Fern and Lycophyte Evolution Lab
Federal University of Pernambuco | Evolutionary Biology | Ferns and Lycophytes
Federal University of Pernambuco | Evolutionary Biology | Ferns and Lycophytes
In the heart of northeastern Brazil, at the Federal University of Pernambuco, our laboratory is a center of excellence dedicated to the study of ferns and lycophytes. We unite passion and science to explore and unravel the evolutionary history, phenotypic complexity, and ecological diversity of these fascinating plant groups.
Our mission is to unravel the mysteries of the evolution, history, and diversity—both genetic and phenotypic—of these lineages, actively contributing to biodiversity conservation and the advancement of scientific knowledge in underexplored areas.
We adopt a multi-evidence approach, integrating phenotypic, genomic, and environmental data. Our goal is to understand the evolutionary processes and patterns that have shaped the flora we see today, translating complex discoveries into accessible and relevant knowledge.
We believe that science thrives on diverse perspectives. Our lab is a safe and inclusive space for everyone, regardless of race, ethnicity, gender identity, sexual orientation, religion, disability, or socioeconomic background. We actively champion equity and stand in solidarity with Black, Indigenous, People of Color (BIPOC), and LGBTQIAPN+ communities. We are committed to fostering an environment where all voices are heard, valued, and respected.
We seek to understand the evolution of plant lineages adapted to tropical environments. Our investigations cover the processes and patterns of diversification and geography, both historical and contemporary, as well as the mechanisms of divergence, convergence, natural selection, and speciation that shape this biodiversity.
We investigate evolutionary relationships and describe biodiversity using an integrative approach that explores morphological, molecular, spectral, ecological data, and predictive models. Our main focus is on the major groups of tropical ferns and lycophytes (but not exclusively!).
We study how ferns and lycophytes interact with the environment. Our studies assess the impacts of climate change, characterize flora at various scales, and map endemic, rare, and threatened species, with the ultimate goal of supporting effective conservation strategies for them.