Scott Costa

University of Vermont

Primary Interests:

Insect pests management using insect killing fungi and fungal effect on non-target species. Influence of biotic and abiotic stresses, especially low temperature, on insect fitness and susceptibility to disease. Development of statistically based sampling plans.

HWA Objectives:

My research on HWA focuses broadly on factors influencing its biological control and spread into new areas.  Scientists at the Entomology research lab have identified insect killing fungi virulent to HWA and we are exploring their actively in the field, in addition to their influence on non-target organisms. We are investigating the influence of temperature on HWA survival in its micro-habitat and where temperature can be expected to limit further range expansion. The influence of low temperature on predators being introduced for HWA management is also being evaluated. Concurrently, we have developed sampling plans to identify both new infestations and the population level of existing infestations of HWA.