The interactions between benthic invertebrates are often mediated by chemical substances. The chemical interactions are particularly relevant in predator-prey relationships, in substrate competition, and in fouling avoidance. In turn, the chemical richness of these interactions is the source of novel molecules which, potentially, can be used in pharmacology and other biotechnological applications.

Our group studies the biological basis of the production of these bioactive secondary metabolites. In particular, we analyze the ecological role that they play for the producer organism, and their quantitative and qualitative variability. We seek to ascertain the internal and external factors that determine their production.