Research Interests

The waist of Apocrita is not only a key taxonomic feature but also plays a crucial role in their remarkable biological diversity. Ants, in particular, possess a uniquely segmented two-part waist not found in other insect groups, highlighting its taxonomic significance. However, the functional role of the waist and the reasons behind its wide morphological variation remain unclear. To address these questions, I investigate the relationship between movement, exoskeletal structure, and muscle morphology using synchrotron-based CT imaging and computer simulations.

While in Okinawa, I conducted a phylogenetic study on the genus Aphaenogaster of East Asia under the supervision of Prof. Evan Economo, using CO1 and cybertypes generated through micro-CT. This research was later expanded in Germany and is currently awaiting further development to revise the taxonomy of Aphaenogaster species in East Asia.

I am highly experienced in processing CT scan data and working with 3D post-processing software for data refinement, augmented reality environments, and 3D animation production. Additionally, I have a strong interest in macro photography, striving to obtain precise phenotypic data both 2D and 3D, analyze it quantitatively. As we enter the AI era, I am dedicating time to exploring and considering various new techniques that can be applied to entomology.