Research Projects
The IRIS Lab's major projects are the IRIS Project and the Citrus Greening Project, both of which incorporate various fieldwork methods. To see more pictures from each of the projects, please visit the research photo gallery.
IRIS Project
The IRIS Project investigates interactions between ants and their surrounding environments. Specifically, by conducting DNA extractions and PCR with soil and ant samples, the project seeks to contrast the soil microbiome communities of areas with and without Red Imported Fire Ant (RIFA) colonies. The project also seeks to understand the impact of different environments (i.e., different soil types and foraging materials) on RIFA microbial gut communities over time.
Citrus Greening Project
The Citrus Greening Project investigates the impact of antibiotic application on citrus microbial communities. Citrus greening disease, caused by motile bacteria, is becoming a serious issue for the Florida citrus industry; however, the application of antibiotics to citrus groves for disease prevention may also lead to the development of antibiotic resistant bacteria. The project seeks to contrast the microbial communities of citrus trees sprayed with antibiotics and those that have not been sprayed with antibiotics.
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Fieldwork
Both of the IRIS Lab's major projects incorporate diverse field sampling methods, including soil sampling, root sampling, and ant trapping. Most of our sampling is conducted in central Florida, but our director, Dr. Ascunce, has collected samples from the Galapagos Islands.