UF/IFAS

Florida is home to over 315 species of native wild bees, which thrive on flowers for survival. But some bees are in critical decline. While the public is increasingly interested in conserving pollinators and in pollinator-friendly gardening, a 2020 University of Florida survey showed a knowledge gap in consumers’ ability to identify a range of bee pollinators -- the plants to which they’re attracted.

Avoid the headaches and upset stomachs with healthier alternatives to alcohol - mocktails featuring Florida's plethora of sippable options.

Experts from academic, government and non-profit agencies gathered to evaluate potential invasive species to Florida based on the likelihood of arrival, likelihood of establishment and spread, and potential ecological, economical and human health impacts. Of 460 vertebrates, invertebrates, algae and plants determined to have some invasive characteristics suitable to Florida, 40 species were classified as being at higher risk of invasion. The determination of a species as high-risk does not mean it is of immediate concern; more thorough analyses are required to consider, for example, placement on a monitoring or regulatory list.

University of Florida scientists have found ethyl vanillin -- an aroma compound in many artificial vanilla-flavored food products -- in a UF/IFAS-bred strawberry.This is a key finding for the food and beverage industry and for the UF/IFAS strawberry breeding program.

A first-of-its-kind invisible fence project looks to keep cattle on one Southwest Florida ranch contained, provide the property with more efficiency and help protect the environment.

Mangroves are incredibly beneficial to Florida's environment and can be a bonus for your property, too.

Florida’s agriculture sector was hit extremely hard following Hurricane Ian, with crop losses up to $1.25 billion. The brand “SWFL Fresh: Choose Local, Choose Fresh” raises awareness about locally-produced products to help the regional food system become more resilient, especially in the face of a natural disaster.

Resiliency is the focus for the three town halls sponsored by the SanCap Citizens for a Resilient Future. The first townhall in March featured dramatic personal experiences of surviving the storm. The second townhall in April centered on how well the environment held up and how it possibly helped mitigate storm damage. A third townhall is scheduled for Monday, May 22 at Big Arts on Sanibel, with a focus on the emergency response.

Is seafood safe to eat during a red tide? As varying levels of the toxic algae continue to float along the coast of Southwest Florida, get the answers from an expert at the University of Florida.