Evolution, Systematics and Biology of Terrestrial and Groundwater Invertebrates

Andy Austin | John Jennings | Steve Cooper

Our group aims to understand the evolution of various invertebrate groups in Australia, primarily insects and crustaceans, as well as their systematics and biology. To find out more folow the links below.

Our research, although fundamental in nature, has direct application to numerous real-world issues. For example, we are studying wasps that have application as biological control agents of pest insects; groundwater beetles and crustaceans whose habitat preferences have been dictated by climate change; insects and crustaceans that have very narrow distributions and represent significant challenges for conservation agencies; groundwater species that can be used to monitor habitat integrity and the impact of mining operations; and insects that are being considered as biological control agents of Australian native plants that are weeds overseas.

A major aspect of our research is the documentation of Australia's biodiversity, and in this respect we have recognised many new species of insects and crustaceans. These include the cryptic species that can only be identified using DNA sequence data.

Collaborators and Supporters

The Evolution, Systematics and Biology of Terrestrial and Groundwater Invertebrates group aknowledges the ongoing support of Australian Research Council Australian Biological Resources Study, National Geographic, the South Australian Government and Numerous private companies and foundations.

We collaborate with a large number of research groups and often organise reciprocal laboratory exchanges