Research Interests
My research focuses on the superfamily Ceraphronoidea, tiny parasitoid wasps that, despite their global distribution and ecological importance, have remained largely unexplored. These insects play a crucial role in food webs as parasitoids and hyperparasitoids by regulating the populations of other insects and thereby contributing to the stability of ecosystems. Within the framework of the GBOL III: Dark Taxa project, I investigate their diversity in Germany, particularly in Baden-Württemberg. My research has shown that the actual species richness of this group is far greater than previously assumed: instead of the 35 species known so far, genetic analyses suggest at least 193 potential species in southwestern Germany alone.
My goal is to overcome existing challenges caused by the minute size and highly uniform appearance of these wasps. For example, I developed a new DNA barcoding protocol that, for the first time, enables a reliable success rate in the genetic analysis of these tiny insects. In addition to studying their genetic diversity, I also examine their ecological relationships and host associations, which remain completely unknown for more than 80% of the species. These findings help to better understand their role in complex food webs and reveal how intricately many species are interconnected.
Another key aspect of my work is the description of new species. In 2023, I identified and described the new species Aphanogmus kretschmanni and, using state-of-the-art micro-CT technology, created the first complete 3D cybertype – a digital reference model that makes this species accessible to researchers worldwide.
My research demonstrates that even in seemingly well-studied regions such as Germany, numerous undiscovered species still exist. Ultimately, through my work, I aim to promote the inclusion of so-called Dark Taxa, difficult-to-study and previously neglected insect groups, in biodiversity research and conservation. Only by understanding and naming these “invisible” species can we truly preserve the richness of life on Earth.
