K-State doctoral student Jacqueline Maille pioneers sustainable solutions to combat stored product pests and reduce food waste
A creature as small as a penny is costing millions of dollars in damage to our grain, nut and fruit supply annually. This tiny pest, the Indian meal moth, is slowly depleting our food storage and increasing global food insecurity issues.
K-State’s Jacqueline Maille, a doctoral entomology student, researches behavior-management strategies for stored-products insects, especially the Indian meal moth. Her work uses a machine called an “electrical nose” that quickly and accurately detects the presence and severity of infestations in stored food.
Maille is also studying the genetic basis of moth behavior through gene expressions analysis and behavioral tests. She has identified key genes and chemical cues that help the insects detect pheromones and food. She hopes to disrupt those genes and decrease the effect the insect has on our food supplies.
“My goal is to create smarter sustainable tools that make it easier to monitor and manage insect pests in food storage facilities,” Maille said. “This helps to reduce waste and strengthen our global food systems.”
What started out as an interest in how insects behave around food has now progressed into an inspirational mission to protect global food resources.
By Kate Ellwood Curated from Groundbreaking graduate work recognized by K-State’s highest-ranking professors