ABE Biocomplexity Engineering seminar

Details

Speaker:
Dr. William Crow

Title:
ABE Biocomplexity Engineering seminar:”Playing in the dirt with worms: Techniques and equipment for studying microscopic pests (nematodes) in soil”

Bio:
Dr. William T. Crow is a professor of nematology in the Entomology and Nematology Department at the University of Florida. He is also past-President of the Society of Nematologists. Dr. Crow has a 60% extension and 40% research appointment specializing in integrated pest management (IPM) of nematodes that damage turfgrasses and ornamental plants. The first stage in IPM is correctly identifying the pest(s) causing plant problems. Dr. Crow is Director of the Florida Nematode Assay Lab and assists with diagnosis of nematode problems from thousands of turf and ornamental samples submitted to the lab annually.

Dr. Crow’s research focus is on understanding nematode behavior and using this knowledge to improve diagnostics and management of plant-parasitic nematodes that damage turf and ornamentals. He works closely with industry to learn how nematicides and bionematicides may be used to best effect in turf and ornamental plant systems. He also collaborates with plant breeders in the development and use of plant cultivars with improved nematode tolerance. Recently, his lab is the first to document nematicide resistance to plant-parasitic nematodes and much of their current research efforts are focused on resistance management in turf systems. He is the author of 78 refereed publications, and 5 book chapters.

As an Extension Specialist, Dr. Crow’s primary role is to educate the public on how to best diagnose and manage nematode problems. To do this he is the author of numerous extension publications and trade magazine articles, in addition to scientific journal publications. He regularly participates in Cooperative Extension programs throughout Florida. He teaches classes on nematode management for golf course superintendents, nurserymen, foliage growers, sod growers, landscape pest control operators, and other groups to thousands of individuals annually throughout the U.S. and internationally