Michael Merchant, Ph.D.
Professor and Extension Urban Entomologist

Since 1989 Mike has served as the urban entomology specialist (“bug expert”) at the Texas A&M AgriLife Research and Extension Center in Dallas. His job is to develop educational materials to assist county programs reach the public as well as training programs and materials on pest management for the landscape maintenance and pest control industries.

Mike has a strong interest in identifying and promoting safer and more effective pest control methods. He helped develop the Two-Step Method being used throughout the South to control the red imported fire ant. He has also been a leader in promoting safer, integrated pest management (IPM) programs for Texas public schools, public housing, and homeless shelters. Most recently Mike is working on management strategies for the new invasive crapemyrtle bark scale.

Mike received his Ph.D. in entomology from Texas A&M University, and M.S. in entomology from Purdue University. He holds a B.S. degree in Environmental Science from Western Washington University.