Dr. De-Fen Mou

Assistant Professor, Entomology

My research program focuses on identifying and managing plant pathogen vectors that concern important crops in Everglades Agricultural Area (EAA), such as sugarcane, sorghum, rice, sweet corn, and vegetable crops. I specialize in identifying new insect vectors of emerging plant viruses and phytoplasmas, monitoring pathogen vector populations in crops, examining transmission mechanisms of pathogen vectors at the molecular level, and developing integrated management programs to control pathogen vectors.

My extension program uses knowledge developed in research programs to address stakeholders’ and advisory boards’ concerns and needs. I take feedback from the stakeholders through the extension program to drive future research efforts to solve insect vector issues. My extension program also provides plant viruses and phytoplasmas screening services, recommendations on pathogen vector management programs, and educational support for disseminating current knowledge and research results on insect vector issues.

I provide mentorship to graduate students in the Department of Entomology and Nematology. I have 70% research and 30% extension appointment.

• Publications

  Google Scholar Link

• Graduate Students

   

  Yavonne Williams M.S. Student
  Tennyson Nkhoma M.S. Student