Mission:
The mission of the Subtropical Insects Research Unit is to contribute to improved citrus, vegetable, and plant management strategies by identifying basic biological, biochemical, and physiological functions of insects and their interactions with plants and other organisms (viruses, fungi, bacteria, natural enemies, etc.) that can be employed in integrated pest management and biological control programs. Development of management systems include environmentally friendly, low input elements that enhance food safety and increase plant resistance to insect and pathogen pests. Information on emerging exotic insect pests of agriculture is generated to evaluate the threat potential to the U.S. screening of germplasm for insect resistance lends assistance.