Meet the Faculty

Richard Houseman

Associate Professor
Division of Plant Sciences

Phone: 573-882-7181
Fax: 573-882-1469
E-mail: HousemanR@missouri.edu
Address: 3-22B Agriculture Building
Web site: Urban Entomology

Education
B.S., Biology, Brigham Young University
M.S., Zoology, Brigham Young University
Ph.D., Entomology, Texas A&M University

Description
Research: Research interests in landscape ecology and behavior of insects found in human environments. Studies seek to examine landscape structure, function, and/or change and its relationship to spatial patterns of insect populations within human-created landscapes. Current projects examine temporal and spatial patterns of subterranean termite home infestations and the influence of historical landscape structure on current patterns of subterranean termite distribution in Missouri neighborhoods. Student projects currently examine spatial patterns of subterranean termite invasion into developing neighborhoods, temporal and spatial changes in mosquito abundance and species composition in urban and rural landscapes, and shifts in aquatic insect communities along gradients within spring-fed aquifers at varying distances from the source.

Extension: Directs extension education programs in Urban and Medical Entomology. Provides current Integrated Pest Management information that minimizes pesticide risks in human environments. Teaches continuing education seminars and publishes information that is used by University of Missouri extension faculty, homeowners, professional pest management companies, and state agencies in making decisions about safe, effective, and profitable management of insect pests in human environments.