Insect herbivores, as the most diverse and abundant consumers on our planet, engage in a multitude of interactions with plants, which are shaped by a variety of abiotic and biotic environmental factors.

 Our laboratory is particularly fascinated by the dynamic interplay between these two organisms, specifically focusing on insect oral cues,  plant defense responses, and how insects respond to challenges. 

The primary objective is to unravel the intricate strategies employed by both parties and gain insights into the evolutionary arms race that has shaped their coexistence throughout natural history. Through our research, we hope to contribute to a deeper understanding of the ecological dynamics underlying these interactions and explore potential applications in areas such as pest management and ecosystem conservation. 

Invisible organisms, including microbes such as bacteria, fungi, and viruses, play a pivotal role in mediating interactions among organisms across trophic levels.

We specifically focus on the investigation of herbivore-associated microbes and the fascinating mutualistic polydnaviruses associated with parasitoids.   

Through our projects, we aim to reveal the hidden mechanisms and implications that are driven by microbes from both top-down and bottom-up perspectives. By uncovering these interaction dynamics, we aspire to contribute to a broader comprehension of the ecological function and significance of microorganisms within complex ecosystems. 

Predators and parasitoids play a remarkable role in shaping the interactions among closely related species within ecosystems. While their direct impact through predation and parasitism is well-known, these natural enemies can also cause non-lethal effects that greatly influence the activity, development, feeding, and behavior of their prays and hosts. 

In the research line, there are two primary goals; firstly, we aim to enhance the biocontrol efficacy of natural enemies, focusing on their "lethal effect" in suppressing populations of target organisms. Secondly, we aim to understand the mechanisms, influences, and consequences of the non-lethal effects of natural enemies. Through these projects, we hope to border our understanding of the ecological role of natural enemies.