Barry W. Alto

Barry W. Alto is an Associate Professor specializing in Medical Entomology and Arbovirology at the University of Florida's Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences (UF/IFAS), based at the Florida Medical Entomology Laboratory (FMEL) in Vero Beach, Florida.

His research focuses on medical entomology and arbovirology, with particular expertise in mosquito vector biology, mosquito-borne diseases, vector ecology, and biological control of mosquitoes. Dr. Alto's work has significant implications for public health, especially regarding the transmission and control of vector-borne diseases.

His recent publications demonstrate expertise in arbovirus ecology and mosquito vector systems, with particular attention to invasive species like Anopheles stephensi and the ecology of arboviruses including Keystone virus. His research often examines the complex relationships between mosquito vectors, pathogens, and environmental factors that influence disease transmission.

Among his scientific contributions are detailed studies on mosquito vectors of malaria, biological control using predatory mosquitoes like Toxorhynchites rutilus, and emerging arboviruses affecting the southeastern United States.

Dr. Alto has mentored graduate students including Ph.D. candidate Abdullah A. Alomar, with whom he has co-authored multiple publications on mosquito vectors and arboviruses. His work contributes significantly to the understanding of vector-borne disease systems and potential control strategies.