Author ORCID Identifier

https://orcid.org/0000-0003-3540-3216

Semester

Summer

Date of Graduation

2026

Document Type

Dissertation

Degree Type

PhD

College

Davis College of Agriculture, Natural Resources and Design

Department

Division of Plant and Soil Sciences

Committee Chair

Yong-Lak park

Committee Member

Aaron Maxwell

Committee Member

Carlos Quesada

Committee Member

Cynthia Huebner

Committee Member

Elizabeth Rowen

Abstract

Invasive species pose significant ecological, economic, and management challenges globally. Purple loosestrife (Lythrum salicaria), Japanese knotweed (Fallopia japonica), tree of heaven (Ailanthus altissima), and mile-a-minute (Persicaria perfoliata) are widespread invasive plants across the eastern United States and present persistent challenges, particularly in remote and inaccessible landscapes. Effective management of these species requires an integrated approach that combines early detection, targeted intervention, public engagement, and spatial modeling. This dissertation used emerging technologies to improve invasive species detection, monitoring, and management.

Unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV)-based platforms equipped with optical sensors were used to establish monitoring and detection protocols for invasive plants and associated pests. We also developed UAV-assisted management strategies through the aerial release of biological control agents using biodegradable 3D-printed bug pods (insect carriers). Release trials with Galerucella calmariensis (Coleoptera: Chrysomelidae) for L. salicaria did not affect feeding ability and survivorship of G. calmariensis following aerial release. For F. japonica, a modified release system incorporating leaf-based openings was developed to release Aphalara itadori (Hemiptera: Aphalaridae) without significantly affecting its survivorship. These findings showed the potential of integrating UAV-based detection along with precision biological control for invasive species management.

Remote sensing methods were further developed using UAVs to detect A. altissima and support monitoring of spotted lanternfly, Lycorma delicatula (Hemiptera: Fulgoridae), an invasive insect that highly prefers A. Altissima as its host plant. Because successful invasive species management also depends on public participation, digital outreach tools, including social media platforms and online surveys, were evaluated to increase public awareness and support management efforts for L. delicatula. Educational outreach reached 183,411 Facebook users in West Virginia and resulted in 3,913 completed educational surveys.

Spatial modeling and niche dynamics analyses were conducted for P. perfoliata to inform management strategies and enhance understanding of invasion processes. The findings demonstrated that variables influencing habitat suitability varied between the native and introduced ranges, while the species' ecological niche remained largely conserved. Analysis of niche dynamics revealed high niche stability, limited niche expansion, and considerable niche unfilling.

These findings indicate that combining remote sensing, precision biological control, digital outreach, and ecological modeling can improve the efficiency and effectiveness of invasive species detection and management. Technology-driven methods support early detection, targeted management, public engagement, and informed decision-making, strengthening integrated invasive species management.

Download

Included in

Entomology Commons

Share

COinS