I am interested in the adaptations of insects, particularly ants, to the characteristics and changes of their environment. My research is currently focusing on (i) the interactions between ants and plants and (ii) the ecology of invasive ant species. These researches are combining field work and chemical, behavioural and molecular ecology approaches to obtain a global understanding of the evolution and persistence of interspecific interactions.

Current projects are focusing on the Guianian myrmecophyte Hirtella physophora and its specific association with Allomerus ants. This system also involves a third partner, a sooty mould manipulated by the ants to build a trap. Our objectives are the study of these interactions and their transmission modes.

I am also developing studies on the little fire ant, Wasmannia auropunctata, a species native from South America and that has invaded several tropical areas. The objectives are the study of this species in its native range in order to understand the ecological and evolutionary processes involved during invasions.