Insect Behavior

Research covers a broad range of topics aimed at understanding both the evolution of behavior and its underlying mechanisms of control. Current behavioral investigations include the evolution of mating systems and sexual communication, chemical mediation of host finding and selection, hormonal and metabolic control of food choice, neuronal mechanisms of olfaction and learning, and behavioral resistance to insecticides. These projects include harmful and beneficial insects, with both fundamental goals and practical ones aimed at developing environmentally sound pest management strategies and bee keeping practices.