Enhanced modeling of swede midge population dynamics in North America.Project summary: I am currently seeking an enthusiastic, committed, and hard-working graduate student (Ph.D. or M.Sc.) interested in investigating factors affecting population dynamics of the invasive pest, Contarinia nasturtii, and developing an improved population dynamics model for this pest. The model will be used in novel ways to elucidate possible differences among regional populations, as well as for predictive insights about the conditions affecting occurrence of economically damaging populations. The project will also include experimental studies to further our understanding of factors controlling emergence phenotypes and maximum diapause duration in the swede midge, which will be incorporated into the model.
This project is part of a larger research program on the ecology and management of this important invasive species in canola and cruciferous vegetables. Please see PDF for more information.