Research
We have worked on the phylogeny and evolution of decapods for almost 20 years. Our goal is to create a fully dated genus-level molecular phylogeny to investigate how trait evolution drives speciation and to clarify the drivers of diversification in marine environments and improve classification for decapods.
We are interested in the mechanisms driving speciation and adaptations in the herbivorous Sesarmidae crabs. Our phylogenetic analyses indicate that their herbivorous lifestyle and ability to degrade lignocellulose play significant roles in their speciation and ecosystem functioning.
Apart from crustaceans, we are also interested in other marine invertebrates, including octocorals and their associated species, sea slugs, horse crabs, and sea urchins. We surveyed their abundance and distribution in Hong Kong to contribute to long-term monitoring programs and conservation policy decisions.
We are interested in how artificial catchwaters impact on freshwater ecosystems, such as the genetic connectivity and diversity of targeted freshwater species. We examined the effects of water catchment on the community structure and ecosystem functioning of obstructed streams.
