Maya Evenden, PhD

Area of Study / Keywords

Chemical Ecology Integrated Pest Management Insect Behaviour Lepidoptera Coleoptera

About

Lab Website:  https://grad.biology.ualberta.ca/evenden/

Research

Current Research Interests Most organisms communicate using chemical signals. Insects use chemical signals for a variety of functions including: mate finding, habitat and host selection, foraging and egg-laying decisions. The reliability and repeatability of these signals will depend on ecological factors and physiological state of the signaler and responder. We take an eco-physiological approach to understand insect chemical signalling and movement by flight in response to chemical cues using several insect species as models.

1. Plasticity of chemical communication in insects:

In long-lived insects, reproduction can be delayed to provide energy for dispersal (migration) or somatic maintenance in unfavourable conditions (overwintering). Little is known about the effect of delayed reproduction on response to chemical cues in insects. We study the effect of physiological state on response to pheromone and host volatile cues in long-lived moths and beetles.

2. Trade-offs between reproduction and flight in insects:

In insects, resource allocation trade-offs occur between energetic investment to flight and other life history investments such as reproduction and longevity. We study insects with varying mating systems, resource acquisition patterns and dispersal capacities to understand factors that drive physiological trade-offs in these species.

3. Development of pheromone-based pest management systems:

Knowledge of the role that chemical cues play in ecological situations permits exploitation of chemical communication by pest managers. Synthetic copies of chemical signals can be used to monitor pest populations and to directly control them. We approach the development of IPM programs by determining the mechanism by which the approach works and its efficacy. If the mechanism of the tactic is known, limitations of the tactic can be addressed before the program is implemented.

Teaching

Courses:

Biol 434/534: Chemical Ecology/ Advanced Chemical Ecology

Ent 101: Insect-Human Interactions

Ent 220: Insect Biology

Ent 222: Insects in Managed Ecosystems

BIOL 499A - Research Project

Directed research done under the supervision of an academic member of the Department of Biological Sciences. Normally for students in their fourth year of study. Successful completion of this course requires an oral presentation and a written report on the research project. Prerequisites: A 300-level Biological Sciences course and the consent of the Associate Chair, Undergraduate Studies. Note: Students in Honors in Biological Sciences are required to successfully complete BIOL 499.

BIOL 499B - Research Project

Directed research done under the supervision of an academic member of the Department of Biological Sciences. Normally for students in their fourth year of study. Successful completion of this course requires an oral presentation and a written report on the research project. Prerequisites: A 300-level Biological Sciences course and the consent of the Associate Chair, Undergraduate Studies. Note: Students in Honors in Biological Sciences are required to successfully complete BIOL 499.

ENT 220 - Insect Biology

An introduction to the evolution, diversity, phylogeny, life styles, distribution, and classification of hexapods and practical experience in their identification. Prerequisite: BIOL 108 or SCI 100.

ENT 222 - Insects in Managed Ecosystems

An introduction to insects and related arthropods emphasizing aspects of their structure, life history and ecology responsible for their importance as pest or beneficial organisms in managed landscapes. Principles of integrated pest management of insects of importance to Albertan and North American agricultural, horticultural and forested ecosystems will be discussed. Students will gain practical experience in identification of pest and beneficial insects. Prerequisite: Biology 108 or SCI 100. Credit may be obtained for only one of ENT 207, 222 or 380.

Browse more courses taught by Maya Evenden