Effects of Tannins from Red Oak Leaves on Growth, Mortality, And Development of Gypsy Moth Larvae
Midshipman Researcher(s): Midshipman Researcher(s): 1/C Caitlyn Thompson and 1/C Hazel Acosta
Adviser(s): Dr. Brian Rehill
Poster #26
For over a century, gypsy moth (Lymantria dispar) larvae have caused massive deforestation periodically throughout the Eastern United States. By studying the feeding behavior of gypsy moth larvae, greater understanding of host plant characteristics that alter gypsy moth larval behavior can be gained. In particular, by understanding how plant defense chemicals may make gyspy moth larvae more susceptible to a species-specific virus that causes massive gypsy moth mortality, we may advance the efforts to control outbreaks of gypsy moth larvae.
