Research interests
My research focuses on resolving taxonomic issues within the Platygastrinae (Hymenoptera: Platygastroidea). These microscopic wasps are parasitoids of gall midges (Diptera: Cecidomyiidae), and their activity has implications for agricultural and ecological research. However, progress is impeded by a lack of identification tools and an abundance of superficial species descriptions. My work applies an integrative approach, combining examination of historical material and traditional morphology with DNA barcoding and advanced imaging techniques to clarify generic and specific concepts within Platygastrinae, with emphasis on Platygaster Latreille, Isocybus Förster, and Trichacis Förster. I retain a special interest in Synopeas Förster, and in material reared from plant galls or free-living hosts.
