The Entomological Society of America has elected ten new Fellows for 2012, including Christian Borgemeister and Henry Hagedorn, recognized for their research on biological control and integrated pest management. The ESA International Branch also named Joseph Morse as a Fellow, honored for his work in entomology and systems science.
A new study found that fruit flies on methamphetamine drastically reduce their food intake and increase physical activity. The flies' energy reserves and metabolism are severely impacted, leading to a primary driver of methamphetamine-related death in the insects. Adding glucose to the diet slows the damaging effects of meth exposure.
David Tilman's essay in Daedalus highlights the challenges to Earth's biodiversity due to human population growth, emphasizing the need for sustainable food and energy systems. The essay explores how loss of biodiversity affects ecosystem function and productivity.
A study by Purdue University researchers reveals that hornworm caterpillars adapt to increase the efficiency of converting food into energy when threatened by predators. They also increase nitrogen extraction and lipid content. However, this adaptation comes at a cost in later developmental stages.
Researchers from the University of Illinois discovered that low rainfall and high temperatures increase the numbers of larvae in storm water catch basins. The study, published in Journal of Medical Entomology, highlights the importance of monitoring mosquito populations in these areas to track West Nile Virus disease cases.
Researchers found 20 times more brown widows than black widows outside homes, especially in hidden spaces. The authors suggest that homeowners take precautions when handling brown widow webs, but note that their bites are less toxic than black widow bites.
A team of scientists from Washington University in St. Louis has identified the eastern gray squirrel as a major animal reservoir for tick-borne diseases, including ehrlichioses and STARI. The study uses a new assay to detect species-level tick blood meals, confirming the presence of gray squirrel DNA in infected ticks.
A study by researchers at the University of Arizona found that pest populations are evolving resistance to genetically modified cotton plants, which produce toxins derived from Bacillus thuringiensis. The discovery highlights the need for closer monitoring and countering of pest resistance to biotech crops.
To slow resistance of western corn rootworm beetles to genetically protected crops, much larger 'refuge' acreages of conventional crops have to be planted, two experts warn. Increasing refuge requirements can delay pest resistance and sustain the benefits of Bt corn.
Scientists recommend increasing refuge acreage for Bt corn to slow western corn rootworm resistance and promote integrated pest management. The current 20% refuge requirement may not be sufficient to delay resistance, and doubling the size of refuges could help sustain the success of transgenic corn.
New research published in Journal of Economic Entomology shows consumer products known as bug bombs or foggers to be ineffective against bed bugs. The study found that bed bugs can survive the insecticide mist and hide in protected sites, making it unlikely for them to be exposed.
Researchers studied butterfly life cycles in central Spain's mountain range to understand climate change impacts. Some species that emerge later or fly higher may struggle, while others with longer reproductive windows are more resilient.
Researchers discovered that hawkmoths can detect minuscule differences in humidity near flowers to determine if they have enough nectar. This allows the moths to quickly evaluate flowers and avoid wasting energy on unprofitable ones.
Researchers at Auburn University have discovered a new species of trapdoor spider, named Myrmekiaphila tigris, in the heart of the city. The spider's unique features were confirmed through DNA analysis and physical examination, highlighting the biodiversity still unknown to scientists.
Scientists at FAO and IAEA developed a larval rearing unit for efficient mosquito mass-rearing, promising to boost the Sterile Insect Technique's effectiveness. The new system maintains water temperature stability and minimizes evaporation, allowing normal larval development and reducing labor costs.
A hyperparasitic fungus has been found to effectively combat the zombie-ant fungus, limiting its spread and survival. The research model shows that only about 6.5% of spore-producing organs were viable, suggesting a smaller threat to ant colonies.
Researchers found that high selenium concentrations in nectar and pollen had no effect on honey bees' foraging behavior, but affected their sucrose response and led to early mortality. The study suggests that selenium may not be the primary cause of Colony Collapse Disorder.
Researchers at UOG are using classical biological control with Puccinia spegazzinii to combat the aggressive climbing vine, which threatens plant biodiversity on Pacific islands. The rust fungus is highly damaging to Mikania's leaves, petioles, and stems, eliminating the need for toxic herbicides.
A two-year study found that omnivore dung, including chimpanzee and human dung, is the most attractive to dung beetles. Native Nebraskan dung beetles showed little attraction to bison dung compared to exotic animal dungs.
Researchers at the University of Georgia discovered a protein in black fly saliva that inhibits clotting and reduces inflammation. This finding has potential applications for treating patients recovering from heart attacks and developing a vaccine against river blindness.
A new genetic study reveals that head and body lice are the same species, despite their distinct characteristics. The research compared protein-coding genes expressed during both life cycles, finding only minor differences in sequences.
Research from North Carolina State University reveals that honey bees increase propolis collection by 45% when infected with harmful fungi, providing a natural antifungal agent to protect their colony. The bees also physically remove infected larvae to prevent fungal spores from spreading.
A new study led by UC Riverside's Alexander Raikhel aims to control mosquito population through hormonal regulation. The researchers will focus on deciphering genes involved in mediating hormone action during egg production in Aedes aegypti mosquitoes, which spread dengue and yellow fever.
The Asian fly species Drosophila suzukii is taking over European fruit, particularly cherries and red fruits, causing significant damages to crops. The study found that the fly can lay eggs in unaffected fruit, leading to destruction of the fruit by its larvae.
Gene Kritsky will give the Entomology Founders' Memorial Award lecture at Entomology 2012, honoring Charles Darwin's theory of evolution by natural selection. Dr. Kritsky's research has significantly contributed to understanding periodical cicadas and apiculture.
Dr. Amanda C. Hodges received the 2012 Distinguished Achievement Award in Extension for her extensive work on plant pest diagnostics, training, and research. Dr. Gregg S. Nuessly was awarded the 2011 Distinguished Achievement Award in Horticultural Entomology for his contributions to research and extension projects on turfgrass pests.
The ESA Southwestern Branch presented awards to Apurba Barman for his Outstanding Ph.D. Student Award and Rachel Mohr for her PhD Oral Presentation and Poster Presentation. The awardees showcased their research on entomology and its applications in agriculture, forensic science, and livestock management.
A study by University of Illinois professor Gene Robinson found that honey bees differ in their desire to perform tasks, with certain individuals more likely to seek adventure. The research suggests that these differences may be due to variability in personalities.
A recent study examines ash tree removal and pesticide options to minimize urban forest loss due to Emerald Ash Borer infestations. The results show that insecticide treatments retain greater urban forest value, while preemptive removal without replacement is the least expensive option.
A new study suggests that native insect parasitoids in California can suppress the light brown apple moth population, with one species accounting for over 80% of larval parasitism rates. Further research is needed to determine the effectiveness of these natural enemies in controlling the pest's spread.
A new study published in the Journal of Economic Entomology reveals that methionine, a key amino acid essential for human nutrition, is effective against caterpillars threatening the U.S. citrus industry. Methionine disrupts an ion channel controlling nutrient absorption in larvae, leading to their death within two to three days.
Researchers at the University of Florida have discovered a key amino acid, methionine, that is effective in killing caterpillars threatening the US citrus industry. The discovery uses a genetically related surrogate and has potential applications for organic poultry production.
A new species of horse fly, Scaptia (Plinthina) beyonceae, has been discovered in Australia and named after Beyoncé. The fly's golden abdomen makes it a unique specimen. Horse flies are important pollinators of plants, acting like hummingbirds during the day.
Researchers at Purdue University have found a link between honeybee deaths and exposure to neonicotinoid insecticides used on corn and soybean seeds. High levels of these pesticides were detected in talc waste, soil, and pollen collected by bees, suggesting that they may be contributing to bee deaths.
Scientists at Virginia Tech have discovered a novel antiviral immune pathway in culicine mosquitoes, which produces virus-derived small RNAs similar to piwi-interacting RNAs. This finding suggests a robust immune system, but understanding how viruses overcome it remains an open challenge.
Researchers at the University of Georgia have found that releasing ladybird beetles in the upper crown of infested trees can effectively control hemlock woolly adelgid populations. The study suggests a new approach to managing the invasive pest, which has been killing Eastern hemlocks across the southeastern US.
The JIPM authors refute Greenpeace's claim that genetically modified corn caused the western bean cutworm to spread. Instead, they cite various ecological and agronomic factors, such as conservation tillage, reduced insecticide use, and climate change, which may have contributed to the WBC's range expansion.
A team led by UC Riverside entomologist Thomas Miller is traveling to Rwanda to help solve the mystery of a defect called 'potato taste' that's threatening the country's specialty coffee exports. The team aims to determine the cause of the defect and devise a strategy to eliminate it.
A new study assesses the potential reasons for the continued lack of success in preventing and controlling Lyme disease in the US Northeast. The study identifies critical areas where additional knowledge is needed to improve prevention and control strategies, including host infestation rates, habitat diversity, and human behavior.
Researchers at San Francisco State University have discovered a fly parasite in honey bee hives, which may help explain the mysterious phenomenon of colony collapse disorder. The parasite, found only in California and South Dakota, causes bees to abandon their hives and behave 'zombie-like'.
A unique chemical composition of a cockroach signal, emitting a sex pheromone, could help determine habitat suitability for an endangered woodpecker. The synthetic pheromone attracts large numbers of adult male cockroaches, suggesting that the area could be a suitable home for the red-cockaded woodpecker.
Research by Cornell University and Rutgers University found that bees and flowering plants are keeping pace with climate change, arriving earlier in the spring. This shift has been observed since 1970, when warming temperatures accelerated most rapidly, according to the study published in Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences.
Researchers at Purdue University and USDA develop method to test toxins on Hessian fly larvae, finding potential solution to failing genetic resistance in wheat. They discovered that snowdrop lectin disrupts digestive function in Hessian flies, slowing their development.
Honey bee swarms face a decision when finding multiple potential nest sites, using stop signals similar to those in primate brains to shorten dances and end the recruitment process. This cross inhibition helps ensure a single optimal site is chosen, avoiding deadlocks between equal-quality alternatives.
A new study shows that radiation can effectively sterilize the light brown apple moth (LBAM), an insect pest found in California. The method involves using a 250 Gy irradiation dose on pupae to induce over 95% sterility in females and males, reducing the need for pesticides.
Flies sense glycerol, a sweet-tasting compound made during fermentation, which signals high nutritive value. Researchers found that a receptor called Gr64e plays a crucial role in signaling a good taste for beer.
Dr. Jon Gelhaus, a Philadelphia scientist, received the 'Best Scientist in Nature and Environment' medal for his significant contributions to Mongolian Environmental Science. He is leading a multinational effort to improve water quality monitoring and standards in Mongolia.
New research from NC State University sheds light on how blow flies survive when buried underground during their development. The study found that blow flies can survive burial and provides additional information for murder investigations, helping forensic entomologists determine body burial times and potential relocations.
A research team at Virginia Tech has discovered genetic mechanisms behind bed bug resistance to deltamethrin and beta-cyfluthrin. The study found multiple genes that enable the insects to detoxify these insecticides, making them less effective.
The Entomological Society of America recognizes two entomologists with Distinguished Achievement Awards: Dr. Angela Douglas for her research on insect nutrition and symbiotic microorganisms, and Dr. Michael Parrella for his work on integrated pest management in the floriculture industry.
The Entomological Foundation recognizes outstanding contributions to integrated pest management, including the ECB Team Award for areawide suppression of the European Corn Borer. The foundation also awards research grants to postdoctoral scientists working on pest insects, such as Christelle Guédot.
A UA-led team of researchers discovered a new edge in overcoming resistance to certain pests by modifying the structure of crop-protecting proteins called Bt toxins. The modified toxins were found to be effective against some resistant strains, but not always working as expected and requiring further testing.
Researchers at the Institute of Tropical Medicine Antwerp have developed a molecular identification technology that accurately identifies biting midges responsible for spreading bluetongue disease. This breakthrough can help determine where the disease will spread and inform effective pest control strategies.
The IGB and University of Illinois have received a $3.2 million NSF grant to train up to 30 graduate students in vertically integrated training with genomics. Students will learn to integrate genomic tools with traditional taxonomic approaches to study grand challenges in biology.
Researchers found that mosquitoes are attracted first to carbon dioxide, then to skin odors, which could lead to more effective mosquito traps. The study's findings provide crucial insights into how female mosquitoes locate human hosts for diseases like malaria and yellow fever.
Scientists have created compounds that can force corn earworms out of dormancy prematurely, prevent them from entering diapause, or block its termination. This could lead to effective tools for controlling pests and reducing agricultural losses estimated at $2 billion annually in the US.
Researchers have found that distinct gene regulatory networks in the honey bee brain contribute to specific behaviors, such as foraging and aggression. The study confirmed a close relationship between changes in gene expression and behavior, highlighting the importance of understanding the regulation of brain gene expression.
Biologists have discovered that glow-in-the-dark millipedes use their bioluminescence as a warning signal to avoid attacks by nocturnal predators. In the experiment, four times more non-glowing millipedes showed evidence of predation compared to glowing ones.
Researchers have developed new potato lines with genetic resistance to wireworms, a major pest that can cause significant damage to crops. The resistant clones outperformed insecticide-treated potatoes in field trials, suggesting that natural compounds like glycoalkaloids may be protecting the plants.
Researchers discovered that desert seed beetles use a strategy of stacking their eggs as shields against parasitic wasps. The beetles lay their eggs on seed pods, then stack multiple layers to protect them from the wasp species. This behavior prevents the wasp larvae from developing and allows the beetle offspring to survive.