The iEcoLab recently published a new study titled “Variation in forest patch habitat quality for white-footed mice driven by invasive plants in an urbanizing landscape.” This research was authored by Gianna Busala, a former undergraduate in our lab and a Temple Science Scholar, as well as Dr. Payton Phillips and PI Dr. Jocelyn Behm. The paper explores the role of invasive plants in shaping urban Lyme disease dynamics.
White-footed mice are key reservoirs for Lyme disease, and this study reveals how invasive plants may contribute to disease transmission. We found that habitats with higher invasive plant cover supported larger white-footed mice, which can host more ticks and potentially increase Lyme disease risk in urban areas.
Photo credits to Wikimedia user Peterwchen
Busala, GM, PM Philips, JE Behm. 2024. Variation in forest patch habitat quality for white-footed mice driven by invasive plants in an urbanizing landscape. Ecosphere, 15(11): e70068.