Research interests
The research area focuses on the chemical ecology and behavior of entomopathogenic and plant-parasitic nematodes.
Entomopathogenic nematodes offer a natural alternative to synthetic pesticides for controlling insect pests. These nematodes infect and kill soil-dwelling insects, and their host-seeking behavior is strongly dependent on chemical cues. Identifying and analyzing these chemical signals helps to clarify their effects on nematode behavior. This knowledge enhances our understanding of nematode dispersal and host-finding mechanisms and can be applied to optimize biological pest control strategies.
Plant-parasitic nematodes, on the other hand, cause significant crop losses when synthetic pesticides are unavailable or restricted. This research aims to identify the chemical compounds that guide these nematodes in locating plant hosts or mating partners. The findings provide valuable insights for developing genetically resistant plants and disrupting nematode reproduction, thereby broadening the scope of potential biological control approaches. Although this line of research is not a current priority, it remains an area with potential for future development.
