Fernando Martínez-freiría

Biography

"My research during my Ph.D. thesis at the University of Salamanca in Spain (2004-2009) was focused on the understanding of the biogeographical and ecological factors related to the maintenance of a triple contact zone among the three Iberian vipers (Vipera aspis, V. latastei and V. seoanei) in the North of Spain. Currently, my research lines are focused on the study of biogeography, ecology and conservation of natural populations of European and North African amphibians and reptiles, particularly viperid snakes. The understanding of environmental and ecological factors related to the occurrence of contact zones is also of my concern, with a special interest for applying spatial tools to other areas and species. Within BIODESERTS, I am involved in the study of biodiversity distribution patterns across the Sahara and Sahel, carrying out field expeditions, performing species assessments and identifying areas of biogeographical interest. My researches combine GIS, SDM, and ecological, morphological and genetic data in the identification of environmental factors correlated with species occurrence, determination of spatial patterns in morphological and genetic variation, identification of geographical barriers to dispersal and gene flow, and the determination of threat risks and responses of species to Climate Change. One of my target species is the Iberian endemic Seoane’s viper (V. seoanei): a poorly known reptile restricted to the north of Iberia and threatened by Climate Change. For this species, I am studying its geographical variation in morphology and in molecular markers, for inferring adaptive responses to environmental and ecological pressures, and evolutionary scenarios. The final purpose is integrating these sources of knowledge for developing a coherent conservation plan under climate change scenarios. Other target species are Mediterranean and North African vipers such as V. latastei, Daboia mauritanica or Cerastes sp."

Research Interest

Currently, my research lines are focused on the study of biogeography, ecology and conservation of natural populations of European and North African amphibians and reptiles, particularly viperid snakes.