Invasive species are detrimental to the environment, the economy, and human health. Often, rapid evolution helps invasive species to adapt to new environments, increasing their potential threat. We study this evolutionary process in the African Fig Fly (Zaprionus indianus), a fruit fly that was introduced to the US from Africa. These flies are short-lived, going through many generations each growing season, which means they can evolve rapidly on a time scale we can follow. Furthermore, they aren't permanently established in Virginia--they re-invade each year from warmer locations to the south. We are testing for rapid evolution in Z. indianus flies after they invade Virginia. We study the evolution of genomes through DNA sequencing, and the evolution of traits through lab experiments. Though these flies are often considered to be a nuisance or pest when swarming the fruit bowl in your kitchen, their  changes over time can tell us a lot about rapid evolution and adaptation to different environments. Our work combines genetics, physiology, and life history to understand how invasive species succeed in new environment. Our research will help further understanding about why and how some invasive species are able to thrive as they colonize new areas in the U.S. 

Projects:

• Studying rapid evolution via:
  • population genomic analysis of North American Z. indianus populations
  • phenotypic characterization of North American Z. indianus populations
• Ecology and natural history of Z. indianus in eastern North America
• Effects of parasitoid wasps on invasive and native species
• Using CRISPR-Cas9 to study genes that may be involved in the development of the species' notable striped pattern.