Magne Friberg

I am interested in the processes that have made plants and plant-feeding insects two of the most diverse and abundant groups of organisms on earth. Together with Anna Runemark and Øystein Opedal, I lead the Lund University research group on The Evolutionary Ecology of Plant Insect Interactions.

Much of our current research involves the evolution of plant signals, and the responses to these signals by their associated insects. Our study systems include multiple plant- and insect species that form small interaction networks. In these networks, we study spatial patterns in plant signaling and insect preferences, and how these interactions are affected by the nature of the plant-insect relationship (antagonistic/mutualistic), and by the specificity of the interaction. Our ambition is to bridge the traditional gap between zoology and botany by integrating studies of animal- and plant ecology, life-history biology, behavior and molecular- and chemical ecology.

Please see our research group’s home page for information about ongoing projects and opportunities for students.