GNPS Awards Jeane Reeves Research Grant

GNPS has just awarded a Jeane Reeves Research Grant to Nick Batora, a graduate student working on his PhD in the Department of Genetics at the University of Georgia.  Nick is investigating the variation in chemical defenses that Maypops (Passiflora incarnata) use to prevent being eaten by caterpillars and other herbivores.   Specialist caterpillars, such as the Gulf Fritillary are important Maypop herbivores in southern areas, while generalist herbivores are more common to the north.  It is critical that we understand the interactions between our native plants and insects, and this research will provide helpful insights.  Look for articles and presentations by Nick about this topic in the future!