Understanding Invertebrate Ecology

I am Rodica, an ecologist passionate about conservation biology, species survival and adaptation with a particular interest in population ecology.

& habitat dynamics
Through my work I aim to enhance our understanding of species adaptation and contribute to effective conservation strategies.

About me

I earned my PhD in Biology in 2010 and I am currently a senior researcher at the Emil Racoviță Institute of Speleology, part of the Romanian Academy.

My work investigates the processes and factors that influence wildlife-habitat relationships, population dynamics and biodiversity.

Research

My research interests are broadly focused on invertebrate population ecology exploring survival, distribution, microhabitat use, and habitat trade-offs.

While I have engaged in research across a diverse array of systems, my primary focus is on extreme habitats including caves, karst landscapes, arid regions, and mountainous terrains.

Opiliones

I mainly study harvestmen (Opiliones), investigating their ecological roles, habitat preferences, and survival strategies in extreme environments.

Romania is home to 56 species of harvestmen, each one adapted to unique environmental conditions. In my work I document their diversity, distribution, and ecological importance.

If you’d like to discuss research, collaboration, or just share your thoughts, feel free to reach out!