Insect ecology, management and conservation
Our research develops knowledge about the ecology of insects. This knowledge is not only needed for species and ecosystem survival, but also for ensuring industries that use insects can do so sustainably.
Thus in our research we primarily focus on Grasshoppers and Pollinators in different ecosystems. In these groups we find species that are threatened, species important for how we can use our land and those necessary for ecosystem health.
Effect of land use on insect ecology
Intensification of agriculture and the associated loss of habitat diversity is a key driver of global declines of arthropod biodiversity. Insects utilize different habitats to meet their resource requirements throughout life and their conservation requires a landscape-scale approach. Information on the impacts of land-use on insect diversity and abundances is essential to manage insect biodiversity. In our research we investigate how local and landscape scale management affect insects in agricultural systems.
Ecology of invasions and conservation introductions
The ecology of non-native species’ invasions and the establishment of wanted species are similar. For one group (the invasives) we try and find out what is relevant for colonisation, establishment and spread so that we can limit the success of species doing this. For the other group (species of conservation concern) we want to find out the same things, but then the purpose is how can we improve the likelihood of them succeeding.
Insects as a food source
With an increasing human population and non-sustainability of much of today’s agricultural systems, there is a need to change the way we produce food. Nutritious food that can sustain people but that allows other living organisms on the planet to thrive and wild habitats to remain. Insects are used as food in many regions around the world and studies indicate that several species are likely to be suitable for human consumption.