Topic: Manipulating herbivore-predator-symbiont networks through biological control by flooding
Dates: 15 October 2025 – 14 October 2028
CBGP supervisor: E. Frago

Biological control through flooding can become less effective if pests develop resistance traits, particularly via defensive symbionts. This thesis will analyse how these symbionts influence interactions between pests and natural enemies, with a view to developing sustainable strategies based on mixtures of natural enemies or generalist predators. Experiments in micro- and mesocosms will track the eco-evolutionary dynamics of complex arthropod communities to understand the emergence of these resistance traits and their impact on pest suppression.