Biological control of invasive weeds and insects
My lab focuses on developing, implementing and monitoring biological control of invasive weed and insect pests. My research integrates contemporary ecological and evolutionary theory with the aim to increase the success and safety of biological control programs by better understanding how to collect, rear and release biological control agents to maximize their establishment success, population growth, and potential to adapt and spread in novel environments. Experimental approaches in the lab range from laboratory and greenhouse studies to large scale common garden and field experiments, and molecular methods.
Left and right: Brown marmorated stink bug and its parasitoid, Trissolcus japonicus (samurai wasp). Photos: Elijah Tamalas. Middle: Lily leaf beetle (Lilioceris lilii).
Pale swallow-wort infestation in Michigan. Photo: M. Szucs
