Entomological Society of Canada Student Member Information Form

Name: Jerry Ericsson

University: University of British Columbia

Address: Department of Zoology, 6270 University Blvd, Vancouver, BC, V6T 1Z4

E-mail Address: ericsson@zoology.ubc.ca

Advisor(s): Judith Myers (UBC), Murray Isman (UBC), Eduardo Jovel (UBC), Todd Kabaluk (PARC), Mark Goettel (LRC)

Thesis Title: "Evaluation of the immune function of Agriotes obscurus, (Coleoptera: Elateridae) in the presence of fungal challenge and sub-lethal insecticide combinations."

Research Summary: Agriotes obscurus and A. lineatus larvae (wireworm) are serious pests of many crops, especially root crops like potatoes, carrots and beets. Wireworm can feed on the root system, or bore their way into the crop itself while feeding on the succulent tissues. The voracious feeding results in a crop riddled with feculent holes, or stunted by root damage, or both. Ultimately, this damage can translate into a total loss of market value. Since there are no pesticides registered for use on wireworm, the development of an alternative control regiment would be highly useful. A particular isolate of Metarhizium anisopliae appears to be a good candidate for controlling wireworm populations, but has worked better in the lab than in the field. My research focuses on monitoring the pathogenesis as well as the immunological responses to this entomopathogen. I am measuring the changes in phenoloxidase activity, as well as changes in hemocyte densities caused by various treatments. It is my goal to find a synthetic or botanical pesticide combination that will act in a synergistic or additive manner with M. anisopliae.

Keywords: Immunity, Entomopathogen, Hemocyte, Phenoloxidase, Synergistic

Degrees Sought: M.Sc.

Expected Year of Completion: 2005