Natalie Clay

Natalie Clay is an Associate Professor in the Department of Entomology & Plant Pathology at the University of Arkansas. Her research focuses on ecological interactions, decomposition processes, and nutrient dynamics in terrestrial and riparian ecosystems. She investigates how insects, fungi, and environmental factors like sodium availability shape ecosystem function and biodiversity.

Key research areas include:

• Decomposition dynamics in forest ecosystems
• Impact of bark beetles and fungal symbionts on wood decay
• Sodium limitation effects on detritivore communities
• Riparian-stream carbon connections under salinization pressures
• Ecological consequences of prescribed fire management

Her recent work reveals trends in sodium-driven ecosystem processes and the cascading effects of invasive species and forest management practices. Ongoing projects address biogeochemical hotspots around beetle-killed trees and the role of deadwood in sustaining biodiversity.

While no specific awards are listed, her extensive publication record reflects sustained contributions to entomology and ecosystem ecology. Research activities include collaborative projects on decomposition, detrital food webs, and conservation biology in both temperate and tropical ecosystems.