Biography
I am working to determine why our native New England caterpillars are failing to control populations of invasive, exotic plants. I use the Arboretum’s extensive living collections to identify what sets invasive plants apart from others when it comes to resisting herbivory. Hopefully, this research will allow us to find safer, more effective methods for protecting our native ecosystems from invasion.
I am a plant and caterpillar lover, and you can find out more about my research on my website: michaellascaleia.weebly.com
Education
PhD, Ecology and Evolutionary Biology
University of Connecticut
BS, Biology and Environmental Studies
Tufts University