Anthony Cognato

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Professor, Insect Systematics
Department of Entomology

Degrees:
PhD - University of California, Berkeley (1998)
MS - State University of New York, College of Environmental Science & Forestry (1995)
BS - State University of New York, College of Environmental Science & Forestry (1992)

Bio

Dr. Anthony Cognato studies insect diversity and is passionate about sharing his knowledge and excitement with others. Over the past 20 years, he has developed an international research program in insect systematics and collection stewardship. His program has been continuously funded since 2003, supporting the education of graduate and undergraduate students, revitalization of the A.J. Cook Arthropod Research Collection and advances in the study of bark beetle systematics. Dr. Cognato emphasizes mentorship, having advised eight Ph.D. and eight master’s students, served on graduate committees across several departments and encouraged students to pursue independent research within his program, leading to collaborations on a range of insect groups.

Concentrations:

Insect systematics
Biodiversity
Evolution

Courses Taught

ENT818: Adult Insect Taxonomy

Identification, morphology, biology and evolutionary relationships of adult insects. Insect collection required.

ENT838: Immature Insect Taxonomy

Classification, identification, morphology, biology and evolutionary relationships of immature insects. Emphasis on terrestrial holometabola. Insect collection required.

ENT890: Spider Biology and Taxonomy.

Research

Cognato’s research focuses on systematics, the study of organismal diversity, relationships and classification, which provides a foundation for the biological sciences by creating a common framework for communication about all life. His program centers on bark beetles (Scolytinae), which generally act as decomposers of wood, though some aggressive species—and occasionally benign species—can kill live trees, particularly under environmental stress, causing significant ecological and economic losses. Cognato’s taxonomic research on tropical bark beetles expands knowledge of species diversity and relationships and improves identification methods, which other scientists and diagnosticians use to enhance pest surveys. He also trains national and international technicians, undergraduates and graduate students in bark beetle identification and systematics, helping to perpetuate knowledge of these insects across generations and regions.