Edward Stanley

Dr. Ed Stanley's research interests cover a range of topics concerning the systematics and evolution of African squamates (snakes and lizards) and amphibians. He is particularly interested in the evolutionary patterns of the Cordylidae, a family of lizards endemic to Sub-Saharan Africa. This work requires a combination of morphological, biogeographical and phylogenetic analyses to untangle the complex processes that drive diversification. One particularly exciting aspect of this work uses High-Resolution Computed-Tomography (CT scanning) to quantify and analyze the incredible variation in the degree of armor displayed by the members of the family.

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Want to find out more about girdled lizards? Read about the diversity, ecologies and life histories of the various cordylid genera here, or watch a video about Ed's research here.