Behavior, Ecology, Evolution, and Systematics
There is a wealth of interest and expertise in behavior, ecology, evolution, and systematics associated with the UF/IFAS Entomology and Nematology Department. A particular area of strength exists in insect communication, made possible not only by the department-based authorities in pheromone and visual communication, but also by the world-renowned scientists of the USDA-ARS Center for Medical, Agricultural, and Veterinary Entomology in Gainesville. Insect and nematode host–plant relations are another strong area, with research conducted on both fundamental and applied aspects of host location and suitability.
Expertise also exists within the department on the taxonomy and systematics of a wide range of insect and nematode taxa. Breadth of research areas is increased through cooperation with taxonomists working at the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services Division of Plant Industry, systematists at the UF McGuire Center for Lepidoptera and Biodiversity, and at the UF Biology Department.
The faculty members listed below have a strong research focus in this area. Click on the names below to learn more about their research programs.
- Marc Branham Insect Systematics and Taxonomy, Professor and Graduate Coordinator
- Jaret Daniels Curator and Program Director, McGuire Center for Lepidoptera and Biodiversity
- Jamie Ellis Honey Bee Extension and Research, Gahan Endowed Professor
- Phil Hahn Insect Ecology, Assistant Professor
- Jiri Hulcr Ambrosia Symbiotic Complex, Professor
- Cameron Jack Honey Bee Toxicology, Assistant Professor
- Andrea Lucky Insect Systematics, Associate Professor, Associate Chair for Academic Programs
- Rachel Mallinger Pollinator Ecology and Conservation, Assistant Professor
- Heather McAuslane Chemical Ecology, Professor and Associate Dean, College of Agricultural & Life Sciences
- Lukasz Stelinski Agricultural Entomology, Chemical Ecology, Professor
- Lisa Taylor Behavioral Ecology, Assistant Research Scientist