Ashley Ward

Professor Ashley Ward is a member of the Department of BIO at The University of Sydney. Her research interests include behavioural ecology, terrestrial ecology, animal behaviour, ecological physiology, marine and estuarine ecology, population ecology, environmental management, ecology, and zoology. Professor Ward's work contributes to the understanding of ecological systems and their management. Her profile page provides further details on her research and academic activities.

Ashley Ward's research focuses on animal behaviour, sociality, collective behaviour, and sensory ecology. Their work explores how animals interact within groups, particularly in fish shoals, and how social dynamics influence decision-making processes. Ward investigates the mechanisms behind collective vigilance, quorum decision-making, and the role of individuality in group movement. They also examine the impact of social context on boldness and personality traits in fish species such as three-spined sticklebacks and mosquitofish. Additionally, Ward develops novel methodologies, such as 'Robofish,' to study collective behaviour. Their research highlights the interplay between sensory ecology and social interactions in shaping animal behaviour.