De-Fen Mou

Dr. De-Fen Mou is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Entomology and Nematology at the University of Florida, affiliated with the Everglades Research and Education Center (EREC). Her work focuses on identifying and managing plant pathogen vectors affecting crops in the Everglades Agricultural Area, including sugarcane, sorghum, rice, sweet corn, and vegetables. She combines research on insect vectors of plant viruses and phytoplasmas with extension programs addressing stakeholder needs, offering pathogen screening services and management recommendations.

Her research emphasizes molecular mechanisms of pathogen transmission, integrated pest management, and vector population dynamics. The extension program drives applied solutions through stakeholder feedback, ensuring practical applications of her findings. With a 70% research and 30% extension appointment, Dr. Mou bridges academic inquiry with agricultural practice.

Key research themes include aphid resistance mechanisms in monocot crops, phytoplasma transmission via insects like Haplaxius crudus, and vector ecology in palm diseases. Her recent publications reflect expertise in entomology, molecular biology, and plant pathology, with a focus on emerging pathogens and their vectors in Florida.

Dr. Mou collaborates with the UF/IFAS system, contributing to educational outreach and advisory boards. Her lab’s work has implications for sustainable crop protection and mitigating economically impactful plant diseases in tropical and subtropical agroecosystems.