marxan and Zonation, in a tropical terrestrial setting. First, I will collect and process information on biodiversity, ecosystem services and socio-economy of the Tunari National Park of Bolivia. These data will then be used to model the potential suitability of the habitat under current and future predicted climatic scenarios. Finally, I will use Marxan and Zonation to generate a decisionsystem about conservation action for biodiversity and ecosystem services while taking into account anthropogenic and economical requirements, as well as habitat fragmentation and connectivity issues.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Matthysen Erik
• Co-promoter: Strubbe Diederik
• Fellow: Fastré Constance

Research team(s)

• Evolutionary ecology group (EVECO)

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

Anthropogenic climate change represents a major threat to biodiversity as well as to human wellbeing. Climate change mitigation strategies such as the UN-REDD+ (Reducing Emissions from Deforestation and Degradation) program aim at protecting and enhancing biosphere carbon (C) stocks, by conserving tropical rainforest systems. However, when forests are protected for their C stock, will the biodiversity (BD) be conserved as well? Components of forest BD may overlap to different degrees, trade off with, or be largely independent from those that intervene in C storage potential. Studies on the spatial congruence of C and BD find no consistent relationship. We argue this is probably due to the large scale analysis and the use of few BD parameters. In this project we will look into the relation between BD and C on a fine scale using data from in the Central Congo basin, an understudied region. The C stock and several species groups were sampled in up to 21 plots in the Yangambi Biosphere Reserve (YBR, DR Congo). We will first describe 'biodiversity', a fundamentally undefined term, with a set of BD parameters. Further, we will investigate the relationship between C and BD at both the level of the 21 study plots and, using spatial extrapolation, across the YBR as a whole. Lastly, we will assess the effect of several C conservation strategies on BD and test if it is possible to maximise both C and BD conservation.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Leirs Herwig
• Fellow: Van de Perre Frederik

Research team(s)

• Evolutionary ecology group (EVECO)

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

Rodent infestation poses a serious threat to smallholder farmers in both developed and developing countries where a large proportion of potential crop yield is lost. In Eastern Africa, there are about 161 species of rodents; however, the major rodent pest is M. natalensis. Seasonal changes in abundance of this species are highly dependent on rainfall and in particular on the timing of the rainy season. Management of rodent pests in eastern Africa relies mostly on use of chemical rodenticides which, however, often are applied only when damage has already occurred (and thus basically too late to have a significant effect on damage) or in contrast as part of a routine treatment (meaning that they are also applied when it is not necessary). Rodenticides used in this way are rarely economically and ecologically sustainable and currently the knowledge about rodent populations on individual farms is too limited to allow smarter approaches. Only for M. natalensis in maize in areas with a bimodal rainfall system, predictive models were developed earlier, and the Tanzanian Ministry of Agriculture successfully uses these models to preventatively initiate rodenticide-based control when outbreaks of M. natalensis can be expected. However, there is a need to evaluate their wider applicability in other cropping systems and for other species. Ecologically based rodent management uses knowledge about the pest species' ecology in order to reduce the damage experienced by farmers. It does not see the killing of rodents as an objective, but it does not exclude any approach, including the use of rodenticides. Obviously this requires a good knowledge of the species' population biology and behavior. Therefore, as a first objective, the data from this study will refine the prediction models and test them over a wider area and different rodent pest species in east Africa. Specifically for irrigated rice, an alternative novel approach in E. Africa is the "community-based Trap-Barrier-System (cTBS)", basically a system where rodents are trapped in a rice field that is planted a short period earlier than the surrounding fields, and therefore attracting rodents from a much wider area than the field itself. The system proved very successful in irrigated rice fields in SE Asia, increasing rice yields there by 10-25%. Its success depends on the population biology, behavior and movement patterns of the rodent species that cause the damage. This knowledge is still lacking for the species causing damage in rice fields in E. Africa. Therefore, the second major objective of the study is to investigate the feasibility and effectiveness of Trap-Barrier-Systems in rice fields. For both objectives, data will be collected from studies describing the rodent pest community and the involved species' ecology as well as controlled experiments. The project's coordination is taken care of by a research center in Tanzania where much earlier work has been done already, but then also extends its activities to an area in Uganda where serious rodent problems are reported but where local capacity to address the research is still limited. This study will be conducted in Tanzania (Morogoro and Dodoma regions) and Uganda (along Nile River) where farmers grow maize and rice as staple food. The results from this study will be presented to the scientific community (journal articles, conference participations) but also shared with agricultural authorities and of course shareholders like small and large farms (extension leaflets, radio and TV programmes, extension workshops).

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Leirs Herwig

Research team(s)

• Evolutionary ecology group (EVECO)

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

Bird-tick interactions supposedly affect the human risk of tick-borne diseases. Making use of diagnostic tests, this project aims to increase our understanding of the contribution of woodland songbirds and bird-specialized ticks in the terrestrial cycles of Borrelia burgdorferi s.l. and rickettsial bacteria by focussing on the competence of bird-specialized ticks to transmit these bacteria.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Heylen Dieter

Research team(s)

• Evolutionary ecology group (EVECO)

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

Because of the strong increase of the wild boar population in the fragmented Flemish landscape, more and more agricultural damage is reported. This agricultural damage by the wild boar is the central issue of this PhD research. An impact inventarisation will give an insight about the financial consequences of agricultural damage by wild boars. Next, a model will be developed which makes it possible to assess the specific conditions which makes agricultural fields sensible for damage by the wild boar. Also, the development of a distribution model will make it possible to estimate the future distribution of the wild boar in Flanders. The combination of these research topics will make it possible to make a risk analysis about the consequences of the wild boar for the agricultural sector.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Leirs Herwig
• Fellow: Rutten Anneleen

Research team(s)

• Evolutionary ecology group (EVECO)

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

Evolutionary divergence of directly transmitted virus lineages is often thought to occur either via codivergence with their hosts or due to the micro-evolutionary processes related to isolation by distance. Yet, in case of rapidly evolving RNA viruses with reservoir hosts that have distinct habitat preferences, landscape heterogeneity may be an important factor in virus divergence. Unpreferred host habitat is, through its effect on host density, expected to pose a barrier for virus gene flow, even in the absence of genetic isolation in the host. This is a consequence of host density thresholds for successful viral transmission. This project aims to investigate the role of multi-scale landscape patterns in shaping spatiotemporal patterns of viral divergence in two distinct rodent-borne RNA viruses: Puumala hantavirus in Europe and Mopeia arenavirus in Eastern Africa. On a short-term and regional scale, we will study how local land use patterns affect viral clustering through space. On a long term and continental scale we will investigate how virus success in different genetic host groups has led to the types of viruses currently present in these rodents and how this pattern is affected by historic changes in landscape patterns.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Leirs Herwig
• Co-promoter: Gouy de Bellocq Joëlle
• Co-promoter: Matthysen Erik

Research team(s)

• Evolutionary ecology group (EVECO)

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

Although songbird-tick systems can affect the human risk of tick-borne diseases, little is known about the competence of birds and bird-specialized ticks to acquire, replicate and transmit tickborne pathogenic agents in the wild. This project aims at increasing our insights into the contribution of resident songbirds and bird-specialized ticks (Ixodes arboricola and I. frontalis) in the terrestrial cycles of Borrelia burgdorferi s.l. and several rickettsial bacteria by focussing on their infection risk and capacity to transmit the bacteria.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Heylen Dieter

Research team(s)

• Evolutionary ecology group (EVECO)

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

Our general objective is to set up an information structure about the Poneroid ants existing in Ecuador. To achieve our objective we will combine the Ecuadorian and Belgian competences to investigate the specific status of as many Ecuadorian Poneroid species as possible.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Backeljau Thierry

Research team(s)

• Evolutionary ecology group (EVECO)

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

The impact of A. molliculum on populations of pear psylla will be studied, together with the impact of different aspects of orchard management on the populations of A. molliculum. A phenological population dynamics model of A. molliculum will be made based on counts in orchards. The model, which uses temperature data as input, can be used by pear growers to check whether they should change the timing of certain management practices to minimalize the damage on velvet mite populations and to unburden them during sensitive periods. This way the already present -but often strongly declined- velvet mite populations will be stimulated so they can be an important factor in the battle against pear psylla.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Leirs Herwig
• Fellow: Brenard Nathalie

Research team(s)

• Evolutionary ecology group (EVECO)

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

This project aims to increase our understanding, by focussing on: 1) the infestation risk of ticks in woodland songbirds, 2) the capacity of bird-specialized ticks to transmit Borrelia burgdorferi bacteria, the causative agents of Lyme disease in humans, and 3) the mechanisms of the spread of ticks and their diseases by woodland songbirds. The project focuses on two common hole-breeding songbird acting as tick-hosts, and three tick species with totally different life styles that commonly parasitize terrestrial songbirds in Europe and that co-occur in woodlands.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Matthysen Erik
• Fellow: Heylen Dieter

Research team(s)

• Evolutionary ecology group (EVECO)

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

The general objective of this project is to reduce the burden of rodent pests on the livelihoods of farmer communities in Wolaita and Dawro Zones. The Development specific objectives are to document the local importance of rodents in agriculture and public health and increase awareness and preparedness among ties.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Leirs Herwig

Research team(s)

• Evolutionary ecology group (EVECO)

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

This conference is an initiative of the 'Consortium Congo 2010' (the University of Kisangani, the Royal Museum for Central Africa, the Royal Belgian Institute of Natural Sciences and the National Botanic Garden of Belgium) and the 'Centre de Surveillance de la Biodiversité' in Kisangani to facilitate interactions and collaborations among Congolese, Belgian and international teams and experts involved in various fields of biodiversity-related research in the Congo Basin. http://congobiodiversityconference2014.africamuseum.be/

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Verheyen Erik

Research team(s)

• Evolutionary ecology group (EVECO)

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

This project represents a formal research agreement between UA and on the other hand the client. UA provides the client research results mentioned in the title of the project under the conditions as stipulated in this contract.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Matthysen Erik

Research team(s)

• Evolutionary ecology group (EVECO)

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

In this project, I propose to examine how host metapopulations are distributed at low densities, to describe how host behaviour shapes this spatial distribution, and to test whether these processes can account for the re-emergence of infections following apparent extinctions.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Hughes Nelika

Research team(s)

• Evolutionary ecology group (EVECO)

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

The main goal of this project is to evaluate and compare the performance and the constraints in the use of the two mostly used systematic conservation planning tools, Marxan and Zonation, in a tropical terrestrial setting. First, I will collect and process information on biodiversity, ecosystem services and socio-economy of the Tunari National Park of Bolivia. These data will then be used to model the potential suitability of the habitat under current and future predicted climatic scenarios. Finally, I will use Marxan and Zonation to generate a decisionsystem about conservation action for biodiversity and ecosystem services while taking into account anthropogenic and economical requirements, as well as habitat fragmentation and connectivity issues.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Matthysen Erik
• Co-promoter: Strubbe Diederik
• Fellow: Fastré Constance

Research team(s)

• Evolutionary ecology group (EVECO)

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

For a better understanding of the transmission of infections, an integrative approach can prove very useful. With the ultimate aim of creating stochastic, individual-based mathematical models of the transmission of a rodent-borne virus (Mopeia virus in the African multimammate mouse Mastomys natalensis), we will use laboratory as well as field experiments to collect the data necessary to feed the models. These models allow us to test fundamental epidemiological theories that have so far proven elusive to prove but are now, thanks to the unique field setup that will be used, possible to test.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Leirs Herwig
• Fellow: Borremans Benny

Research team(s)

• Evolutionary ecology group (EVECO)

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

This is an interdisciplinary project submitted by a German anc! a Belgian partner with complementary expertise in vir% gy and ecology. It is concerned with studying the ec% gy of Arenaviruses that can cause hemorrhagic fever in humans. Our understanding of the transmission mode and viral dynamic of Arenaviruses in wild/ife, however, is very limited. The natural reservoir of some Old Word Arenaviruses, including Lassa virus, is reported to be rats of the genus Mastomys. /n addition, it is a/so not known whether different types of Arenaviruses differ in their pathogenicity in their natural hosts. The object of th is work is to use experimental models and field work to address the issues described above. A better understanding of this issue might help us to identify the risk factor for zoonotic transmission of Arenaviruses from animals to humans.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Leirs Herwig

Research team(s)

• Evolutionary ecology group (EVECO)

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

This project represents a formal research agreement between UA and on the other hand VLIR. UA provides VLIR research results mentioned in the title of the project under the conditions as stipulated in this contract.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Leirs Herwig

Research team(s)

• Evolutionary ecology group (EVECO)

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

We will study how the combination of territory quality, habitat fragmentation and isolation shape reproductive, dispersal, settlement, and territorial strategies in fragmented populations of a tropical, cooperative breeding bird species.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Matthysen Erik

Research team(s)

• Evolutionary ecology group (EVECO)

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

In this project, I will study the role of founder effects and genetic diversity of introduced populations in explaining the invasion success of non-native species. Here, I will use the use the invasion of Europe by ring-necked parakeets to study how founder effects influence levels of genetic diversity and structure of invading populations, and how this impacts invasion success.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Strubbe Diederik

Research team(s)

• Evolutionary ecology group (EVECO)

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

In this project, I propose to examine fundamental questions of how the social and spatial structure of host populations affects the spread and persistence of an infectious disease and the behavioural mechanisms that drive this structure. To do so, I will use the quintessential infectious disease, plague (Yersinia pestis), and the major host of plague within Central Asia, the great gerbil (Rhombomys opimus).

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Hughes Nelika

Research team(s)

• Evolutionary ecology group (EVECO)

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

This project will develop a new real-time localization system for large-scale monitoring of movements of small free-living birds. The ultimate aim is to develop small miniaturised tags (max 1g) that send spatial information to detection modules in the field, which in turn send this information to a central receiving system. The objective of the current proposal is to clarify the limits and possibilities of this system.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Matthysen Erik
• Co-promoter: Weyn Maarten

Research team(s)

• Evolutionary ecology group (EVECO)

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

The overall objective of SPEEDY is to obtain integrated insight into the responses of populations and communities to urbanization. The integrated nature of our research programme refers to the fact that we consider different biological levels (communities, populations) and we specifically address interactions between both ecological and evolutionary responses (eco-evolutionary dynamics). We also seek mechanistic explanations by looking at organismal traits, consider different stressors associated with urbanization, and perform concerted research on different organism groups and spatial scales. The research will translate into a capacity to provide improved predictions of responses of natural communities to urbanization by incorporating evolutionary responses.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Matthysen Erik

Research team(s)

• Evolutionary ecology group (EVECO)

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

The project investigates both the virulence and the diversity of African Mycobacterium ulcerans using different molecular biological tools to gain fundamentel insights into Buruli ulcer disease.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Leirs Herwig

Research team(s)

• Evolutionary ecology group (EVECO)

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

This project represents a research agreement between the UA and on the onther hand IWT. UA provides IWT research results mentioned in the title of the project under the conditions as stipulated in this contract.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Leirs Herwig

Research team(s)

• Evolutionary ecology group (EVECO)

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

The aim of the project is to understand how concomitant infection with helminths and viruses affects the ecology and evolutionary outcome of host-parasite interactions. Concomitant infection, which refers to the situation where two or more infectious agents coexist in the same host, is frequent in nature (Cox 2001). The interaction between concomitant infecting parasites can modify host susceptibility, parasite load intensity and the pattern of parasite distribution within the host population (Cattadori et al. 2008). In parasite communities, the interaction can be direct, when parasites compete for the same resource (e.g. space or food), or indirect, when the host's immune response toward one parasite affects its ability to control a second parasite. Viruses and helminth parasites provoke different immune responses (TH1 in the case of viruses vs TH2 in the case of helminths) (Cox 2001). During concomitant infection there is a trade-off between these two types of responses - once the host invests in one type of response, its investment in the other is reduced leading to an indirect interaction between viruses and helminths via the host.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Leirs Herwig

Research team(s)

• Evolutionary ecology group (EVECO)

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

Mobility is one of the most essential characteristics of life, and is closely linked with the acquisition and use of spatial information. We test two general hypotheses using field data and behavioural experiments on songbirds: (a) individuals build up spatial information in the course of their life which they use in subsequent movement decisions, and this creates carry-over effects between life stages; (b) individuals differ consistently in their use of spatial information, and this explains part of the within-population variation in mobility patterns.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Matthysen Erik

Research team(s)

• Evolutionary ecology group (EVECO)

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

Understanding the evolution and epidemiology of RNA viruses in their natural hosts is essential for disease emergence prediction and control. Arenaviruses and hantaviruses are (mostly rodent-borne) RNA viruses causing hemorrhagic fevers and neurological disorders in humans. They are well studied in Europe and the Americas but understudied in Africa. However recent discoveries of new viruses suggest they are highly diverse in Africa. Based on previous data, it has been assumed that both groups of viruses have had long co-evolutionary histories with their hosts. However, this has not been adequately tested for African arenaviruses, and a recent study of hantaviruses instead suggests a very short co-history of preferential host switching, which has massive implications for viral emergence and control. This project intends to fill the gap in scientific knowledge of these viruses in Africa by investigating their biodiversity, biogeography and evolutionary history in relation to their hosts.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Gouy de Bellocq Joëlle

Research team(s)

• Evolutionary ecology group (EVECO)

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

This project aims to investigate how large and small scale genetic variation of Puumala virus (PUUV), a common hantaviral zoonosis in Europe, is linked to heterogeneity in PUUV epidemiology and potential micro-evolutionary patterns in Belgium. Secondly, want to identify the ecological drivers of the observed genetic variation in PUUV, taking into account reservoir host genetics.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Tersago Katrien

Research team(s)

• Evolutionary ecology group (EVECO)

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

Contrary to the large, well-mixed theoretical populations on which the spread of infectious disease has traditionally been modelled, most wildlife and human populations are socially or spatially structured into distinct groups. This is significant, as infection transmission within a structured population will also depend on group dynamics including group connectivity via individual movements. But while theoretical studies have modelled the effects of population structure and connectivity on infection dynamics, the behavioural mechanisms driving connectivity have remained largely unstudied. This project will redress this fundamental issue, using the quintessential infectious disease, plague (Yersinia pestis), and one of its major hosts, great gerbils (Rhombomys opimus), to explore how social and spatial structures within populations affect infection dynamics. Specifically, this project aims to: 1) examine how the movements of great gerbils, their predators and other secondary hosts contribute to connectivity within structured great gerbil populations, and whether there are systematic differences in these measures in different landscapes; and 2) implement a large field experiment to test whether derived hypotheses of connectivity account for the spread of fleas (and potentially, therefore, of plague) through structured populations.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Hughes Nelika

Research team(s)

• Evolutionary ecology group (EVECO)

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

Songbird-tick interactions supposedly affect the human risk of tick-borne diseases. Making use of diagnostic tests, this project aims to increase our understanding of the contribution of resident woodland songbirds and bird-specialized ticks in the terrestrial cycles of Borrelia burgdorferi s.l. by focussing on the infection risk in birds, and the capacity of bird-specialized ticks to transmit Borrelia bacteria.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Heylen Dieter

Research team(s)

• Evolutionary ecology group (EVECO)

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

This project aims to increase our understanding, by focussing on: 1) the infestation risk of ticks in woodland songbirds, 2) the capacity of bird-specialized ticks to transmit Borrelia burgdorferi bacteria, the causative agents of Lyme disease in humans, and 3) the mechanisms of the spread of ticks and their diseases by woodland songbirds. The project focuses on two common hole-breeding songbird acting as tick-hosts, and three tick species with totally different life styles that commonly parasitize terrestrial songbirds in Europe and that co-occur in woodlands.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Matthysen Erik
• Co-promoter: Leirs Herwig
• Fellow: Heylen Dieter

Research team(s)

• Evolutionary ecology group (EVECO)

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

Contrary to the large, well-mixed theoretical populations on which the spread of infectious disease has traditionally been modelled, most wildlife and human populations are socially or spatially structured into distinct groups. This is significant, as infection transmission within a structured population will also depend on group dynamics including group connectivity via individual movements. But while theoretical studies have modelled the effects of population structure and connectivity on infection dynamics, the behavioural mechanisms driving connectivity have remained largely unstudied. This project will redress this fundamental issue, using the quintessential infectious disease, plague (Yersinia pestis), and one of its major hosts, great gerbils (Rhombomys opimus), to explore how social and spatial structures within populations affect infection dynamics. Specifically, this project aims to: 1) examine how the movements of great gerbils, their predators and other secondary hosts contribute to connectivity within structured great gerbil populations, and whether there are systematic differences in these measures in different landscapes; 2) implement a large field experiment to test whether derived hypotheses of connectivity account for the spread of fleas (and potentially, therefore, of plague) through structured populations; and 3) seek complex but coherent spatial patterns in the distribution of infected groups using point pattern analyses.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Leirs Herwig
• Fellow: Hughes Nelika

Research team(s)

• Evolutionary ecology group (EVECO)

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

Developmental homeostasis (or developmental buffering) is a key factor in evolutionary process because it can maintain phenotypic consistency in spite of environmental and genetic variation and because it can hide cryptic genetic variation from selection. Despite a large interest, the basis of canalization and developmental stability (DS), the two main components of developmental buffering, are little understood. The aim of the project is to investigate the relationship between canalization and DS and to gain insights into their basis by studying their patterns of variation in different model species.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Van Dongen Stefan
• Co-promoter: Leirs Herwig
• Fellow: Breno Matteo

Research team(s)

• Evolutionary ecology group (EVECO)

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

For a better understanding of the transmission of infections, an integrative approach can prove very useful. With the ultimate aim of creating stochastic, individual-based mathematical models of the transmission of a rodent-borne virus (Mopeia virus in the African multimammate mouse Mastomys natalensis), we will use laboratory as well as field experiments to collect the data necessary to feed the models. These models allow us to test fundamental epidemiological theories that have so far proven elusive to prove but are now, thanks to the unique field setup that will be used, possible to test.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Leirs Herwig
• Fellow: Borremans Benny

Research team(s)

• Evolutionary ecology group (EVECO)

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

The evolutionary interactions of host-pathogen systems are a very interesting topic of fundamental biology, but also contribute to a better understanding of the ecology and epidemiology of infections. I will focus my research on Mopeia virus (MOPV), which is closely related to the dangerous human pathogen Lassa virus (LASV) and has the same rodent host, Mastomys natalensis. MOPV is not pathogenic to humans though, making research on this virus in natural populations of M. natalensis much more feasible. I am aiming to identify the basis of the MOPV-M. natalensis interaction, by performing infection experiments in a laboratory population of M. natalensis and by genotyping different strains of MOPV. After this, I will analyse the variability of these loci in host and virus genome in natural populations through time and space.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Leirs Herwig
• Co-promoter: Gouy de Bellocq Joëlle
• Fellow: Gryseels Sophie

Research team(s)

• Evolutionary ecology group (EVECO)

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

We aim to investigate space-time genetic variation of PUUV in Belgium and how it is linked to heterogeneity in PUUV transmission efficiency, persistence and potential micro-evolutionary patterns. Second, we want to identify the ecological drivers of the observed PUUV variation, taking into account reservoir host genetics.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Leirs Herwig
• Fellow: Helsen Sanne

Research team(s)

• Evolutionary ecology group (EVECO)

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

This project represents a formal service agreement between UA and on the other hand VLIR. UA provides VLIR research results mentioned in the title of the project under the conditions as stipulated in this contract.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Leirs Herwig

Research team(s)

• Evolutionary ecology group (EVECO)

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

This is a fundamental research project financed by the Research Foundation - Flanders (FWO). The project was subsidized after selection by the FWO-expert panel.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Backeljau Thierry

Research team(s)

• Evolutionary ecology group (EVECO)

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

The European beaver (Castor fiber) was illegally reintroduced after an absence of more than one century. I will examine which habitat parameters are the most important for settling and determine which areas are suitable but unoccupied. Then I'll evaluate how easy/difficult these suitable areas can be reached. The effect of river characteristics on the dam building behavior will be analysed. Finally, we will determine a number of areas in Flanders where the dams potentially cause the most economical damage.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Leirs Herwig
• Fellow: Swinnen Kristijn

Research team(s)

• Evolutionary ecology group (EVECO)

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

We want to investigate the biological, ecological and epidemiological components of vector-borne diseases (VBD) introduction, emergence and spread, and to propose innovative tools for controlling them, building on the basis of acquired knowledge. Human behaviour and risk perception are an important component of VBD introduction, emergence and spread. The consequences triggered by VBD for human and veterinary public health in Europe are just starting to emerge in public awareness. We will also account for this aspect of human and veterinary public health in our project.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Leirs Herwig

Research team(s)

• Evolutionary ecology group (EVECO)

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

The invasion success of nonnative species depends on the interaction between life history characteristics of species and environmental characteristics. It however remains difficult to characterize the probability of successful species invasions, or to explain why some introductions are successful whereas others fail. This is, at least partly, due to the fact that, up to date, the role of genetic variation during species invasions has largely been ignored. Based upon the invasion of Europe by the Afro-Asiatic ring-necked parakeet (Psittacula krameri), this pilot study will assess whether genetic variation within a population relates to the pattern of population growth and geographic expansion of that population. This study will also test whether the genetic structure between European parakeet populations is linked to climate factors. This way, new information on the role of (intraspecific) genetic variation during biological invasions will be obtained. This knowledge can then be used to identify populations that are most likely to adapt to the current and future (climate) environments, or to gauge how the invasiveness of populations can change in reaction to climate change.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Strubbe Diederik

Research team(s)

• Evolutionary ecology group (EVECO)

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

This project represents a research agreement between the UA and on the onther hand IWT. UA provides IWT research results mentioned in the title of the project under the conditions as stipulated in this contract.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Van Dongen Stefan
• Fellow: Iserbyt Arne

Research team(s)

• Evolutionary ecology group (EVECO)

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

Study of the reduction in developmental stability in plants exposed to different doses of radiation in Chernobyl.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Van Dongen Stefan

Research team(s)

• Evolutionary ecology group (EVECO)

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

The main objective of het project is to get baseline reference data on the C stocks and biodiversity in pristine and intervened dense tropical forests of the Congo Basin and to increase our understanding in the relationship between both variables as a function of forest management (and the likelihood that the societies will preserve these stocks in the long-term).

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Leirs Herwig

Research team(s)

• Evolutionary ecology group (EVECO)

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

This is a fundamental research project financed by the Research Foundation - Flanders (FWO). The project was subsidized after selection by the FWO-expert panel.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Matthysen Erik

Research team(s)

• Evolutionary ecology group (EVECO)

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

Buffering is the process that minimizes phenotypic variation arising from genetic and environmental perturbations during development. It is considered an important process in evolutionary biology due to its ability to conceal genetic variation from selection, but nevertheless little is known about its genetic and developmental basis. This projects aims to fill this gap in our knowledge by examining the underlying processes of developmental stability in two unique vertebrate model systems. Developmental stability is the component of development buffering that acts at the individual level by buffering against random variation arising in the developmental process. It can be easily empirically determined by quantifying the level of fluctuating asymmetry, i.e. random deviations from perfect symmetry in a bilateral symmetric trait. To investigate the genetic and developmental basis of developmental stability, I will (1) investigate the associations between levels of fluctuating asymmetry and the presence and severity of congenital abnormalities in early deceased human fetuses (based on a hospital collection) and rabbit fetuses (experimentally exposed to teratogenic products) and (2) use genome-wide screening to detect mutations that influence the level of fluctuating asymmetry. It is expected that this multidisciplinary approach will indicate (1) developmental systems and (2) genetic pathways that affect developmental stability.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Matthysen Erik
• Fellow: Bots Jessica

Research team(s)

• Evolutionary ecology group (EVECO)

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

Arenaviruses are viruses normally carried by rodents. Some of them are highly pathogenic to humans. They are divided into the New World (NW) and the Old World (OW) groups. Until recently, it was assumed that arenaviruses stay with the rodent species in which they are found (co-speciation). While a recent study on NW arenaviruses did not find any evidence to support this assumption, the only existing study on OW arenaviruses is not convincing one way or the other. Recent discoveries of new arenaviruses suggest that their evolutionary history is more subtle than previously thought with possible transfers between species depending on the relatedness of the hosts. My project aims to i) analyze a large number of existing rodent samples from East Africa to discover new arenaviruses and test the limits of host specificity; ii) sequence new strains/species of arenaviruses starting with two I found during my first FWO postdoctoral mandate. With this expanded data on OW arenaviruses, I will analyze the processes generating variation in arenaviruses and test for co-speciation and transfer events. I will also test for signals of the selective effect arenaviruses have on their hosts by analyzing polymorphism of the host cell receptor gene of OW arenaviruses.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Matthysen Erik
• Co-promoter: Leirs Herwig
• Fellow: Gouy de Bellocq Joëlle

Research team(s)

• Evolutionary ecology group (EVECO)

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

By addressing several understudied aspects of invasions, this project aims to increase our understanding of invasion success. First, using data on bird introductions in Europe, I will assess the validity of the often used assumption of niche conservatism (i.e. the tendency of species to retain ancestral ecological traits), as niche shifts during invasion may allow species to occupy habitats different from the ones used in their native range. Second, I will use the invasion of Europe by ring-necked parakeets to study the influence of intraspecific niche variation on invasion success. Geographical variation in niche requirements can result in variation in speciesenvironment relationships, and ignoring this can lead to both over- and underestimates of the invasion potential. Lastly, most research on biotic interactions has focused on negative interactions (competition, predation). However, facilitation could be equally important and the recent colonization of European cities by different parakeet species offers an opportunity to study facilitation among invading species.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Matthysen Erik
• Fellow: Strubbe Diederik

Research team(s)

• Evolutionary ecology group (EVECO)

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

Les obiectifs orincioaux sont de continuer a arneliorer le niveau scientifiaue dans le domaine de la biolonie des rongeurs notamment c o m e vecteurs de maladies et ravageurs des cultures ; de faciliter la recherche des etudiants et doctorants sur place; de creer une nouvelle synergie entre les commuoautes scientifiques intemationales, nationales et locales par la mise a disposition des oeuvres publiees a Kisangani.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Leirs Herwig
• Co-promoter: Verheyen Erik

Research team(s)

• Evolutionary ecology group (EVECO)

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

The general aim of this project is to study the processes contributing to the evolution of host specificity in parasites, using bird-tick interactions as a model system. One of the major aims is to study transmission of parasites within and among host species. Because parasites are nidicolous and therefore restricted to nest sites (cavities), the use of nest or roost cavities by hosts in response to parasite infestation plays a crucial role in transmission. Birds can avoid cavities with parasites by using different kinds of information: the current presence of parasites, their own previous experience in the nest site (personal information) or information obtained from observing other birds (social information) - which is perhaps less likely in the case of ectoparasites. By switching between parasitized and parasite-free nests, birds may actually carry parasites to noninfested sites and thereby enhance transmission of parasites between cavities and even among host individuals or species.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Matthysen Erik

Research team(s)

• Evolutionary ecology group (EVECO)

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

This is a fundamental research project financed by the Research Foundation - Flanders (FWO). The project was subsidized after selection by the FWO-expert panel.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Matthysen Erik

Research team(s)

• Evolutionary ecology group (EVECO)

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

The aim of this project is to study host specialization and genetic structure in an ecologically specialized tick species, I. arboricola. This project will deliver novel insights into the evolution of host specialization in ticks and more generally in parasites, and the role of different mechanisms herein. In addition we will obtain detailed insights in host selection, transmission and dispersal in a group of ectoparasites with high societal relevance.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Matthysen Erik
• Co-promoter: Leirs Herwig

Research team(s)

• Evolutionary ecology group (EVECO)

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

Developmental instability (DI), the sensitivity of a developing system to random noise, is assumed to reflect quality and 'health' of populations and individuals. In this study it will be evaluated for the first time whether DI can be applied as a reliable and sensitive marker for possible teratogenic effects in experimental animals in pharmatoxicological research.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Bots Jessica

Research team(s)

• Evolutionary ecology group (EVECO)

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

To determine genetic factors involved in the evolutionary outcome of arenavirus-rodent host interaction, I will characterise genetic markers involved in the cellular host-parasite interactions of three murid-arenavirus systems: Mastomys natalensis-Morogoro virus and two new arenaviruses I discovered in 2008 in Mus minutoides and Lemniscomys rosalia. I will then investigate the polymorphism of these markers in nature.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Gouy de Bellocq Joëlle

Research team(s)

• Evolutionary ecology group (EVECO)

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Leirs Herwig

Research team(s)

• Evolutionary ecology group (EVECO)

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

Developmental instability (DI), the sensitivity of a developing system to random noise, is assumed to reflect quality and 'health' of populations and individuals. However, the literature is very heterogeneous and it is currently impossible to understand the reasons for this heterogeneity because of a lack of insights in the mechanisms that determine levels of DI. In this project we aim at gaining further insights in the mechanisms of DI.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Van Dongen Stefan
• Co-promoter: Bots Jessica

Research team(s)

• Evolutionary ecology group (EVECO)

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

This is a fundamental research project financed by the Research Foundation - Flanders (FWO). The project was subsidized after selection by the FWO-expert panel.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Van Dongen Stefan
• Co-promoter: Leirs Herwig
• Fellow: Breno Matteo

Research team(s)

• Evolutionary ecology group (EVECO)

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

This project tests the hypothesis that dispersal-related traits are subjected to different selective pressures depending on the isolation and lifespan of populations. Natterjack toads are used as a model species. Toads are collected in small isolated populations as well as larger network populations, and raised in a common environment. We measure traits that are potentially related to dispersal including development, morphology, locomotion, exploratory behaviour and habitat use. Using these data we study differentiation among populations as well as associations among traits. We also determine the extent of neutral (molecular) variation among populations.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Matthysen Erik
• Co-promoter: Van Damme Raoul
• Fellow: Maes Joke

Research team(s)

• Evolutionary ecology group (EVECO)

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

The evolutionary interactions of host-pathogen systems are a very interesting topic of fundamental biology, but also contribute to a better understanding of the ecology and epidemiology of infections. I will focus my research on Mopeia virus (MOPV), which is closely related to the dangerous human pathogen Lassa virus (LASV) and has the same rodent host, Mastomys natalensis. MOPV is not pathogenic to humans though, making research on this virus in natural populations of M. natalensis much more feasible. I am aiming to identify the basis of the MOPV-M. natalensis interaction, by performing infection experiments in a laboratory population of M. natalensis and by genotyping different strains of MOPV. After this, I will analyse the variability of these loci in host and virus genome in natural populations through time and space.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Leirs Herwig
• Co-promoter: Gouy de Bellocq Joëlle
• Fellow: Gryseels Sophie

Research team(s)

• Evolutionary ecology group (EVECO)

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

The general aim of this project is to study how individual variation in behaviour, in offspring as well as parents, contributes to variation in dispersal in natural populations. We use the great tit as a model system using dispersal data from an ongoing population study in a fragmented woodland system. The study of personalities is based on previous research showing that a standardized exploration score provides information on heritable behavioural syndromes. We study how different aspects of spatial behaviour (dispersal, home ranges, family movements during parental care) are related to each other and to personality variation. This variation will be linked also to available fitness data (survival and reproduction).

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Matthysen Erik
• Fellow: van Overveld Thijs

Research team(s)

• Evolutionary ecology group (EVECO)

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

Hantaviruses and their rodent/insectivore hosts are often taken as textbook examples of parasite-host co-evolution. But after closer scrutiny, this relationship is actually not that straightforward: the genetic variation within hantavirus lineages shows topological patterns that are considerably different from those of the hosts. In Europe this could possibly be related to the recolonization pattern since the last ice age, but the reasons behind this pattern remain to be elucidated. The purpose of our study would be to try to unravel the evolutionary drivers (e.g. local adaptation and exctinction, co-speciation, host-switching,..) and their relative roles in shaping the current geographic and allelic distribution of the European hantaviruses and their hosts. The work will be done in close co-operation with several specialized research groups (a.o. the Center of Biology and Management of Populations in Montpellier), utilizing state-of-the-art methods in molecular evolutionary genetics.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Leirs Herwig
• Fellow: Borremans Benny

Research team(s)

• Evolutionary ecology group (EVECO)

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

This project represents a formal research agreement between UA and on the other hand KMDA. UA provides KMDA research results mentioned in the title of the project under the conditions as stipulated in this contract.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Matthysen Erik

Research team(s)

• Evolutionary ecology group (EVECO)

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

This project represents a research agreement between the UA and on the onther hand IWT. UA provides IWT research results mentioned in the title of the project under the conditions as stipulated in this contract.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Leirs Herwig

Research team(s)

• Evolutionary ecology group (EVECO)

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

With this project we aim at disentangling the role of (recent) selection pressures and evolutionary response on the levels of DI and its sensitivity as a measure of stress and fitness. We will compare patterns between traits that are under stabilizing selection and under recent or more ancient directional selection.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Van Dongen Stefan

Research team(s)

• Evolutionary ecology group (EVECO)

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

Rodent population density changes at spatial and temporal scales due to environmental conditions, habitat type and interactions with the same or different species. It is important to understand the dynamics of these changes in northern Ethiopia. Objectives: (i) To establish habitat utilization of rodents in agricultural/non agricultural landscapes (ii) To investigate the population dynamics of rodent species (iii) To establish the burden of disease pathogens and the temporal variations of zoonotic agents in the rodent populations

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Leirs Herwig
• Co-promoter: D'Haese Luc

Research team(s)

• Evolutionary ecology group (EVECO)

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

This is a fundamental research project financed by the Research Foundation - Flanders (FWO). The project was subsidized after selection by the FWO-expert panel.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Leirs Herwig
• Co-promoter: Crespin Laurent
• Co-promoter: Van Gossum Hans

Research team(s)

• Evolutionary ecology group (EVECO)

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

With this project we aim at disentangling the role of (recent) selection pressures and evolutionary response on the levels of DI and its sensitivity as a measure of stress and fitness. We will compare patterns between traits that are under stabilizing selection and under recent or more ancient directional selection.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Van Dongen Stefan
• Co-promoter: Van Damme Raoul

Research team(s)

• Evolutionary ecology group (EVECO)

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

Changing environmental conditions (e.g. climate) are likely to affect the ecology of infections, through changes in the abundance of susceptible natural host populations or by affecting transmission rates (directly or through vectors). This project investigates these effects, through observations, experiments and mathematical modelling, for five model infections selected for their different characteristics (hantaviruses in voles, plague in gerbils, arenavirus in African mice, dengue fever in humans, rotaviruses in vaccinated humans). The insights are used to evaluate potential changes in burden of disease, with or without control measures.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Leirs Herwig
• Co-promoter: Beutels Philippe
• Co-promoter: Van Damme Pierre
• Co-promoter: Verhagen Ron

Research team(s)

• Evolutionary ecology group (EVECO)

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

This is a fundamental research project financed by the Research Foundation - Flanders (FWO). The project was subsidized after selection by the FWO-expert panel.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Gouy de Bellocq Joëlle

Research team(s)

• Evolutionary ecology group (EVECO)

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

Earwigs, Forficula auricularia (L.) (Dermaptera, Forficulidae), are very important predators in fruit orchards. They are capable of suppressing outbreaks of pest species like pear psyllid and different aphid species, in apple and pear orchards. Earwigs could play an important role in integrated fruit orchards en could be an essential key factor in organic fruit growing. However, earwig populations are very unstable with large interannual variations in population size. Therefore, their practical use in control strategies stays very limited. To find solutions for this problem we are building a population model which will allow us to analyse the population with sensitivity analysis, so that critical periods in the life-cycle could be identified as targets for interventionbs. This should result into an optimal orchard management were abiotic and biotic factors and the impact of human actions on the earwig population are taken into account. The existing biological information needed to create such a model is not sufficient, especially where it concerns interactions with other species. Using a combination of field -and lab experiments, we will collect information about the model parameters for such interactions. In this project we will focus mainly on density dependent factors, like parasitism (by tachinids), predation, intra- and interspecific competition.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Leirs Herwig
• Fellow: Moerkens Rob

Research team(s)

• Evolutionary ecology group (EVECO)

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Van Dongen Stefan
• Fellow: Iserbyt Arne

Research team(s)

• Evolutionary ecology group (EVECO)

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

This project will produce a landscape ecological model that allows to quantify the effect of planned or realised changes in the Antwerp Harbour area on the connectivity between natural animal populations. The model is based on analysis of least-cost paths as a function of landscape resistance. The model is parameterized for a number of target species including natterjack toad and bats with additional species to be determined. The project will deliver a practical instrument for monitoring the functioning of the Ecological Infrastructure in the harbour area.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Matthysen Erik
• Co-promoter: Meire Patrick

Research team(s)

• Evolutionary ecology group (EVECO)

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Jordaens Kurt

Research team(s)

• Evolutionary ecology group (EVECO)

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

The project is aimed at capacity development at the Department of Wildlife Management at the Sokoine University of Agriculture, in teaching as well as in research. This will be done by improving the zoology laboratory facilities, training Ph.D.- and M.Sc.-students and supporting studies on wildlife ecology and human-wildlife interactions in and around the recently established Saadani National Park. The vertebrate thuna of the park will be inventoried and the ecology of selected model species will be studied. This park is confronted by a number of ecological threats that are related to human livelihood issueg in neighboüring conununities such as blockage of wildlife migratory corridors, habitat loss and use of natural resources. Given the complexities of the threats, both ecological and social studies are crucial. The project will investigate the possible causes, éffects and costs of conflict between local social actors and the park. The specific developmental objective of the project is thus to create a scientific basis for better management of the Saadani ecosystem, within and around the park, while the overall academie objective is to attain academie excellence in wildlife management research and training at SUA.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Leirs Herwig
• Co-promoter: Verhagen Ron

Research team(s)

• Evolutionary ecology group (EVECO)

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

Developmental instability (DI), the sensitivity of a developing system to random noise, is assumed to reflect quality and 'health' of populations and individuals. However, the literature is very heterogeneous and it is currently impossible to understand the reasons for this heterogeneity because of a lack of insights in the mechanisms that determine levels of DI. In this project we aim at gaining further insights in the mechanisms of DI.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Van Dongen Stefan

Research team(s)

• Evolutionary ecology group (EVECO)

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

This project aims to model viability of threatened bird populations in highly fragmented biodiversity hotspot in Kenya, based on demographic data, behavioural observations and landscape connectivity analysis. The results will be integrated in a multidisciplinary study on reforestation priorities within the study area.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Matthysen Erik
• Fellow: Aben Job

Research team(s)

• Evolutionary ecology group (EVECO)

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Leirs Herwig
• Fellow: Kennis Jan

Research team(s)

• Evolutionary ecology group (EVECO)

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

Buruli ulcer (BU), a skin disease caused by Mycobacterium ulcerans, is endemic in Ghana. Until now little research has been carried out in Ghana to identify the reservoir of this disease. This project aims at carrying out research in order to acquire knowledge about the reservoir and mode(s) of transmission of BU in Ghana allowing the development of prevention strategies. This will lead to a sustainable decrease in morbidity of BU. The research will contribute to developing and promoting NMIMR as a recognised "centre of excellence" for the integrated study of BU at a high academic standard.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Leirs Herwig

Research team(s)

• Evolutionary ecology group (EVECO)

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

In this initiative we will disseminate information on the topic of rodent control in agricultural fields. We aim to spread recently obtained research results with a strong potential for practical implementation. Hereby we will create, for the very first time, the possibility for village executive offiers, district officers, the agricultural officers form the Rodent Control Centre and the researchers from SUA and UA to meet all together and to exchange their respective experiences and their know-hows about the topic.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Leirs Herwig

Research team(s)

• Evolutionary ecology group (EVECO)

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

The primary project airns at relating neutral genetic divergence to quantitative genetic divergence within a metapopulation framework caused by habitat fragmentation. The model organisms for this study are wolf spiders (Lycosidae: Pardosa). Although these animals show several interesting features for this kind of work, the picture they may provide on the etfrts of habitat fraginentation wifl be biased towards organisros that are characterised by (1) relatively high dispersal capabilities (running, ballooning), (2) obligate outcrossing, (3) differential sex ratios (affecting, for example, effèctive population sizes), and (4) possible resource limitations due to variable prey abundance. The present proposal for a visiting postdoctoral fellowship therefore aims at expanding the scope and picture of the primary project by focusing on a number of terrestrial gastropods. Slugs and snails can indeed be regarded as 'complementary' to wolf spiders because on the one hand they are ground-dwelling orgarnisms that belong to the same macroscopic size category as wolf spiders, while on the other hand (1) they have more limited dispersal capacities, (2) they are hermaphrodites that may be not obligatory outcrossers, (3) they have no differential sex ratios, and (4) they are probably much less limited by food supplies. Consequently, the research conducted during the visiting postdoctoral fellowship will strengthen the primary project because the comparison of spatial structuring in 'neutral' vs. quantitative genetic variation in wolfspiders and terrestrial gastropods will provide a more general picture of the effects of habitat fragmentation by contrasting a wider array of interfering, ecologically relevant factors, It should be emphasised that hitherto very few studies have addressed the effects of habitat fragmentation in terrestrial gastropods, so that the fellowship is expected to provide much needed basic data on this issue. Hence the comparative work on wolf spiders and terrestrial gastropods is expected to lead to novel insights in the effects of habitat fragmentation in abundant, speciose and ecologically important taxa, that unfortunately still all too often are neglected in landscape management and conservation biology.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Backeljau Thierry

Research team(s)

• Evolutionary ecology group (EVECO)

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

This project aims to study factors that affect the long-term population viability of Afrotropical bird species for which forest deterioration and isolation act synergistically at different spatial scales. We will parameterize and integrate spatially-explicit metapopulation-, forest- and landscape-models that encompass both fine-grained and coarse-grained dynamic processes.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Matthysen Erik

Research team(s)

• Evolutionary ecology group (EVECO)

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

The overall aim of my research is to determine the intrinsic, extrinsic and genetic factors involved in the evolutionary outcome of Mopeia-Mastomys natalensis interactions in wild populations. In this context, I am planning to isolate and characterise MHC genes, orthologous to those found to be polymorphic and associated to RNA virus immune responses in other rodents.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Gouy de Bellocq Joëlle

Research team(s)

• Evolutionary ecology group (EVECO)

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

Species showing multiple morphs present a challenge for evolutionary theory. Current explanations for the evolution of female-limited polymorphism do not suffice to account for the recently observed variation in female morph frequencies, which is far greater than previously appreciated. Focus on variation in density and frequency in relation to morph-specific fitness, behaviour and morphology should allow reaching a more general explanation.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Van Dongen Stefan
• Fellow: Iserbyt Arne

Research team(s)

• Evolutionary ecology group (EVECO)

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

The purpose of this sabbatical leave is to answer a number of research questions using state-of-the-art statistical analyses on long-term datasets. This includes analyses of survival, population structure and heritability of traits. In particular I will study changes in life-history traits because of climate change and the role of genetic variation therein.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Matthysen Erik

Research team(s)

• Evolutionary ecology group (EVECO)

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

The objectives of the project are to investigate i) the spatio-temporal patterns of MV occurrence in relation to M. natalensis dynamics and environmental factors in Tanzania and ii) the role of MV in the evolution of the reservoir host populations. More specifically, I will address the following questions : 1-Is there a spatio-temporal pattern in the occurrence of MV among M. natalensis populations in relation to their population dynamics? 2-What demographic traits influence the probability of an individual rat being or becoming virus antibody positive? 3- What habitat features are correlated to the presence of MV? 4- What is the evolutionary impact of MV on its host populations, especially on the MHC polymorphism?

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Leirs Herwig
• Fellow: Gouy de Bellocq Joëlle

Research team(s)

• Evolutionary ecology group (EVECO)

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

This project tests the hypothesis that dispersal-related traits are subjected to different selective pressures depending on the isolation and lifespan of populations. Natterjack toads are used as a model species. Toads are collected in small isolated populations as well as larger network populations, and raised in a common environment. We measure traits that are potentially related to dispersal including development, morphology, locomotion, exploratory behaviour and habitat use. Using these data we study differentiation among populations as well as associations among traits. We also determine the extent of neutral (molecular) variation among populations.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Matthysen Erik
• Co-promoter: Van Damme Raoul
• Fellow: Maes Joke

Research team(s)

• Evolutionary ecology group (EVECO)

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

The general aim of this project is to study how individual variation in behaviour, in offspring as well as parents, contributes to variation in dispersal in natural populations. We use the great tit as a model system using dispersal data from an ongoing population study in a fragmented woodland system. The study of personalities is based on previous research showing that a standardized exploration score provides information on heritable behavioural syndromes. We study how different aspects of spatial behaviour (dispersal, home ranges, family movements during parental care) are related to each other and to personality variation. This variation will be linked also to available fitness data (survival and reproduction).

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Matthysen Erik
• Fellow: van Overveld Thijs

Research team(s)

• Evolutionary ecology group (EVECO)

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

Species showing multiple morphs present a challenge for evolutionary theory. Current explanations for the evolution of female-limited polymorphism do not suffice to account for the recently observed variation in female morph frequencies, which is far greater than previously appreciated. Focus on variation in density and frequency in relation to morph-specific fitness, behaviour and morphology should allow reaching a more general explanation.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Van Gossum Hans

Research team(s)

• Evolutionary ecology group (EVECO)

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

The genetic basis of developmental instability is only poorly understood. In this project, its evolutionary potential and genetic basis will be studies using classic quantitative genetic experiments, QTL mapping and micro-array analyses. Since developmental instability often increases with stress, we will determine its genetic and molecular architecture under different stress conditions.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Van Dongen Stefan
• Co-promoter: De Coen Wim

Research team(s)

• Evolutionary ecology group (EVECO)

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

Earwigs, Forficula auricularia (L.) (Dermaptera, Forficulidae), are very important predators in fruit orchards. They are capable of suppressing outbreaks of pest species like pear psyllid and different aphid species, in apple and pear orchards. Earwigs could play an important role in integrated fruit orchards en could be an essential key factor in organic fruit growing. However, earwig populations are very unstable with large interannual variations in population size. Therefore, their practical use in control strategies stays very limited. To find solutions for this problem we are building a population model which will allow us to analyse the population with sensitivity analysis, so that critical periods in the life-cycle could be identified as targets for interventionbs. This should result into an optimal orchard management were abiotic and biotic factors and the impact of human actions on the earwig population are taken into account. The existing biological information needed to create such a model is not sufficient, especially where it concerns interactions with other species. Using a combination of field ¿and lab experiments, we will collect information about the model parameters for such interactions. In this project we will focus mainly on density dependent factors, like parasitism (by tachinids), predation, intra- and interspecific competition.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Leirs Herwig
• Fellow: Moerkens Rob

Research team(s)

• Evolutionary ecology group (EVECO)

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

Current explanations for the evolution of female-limited polymorphism do not suffice to account for the recently observed geographic variation in female morph frequencies, which is far greater than previously appreciated. A preliminary genetic study allows exploring plausible reasons for the observed variation in morph frequencies. To reach more general understanding of this polymorphism I aim at exploring the consequences of the variation in morph frequencies on female morph behaviour and morphology.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Van Gossum Hans

Research team(s)

• Evolutionary ecology group (EVECO)

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

Bubonic plague, caused by the bacterium Yersinia pestis, is a zoonose that prevails in small mammals and is transmitted by their ectoparasites, i.e. fleas. The disease occurs in natural foci spread all over the world. Up to present, the ecology of plague is still unknown; more specifically, the mechanisms that determine the presence of bubonic plague in specific regions are not well understood. This study aims at (1) contributing to the better understanding of the mechanisms that determine the presence of plague in certain regions, (2) establishing underlying ecological factors that influence the occurrence of plague and (3) identifying areas of potential plague risk in Africa. However, there is only little scientific knowledge to go by, it is difficult to formulate specific hypotheses, and consequently, also difficult to stipulate an exact scale level to work on. Therefore, the phenomena plague is studied on three different scale levels. On the first level ¿ the continental level -, the distribution of plague is considered on the continent Africa. During the last decades, Africa was characterized by a very high percentage (more then 90%) of all human plague cases. The plague problem is approached by means of a recent technique used in research concerning the ecology and epidemiology of infectious diseases, Ecological Niche Modeling (ENM). Ecological niches and potential geographic distributions are modelled using the Genetic Algorithm for Rule-set Prediction (GARP). In general GARP focuses on modelling ecologic conditions wherein a species, in this case bubonic plague, can maintain populations without immigration. Specifically, GARP relates ecological characteristics of occurrence points to those of points sampled randomly from the rest of the study region, developing a series of decision rules that best summarize factors associated with presence. As a final result, potential plague distribution areas are identified and demarcated. On the second level, the same ENM-approach is practiced for two endemic plague regions (Lushoto district, in Tanzania and Ituri district, in DRCongo) and their surroundings with this distinction that the resolution from the environmental GIS coverages is higher. In this way, other environmental variables could be studied and moreover, we could examine them in more detail. In addition, specific attention can be drawn to the transition between the plague region and their surroundings. Finally, on the third level, we focus on some villages in Lushoto district. Abiotic and biotic characteristics (soil characteristics like texture, soil humidity, soil temperature, etc.; landscape connectivity; rodent and flea species composition, climatic variables; population density in the villages and their hamlets; etc.) are collected and compared in some plague-positive and plague-negative villages in order to establish underlying ecological variables that are (partly) responsible for the presence of plague in a village.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Leirs Herwig
• Fellow: Neerinckx Simon

Research team(s)

• Evolutionary ecology group (EVECO)

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

Least-cost models are increasingly used as a simple GIS tool to quantify connectivity among habitat patches. While the method is easy to use, few data are available that allow a validation of model paths in relation to real dispersal paths. We use a combination of empirical data and behavioural simulations to test this.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Matthysen Erik
• Fellow: Driezen Kassandra

Research team(s)

• Evolutionary ecology group (EVECO)

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

This project uses the land snail Succinea putris to test several recent hypotheses on sexual selection and sperm-trading in hermaphroditic animals: 1) individuals assess the quality of their partner even during copulation, 2) individuals change the physiology of their partner to enhance their fertilization chances, 3) individuals allocate more to male structures at higher population densities and 4) reciprocal sperm-transfer not necessarily implements reciprocal fertilization.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Leirs Herwig
• Fellow: Jordaens Kurt

Research team(s)

• Evolutionary ecology group (EVECO)

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Leirs Herwig
• Fellow: Van Gossum Hans

Research team(s)

• Evolutionary ecology group (EVECO)

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

Polymorphism is common in the natural world. In many damselfly species (Odonata) multiple female morphs are encountered in natural populations. Typically, two distinct morphs occur. While one female morph (called the andromorph) resembles the conspecific male in body colouration and sometimes behaviour, the other morph (called the gynomorph) is distinct. Recent studies suggest female polymorphism to be genetically determined and female morphs to face differential selective pressures. As such, it is widely believed that the polymorphism results from sexual conflict in which females have evolved traits to avoid excessive male harassment. The overall goal of my doctoral research is to come closer to understanding the maintenance and evolution of female-limited polymorphism. My main focus will be on evaluating the following questions: ¿Although a crucial assumption, evidence remains circumstantial on whether male harassment affects female fitness negatively, and does so differential with respect to female morph. This question will be studied experimentally by exposing female morphs to variable numbers of copulations and levels of male harassment while determining female morph longevity and fecundity. In addition levels of male harassment will be quantified in natural populations that differ in male densities and female morph frequencies. Also, I will evaluate whether female morph behaviour is variable under such different densities and frequencies. ¿Quantifying the spatial and temporal variation in female morph frequencies and male densities. This will be achieved through standardised sampling in natural populations using fixed transects or a uniform sample technique with an insect net. ¿Differences in body colouration and/or behaviour may have relevance for a species' thermal ecology, especially for ectothermic insects such as damselflies. Generally darker individuals heat up faster then paler ones which allows them to achieve a higher activity level (e.g. predator avoidance, egg maturation) under unfavourable weather condition, ultimately resulting in fitness advantages. Thus, I will study thermal characteristics of males and female colour morphs under laboratory conditions and in the field. ¿Several hypotheses suggest female morphs to vary in costs and benefits under different environmental conditions and assume female morph fitness to be variable. I will study variation in female morph condition (by determining several long-term and short-term signals) under varying environmental conditions (throughout an entire flight season). Different signals may indicate individual condition during different periods within an individual's lifetime. Body size and developmental stability (fluctuating asymmetry) reflects past (larval) history, whereas short-term signals depend on current nutritional status and are highly sensitive to changes in the environment.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Van Dongen Stefan
• Fellow: Bots Jessica

Research team(s)

• Evolutionary ecology group (EVECO)

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Leirs Herwig
• Fellow: Kennis Jan

Research team(s)

• Evolutionary ecology group (EVECO)

Project website

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

Research on the application of Remaote Explosive Scent Detection (REST) using African pouched rats.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Verhagen Ron

Research team(s)

• Evolutionary ecology group (EVECO)

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

Morphological development is affected by deterministic (environment and genotype) and stochastic (developmental stability and canalisation) components. The latter potentially relates to stress and may play an important role in evolutionary processes. In this project the effects of foodstress on developmental stability and canalisation will be studied using the skull of the multimammate rat (Mastomys natalensis) as model system. The genetic basis of the stochastic components will be investigated.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Van Dongen Stefan
• Co-promoter: Leirs Herwig

Research team(s)

• Evolutionary ecology group (EVECO)

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

Rodents are responsible for substantial damage to food and cash crops worldwide. Although several species are recognized as pests, there are no quantified estimates of crop losses due to rodents in most of Ethiopia. The presence of refuge habitats may have impact on the neighbouring fields with crops. Stone bunds are a farming and land management system with several advantages including soil and water conservation, increased yields of crops and a more sustainable farming practice. However, it is also claimed by farmers that the system has created good habitats for rodents. Control measures are taken only when rodent population densities are high and heavy damage is noticed in the field. In the proposed study, we will investigate the importance of rodents in fields with and without stone bunds and determine whether rodent problems undermine the advantages of increased crop yields in the stone bund fields. Further, the study shall examine the most appropriate strategies for management of rodents in these systems and how they can be integrated in an easy to adopt package.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Leirs Herwig
• Co-promoter: D'Haese Luc

Research team(s)

• Evolutionary ecology group (EVECO)

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

In the proposed project, we will investigate the hypotheses that the ecological factors responsible for the focality are the rodent and flea fauna composition and density, soil composition, microclimate (humidity, temperature, exposure), connectivity of the landscape or a combination of such elements. Testing these hypotheses will help us in understanding how pathogens spread (or are limited) within a host population. This will in turn be a basis to develop risk maps that can predict areas where plague could possibly establish itself permanently, or where human plague is more likely to occur.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Leirs Herwig

Research team(s)

• Evolutionary ecology group (EVECO)

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

Fluctuating asymmetry is a very promising yet controversial measure of fitness. In this project, its use will be tested in detail in zebra finches and great tits

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Van Dongen Stefan
• Fellow: Baecke Xavier

Research team(s)

• Evolutionary ecology group (EVECO)

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Backeljau Thierry
• Fellow: Dillen Lubina

Research team(s)

• Evolutionary ecology group (EVECO)

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

The objective of this proposal is to complete the study of rodent-borne diseases by establishing an evolutionary framework of the host pathogen interactions. The phylogeography of the African multimammate mouse M. natalensis, reservoir for arenaviruses and other pathogens, will be realised using molecular markers. The results will be used to reconstruct the relationships among M. natalensis populations and investigate the co-evolution between M. natalensis and arenaviruses.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Leirs Herwig

Research team(s)

• Evolutionary ecology group (EVECO)

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

To determine the role of rodents and insectivores in the epidemiology of mycobacterial infections in Africa, a large number of small mammals is captured in sites in Tanzania where mycobacterial infections are reported in humans and livestock. Different organs of these animals are tested using culture methods, PCR and acid fast staining. The isolated mycobacteria are compared with previously isolated mycobacteria in humans and livestock.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Leirs Herwig
• Fellow: Durnez Lies

Research team(s)

• Evolutionary ecology group (EVECO)

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Jordaens Kurt

Research team(s)

• Evolutionary ecology group (EVECO)

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Leirs Herwig
• Fellow: Kennis Jan

Research team(s)

• Evolutionary ecology group (EVECO)

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Leirs Herwig

Research team(s)

• Evolutionary ecology group (EVECO)

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

Grasslands are the Cinderella of environmental protection; they are often overshadowed by more favoured environments such as forests or heathland. However, there is a growing awareness among ecologists of the strong links that exist between above- and belowground parts of grassland ecosystem. Under the strong and persistent heavy metal contamination significant functional shifts in grassland ecosystems may result from disturbances of both their above- and below compartments. The aim of the project is to evaluate the impact of heavy metal contamination on the relative contributions of bottom-up and top-down forces acting within and between the different compartments of grassland ecosystems. The identification of the key components and the tracing of the nutrient flow will improve our understanding of the human impact on their functioning and persistence. The identification of sensitive indicators must enable us 1) to recognize early changes in the structural and functional components of the ecosystem and 2) to assess the health status.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: De Bruyn Luc

Research team(s)

• Evolutionary ecology group (EVECO)

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

This project uses the land snail Succinea putris to test several recent hypotheses on sexual selection and sperm-trading in hermaphroditic animals: 1) individuals assess the quality of their partner even during copulation, 2) individuals change the physiology of their partner to enhance their fertilization chances, 3) individuals allocate more to male structures at higher population densities and 4) reciprocal sperm-transfer not necessarily implements reciprocal fertilization.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Jordaens Kurt
• Co-promoter: Backeljau Thierry

Research team(s)

• Evolutionary ecology group (EVECO)

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

We aim to investigate the behavioural mechanisms underlying variation in dispersal in birds, i.e. the degree of movement between birth and reproduction. In particular we will study (1) the relation with heritable personality traits that determine the animals' response to unfamiliar situations and/or conspecific individuals (so-called "shy-bold" continuum), and (2) the influence of parental behaviour on dispersal of offspring, notably the extent of family movements preceding dispersal.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Matthysen Erik

Research team(s)

• Evolutionary ecology group (EVECO)

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

My research aims at a first ever report of sex-role reversal in damselflies. Benefits of the project include the potential for better understanding of the evolution and the variation in animal mating systems, in particular for closely related species. A strong character of the project is the multi-species approach whereby male and female behaviours and sex ratios of several species will be compared, ultimately, with understanding of the evolutionary relationships between the studied species.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Van Gossum Hans

Research team(s)

• Evolutionary ecology group (EVECO)

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

Despite the fact that several African murines are known to spread diseases, and that some taxa are responsible for the destruction to the crops of African farmers, the taxonomy of these species is poorly known. The objective of this proposal is to combine craniometric and molecular methods to delimit and characterize some of these pest species. The result will be a tool ('DNA barcode) that allows the fast and accurate identification of these taxa, a precondition for their effective management.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Leirs Herwig
• Fellow: Lavrenchenko Leonid

Research team(s)

• Evolutionary ecology group (EVECO)

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

Fluctuating asymmetry (FA), i.e. small directionally random differences between the left and right side of a bilaterally symmetric trait, is a potentially interesting and useful indicator of various forms of stress. Although definitions may vary with different sources in the literature, the underlying developmental mechanism assumes that during growth, the developmental pathway of a trait is disturbed (by the processed named 'developmental noise') and that there may be mechanisms that attempt to limit the effects of these disturbances (the process of 'developmental stability'). The joint effect of noise and stability are known as developmental instability (Dl), where higher instability results in a, on average, higher degree of asymmetry. Many studies have shown or found indications that FA (and thus presumably Dl) increases with environmental (parasites, abiotic factors) and genetic (inbreeding, break-up of coadapted gene complexes) stress (reviewed in several chapters in Polak, 2003). Because it has been suggested that the effects of stress on FA may become apparent before important fitness consequences are observed, FA may act as an 'early warning system' (sensu Clarke, 1995) and may form an important tool to identify populations and/or species that require conservation measures before extintion is inevitable. Although of enormous potential in theory, the practical appliction of FA in general and in a conservation biology context more specifically, has been hampered by the vast heterogeneity in the observed associations between FA and stress. More specifically, the lack of general guidelines that allow to predict if and when - for which species(-groups), forms of stress and morphological traits -FA can be expected to increase with stress, has limited its use and has provoked may debates in the recent literature. This project aims at investigating the usefulness of FA as bio-marker of the potentially negative effects of inbreeding in two relatively closely related butterfly species (Pararge aegeria and Cymothoe teita). P. aegeria is a relatively common European butterfly while C. teita is a threatened and endemic species of the Taita Hills, Kenia. Both species inhabit woodlands that have become intensively affected by fragmentation and degradation worldwide. P. aegeria will be intensively studied under both controlled lab conditions and in the field. This part of the research will allow us to explore and test some fundamental aspects of factors that affect the F A-heterozygosity association ( details of specific hypotheses follow below). To achieve this, we will (i) perform a breeding experiment under controlled conditions where levels of inbreeding will be manipulated experimentally, (ii) study the FA-inbreeding association in the field, (iii) measure FA for a range of different traits that vary in functional importance and (iv) estimate genetic variation using markers with different levels of selective neutrality (microsatellite vs. allozymes, where for the latter butterflies have to be killed). This type of research can only be performed in species like P. aegeria which is relatively common and can be reared and manipulated easily in the lab. In research on threatened species, like C. teita, experimental possiblilities are limited and one should attempt to limit the impact of the research activities on the organism. Therefore, we will limit research on C. teita to measuring FA through digital fotographs and the estimation of genetic variation using microsatellite markers only, based on DNA amplified from small tissue samples. These two non-invasive and non-lethal methods will first be developed and tested in P. aegeria in the lab and field. The fundamental insights obtained from P. aegeria with respect to the FA-inbreeding associations will allow us to carefully plan the work on C. teita and to evaluate the observed patterns. In this project we specifically aim at addressing a number of fundamental questions w

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Van Dongen Stefan

Research team(s)

• Evolutionary ecology group (EVECO)

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Leirs Herwig

Research team(s)

• Evolutionary ecology group (EVECO)

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

Mastomys mice are the most important rodent pests in Africa. An existing, but site-restricted bio-economical model will be validated, for the first time under real field conditions and in cooperation with local farmers. Regional variation in population dynamics will be included in the model through the demographic analysis of existing capture-recapture data from 4 countries. The final model will provide a tool to formulate economical control strategies.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Leirs Herwig
• Fellow: Sluydts Vincent

Research team(s)

• Evolutionary ecology group (EVECO)

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

Polymorphism is common in the natural world. In many damselfly species (Odonata) multiple female morphs are encountered in natural populations. Typically, two distinct morphs occur. While one female morph (called the andromorph) resembles the conspecific male in body colouration and sometimes behaviour, the other morph (called the gynomorph) is distinct. Recent studies suggest female polymorphism to be genetically determined and female morphs to face differential selective pressures. As such, it is widely believed that the polymorphism results from sexual conflict in which females have evolved traits to avoid excessive male harassment. The overall goal of my doctoral research is to come closer to understanding the maintenance and evolution of female-limited polymorphism. My main focus will be on evaluating the following questions: ¿Although a crucial assumption, evidence remains circumstantial on whether male harassment affects female fitness negatively, and does so differential with respect to female morph. This question will be studied experimentally by exposing female morphs to variable numbers of copulations and levels of male harassment while determining female morph longevity and fecundity. In addition levels of male harassment will be quantified in natural populations that differ in male densities and female morph frequencies. Also, I will evaluate whether female morph behaviour is variable under such different densities and frequencies. ¿Quantifying the spatial and temporal variation in female morph frequencies and male densities. This will be achieved through standardised sampling in natural populations using fixed transects or a uniform sample technique with an insect net. ¿Differences in body colouration and/or behaviour may have relevance for a species' thermal ecology, especially for ectothermic insects such as damselflies. Generally darker individuals heat up faster then paler ones which allows them to achieve a higher activity level (e.g. predator avoidance, egg maturation) under unfavourable weather condition, ultimately resulting in fitness advantages. Thus, I will study thermal characteristics of males and female colour morphs under laboratory conditions and in the field. ¿Several hypotheses suggest female morphs to vary in costs and benefits under different environmental conditions and assume female morph fitness to be variable. I will study variation in female morph condition (by determining several long-term and short-term signals) under varying environmental conditions (throughout an entire flight season). Different signals may indicate individual condition during different periods within an individual's lifetime. Body size and developmental stability (fluctuating asymmetry) reflects past (larval) history, whereas short-term signals depend on current nutritional status and are highly sensitive to changes in the environment.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Van Dongen Stefan
• Co-promoter: Van Gossum Hans
• Fellow: Bots Jessica

Research team(s)

• Evolutionary ecology group (EVECO)

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

Malaria vector control is primarly based on the use of bed nets impregnated with pyrethroid insecticides. The appearance of insecticide resistance in a mosquito population can nullify the positive effect of the vector control. Appropriate monitoring of resistance to insecticides is an integral component of planning and evaluation of insecticide uses in malaria control programmes. The usual means of detecting insecticide resistance is a bioassay where a relative large number of insects has to be exposed, for a defined period of time, to an insecticide-impregnated paper. However, these bioassays are difficult to implement in field conditions. The main problems are the collection of an appropriate number of mosquitoes and the fact that a bioassay can be biased by fluctuations in temperature and age. Molecular detection systems for insecticide resistance can be usefull if the molecular resistance mechanism is known. Pyrethroids and DDT block the nerve-impuls conduction by preventing the para-type sodium channel from returning to their closed-gated configuration after an action potential. An important resistance mechanism, known as knockdown resistance or kdr, is due to a substitution in the S6 segment of domain II of the para-type sodium channel. Point mutations in the para-type sodium channel gene have been linked to kdr in several insects, including the African malaria vector An.gambiae. For An.gambiae, diagnostic PCR test have been developed for the detection of the kdr mutation. For this vector, the frequency of the kdr allele in a population was strongly correlated with the reduced mortality observed in a bioassay. The aim of this thesis is to develop diagnostic tests to detect the knockdown resistance in field populations of the African (An.arabiensis and An.funestus) and Southeast Asian (An.sundaicus, An.minimus, An.dirus, An.vagus and An.sinensis) malaria vectors. The diagnostic tests will be used to determine the kdr frequency in these vectors. Later, the developed tests will be used by the Malaria Control Programmes of Africa, Laos, Cambodia and Vietnam.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Backeljau Thierry
• Fellow: Verhaeghen Katrijn

Research team(s)

• Evolutionary ecology group (EVECO)

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

Mycobacteria can cause a variety of diseases, e.g. leprosy, tuberculosis and Buruli ulcer. Control of mycobacterial diseases is important because of the rising number of HIV-infected patients, especially in developing countries. Rodents can be a reservoir for mycobacteria and therefore a source of infection for humans and livestock. However, it is not yet clear how prevalent mycobacterial infections are in rodents and what their possible role is in the transmission of these infections. A better insight in the role of rodents will contribute to the understanding of the epidemiology of mycobacterial infections in densely populated areas with low levels of hygiene, e.g. in and around expanding cities in Africa. In this study we will try to make an inventory of the mycobacterial flora in rodents caught in and around an African city. The isolated strains will be compared, using molecular techniques, with mycobacteria isolated from humans and livestock. Until now, natural reservoirs have been poorly investigated, earlier studies focus primarily on either humans or livestock. In this study we include livestock because of its economical importance but mainly because it is a well documented source of infection for zoonotic tuberculosis. The final objective is to come to a better control of the disease with better control strategies through a better understanding of the ecology of these infections.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Leirs Herwig
• Fellow: Durnez Lies

Research team(s)

• Evolutionary ecology group (EVECO)

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

The project aims to offer the University of Kisangani the opportunity to (re)build its international contacts. This will be done through a pilot project in the department of biology, studying the rodent biodiversity in the Kisangani area, changes in this fauna due to deforestation and rodents' role as pest species in agriculture. It is expected that this project, besides its own scientific value, also will support the new dynamism within UNIKIS.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Leirs Herwig

Research team(s)

• Evolutionary ecology group (EVECO)

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

For decades the relative importance of environmental (density-independent) factors and system intrinsic feedback mechanisms (density dependence) in determining population dynamics have been debated among ecologists. Small mammal populations have been intensely studied, stimulated by the remarkable cycles that were observed in voles and lemmings in the holarctic region. More southward, small mammal populations are not cyclic and these have received less attention. Population outbreaks of small rodents in western South America and eastern Africa (such as the leaf-eared mouse Phyllotis darwini and the African multimammate rat Mastomys natalensis) are correlated with years of unusually high rainfall and increased primary production. The population dynamic patterns however appear to be very different. Both small rodents respond positively to rainfall pulses, but there are important differences in the seasonal, density-dependent and density-independent structures. In the African multimammate mouse, the density-dependent processes are of first order, suggesting a direct effect of density on population growth. The existence of delayed density-dependence in leaf-eared mouse in Chile may imply some trophic interaction with predators. In order to understand the consequences of these differences, we will investigate how demographic processes respond to environmental variability for populations having direct and delayed density-dependencies of varying strength. In addition, we need to understand the functional dependence of population growth rate on the degree of variation in demographic rates and to understand how these demographic rates have varied in the past.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Leirs Herwig

Research team(s)

• Evolutionary ecology group (EVECO)

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

Although, sexual variation is traditionally understood as being any difference exhibited between males and females, evolution has often resulted in the coexistence of alternative reproductive morphs within the sexes. Significant progress has been made in understanding within species coexistence of discrete male colour morphs, while female polymorphism is less understood. Typically, one of the female damselfly morphs is coloured like the male, while the other morphs are different. While one group of researchers argue that male-like females are functionally male mimics, others believe that males predominantly mate with the most common female morph in the population. Importantly, both field and experimental (using different insectaries with a range of densities and frequencies) studies support a relationship between population conditions (density, sex ratio, morph frequency) and morph-specific fitness correlates (i.e. survival, mating success). However, in order to explain the maintenance of female polymorphism, differences in morph-specific fitness should be encountered if fluctuations occur in population conditions. Unfortunately, only very limited information on spatial and temporal fluctuations in population conditions and related morph-specific costs and benefits is available. Our current understandings of emergence, maintenance and disappearance of multiple female morphs are even more limited. One way to examine the evolution of female polymorphism is to consider closely related species with known phylogenetic relationships. If species differ in presence/absence of multiple female morphs and in ecology then inspection of the phylogenetic tree will contribute to our understandings of female polymorphism.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Leirs Herwig
• Fellow: Van Gossum Hans

Research team(s)

• Evolutionary ecology group (EVECO)

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Leirs Herwig

Research team(s)

• Evolutionary ecology group (EVECO)

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Leirs Herwig
• Fellow: Davis Stephen

Research team(s)

• Evolutionary ecology group (EVECO)

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

Explaining the co-existence of multiple morphs within a species remains a challenge for evolutionary theory. Recent research suggests arelation between population conditions and morph-specific fitness. The aim of this project is to determine whether spatial and temporal variation in population conditions and related morph-specific fitness may explain the maintenance of multiple female morphs in damselflies. Moreover, differences in morph-specific thermal ecologies wijl be related to variation in population conditions and fitness.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Van Gossum Hans
• Co-promoter: Scheirs Jan

Research team(s)

• Evolutionary ecology group (EVECO)

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Leirs Herwig

Research team(s)

• Evolutionary ecology group (EVECO)

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Leirs Herwig

Research team(s)

• Evolutionary ecology group (EVECO)

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Backeljau Thierry
• Fellow: Verhaeghen Katrijn

Research team(s)

• Evolutionary ecology group (EVECO)

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Verhagen Ron

Research team(s)

• Evolutionary ecology group (EVECO)

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Leirs Herwig

Research team(s)

• Evolutionary ecology group (EVECO)

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Backeljau Thierry

Research team(s)

• Evolutionary ecology group (EVECO)

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Backeljau Thierry
• Co-promoter: Jordaens Kurt

Research team(s)

• Evolutionary ecology group (EVECO)

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Leirs Herwig

Research team(s)

• Evolutionary ecology group (EVECO)

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

When environments within the range of a species vary, it is unlikely that any single phenotype will confer high fitness in all situations. As a result most genotypes may express life history traits differently across environments. Moreover genotypes may also differ in reaction norms. The aim is to study life history responses to a combination of time constraints and ecological constraints imposed on larvae of Lestes viridis by using both the optimality and genetic approach.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Backeljau Thierry
• Fellow: De Block Marjan

Research team(s)

• Evolutionary ecology group (EVECO)

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

In this project, I will investigate the taxonomy of two land gastropod species complexes, Carinarion spp. and Arion intermedius and study the evolutionary significance of the interaction between self- and cross-fertilization in the colonizing capacity, the phylogenetic and phylogeographic relationships among populations and genetic strains, the genetic differentiation and the genetical/morphological diversity in both complexes.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Backeljau Thierry
• Fellow: Geenen Sofie

Research team(s)

• Evolutionary ecology group (EVECO)

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Verhagen Ron
• Fellow: Verdyck Peter

Research team(s)

• Evolutionary ecology group (EVECO)

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Verhagen Ron
• Fellow: Scheirs Jan

Research team(s)

• Evolutionary ecology group (EVECO)

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

Maintenance of genetic variation is a central aim to long-term management of free-living populations. Estimates of effective population size and gene flow often require assumptions on equilibrium between mutation, gene flow and drift, and are not applicable to strongly fluctuating or decreasing populations. In this project we use time series of genetic samples of birds and mammals to test methods calculating genetic parameters in non-equilibrium conditions.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Leirs Herwig
• Co-promoter: Verhagen Ron

Research team(s)

• Evolutionary ecology group (EVECO)

Project type(s)

• Research Project

Abstract

Developmental stability is assumed to reflect individual genetic quality. Individual developmental stability can be estimated with seeming ease, by small deviations from perfect symmetry (i.e. fiuctuating asymmetry). In this project we study the effe cts of environmental stress on the presumed association between individual genetic quality and both developmental stability and fiuctuating asymmetry.

Researcher(s)

• Promoter: Van Dongen Stefan

Research team(s)

• Evolutionary ecology group (EVECO)

Project type(s)

• Research Project