Chaymae Fennine

Fascinated by insects and their interactions with ecosystems, my research focuses on the chemical ecology of flies (Anthomyiidae) and moths (Gelechiidae) to develop behavior-based management tools. Through comparative analyses of olfactory sensitivity across species with varying phylogenetic relatedness and ecological niches, we investigate how ecological and evolutionary forces shape olfactory systems in key pest species.

• Mapping the olfactory sensitivities of cabbage flies (Delia radicum and Scaptomyza flava) and the onion fly (Delia antiqua) to blends of host plant volatiles and attractants, with the goal of developing effective lures for their management.
• Evaluation of an Attract-and-Kill strategy using sex pheromone and spinosad for Tuta absoluta management in Tanzanian small-scale farms.