I am fascinated by the relationship between morphology and function and how these respond to selective pressures. In my dissertation, I took advantage of the vast diversity of floral traits and their interaction with pollinators to ask questions that further expand our understanding of the balance between diversity and canalization of trait evolution. I have used experimental, field, literature and phylogenetic approaches to answer my questions. For my future career, I intend to expand my research into conservation genetics and genomics to contribute directly to the conservation of the biodiversity of species and traits that captured my attention from the very beginning of my career.
During my post doc at this lab, I am studying the population structure, mating system and pollination biology of Gerbera aurantiaca (aka the ‘Hilton daisy’), which is endemic to the mist-belt grasslands of South Africa and currently listed as endangered. In addition, I am investigating why honey bees are inefficient pollinators in bird pollinated Aloes.
Previously:
PhD: University of Maryland, USA – C. B. Fenster’s Lab
Undergraduate: National University of Cordoba, Argentina – A. A. Cocucci’s Lab
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E-mail: dillercarolina@gmail.com
Pollination Research Lab 