Dr. Steven Juliano

Distinguished Professor of Ecology

Illinois State University

Abstract: When faced with a population of a pest, we typically focus on the goal of density reduction of that pest; however, consideration of basic population ecology indicates that population density can have complicated and interactive effects that may mean simple reduction of density could be counterproductive.  Our work on mosquitoes shows: 1) how the density of larvae has important trait-mediated effects on adults, which may affect the likelihood of disease transmission; 2) mechanisms by which density-dependent survivorship interacts with extrinsic mortality to yield greater production of adults than would be the case without mortality; and 3) that these counter-intuitive effects are likely in nature.  Focusing on the complexities of basic population ecology may improve strategies for controlling both mosquitoes and vector-borne disease.

Parking note: Lot E-46 is a UIUC campus parking lot. Campus parking permits for lots north of Kirby/Florida work in E-46. There is metered parking as well, and campus parking currently has their Winter Courtesy Parking Hours in place so that all university rental lots posted for enforcement until 5 p.m. will be open for general public parking beginning 4 p.m.