Xing-Ping-Hu-photo-square

Xing Ping Hu

Professor & Extension Specialist (Urban Structural Entomology, Termites)

Entomology & Plant Pathology

(334) 844-6392 

  huxingp@auburn.edu 

  

Get In Touch

Address:
106 Extension Hall
Auburn Univ, AL 36849

Biography

EDUCATION

  • 1998 Ph.D., University of Massachusetts (Integrated Pest Management)
  • 1985 M.S., Shandong Agricultural University, China (Entomology)

PROFESSIONAL EXPERIENCE

  • 2011-Present Professor & Extension Specialist
  • 2005-2011 Associate Professor & Extension Specialist
  • 2000-2005 Assistant Professor & Extension Specialist
  • 1999-2000 Assistant Specialist, Louisiana State University
  • 1998-1999 Extension Associate, Louisiana State University
  • 1993-1998 Visiting Scientist & Research Assistant, University of Massachusetts
  • 1985-1993 Professor, Associate Professor, Instructor, Shandong Agricultural University

PROFESSIONAL RESPONSIBILITIES (SELECTED)

  • 2014-present – Board of Advisory Editors, SpringerPlus
  • 2014-present – Alabama IPM Advisory Board
  • 2013-present – Pesticide Safety Advisory Board of Alabama
  • 2010-present – 8th International IPM Symposium Steering Committee
  • 2010-Present – SEB-ESA Student Awards Committee
  • 2010-Present – Reward Committee, 7th and 8th International IPM Symposium
  • 2009-Present – Subject Editor, Journal of Agricultural and Urban Entomology
  • 2009-Present – Editorial Board, Bulletin of Insectology
  • 2009-Present – Editorial Board, International Journal of Insect Science
  • 2010-2012 – Teaching and Education Technologies Committee, AACAAS
  • 2002-2005 – Correspondence for Pesticide Environmental Stewardship Program in Alabama, EPA

SERVICES

  • 2014-Present – Academic Standard Committee, Senate
  • 2010-Present – Graduate Program Officer
  • 2010-Present – Administrator Evaluation Committee, University Senate
  • 2009-2012 – University Academic Senator, Auburn University
  • 2008-Present – Agricultural College Diversity Committee
  • 2002-2010 – Committee of Departmental Graduate Admissions, Auburn Univers
  • 2007-2009 – Department Executive Committee, Auburn University
  • 2002-2003 – Faculty Mentoring Selection, Auburn University
  • 2000-2003 – Alabama Association County Agricultural Agent Communication Committee

HONORS AND AWARDS

  • 2011 – The Guthrie’s Award for Achievement in International Agriculture Service
  • 2011-Present – Honorary Professor, Qingdao Agricultural University, China
  • 2009-Present – Honorary Professor, Southwest University, China
  • 2009-Present – Visiting Professor, Yangzi University, China
  • 2007-Present – Adjunct Professor, South China Agricultural University
    Delegate of Auburn University to “Auburn Garden” ceremony in Wuhan, China
  • 2009 – Visiting Professor, Universiti of Sains Malaysia
  • 2009 – Distinguished Speaker of the year, Entomology, Louisiana State University
  • 2005-2008 – Appointed Graduate Advisor, China Agricultural University
  • 2002-2006 – Honorary Professor, Shandong Agricultural University
  • 2003 – Commending School’s Pilot Program of IPM, Senate of AL
  • 2003 – Recognition of Pilot Program of School IPM, EPA

Research

RESEARCH ACTIVITIES

Fundamental Research: Arthropods’ biology, behavior, physiological / chemical ecology, toxicology, molecular immunology and disease transmission.

Applied Research: developing and advancing Integrated Pest Management (IPM); exploring and evaluating efficacy of new chemicals, formulations, and application methods and alternative IPM tactics.

Pest groups: Social insects (termites, ants, cockroaches, wasps, etc.); invasive insects (kudzu bugs, etc.), health pests, veterinary pests.

PATENT

“Device for Pest Control” US Patent No. 5720968. Baruch S. Shasha (USDa), Michael R. McGuire (BRDC), Xing Ping Hu (UMass) and Ronald J. Prokopy (UMass)

Courses

TEACHING AT AUBURN UNIVERSITY

  • ENTM7900 – DIRECTED STUDIES IN ENTOMOLOGY I (MS LEVEL). – Discussion groups on specific topics, assigned readings on laboratory problems of field research.
  • ENTM7960 – ADVANCED SPECIAL PROBLEMS IN ENTOMOLOGY I (MS LEVEL). – Specialized project or research on a specific topic in entomology be be conduced under supervisor supervision.
  • ENTM7990 – RESEARCH THESIS
  • ENTM8900 – DIRECTED STUDIES IN ENTOMOLOGY II (PHD LEVEL). – Discussion groups on specific topics, assigned readings on laboratory problems of field research.
  • ENTM8960 – ADVANCED SPECIAL PROBLEMS IN ENTOMOLOGY II (PHD LEVEL). – Specialized project or research on a specific topic in entomology be be conduced under supervisor supervision.
  • ENTM8990 – RESEARCH DISSERTATION

Publications

BOOK CHAPTERS (SELECTED)

  • Hu, X.P. 2011. Liquid termiticides and their current role in subterranean termite management. In: R. Dhang (Ed.): Urban Pest Management – An Environmental Perspective. CABI (UK and USA). pp, 114-132.
  • Hu, X.P. 2010. Chapter 12: Biology and Reproductive Strategies in the Subterranean Termites (Isoptera: Rhinotermitidae). In: Liu, T.X. and Kang, L. (Eds): Recent advances in entomological research: from molecular biology to pest management. High Educational Press, Springer, pp 213 – 226.
  • Hu, X.P. 2005. Subterranean termite management. In: Liu, T.-X. & tang, N. (eds.) Entomological Research: Progress and Perspectives, Science Press, Beijing, Chapter 21, pp. 448-469.

REFERRED ARTICLES IN SCIENTIFIC JOURNALS

(*GRADUATE STUDENT)

  • Oladipupo, SO, Hu XP and Appel AG. 2020. Essential oil components in superabsorbent polymer gel modify reproduction of Blattella germanica (L.) (Blattodea: Ectobiidae). Journal of Economic Entomology, doi: 10.1093/jee/toaa139
  • Benk, G., Thompson R. Hu, XP, and Appel, AG. 2020. Water Loss and Desiccation Tolerance of the Two Yearly Generations of Adult and Nymphal Kudzu Bugs, Megacopta cribraria (Hemiptera: Plataspidae). Environmental Entomology. 49(3): 651-659. https://doi.org/10.1093/ee/nvaa032
  • Oladipupo SO, Hu XP, and Appel AG. 2020. Topical toxicity profiles of some aliphatic and aromatic essential oil components against insecticide-susceptible and resistant strains of German cockroach (Blattodea: Ectobiidae). Journal of Economic Entomology, 113(2): 896-904, doi.org/10.1093/jee/toz323
  • Peterson M, Appel AG and Hu XP. 2019. Instar determination of Blattella asahinai (Blattodea: Ectobiidae) from digital measurements of the pronotum using Gaussian mixture modeling and the number of cercal annuli. Journal of Insect Science. 19(5): 1-14. https://doi.org/10.1093/jisesa/iez087
  • Liu Y, Hu XP, Allan SA, Alborn HT and Bernier U. 2019. Electrophysiological and Behavioral Responses of the Kudzu Bug, Megacopta cribraria (Hemiptera: Plataspidae) to Volatile Compounds Identified from Host Plants, Kudzu (Pueraria montana (Lour.) Merrill var. lobata (Willd.) Maesen and Almeida) and Soybean (Glycine max Merrill.). Journal of Agriculture and Food Chemistry. 67(15): 4177-4183. DOI: 10.1021/acs/kafc/8b06765
  • Quarcoo F, Hu XP and Appel AG. 2019. Temperature-mediated variation in behavior and mortality of non-repellent insecticides on subterranean termites (Isoptera: Rhinotermitidae). Insects 10(2): 37, doi: 10.3390/insects10020037
  • Zeng Y, Hu XP, Cao G and Suh S-J. 2018. Hemolymph protein profiles of subterranean termite Reticulitermes flavipes challenged with methicillin resistant Staphylococcus aureus or Pseudomonas aeruginosa. Scientific Reports 8(1), 13250. DOI: https://doi.org/10.1038/s41598-018-31681-2https://www.nature.com/articles/s41598-018-31681-2.
  • Yang L, **Hu XP, Golec J and Zeng XN. 2018. Effects of legume species and plant growth stage on attraction, fecundity and development of the Kudzu Bug, Megacopta cribraria (Heteroptera: Plataspidae). Journal of Economic Entomology, 111(5)) 2217-2224, DOI: 10.1093/jee/toy178.
  • Yang L, Hu XP, Santen E and Zeng XN. 2017. Attractiveness of host plants at different growth state to kudzu bug, Megacopta cribraria (Heteroptera: Plataspidae): Behavioral responses to whole plant and constitutive volatiles. Journal of Economic Entomology. 110(6): 2351-2356. Doi: 10.1093/jee/tox214
  • Wu H, Hu XP, Appel AG. 2017. Temperature-dependent development and thermal sensitivity of Blaptica dubia (Blattodea: Blaberidae). Journal of Economic Entomology. 110(2): 546-551. doi: 10.1093/jee/tow278
  • Zeng Y, **Hu XP, Suh S-J. 2016. Characterization of antibacterial activities of eastern subterranean termite, Reticulitermes flavipes, against human pathogens. PlosOne 11(9), e0162249. DOI:10.137/journal.pone.0162249, http://journals.plos.org/plosone/article?id=10.1371/journal.pone.0162249
  • Zeng Yuan, Xing Ping Hu, Sang-Jin Suh. 2016. Charaterization of antibacterial activities of eastern subterranean termite, Reticulitermes flavipes, against human pathogens. PlosOne DOI:10.137/journal.pone.0162249, September 9, 2016 1-17
  • Golec*, J.R., Hu, X.P., Yang, L. and Eger, J.E. 2016. Kudzu-deprived first-generation Megacopta cribraria (F.) (Heteroptera: Plataspidae) are capable of developing on alternative legume species. Journal of Agriculture and Urban Entomology. 31(1): 52-61.
  • Barba*, M., Stewart, A.J., Hathcock, T., Hogsette, J.A., Wooldridge, A.A., Passler, T., Chamorro, M.F., Cattley, R., Hu, X.P. 2015. Experimental inoculation of house flies, Musca domesticaL., with Corynebacterium pseudotuberculosis biovar equi. Bulletin of Insectology. 68:39-44.
  • Barba*, M., Stewart, A.J., Passler, T., Hu, X.P., Chamorro, M.F., Cattley, R., Hathcock, T., Hogsette, J.A. and Wooldridge, A,A. 2015. Experimental transmission of Corynebacterium pseudotuberculosisbiovar equi in horses by house flies. Journal of Veterinary Internal Medicine, 29:636-643.
  • Golec*, J.A. and Hu, X.P.2015. Pre-overwintering copulation and female ratio bias: Life history characteristics contributing to the invasiveness and rapid spread of Megacopta cribraria (Heteroptera: Plataspidae). Environmental Entomology. 44(2): 411-417. DOI: 10.1093/ee/nvv014.
  • Barwary*, Z., Gorzlanyk, A. and Hu, X.P. 2015. Effects of concentration, distance, and application methods of Altriset on eastern subterranean termite (Isoptera: Rhinotermitidae). Insect Science 22: 451-460. 2014:  DOI: 10.1111/1744-7917.12122.
  • Pugh*, D.G., Hu, X.P. and Galgbum, B. 2014. Habronemiasis: biology, signs, and diagnosis, and treatment and prevention of the nematodes and vector flies. Journal of Equine Veterinary Science. 34(2): 241-248. http://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0737080613004164
  • Barba*, Marta; Stewart, Allison; Passler, Thomas; Wooldridge, Anne; van Santen, Edzard; Chamorro, Manuel; Cattley, Russell; Hathcock, Terri; Hogsette, Jerome; Hu, X.P. 2014. Experimental transmission of Corynebacterium pseudotuberculosis in horses by house flies. J Vet Intern Med (Accepted March, in press).
  • Yuan*, Z., Hu, X.P., Yu, X. and Suh, S.J. 2014. Multiple antibacterial activities of proteinaceous compounds in crude extracts from the Eastern subterranean termite, Reticulitermes flavipes Kollar (Blattodea: Isopetera: Rhinotermitidae). Advances in Research. 2(8): 455-461.
  • Barwary*, Z. Gorzlanyk, A. and Hu, X.P. 2014. Effects of concentration, distance, and application methods of Altriset on eastern subterranean termite (Isoptera: Rhinotermitidae). Insect Science DOI: 10.1111/1744-7917.12122.
  • Golec*, J.R., Hu, X.P., Ray, C. and Woodley N.E. 2013. Strongygaster triangulifera (Diptera: Tachinidae) as a parasitoid of adults of the invasive Megacopta cribraria (Heteroptera: Plataspidae) in Alabama. J. Entomol. Sci. 48(4): 352-354.
  • Gardner, W.A., L, Blount, J.L., Golec*, J.R., Couret, J.R., Jones, W.A.,  Hu, X.P., Dong, X., Talamas, E.J., Ray, C.H., Buntin, G.D., Gerardo, N.M. 2013. Discovery of Paratelenomus saccharalis (Dodd) (Hymenoptera: Platygastridae), an egg parasitoid of the bean plataspid, Megacopta cribraria F. (Hemiptera: Plataspidae), in its expanded North American range. J. Entomol. Sci. 48(4): 355-359.
  • Barwary*, Z., Hu, X.P. and Hickman, R. 2013. Effects of intercepting treatment of foraging tunnel on subterranean termite (Isopera: Rhinotermitidae). J. Ag. Urb. Entomol. 29(1): 25-34. http://www.bioone.org.spot.lib.auburn.edu/doi/abs/10.3954/12-26.1
  • Pugh*, D.G., Hu, X.P. and Galgbum, B. 2013. Habronemiasis: biology, signs, and diagnosis, and treatment and prevention of the nematodes and vector fliesJ. Equine Vet. Sci. 34(2): 241-248.
  • Gardner, W.A., Peeler, H.B., LaForest, J., Roberts, P.M., Sparks, Jr. A.N., Greene, J.K., Reisig, D., Suiter, D.R., Bacheler, J.S., Kidd, K., Ray, C.H., Hu, X.P., Kemerait, R.C., Scocco, E.A., Eger, J.E., Ruberson, J.R., Sikora, E.J., Herber, Jr. D.A., Campana, C., Halbert, S., Stewart, S.S., Buntin, G.D., Toews, M.D., and Bargeron, C.T. 2013. Confirmed Distribution and Occurrence of Megacopta cribraria (F.) (Hemiptera: Heteroptera: Plataspidae) in the Southeastern United States. J. Entomol. Sci. 48(2): 118-127. http://eorder.sheridan.com/3_0/display/index.php?flashprint=2649
  • Wu*, H., Appel, A.G. and Hu, X.P. 2013. Instar determination of Blaptic dubia (Blattodea: Blaberidae) using Gaussian mixture model. Ann. Entomol. Soc. Am. 106(3): 323-328.
  • Xu*, Y., Held, D.W. and Hu, X.P. 2013. Dietary choices and their implication for survival and development of omnivorous mole crickets (Orthoptera: Gryllotalpidae). 71:65-71.
  • Yuan, Z. and Hu, X.P. 2012. Repellent, antifeedant, and toxic activities of Lantana camara leaf extract against Reticulitermites flavipes (Isoptera: Rhinotermitidae). Journal of Economic Entomology. 105(6): 2115-2121.
  • Xu*, Y., Held, D.W. and Hu, X.P. 2012. Potential negative effects of earthworm prey on damage to turfgrass by ominivorous mole crickets (Orthoptera: Gryllotalpidae). Environmental Entomology. 41(5): 1139-1144.
  • Pugh* DG and Hu, XP. 2012. Mange mite infestation and control in New World Camelids (Artiodactyla: Camelidae). Proceedings of International Camelid Health Conference for Veterinarians. pp: SA:60-66.
  • Quarcoo*, FY., Hu, XP., Appel, AG. 2012. Effects of non-repellent termiticides on the tunneling and walking ability of the eastern subterranean termite (Isoptera: Rhinotermitidae). Pest Management Science. 68: 1352-1359. DOI: 10.1002/ps.3302
  • Appel, AG., Hu, XP., Zhou J., Qin, Z., Zhu H., Chang X., Wang Z., Liu, X. and Liu M. 2012. Observation of the biology and ecology of the black-winged termite, Odontotermes formosanus Shiraki (Isoptera: Termitidae) in camphor, Cinnamomum camphora (L.) (Lauraceae). Psyche. Volume2012, Article ID 123102. DOI: 10.1155/2012/123102.
  • Yuan, Z. and Hu, X.P. 2011. Evaluation of differential antitermitic activities of Lantanan camara oven-dried tissues against Reticulitermes virginicus (Isoptera: Rhinotermitidae). Insect Science 18 (2): 1-11 (Online: DOI 10.1111/j.1744-7917.2010.01400).
  • Hu, X.P., Song*, D.L., and Gao, X.W. 2010. Biological changes in the Eastern Subterranean Termite, Reticulitermes flavipes (Isoptera: Rhinotermitidae) and its protozoa profile following starvation. Insectes Sociaux58(1): 39-45 (Online: DOI 10.1007/s00040-010-0114-1).
  • Ding, W. and Hu, X.P. 2010. Antitermitic effects of the Lantana camara L. plant on subterranean termites (Isoptera: Rhinotermitide). Insect Science. 17 (5): 427-433.
  • Quarcoo* F., Appel, A. and Hu, X.P. 2010.  Effects of indoxacarb concentration and exposure time on the onset of abnormal behaviors and death in the eastern subterranean termite. Journal of Economic Entomology. 103 (3): 762-769.
  • Quarcoo*, F., Appel, A. and Hu, X.P. 2010. Descriptive study of non-repellent insecticide-induced behaviors in Reticulitermes flavipes (Isoptera: Rhinotermitide). Sociobiology. 55(1B): 217-227.
  • Hu, X.P. and Ding, W. 2009. Do mound disturbance and bait placement affect bait removal and treatment efficacy in red imported fire ant (Hymenoptera: Formicidae) at different seasons? International Journal of Insect Science. 1: 3-9.
  • Hu, X.P. 2008. Differential effects of mound disturbance and bait placement on bait foraging activity by the red imported fire ant (Hymenoptera: Formicidae) in cold weather. Sociobiology. 53: 169-176.
  • Hu, X.P. and Song*, D. 2007. Behavioral reactions of two subterranean termites (Isoptera: Rhinotemitidae) to instant freezing or chilling temperatures – cold avoidance and survival strategy. Environmental Entomology36(6): 1450-1456.
  • Hu, X.P. and Song*, D. 2007. Field evaluation of label-rate broadcast treatment with bait products for controlling the Red Imported Fire Ants, Solenopsis invicta Buren (Hymenoptera: Formicidae). Sociobiology 50(3): 1107-1116.
  • Hu, X.P., Song*, D. and Anderson, C. 2007. Effect of imidacloprid granule on subterranean termite foraging activity in ground-touching non-structural wood. Sociobiology 50(3): 861-866.
  • Hu, X.P. and Hickman, B. 2006. Exterior perimeter plus limited interior treatments with fipronil as an IPM option for subterranean termite management. International Pest Control 48(4) 200-203.
  • Song, D and Hu, X.P. 2006. Effects of dose, donor-recipient interaction time and ratio on fipronil transmission among the Formosan subterranean termite nestmates (Isoptera: Rhinotermitidae). Sociobiology 48(1): 237-246.
  • Shelton, G, Hu, X. P., Appel, A.G. and Wagner, T.L. 2006. Flight speed of Tethered Reticulitermes flavipes (Kollar) (Isoptera: Rhinotermitidea) alates. Journal of Insect Behavior 19(1): 115-128.
  • Song*, D., Hu, X.P., and N.-Y. Su. 2006. Survivorship, cannibalism, body weight loss, necrophagy, and entombment in laboratory groups of the Formosan subterranean termite, coptotermes formosanus  Shiraki, under starvation. Sociobiology 47(1):27-39.
  • Hu, X.P., Song*, D. and Scheler, C. 2005. Transfer of indoxacarb among workers of Coptotermes formosanus Shiraki (Isoptera: Rhinotermitidae): effects of dose, donor/recipient ratio, and post-exposure time. Pest Management Science 61:1209-1214.
  • Hu, X.P. and Xu, Y. 2005. Morphological embryonic development of the eastern subterranean termite. Reticulitermes flavipes (Isoptera: Rhnotermitidae). Sociobiology 45(3):573-586.
  • Hu, X.P. 2005. Evaluation of the efficacy and non-repellency of indoxacarb and fipronil treated soil at various concentrations and thicknesses against two subterranean termites (Isoptera: Rhnotermitidae). Journal of Economic Entomology 98(2):509-517.
  • Appel, A. and Hu, X.P. 2005. Perception of trail-following substances by Reticulitermes flavipes (Kollar) (Isoptera: Rhinotermitidae) using behavioral bioassays. Sociobiology 45(1):151-162.
  • Hu, X.P., Appel, A. and Vester, R. 2005. Asian cockroach “invades” Alabama. Pest Control. January:41-42.
  • Hu, X.P. and Oi, F. 2004. Disrtribution and establishment of Formosan subterranean termite in Alabama. Sociobiology 44(1):35-47.
  • Hu, X.P. and Appel, A.G. 2004. Seasonal variation of critical thermal limits and temperature tolerance in two subterranean termites (Isoptera: Rhinotermitidae). Environmental Entomology 33(2):197-205.
  • Hu, X.P., Appel, A.G. an Traniello, J.F.A. 2003. Behavioral response of two subterranean termites (Isoptera: Rhinotermitidae) to vibration stimulu. Journal of Insect Behavior 16(5):703-715.
  • Hu, X.P. and Zhu*, F. 2003. Aggressive relationship between two subterranean termites (Isoptera: Rhinotermitidae). Acta Zoologica Sinica 49(3):295-302.
  • Ring, D.R., Morgan, A.L., Woodson, W.D., Lax, A.R., Hu, X.P., Freytag, E. D. and Mao, L. 2001. The first two years of an area wide management program for the Formosan subterranean termite in the French Quarter, New Orleans, Louisiana. Sociobiology 37(2): 293-300.
  • Ring, D. R., Morgan, A. L.,  Woodson, D.,  Hu, X. P.,  Lax, A.,  Freytag, E. and Mao, L. 2000. An area-wide pilot test for management of the Formosan subterranean termite in the French Quarter, New Orleans, Louisiana, USA. Sociobiology.  36:  2-8.
  • Prokopy, J.R., Wright, S. Black, J. Hu, X.P. and McGuire, M.R. 2000. Attracticidal spheres for controlling apple maggot flies: commercial-orchard trials. Entomologia Experimentalis et Applicata 97: 293-299.
  • Prokopy, J.R., Jacome, I., Pinero, J., Guillen, L., Fleischer, F.D., Hu, X.P. and Aluja, M. 2000. Post-alighting responses of Mexican fruit flies (Diptera: Tephritidae) to different insecticides in paint on attractive spheres. Journal of Applied Entomology 124: 239-244.
  • Hu, X.P., Prokopy, R.J. and Clark, J. 2000. Toxicity and residual effectiveness of insecticides on insecticide-treated spheres for controlling apple maggot flies, Rhagoletis pomonella (Diptera: Tephritidae). Journal of Economic Entomology 93(2): 403-411.
  • Liburd, O.E., Gut, L.J., Hu, X.P., Prokopy, R.J. 1999. Mortality of Rhagoletis species encountering pesticide-treated spheres. Journal of Economic Entomology 92: 1151-1156.
  • Hu, X.P., Prokopy, R. J. and Averill, A. 1999. Effect of pH on feeding responses in the apple maggot fly, Rhagoletis pomonella (Diptera: Tephritidae). Journal of Insect Physiology 45: 151-157.
  • Prokopy R.J., Hu, X.P., Jang, E.B., Vargas, R.I. and Warthen, J.D. 1998. Attraction of Ceratitis capitata females to 2-heptanone, a component of coffee fruit odor. Journal of Chemical Ecology 24(8): 1293-1304.
  • Hu, X.P., Duan, J.J., and Prokopy, R.J. 1998. Effects of sugar/flour spheres coated with paint and insecticide on female Ceratitis capitata (Diptera: Tephritidae) flies. Florida Entomologist 81: 318-325.
  • Hu, X.P. and Prokopy, R.J. 1998. Lethal and sublethal effects of imidacloprid on apple maggot fly Rhagoletis pomonella (Diptera: Tephritidae). Journal of Applied Entomology 122: 37-42.
  • Hu, X.P., Shasha, B.S., McGuire, M.R. and Prokopy, R.J. 1998. Controlled release of sugar from a novel device for controlling pest insects. Journal of Controlled Release 50 (1-3): 257-265.
  •  Hu, X.P., Prokopy, R.J. and Mason, J. 1996. Populations of predatory and pest mites in first- and second-level commercial apple orchard blocks in Massachusetts. Journal of Applied Entomology 120: 47-51.
  • Hu, X.P., Duan, J.J., Mason, J. and Prokopy, R.J. 1996.  Removal of drops from apple orchards: potential impact on buildup of apple maggot flies (Diptera: Tephritidae). Proc. Entomol. Soc. Ontario 127: 107-114.
  • Hu, X.P., Li, S. and Prokopy, R.J. 1995. Studies on the morphology and taxonomy of the males of Beesoniidae. Israel Journal of Entomology XXIX: 85-92.
  • Yang, J.K. and Hu, X.P. 1994. A new species of Kuwania on Chinese osmanthus from Guangxi (Hom. Margarodidae). Guangxi Science 1(2): 29-31.
  • Hu, X.P. and Li, S. 1994. Revision of the family Kermesidae (Hom. Cocco.) in China. Journal of Shandong Agricultural University 25(1): 39-45.
  • Hu, X.P. and Li., S. 1993. Bionomics of Pryeria sinica (Lepidoptera: Psychoidea: Zygaenidae) and its control. Forest Research 6: 151-153.
  • Hu. X.P. and Li, S. 1993. Biology of Diaphania perspectalis (Walker) (Lepidoptera: Yponomeutoidae), a pest of littleleaf box. Forest Pest and Disease 3:21-23.
  • Hu. X.P. and Li, S. 1993.  On a newly recorded genus and a new species of Kermesidae (Homoptera) from China. Scientia Silvae Sinicae 29(2): 110-114.
  • Hu. X.P. and Li, S. 1993. Biology and control of Pseudaulacaspis cockerelli (Cooley) on ornamental plants. Journal of Shandong Agricultural University 24(1): 99-101.
  • Hu. X.P., Li, S. Huang G. 1992. Morphological studies of Kuwanaspis howardii (Cooley). Bamboo study (2): 9-13.
  • Hu. X.P. 1992. Aspidiotus pothos Takaki – a new record in the mainland of China. Journal of Shandong Forestry Science and Technology (2): 10.
  • Hu. X.P. and Li, S. 1992. Biologics and morphology of Kermes taishanensis Hu (Kermesidae). Journal of Shandong Agricultural University 23(1): 41-45.
  •  Hu. X.P., Huang, S. Y. 1992. Control of Kuwanaspis howardii (Cooley) (Homo. Coc.). Journal of Hubei Forestry Science and Technology 3: 37-39.
  • Hu. X.P. and Li, S. 1991. Study on morphology of Pseudaulacaspis cockerelli (Cooley). Journal of Shandong Agricultural University 22(3): 221-226.
  • Hu. X.P. and Li, S. 1991. Studies on gray ermine moth, Yponomeuta griseatus Moriuti, attacking euonymus. Forestry Pest and Disease 2: 18-19.
  • Hu, X.P. 1990. A brief picture on the control of scale insects on shade and ornamental trees. Journal of Shandong Forestry Science and Technology 3: 45-49.
  • Hu, X.P. and Li, S. 1990. Preliminary study on Nidularia japonica Kuwana. Forest Pest and Disease 4: 3-4.
  • Hu, X.P. 1990. A recent advance in the study of gall-like scale insects. Journal of Shandong Agricultural University 21(3): 20-23.
  • Hu, X.P. 1989. A key to identify Kermes species in the field. Journal of Shandong Forestry Science and Technology 2: 16-17.
  • Hu, X.P.1989. Identification of species of Curculionidae in mulberry forests. Shandong Sericulture 2:13-14.
  • Li, S. and Hu, X.P. 1989. An advanced method of controlling Kermes miyasakii Kuwana. Proceeding of Shandong Sericulture 6: 9-13.
  • Hu, X.P. and Li, S. 1988. The life table of Kermes taishanensis Hu and its control. Journal of Shandong Agricultural University 19(4): 46-51.
  •  Hu, X.P. 1988. The occurrence of scale insects in garden. Journal of Shandong Forestry Science and Technology2: 1-4.
  • Hu. X.P. 1987. Identification of thrips on Banyan. Forest Pest and Disease 3: 25-26.
  • Hu, X.P. and Li, S. 1986. A new species of the genus Beesonia from Shandong, China. Journal of Shandong Agricultural University 17(4): 75-80.
  • Hu, X.P. 1986. Studies on gall-like scale insects, with descriptions of three new species from Shandong, China. Entomotaxonomia VII (4): 291-316.
  • Hu, X.P. 1986. Studies on the gall-like scale, Kermes miyasakii Kuwana. Journal of Shandong Agricultural University 17(1): 1-10

EXTENSION PUBLICATIONS (148, SELECTED)

  • 2014. Kudzu bug control in residential areas. ANR-2163
  • 2014. Fly control for Alabama cattle operations. ANR-2083
  • 2013. Battling bed bugs – knowing the enemy. ANR1464
  • 2013. Control of parasitic Chorioptic mange mites on the horse, donkey and mule. ANR-1444
  • Hu, X.P. 2012. Mosquitos in and around Homes. ANR-1116
  • Housefly buzzing. Alabama IPM Communicator
  • Consequence of mound disturbance. Pest Control Technology
  • Asian cockroach, a new pest in urban environment. ANR-1322. ACES
  • The brown recluse spider. ANR-1043, ACES
  • Carpenter Bees – Biology and Management. ANR-1302. ACES Circular
  • Asian cockroach “invades” Alabama. Pest Control
  • Subterranean termite control products for Alabamians. ACES Circular ANR-1252
  • Formosan Subterranean Termites. ACES Circular ANR-1035
  • The black widow. Outdoor Alabama.
  • IPM tactics for subterranean termite control. ACES CircularANR-1022.
  • Protecting new homes against foreign grain beetles. ACES Circular ANR-1203
  • Managing Indian Meal Moth. ACES Circular ANR-1197

Research Projects

Inhibitory properties of new polymers against animal and plant bacterial pathogens

Biofilms are structured communities of bacteria that form inside host organisms or inert devices. One of the main threats posed by biofilms to animal and plant health is that pathogenic bacteria inside the biofilm matrix are protected against anti-microbial agents, and therefore are difficult to control. The overall objective of this inter-disciplinary project is to screen a series of newly-fabricated polymers for their potential to prevent biofilm formation of bacterial pathogens. In particular, bacterial attachment to surfaces and subsequent growth/proliferation are the key steps towards formation of biofilms and will be the focus of the specific aims of this research. To test the activity of the polymers against bacterial growth, we are using model animal and plant pathogens. One of our goals is to obtain fundamental information on the activity of different polyurethane polymers with quaternary ammonium compounds against animal and plant pathogenic bacteria. The long-term goal of our research is to use the identified anti-biofilm materials in the manufacturing of devices for health and agricultural industries.

Project Funded By:

  • Auburn University Intramural Grants Program

Investigating the development and treatment of plant diseases caused by the bacterium Xylella fastidiosa using theoretical and experimental methods

The goal of this project is to understand the progression and treatment of xylem fouling by bacterial biofilms formed by the plant pathogen Xylella fastidiosa (Xf) using tightly coupled theoretical and experimental techniques. The particular objectives are to determine whether the dominant symptoms of the plant infection, such as leaf scorch, are due to reduced water flux caused by occlusion of the water transport network by the biofilm or whether active plant responses are also implicated. Further, the investigation will focus on non-destructive methods of treatment of the disease. These two objectives will provide fundamental insight into the disease process and treatment.

The collaboration between the theoretical (mathematics) and experimental (biological) methods will validate the mathematical theory and suggest new avenues of disease treatment. The project will initially use experimental data to validate the theoretical modeling. In turn, the modeling and analysis will be used to test various hypotheses on the disease development (e.g. occlusion versus plant responses) that are difficult to test in the laboratory. In addition, the theoretical predictions will point to particular experimental designs (e.g. treatment regimes) that may provide valuable insight into non-destructive disease treatment.

Project Funded By:

  • National Science Foundation, Department of Mathematical Sciences

Ionomics of the plant pathogen Xylella fastidiosa: The role of trace elements and nutrients in infection and progression of disease

Xylella fastidiosa is a ubiquitous, xylem-restricted plant pathogen that causes enormous financial losses in commercial crops such as grapes, citrus, peaches, almonds, and blueberries. The aim of this project is to obtain information on how minerals facilitate the infection process of X. fastidiosa. Once X. fastidiosa cells are inside the xylem vessels, they face the challenge of acquiring essential and beneficial mineral nutrients from the xylem sap. These minerals play a role in bacterial processes that lead to disease: growth, biofilm formation, and attachment to surfaces. We are studying this problem through analytical, molecular, and microfabrication approaches. This project is being performed in collaboration with Dr. Paul Cobine’s laboratory in the Department of Biological Sciences (Auburn University).

Project Funded By:

  • USDA-AFRI (United States Department of Agriculture – Agriculture and Food Research Initiative)
  • HATCH-AAES (Hatch – Alabama Agricultural Experiment Station)

Differentiation of Xylella fastidiosa strains via analysis of environmentally-mediated genes

Attempts so far to elucidate the genetic relationships between strains of Xylella fastidiosa (XF) have shown that genotypes tend to cluster into groups based on the host plant species from which they were isolated. In this project we are investigating the genetic variation of XF isolated from the same host in different geographic areas of the US. Sequence analysis of environmentally-mediated genes (genes thought to be influenced by environmental factors) is being applied to identify strain relationships. Multi-locus sequence analysis (MLSA) is being used for genes related to processes important for establishing XF infections such as surface attachment, biofilm formation, virulence, and nutrient transport and utilization. These types of genes may be more relevant to host-based genetic variability.

Infection traits and growth of “Candidatus Liberibacter asiaticus” inside microfluidic chambers

The bacterium ‘Candidatus Liberibacter asiaticus’ (LAS) is the suspected causal agent of the disease known as citrus greening (or huanglongbin), affecting citrus production worldwide, especially in Florida (US), Brazil, and China. Culturing LAS in the laboratory by traditional bacterial culture methods is extremely difficult. This has caused a knowledge deficit regarding LAS biology that inhibits the generation of well-informed ideas for pathogen control. We are starting a new project based on the use of a novel methodology which uses microfluidic chambers and microscopic observations to improve the culture conditions of LAS and confirm infection traits and nutritional requirements suggested by the recent full genome sequence.

Project Funded By:

  • FCPRAC (Florida Citrus Production Research Advisory Council)
Urban-Entomology-Lab-Team-201404

Urban Entomology Laboratory

The research of urban entomology Lab focuses on the Development and Implementation of Integrated Pest Management of arthropod pests in urban ecosystem. We are especially interested in behavior, physiology, ecology, biology, and immunology of household and structure insect pests and invasive pests.

Current Students

Zeng Yuan

Ph.D. Graduate Student – Dissertation Research: Immunology in Subterranean Termites

Leona (Liu) Yang

Ph.D. Graduate Student – Semiochemical-based management stratergy for invasive kudzu bug, M. cribraria

Julian Golec

M.S. Graduate Student – Thesis Research: Biology and management of the invasive Kudzu bug

Marta Barba Recreo

M.S. Graduate Student – Resident, Equine Internal Medicine
Thesis: Transmission of Corynebacterium pseudotuberculosis in horse by house flies

Znar Barwary

Ph.D. Graduate Student – Dissertation Research: Effects of termite behaviors and insecticide application protocol on control efficacy

David Pugh

D.V.M. and M.Ag. Graduate Student -Veterinary Entomology

Former Students

  • Hao Wu, M.S. 2013. Co-advisor. Currently a Technical Assistant at IntelliSurvey in Los Angeles. Thesis Tiel: Instar determination, temperature effects on the growth, and parental care in Dubia Cockroach
  • Juliana Xu, M.S. 2012. Co-advisor. Currently a Ph.D. candidate at University of Florida. Thesis Title: Feedign ecology of pest mole crickets (Orthoptera: Gryllotalpidae: Scpteriscus spp.) and associated damage to turfgrass.
  • Charles Donald Robert Stephen, M.S. 2012. Major Professor. Currently a Ph.D. candidate at Department of Biology, Auburn University. Thesis Title: Alabama Rhinotermitidae: nomenclature, identification, survey and swarming phenology
  • Franklin Quarcoo. Ph.D. 2009. Major Professor. Currently a Research Associate at Tuskegee University, USA. Dissertation Title: Behavioral toxicology of non-repellent termiticides in subterranean termites management.
  • Dunlun Song, Ph.D. 2007. Co-Professor. Currently Vice Chair and Associate Professor in Department of Entomology, China Agricultural University, China.
  • Edward T. Snoddy, Ph.D. 2012.