David Dussourd

David Dussourd is Professor of Biology at the University of Central Arkansas, researching insect-plant interactions with focus on behavioral adaptations that allow herbivores to overcome plant defenses. His laboratory investigates sabotage mechanisms—including vein cutting, girdling, and salivary secretions—used by caterpillars to neutralize latex/resin canals in plants.

Publications demonstrate consistent focus on chemical ecology and coevolution, particularly how secretory canal architecture shapes insect counteradaptations across diverse plant families (wildflowers, crops, trees). Recent work examines energetic costs of defensive behaviors and novel weaponry adaptations in notodontid caterpillars. Research informs pest management through identification of plant defense vulnerabilities.