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Austin – Hot Science Cool Talks – Fire Ants, Crazy Ants & Zombie Ants

October 26, 2018 @ 7:00 pm - 8:30 pm

What is the talk about?

The red imported fire ant is an invasive species in Texas that can produce life-threatening allergic reactions in people, and has major costs to the agricultural economy and causes severe impacts to native fauna. Dr. Rob Plowes shares insights into fire ant behavior and discusses remarkable biological control opportunity. Dr. Plowes researches one of fire ants’ deadliest enemies – tiny phorid flies, which actually turn ants into zombie-like, living incubators for their offspring. He also describes research approaches to other invasive species in Texas. Registration opens three weeks prior to event.

About the presenter

Dr. Rob Plowes

Dr. Rob Plowes

Rob Plowes is an African-raised biologist with interests in biodiversity and conservation. Along with his research into invasive species, Dr. Plowes helps direct at the University of Texas’ Brackenridge and Stengl Field Labs. His approach to science integrates tools from molecules and microbes to communities and landscapes.

Details

Date:
October 26, 2018
Time:
7:00 pm - 8:30 pm
Website:
http://www.esi.utexas.edu/talk/fire-ants-crazy-ants-zombie-ants/

Venue

Student Activity Center (SAC), UT Campus
2201 Speedway
Austin, TX 78705 United States
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Organizer

Environmental Science Institute
Phone
(512) 471-5847
Email
esi@esi.utexas.edu
View Organizer Website