Exploring Insect Ecology, Physiology and Behaviour
Researching biodiversity along environmental gradients and studying insect responses to extreme events is crucial for entomologists, especially within the field of entomology in Australia.
Entomology Lab @ SCU
Entomology Lab, Southern Cross University, Northern Rivers, NSW, Australia
At the Entomology Lab at SCU, our research engages entomologists in examining the interconnected topics of biological and geographical diversity concerning insects. We investigate crucial questions about how climate change affects insect ecology, behavior, and physiology, contributing to the broader field of entomology in Australia.
Entomology Lab Blog
Current Research
Dung Beetles
Macadamia IPM
Dung Beetles
We evaluate the role of dung beetles in nutrient cycling and soil health, a topic of great interest to entomologists. Additionally, we examine the impacts of extreme temperature exposure, veterinary chemicals, and dung quality on both introduced and native species, contributing to the field of entomology in Australia.
Fire Ants
Macadamia IPM
Dung Beetles
To enhance the management and eradication of Red Imported Fire Ants (RIFA) in Southeast Queensland, we are working in conjunction with entomologists to evaluate a multi-faceted strategy grounded in entomology. This approach includes testing direct control methods such as the Fire Ant Soup Operation (FASO), subterranean bait stations, and RIFA attractant stations, alongside the deployment of biological control agents. A crucial aspect of our work is also to understand and promote the role of native insects, which serve as a natural defense by out-competing and controlling the spread of fire ants, a focus that aligns with the broader field of entomology in Australia.
Macadamia IPM
Macadamia IPM
Pasture Mealybug
We are evaluating the current pests in macadamia orchards and developing Integrated Pest Management methods to control them, with insights from leading entomologists in the field of entomology in Australia.
Pasture Mealybug
Thermal Physiology
Pasture Mealybug
Pasture mealybugs are pests that significantly affect grasses by sucking sap from the plants, resulting in symptoms such as yellowing, purple streaking, and eventually the death of the grass. These pests are linked to pasture dieback, leading to extensive root rot and loss of plant structure. Entomologists in Australia are currently evaluating the impact and movement of pasture mealybugs in northern NSW, contributing valuable insights to the field of entomology.
Black Soldier Fly
Thermal Physiology
Thermal Physiology
Evaluating the use of black soldier fly as a feed supplement, entomologists highlight their importance in food waste reduction and polymer development within the field of entomology, particularly in Australia.
Thermal Physiology
Thermal Physiology
Thermal Physiology
We assess how insects respond to temperature extremes, a crucial area of study for entomologists. Insects exhibit various adaptations to cope with thermal stress, and these physiological responses significantly affect their behavior, metabolism, and overall fitness. Understanding these mechanisms is essential for applications in entomology, especially in Australia, where it helps in pest control and predicting insect responses to climate change.
Environmental Gradients
Environmental Gradients
Environmental Gradients
As entomologists in Australia, we study insect assemblages across various environmental gradients to identify changes in community structure within the field of entomology.
Publications and outputs
Contact Us
entomology.net.au
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