Research

Macroecology

Part of our research is dedicated to the understanding of macroecological patterns and processes across space, time and taxa. We are interested in how species life history traits covary, and how to use these information for predictive purposes. We are also interested in understanding to what extent observed macroecological patterns are distorted by anthropogenic impact. We have a particular interest in many aspects of species spatial ecology, especially those with strong relevance for conservation biology, such as home range, population density and dispersal. 

Large-scale conservation assessments

Our research in conservation mostly focuses on large-scale conservation assessments and underlying methods, and is largely underpinned by macroecological principles. We have performed assessments on various aspects of protected area systems such as coverage and connectivity focusing on functional differences in species demographic characteristics, spatial requirements and dispersal distances. We have also researched biodiversity indicators, trends in species conservation status over time, and projection under alternative future scenarios. Much of this research is also aimed at testing and/or developing methods and tools.

Comparative ecology and conservation

We conduct comparative on the ecology and conservation, with a primary focus on primates, and secondarily carnivores and bats. We are mostly interested in activity patterns, spatial ecology, and human-risk avoidance. 

We conduct field work on mammals and birds ecology in a site nearby Rome. We are particularly interested in how species spatial behaviour and activity pattern, and how they adapt their behaviour to avoid human activities. We make use of passive monitoring techniques such as camera traps and passive acoustic monitoring.