Search results for “Entomology”

Researchers document rice plants trapping and killing fall armyworm caterpillars

How trees in urban areas are key to cooling down a warmer world

A study by Ohio State University found that certain tree species, such as red maple and northern catalpa, are more resilient to heat and water stress. Urban forests can provide natural cooling, reducing summer electricity usage, but require careful management and investment in irrigation systems.

Cornell researchers document one of the largest known ground-nesting bee populations

A team of Cornell researchers has discovered a massive aggregation of ground-nesting bees, estimated to be over 5.5 million individual bees, in the East Lawn Cemetery. The discovery highlights the importance of these solitary bees as agricultural pollinators and adds credence to claims that cemeteries serve as preserves of biodiversity.

Some ticks can survive from 1 to 3 weeks on home flooring

Researchers found that two species of ticks, Gulf Coast and lone star, can live at least one week and up to three weeks on hard-surface and carpeted floors. The study emphasizes the importance of taking protective measures to prevent tick bites.

UMD entomologist helps bring the world’s ant diversity to life in 3D imagery

Researchers at UMD used AI and 3D imaging to accelerate the scanning and creation of 2,000 interactive ant models, reducing scanning time from 10 hours to a single week. The project, dubbed Antscan, aims to create a living library of interactive models corresponding to Earth's biodiversity.

Evasive butterfly mimicry reveals a supercharged biodiversity feedback loop

A new study in Systematic Entomology reveals that evasive butterfly mimicry in the genus Adelpha may be a rare and overlooked type of mimicry. The researchers found that Adelpha butterflies use speed and unpredictability as a defense mechanism, making them difficult to catch for birds and other predators.

Ant societies rose by trading individual protection for collective power

Research shows that ants with less protective armor, such as cuticle investment, tend to have larger colony sizes and are more successful in terms of diversification rates. This suggests that complex societies like humans may evolve by sacrificing individual quality for collective power.

Fecal tests reveal active termite attacks

Researchers have developed a new test that uses microbes to determine the age of termite droppings, allowing for rapid on-site infestation assessments. The study found that the amount of DNA from E. coli bacteria in the pellets decreases significantly over time, with a nearly 190-fold drop by the 12-month mark.

Contributions to Entomology now indexed in Scopus

Contributions to Entomology is a peer-reviewed, open-access journal indexed in Scopus, reflecting its commitment to quality and accessibility. The journal publishes research on all aspects of entomology, including insect systematics, ecology, and applied entomology.

How does a parasitic nematode infect a wide variety of plants?

A 15-member research team has gained insight into the DNA of the Northern root-knot nematode, a parasitic nematode that causes significant economic damage to many crops. The study reveals an unusual DNA repeat at the ends of its chromosomes, which may provide a clue to its ability to infect a wide range of plants.

New species of spider discovered, just in time for Halloween

Scientists at UC Davis have discovered a new species of trapdoor spider, Aptostichus ramirezae, in California's coastal sand dunes. The study reveals that what was thought to be one species is actually two, highlighting the need for conservation efforts to protect habitats shrinking due to climate change and human development.

Scientists develop floral-scented fungus that lures mosquitoes to their doom

Researchers engineered a new strain of Metarhizium fungus that mimics flower scents to attract and kill mosquitoes. The floral-scented fungus is harmless to humans and breaks down naturally, making it a promising alternative to chemical pesticides.

Population decline of Franklin’s bumble bee wasn’t due to pathogens, museum genomic research shows

A team of scientists analyzed 300,000 years of genetic history of Franklin's bumble bee and found that population bottlenecks and environmental issues such as fire and drought led to its decline. The study suggests that the species' extinction vulnerability arose from historically low effective population size and genetic diversity.

Light-based insect analysis sharpens forensic timelines

Researchers developed a technique that uses infrared light and machine learning to determine the sex of blow fly larvae, improving time-of-death estimates. The method achieved over 90% accuracy and has potential applications in forensic entomology, agriculture, and biosecurity.

APS PRESS releases third edition of cotton industry’s most trusted diagnostic resource

The third edition of Compendium of Cotton Diseases and Pests features significant updates and new content, including expanded focus on entomology and emerging diseases. Hundreds of new images enhance identification and diagnosis, making it a comprehensive guide for plant pathologists, agronomists, and growers.

Study: Soybeans seem to inherit the bad memories of their parents

Researchers found that soybean plants can pass on adaptive responses to stress across generations without changing their DNA. This phenomenon, known as transgenerational plasticity, can lead to improved defense against pests but also reduces yield and fitness.

Cornell researchers explore alternatives to harmful insecticide

Researchers found that cyantraniliprole and spinosad seed treatments in snap bean performed as well or better than standard neonicotinoid, while five alternative seed treatments proved effective for sweet corn. However, some alternatives had inconsistent results for dry beans.

Learn more about preventing disease spread by ticks and mosquitoes

The VECTOR Library provides over 1,400 educational materials for preventing vector-borne diseases like Lyme disease and West Nile virus. Experts stress that community involvement and education are key to preventing disease spread.

Discovery: a better, more targeted termite terminator

Researchers have discovered a chemical called bistrifluron that prevents drywood termites from creating new exoskeletons, ultimately killing the colony. This innovative method offers a safer alternative to traditional fumigation methods and has shown promise in reducing toxicity.

Researchers find first evidence of potential bed bug insecticide resistance in gene mutation

A study published in the Journal of Medical Entomology found a gene mutation in bed bugs that may contribute to their resistance to insecticides. The researchers, led by Warren Booth, discovered the mutation in 134 unique populations of bed bugs collected from North America between 2008-22.

Rain barrel basics: Conserving water but not mosquito habitats

Researchers found over half of residential rain barrels in Champaign County had at least one mosquito-positive barrel. Effective prevention methods include mesh coverings, approved insecticides like Bacillus thuringiensis israelensis, and treating the water with chlorine or predators of mosquito larvae.

Pinning down the process of West Nile virus transmission

A project aims to understand how temperature, light pollution, and bird abundance affect West Nile virus transmission in mosquitoes. The goal is to advise health departments on the best time to kill bugs and limit transmission.

UTIA entomologist receives Insects 2024 Young Investigator Award

Kelsey Coffman, assistant professor at UTIA, is honored for her research on beneficial viruses in parasitoid wasps and their impact on insect interactions. She has received the Insects 2024 Young Investigator Award for her significant contributions to entomology.

New research reveals secrets about locust swarm movement

A new theory suggests locusts follow an uncoordinated version of follow-the-leader behavior rather than synchronized collective motion. Environmental factors influence swarm direction, with individual locusts reacting to their nearest neighbors.

Mosquito pain receptors are less sensitive during extreme heat

A new study found that higher temperatures reduce the effectiveness of natural mosquito repellents by desensitizing their pain receptors. This means mosquitoes may find these substances less irritating in hotter weather, potentially leading to increased bites and disease transmission.

Cold plasma-treated seeds show potential to protect plants, reduce pesticide use

A new study by researchers from the University of Arkansas System Division of Agriculture found that cold plasma-treated seeds can enhance plant growth and increase resistance to insects. However, the benefits were limited to initial stages of plant development, with control plants eventually catching up in later stages.

Texas A&M AgriLife Research aims for better control of widespread tomato spotted wilt virus

Researchers are tackling the problem from multiple perspectives, bringing in interdisciplinary expertise to understand the virus on a fundamental level. The project aims to inform the general public of the challenges that plant viruses and vectors present to global food and nutritional security.

Insect genome offers insights into rare biological conditions, agricultural biosecurity

Low-cost sequencing technology has opened a flood of mitochondrial DNA data on lice and other insects, bolstering studies on insect species identification and developing insecticides. This genetic data also offers insights into the impact of evolution on neurodegenerative diseases and potential pest control methods.

Tick tubes help reduce the parasites on mice, but time and frequency matters

Researchers found tick tubes effective in reducing ticks on mice within one season, with mice using more cotton over time. The study suggests that consistent deployment and replacement of tick tubes are key to effectiveness, targeting cooler months or consistently throughout the year.

Breakthrough could revolutionize future of tick control

Researchers have identified genetic markers that determine sex determination in cattle fever ticks, a breakthrough that could lead to novel control methods. The discovery opens the door for innovative solutions against disease-carrying ticks and answers a basic biological mystery about these pests.

Insect-killing fungi find unexpected harmony in war

Two strains of pathogenic fungi cooperate to share insect victims, dividing territories and utilizing unique specialties. This peaceful coexistence allows them to partition limited resources and adapt to their environment.

Not the usual suspects: Novel genetic basis of pest resistance to biotech crops

A new study found that the genetic basis of resistance to transgenic Bt crops in the corn earworm is not associated with previously identified genes. Instead, a cluster of duplicated genes is linked to resistance, highlighting the complexity of pest adaptation.

Insects from the bodies of illegally hunted rhinoceros may provide valuable forensic information

A new study uses insect evidence from illegally killed rhinos to determine the post-mortem interval. This technique has been used to construct cases against poachers and has led to a rebound in rhino populations over the past 30 years.

Study: Good nutrition boosts honey bee resilience against pesticides, viruses

Researchers found that good nutrition enhances honey bee resilience against pesticide exposure and viral infections. Bees exposed to viruses experienced higher mortality on artificial pollen diets but fewer deaths when fed natural pollen and exposed to pesticides.

Mark your calendars: Insect science takes center stage in Phoenix, November 10–13

Entomology 2024 will convene over 3,500 entomologists and experts to share latest research on insect science. The conference explores intersection of entomology with global trends, including innovation and climate change.

Hemp shows high promise as potential natural insecticide

A study published in the journal Insects found that hemp leaf extract containing cannabidiol (CBD) is effective in killing mosquito larvae, including those resistant to typical insecticides. The research suggests CBD's potential as a safe and sustainable alternative for controlling mosquito populations.

Drowning tomatoes for science

Entomology professor Esther Ngumbi is studying how flooded conditions affect tomato plants, including changes in microbial community, volatile organic compounds, and gene expression. She warns that increased flooding can undermine climate-resilient crop research.

Consumer-grade insecticide sprays fail to control cockroaches, study shows

A new study found that consumer-grade insecticide sprays have little to no effect on eliminating German cockroach infestations. The residues of these products did not kill more than 20% of the cockroaches, with some taking up to five days to die.

Invasive ants spread by hitchhiking on everyday vehicles

Researchers found that ants need three main things to succeed when hitchhiking: climbing ability, foraging/colonizing behaviors, and temperature tolerance. The study tracked the spread of invasive ants through non-commercial transport on personal vehicles, highlighting a significant threat to native species.

Unveiling how German cockroaches came to live with humans

Researchers discovered that German cockroaches originated from Asian cockroaches approximately 2,100 years ago. The species adapted to human-built environments, leading to a dependence on living inside manmade structures. This evolution has enabled the cockroaches to thrive globally and develop resistance to insecticides.

Virginia Tech entomologist sheds light on 250-year-old mystery of the German cockroach

A team of scientists, led by Warren Booth, solved the 250-year-old mystery of the German cockroach's origin by analyzing genomic data from over 280 specimens across 17 countries and six continents.

Some varieties of annual flowers have a place in pollinator-friendly gardens

A new study finds significant variation in pollinator attractiveness among annual flower cultivars, with some varieties drawing in more insects than others. Begonia and impatiens cultivars were found to be particularly attractive to bees and other pollinators.

UTIA named in five-year regional project addressing vector-borne diseases

Becky Trout Fryxell, UTIA associate professor of entomology and plant pathology, is part of the $7.1 million VectorED Network, focused on preventing and educating about vector-borne diseases like Lyme disease and La Crosse virus in Tennessee.

State politics, industry drive planetary health education for K-12 students in US

A new study found that US K-12 students' science learning standards vary widely in their coverage of environmental issues, reflecting the states' dominant political ideology and major industries. The quality and depth of information on planetary health issues are greatly impacted by these factors.

Invasive spotted lanternfly may not damage hardwood trees as previously thought

New research by Penn State suggests that hardwood trees such as maple, willow and birch are unlikely to see significant impacts from the sap-feeding spotted lanternfly. The study found that increased feeding pressure resulted in reduced growth during the first two years, but native trees recovered when feeding was less intense.

Bees evolved from ancient supercontinent, diversified faster than suspected

A new study reveals that bees evolved on the ancient supercontinent of Gondwana over 120 million years ago. The researchers sequenced and compared genes from more than 200 bee species, finding evidence of a parallel partnership between bees and flowering plants.

Aphids make tropical milkweed less inviting to monarch butterflies, study finds

Researchers found that aphid-infested tropical milkweed is less inviting to monarch butterflies, with reduced egg-laying and slower caterpillar development. Aphid-free plants, on the other hand, provide a better chance for monarchs to thrive.

Do common methods for protecting bees from pesticides actually work?

A new study analyzed existing research on bee-protective measures and found that many common methods are backed by minimal scientific evidence. Researchers urge stronger testing to evaluate effective measures and warn of potential waste of time if ineffective.

Light pollution may extend mosquitoes’ biting season

A study suggests that artificial light at night disrupts the winter dormancy period of mosquitoes, causing them to bite humans and animals longer into the fall. This delay in diapause may increase the risk of West Nile virus transmission.

In Florida study, nonnative leaf-litter ants are replacing native ants

A new study reveals a steady decline in native leaf-litter ants and simultaneous increase in nonnative ants in Florida, even in protected natural areas. Nonnative ants are most likely arriving with goods transported to the state from around the world.

New mosquito species reported in Florida

A new mosquito species, Culex lactator, has been found in Florida, with thriving populations reported in three counties. Scientists are concerned about the potential for this species to transmit diseases, particularly given the lack of research on its disease risk.

Indoor ‘queen banking’ could help beekeepers deal with changing climate

Researchers found that indoor refrigeration units increased queen survival rates and reduced maintenance needs compared to outdoor storage. The study suggests that 'queen banking' could be a key strategy for strengthening honey bee survival in the face of a changing climate.

Study examines bacteria living in and on mosquitoes

A North Carolina State University study found that mosquitoes harbor diverse bacterial communities, including those associated with human diseases. The research revealed greater bacterial diversity internally than externally, suggesting that mosquitoes may transfer pathogenic bacteria through physical contact or defecation.

Honey bee life spans are 50% shorter today than they were 50 years ago

A new study found that honey bee lifespans in lab-kept conditions are 50% shorter than they were in the 1970s, corresponding with increased colony losses and reduced honey production. The researchers suggest a genetic component may be influencing this trend, which could lead to breeding programs for longer-lived bees.

Entomologists issue warning about effects of climate change on insects

A team of 70 scientists warns that climate change will drastically reduce the ability to build a sustainable future based on healthy ecosystems. Insects face extinction and ecosystem disruption due to global warming and extreme weather events.

Career advancement slower for women in entomology, study finds

Women pursuing careers in entomology face persistent challenges in obtaining jobs compared to men. The study found that men published more research articles and were first authors on average, leading to higher H-index scores. Women are also less likely to hold industry positions as technical representatives and research scientists.

When country ants go to town

Researchers studied the common house ant's adaptation to urban environments, finding genetic concentration and changes in aggression towards outsiders. Urban queens were closely related and less aggressive, while super-colonies with polydomous colonies formed only in developed areas.

Soybean virus may give plant-munching bugs a boost in survival

Researchers found that soybean thrips infected with the SVNV virus survived longer and reproduced better than uninfected ones. Infected thrips also produced more offspring and had a faster population doubling time.

Study identifies sex-adapted color-change gene in locusts

Researchers have identified a sex-adapted color-change gene in locusts that signals between males to reduce mating mistakes in swarming conditions. The discovery reveals a previously unknown sexual dimension to desert locusts' phase polyphenism, providing insights into the evolution of phenotypic plasticity.

Cotton gene-editing project paves a new path for plant protection

A three-year project aims to research novel pest management tools for cotton production by modifying terpene biosynthesis in cotton using a transgene-free CRISPR/CAS9 approach. The goal is to silence genes that produce monoterpenes, reducing infestations and pesticide use.