Contributions by role
Contributions by subject area
Michael Rostas
Summary
I study the applied and fundamental ecology of agricultural insects. My research aims at increasing the sustainability of current crop pest management practices. Specifically, I am interested in insect chemical ecology, biological control and multitrophic interactions between insects, plants and pathogenic or beneficial fungi. Such interactions are mediated by chemical molecules and therefore I elucidate the role of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and other biogenic molecules that act as signals or defence compounds. In recent years I have focussed on how abiotic and biotic stress factors modulate plant VOC spectra that are induced by pest insects and act as olfactory cues for their natural enemies. These bottom-up effects influence the outcome of ecosystem services such as the biological control of insects. Other research projects have explored the role of floral, fungal and insect-derived VOCs and their potential for sustainable pest management and as biosecurity detection tools.
Agricultural Science Animal Behavior Biochemistry Ecology Entomology Environmental Sciences Evolutionary Studies Mycology Plant Science