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The Vector Biology Laboratory (LBV in Spanish) develops basic research about the taxonomy, systematics, genetics, biology, and ecology of insects, vectors of tropical re-emerging diseases such as Arboviruses (Venezuelan Equine Encephalitis, Dengue, Yellow Fever), Malaria, and Onchocerciasis. Additionally, the lab carries out applied studies about the biology, ecology, and transmission dynamics of these diseases in Venezuela. Basic research objectives are to describe and explain patterns in biodiversity, phylogenetics population genetics, dynamics and structure in neotropical insect populations and communities, whose pre-adult stages inhabit a diverse range of aquatic bodies (Phytotelmata, wetlands, and rivers). Applied research focuses around risk-entomological factors (systematics, genetic structure, bionomics-biohistory, population dynamics, and spatial and temporal patterns for vector insect populations), eco-epidemiological (landscape ecology), and evolutionary factors that drive the expression and manifestation of insect borne diseases in Venezuela; all of these with the purpose to understand transmission dynamics and/or to design control strategies in an integral/interdisciplinary context. Our group are committed to answer these questions and work hypothesis with an empirical (sampling and field research, natural experiments) and theoretical (statistical and eco-epidemiological modeling) point of view, at several spatial and temporal scales, and using micro and macro tools that range from the classic morfotaxonomic and morphometrics analysis, the cladistic analysis, and the molecular biology techniques (DNA, isozymes); ending with ecological and geospatial approaches of the systems under investigation (insect-habitat, host-parasite). Our address:Universidad Central de Venezuela Facultad de Ciencias Instituto de Zoología Tropical Av. Paseo Los Ilustres, Los Chaguaramos Apartado 48058 Caracas, 1041-A VENEZUELA Phone: 58-212-6932206 Fax: 58-212-6051204 Webmaster: vhal999@yahoo.com |
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