Title: Harnessing genetics and genomics to better understand bee health

Speaker: Dr. Rodney Richardson (Assistant Professor, UMCES-AL)

Abstract: Insect pollinators contribute to the reproduction of most land plants and influence the community composition and ecosystem function of both natural and managed terrestrial ecosystems. As a result, declines in pollinator health have sparked economic and conservation concerns. A number of factors have been identified as determinants of pollinator health, however, quantification of relative importance and interactive effects among these variables requires scalable and high-throughput techniques for interrogating pollinator community responses. In this presentation, I will discuss emerging genetic and genomic tools which are improving our understanding of pollinator health issues.

If you would like to attend virtually, please email imetdirectorsoffice@umces.edu