Erick Motta

Erick Motta is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Entomology at Texas A&M University's College of Agriculture & Life Sciences. His research program investigates honey bee gut microbiota dynamics, specializing in agrochemical impacts on microbiome stability, host-microbe metabolic interactions, and probiotic interventions. Educational background includes a Ph.D. in Plant Biology from UT Austin and M.S. in Natural Products from University of São Paulo.

Research examines how pesticides like glyphosate disrupt microbial communities and compromise pathogen defense mechanisms, with parallel investigations into beneficial phytochemicals (e.g., caffeine-enhanced immunity). Recent work explores bacterial competition mechanisms within gut symbionts and non-invasive monitoring techniques.

Analysis of 15 publications shows consistent focus on pesticide-microbiome interactions (60% of articles), bee pathogen defense mechanisms (27%), and microbiome engineering applications (13%). Research progressively shifts from observational studies toward mechanistic investigations and applied solutions.

Leads research on microbial-based solutions for sustainable apiculture, including defined probiotic consortia to counteract agrochemical impacts and prevent infections.