How native plants and exotics coexist
A new study reveals that insects prefer exotic plants over natives, maintaining balance in ecosystems. Native plants are less susceptible to these insects and can thrive alongside exotics.
Search results for “Insects”
1,000+ results for "Insects"
Microbial 'missing link' discovered after man impales hand on tree branch
Researchers discovered a new bacterium, human Sodalis, in the infected wound of a man who impaled his hand on a tree branch. The bacterium is related to Sodalis, a genus that lives symbiotically inside insects' guts, and may be used to block disease transmission by insects and prevent crop damage.
How insects domesticate bacteria
Researchers discovered a new bacterium in an Indiana man's infected wound, revealing how insects domesticate bacteria. The strain, HS, has a relatively large genetic blueprint and is closely related to Sodalis-like bacteria that live in many insect species.
Solving a biological mystery
Harvard scientists have solved the long-standing mystery of how some insects form germ cells, discovering that a cricket's oskar gene is far older than previously thought. The team found that the gene emerged in their last common ancestor and likely originated in the nervous system before being co-opted for germ cell formation.
For African beetles, dung balls double as 'air conditioning units'
Researchers discovered that African dung beetles use dung balls for evaporative cooling, climbing on them when overheating to maintain a cooler body temperature. This behavior is unique among insects and demonstrates the complex strategies insects employ to regulate their body temperature.
Cambrian fossil pushes back evolution of complex brains
A 520-million-year-old fossilized arthropod has revealed a remarkably well-preserved brain structure, challenging the long-standing debate on the origin of insects. The discovery suggests that complex brains evolved earlier than previously thought and have changed little over time.
Study finds nearly 50% of retail firewood infested with insects
A new study found that nearly half of all retail firewood sold in the US West is infested with live insects. The research highlights the risks of untreated firewood transporting pests and pathogens to uninfested areas. Heat-treating firewood before sale could help mitigate these risks.
Insects shape the genetic landscape through plant defenses
A new study reveals that insects feeding on plants drive genetic variation in their host species across large geographic areas. The researchers found that two aphid species exert pressure on plants to create diverse chemical defenses, leading to changes in the genetic makeup of plant populations.
Everyday evolution
A study from the University of Toronto Mississauga discovered that insect interaction can cause rapid evolutionary changes in plants, with populations diverging significantly in as few as three to four generations. This suggests that insects play a crucial role in plant evolution and diversity.
Why we need insects -- even 'pesky' ones
A 5-year study found that removing insects from the environment can cause plants to quickly lose defensive traits, such as anti-moth chemicals and temporal blooms. This rapid evolution is driven by natural selection, with successful varieties emerging when moths are absent.
Touch-sensitive tentacles catapult prey into carnivorous plant traps
A new study reveals that sundew plants use catapulting snap tentacles to propel prey into their leaf trap, enhancing digestion and capture efficiency. This unique mechanism increases the plant's ability to capture larger insects and improves overall carnivory capabilities.
Images of 300 million old insects revealed
Researchers have created 3D digital reconstructions of two 305-million-year-old juvenile insects using high-resolution CT scanning. The fossils provide valuable information about the biology and diet of these ancient insects, including one with sharp spines that may not exist today.
Migratory moths profit from their journey
A new study reveals that migratory insects, such as the Silver Y moth, can survive and thrive in Northern Europe during the summer, thanks to abundant food supplies. This discovery challenges previous assumptions about insect migration and highlights the importance of monitoring these species for pest control and ecosystem balance.
Same adaptations evolve across different insects
A study by Cornell University researchers found that same molecular changes confer resistance in multiple insect species across four orders, suggesting a high level of evolutionary repeatability
Guam conservation efforts progress
The US Department of the Navy has initiated a project to conserve the fadang tree species in Guam, with over 90% of trees killed by invasive insects. The partnership between the Navy and University of Guam aims to develop strategies for successful cycad transplantation and conservation.
Pitcher plant uses rain drops to capture prey
Researchers discovered a novel trapping mechanism in Nepenthes gracilis pitcher plants, where heavy rain acts as a springboard to catch insects. The unique mechanism involves a thin film of water on the wettable rim, causing insects to slip and fall into the digestive fluid.
Voicemail discovered in nature
A new study reveals that insects store voicemails via their effects on soil fungi, passing signals to future plants and their enemies.
Reign of the giant insects ended with the evolution of birds
Scientists found that giant insect sizes decreased after birds evolved around 150 million years ago. Insect size was linked to oxygen levels over hundreds of millions of years, with high oxygen concentrations allowing larger insects during the late Carboniferous period.
SourceUniversity of California - Santa Cruz·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 4, 2012
Where bees are, there will be honey (even pre-historic)
Scientists have discovered the first record of insect pollination from 100 million years ago, found in amber from Northern Spain. The discovery reveals a new genus of thrips with highly specialized hairs to collect pollen grains, similar to those of bees.
SourceEuropean Synchrotron Radiation Facility·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMay 14, 2012
Flies process attractive and deterrent odors in different brain areas
Researchers at Max Planck Institute for Chemical Ecology developed a device called Flywalk that measures insect responses to odor signals, revealing specific brain regions for processing attractants and deterrents. The study shows that flies process attractive odors differently depending on gender and reproductive status.
A bit touchy: Plants' insect defenses activated by touch
A new study at Rice University reveals that plant defenses are enhanced when plants are touched, triggering an insect defense response. This response is mediated by the plant hormone jasmonate, which plays a critical role in initiating plant defenses against insect-eating insects and some fungal infections.
UCSB study shows forest insects and diseases arrive in US via imported plants
A UCSB study found that 70 percent of the most damaging non-native forest insects and diseases in US forests originated from imported live plants. The study emphasizes the importance of improving bio-security measures to mitigate the environmental impact of global trade.
SourceUniversity of California - Santa Barbara·JournalFrontiers in Ecology and the Environment·DateApr 9, 2012
Black flies may have a purpose after all
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.
Plants mimic scent of pollinating beetles
Researchers discovered that arum family plants evolved their scent along pre-existing communication of scarab beetles, not through mutual adaptation. This finding suggests coevolution between plants and pollinators might be less common than thought.
Insect DNA offers tiny clues about animals' changing habitats
A new study has shed light on how species and their natural enemies have chased each other across continents for millions of years. The research used population genetics to analyze the DNA of small insects and their wasp enemies, finding that some plant-eating insects have outrun their predators for hundreds of thousands of years
How the zebra got its stripes
Research suggests that zebra stripes are the least attractive pattern for voracious horseflies, potentially explaining their evolution. The study found that narrower stripes were less appealing to flies, with striped patterns attracting fewer insects than white or dark models.
Transgene insects: Scientists call for more open data
A study by Max Planck scientists found that available scientific information on genetically modified insect releases is highly restricted. They call for clear and accurate descriptions to be widely circulated before releases, particularly if mosquito species are involved.
New collection of articles explores the science, application, and regulation of GM insects
A new collection of articles in PLOS Neglected Tropical Diseases examines the use of genetically modified (GM) insects for controlling infectious diseases. The articles discuss technological advances, regulatory frameworks, and societal dialogue necessary for widespread application.
Making sense of sensory connections
Researchers at Caltech explored the brains of insects to understand how sensory connections form new and specific memories. They identified a mechanism involving transient synchronization between pairs of connected neurons, known as spike-timing dependent plasticity, which makes connections sensitive to internal rewards.
Fruit flies watch the sky to stay on course
Researchers at the University of Washington discovered that fruit flies use polarization patterns of natural skylight to maintain their heading while traveling. This finding suggests that many insects possess a navigational system, which could be studied using genetics research.
50 million year old cricket and katydid fossils hint at the origins of insect hearing
A new study has discovered well-preserved fossil insect ears from 50 million year-old crickets and katydids, shedding light on the evolution of insect hearing. The findings suggest that these insects evolved their supersensitive hearing long before bat predators came to be.
SourceNational Evolutionary Synthesis Center (NESCent)·JournalJournal of Paleontology·DateJan 2, 2012
Caterpillars mimic one another for survival
Researchers found that caterpillars in Neotropical regions mimic the warning coloration of toxic species for protection. The study reveals that mimicry is a common survival tactic among caterpillars, with some species forming Müllerian mimicry rings to avoid predators.
SourceEntomological Society of America·JournalAnnals of the Entomological Society of America·DateDec 16, 2011
Blood-sucking mosquitoes keep their cool
Researchers discovered that mosquitoes can control their body temperature by releasing cooling fluid during feeding, a strategy that protects them from heat stress and potential hosts' defenses. This finding has implications for controlling mosquito populations and diseases they spread.
Invasive false brome grass is spreading, but Oregon's insects are biting
Invasive false brome grass has spread rapidly in Oregon, thanks to its ability to evade fungal and mollusk enemies, with generalist insects being the primary attackers. The grass now threatens ecosystems and forests across the state, highlighting the need for public awareness and cleanup efforts to control its spread.
A biologically inspired tape uses some of nature's tricks to stick
Researchers created a dry tape inspired by insects' hairy feet, showing improved adhesive properties and resistance to peeling. The tape can be reused thousands of times without losing its grip, making it suitable for various applications.
New bacteria toxins against resistant insect pests
Scientists have developed two new Bt toxins, Cry1AbMod and Cry1AcMod, to overcome resistance in pest insects. These novel toxins are effective against five resistant species, including the diamondback moth and European corn borer.
Smarter toxins help crops fight resistant pests
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.
Chagas disease may be a threat in South Texas, says researcher
Epidemiological maps suggest South Texas is an area of high risk for Chagas infection, with potentially hundreds of undiagnosed cases. The disease can be hard to detect and may be misinterpreted as a flu-like illness, leading to delayed diagnosis.
Is chivalry the norm for insects?
Researchers from the University of Exeter found that male insects are not aggressive towards their mates but instead protective and willing to risk their lives to ensure female safety. This challenges previous assumptions about insect relationships, suggesting a more nuanced understanding of natural selection in the wild.
Weeds are vital to the existence of farmland species, study finds
A University of Hull study found that weeds are vital to the existence of many farmland species, providing food for over 330 species of insects, birds, and animals. The research also showed that increasing farm management intensity can lead to a decline in seed biomass and energy, affecting farmland biodiversity.
Killing crop-eating pests: Compounds work by disrupting bugs' winter sleep
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.
Fast-evolving genes control developmental differences in social insects
A study found that fast-evolving genes in social insects like fire ants and honeybees are responsible for their developmental differences. These genes exhibit elevated rates of evolution, even before they are recruited to produce diverse forms.
SourceGeorgia Institute of Technology·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateSep 19, 2011
Invasive forest insects cost homeowners, taxpayers billions
The study estimates $1.7 billion in local government expenditures and $830 million in lost residential property values each year from invasive tree-feeding insects like the emerald ash borer and Asian longhorned beetle. Strengthening regulations and enforcement are crucial to mitigate future costs.
Homeowners, taxpayers pay billions to fight invasive pests
Invasive tree-feeding insects cause significant economic damage to homeowners, local governments, and the federal government, resulting in estimated annual losses of over $2 billion. The study highlights the need for strengthened regulations and enforcement to protect forests and economies from invasive pests.
Local government, homeowners paying price for non-native forest insects
A recent study by the USDA Forest Service estimates that non-native forest insects, such as the emerald ash borer and Asian longhorned beetle, are causing significant economic damage to urban trees. The study reveals that homeowners and local governments are bearing the greatest share of costs associated with these insects.
Scientists make turfgrass safer for animals, deadly for insects
Researchers at Purdue University have created a type of turfgrass that is safe for grazing animals but toxic to certain insects. The fungus, called Neotyphodium, produces compounds that kill insects while protecting the grass from animal harm. This breakthrough could lead to reduced pesticide use and promote sustainability in agriculture.
Fadang photo makes the cover of major botanical journal
Research by Thomas Marler and Karl Niklas examines environment's influence on Guam cycad reproduction, finding wind's role in seed production is less crucial than initially thought. The study suggests insects play a more significant role in pollination, highlighting the need for conservation efforts to protect the endangered species.
Hummingbirds catch flying bugs with the help of fast-closing beaks
Researchers discovered that hummingbird beaks can 'snap-buckle' to catch insects in mid-air, using elastic energy stored in the bone. This phenomenon allows for faster and more powerful insect capture than could be achieved by jaw muscles alone.
SourceNational Evolutionary Synthesis Center (NESCent)·JournalJournal of Theoretical Biology·DateJul 19, 2011
Mysterious fossils provide new clues to insect evolution
Scientists uncover ancient fossils of Coxoplectoptera, an insect order that defies classification, offering clues to the evolution of wings and lifestyle. The discovery presents a new hypothesis on the development of insect wings, suggesting they originated from thoracic backplates.
Biocides that attack only insects
Researchers have created biocides with micro-encapsulation that are less toxic to the environment while maintaining effectiveness against airborne insects. The product also shows improved solubility in water and reduced handling difficulties.
SourceElhuyar Fundazioa·JournalInternational Journal of Environmental & Analytical Chemistry·DateJun 28, 2011
Ladybirds -- wolves in sheep's clothing
Ladybird beetles' ability to produce anti-ant defences has led to their high diversity, with most species having one or both of these defences. This evolutionary shift allowed ladybirds to successfully poach soft-bodied scale insects from under the noses of aggressive ants.
Pest preferences for cranberry cultivars determined
Researchers found six compounds in 'Early Black' cranberry leaves that may deter insects, with gypsy moth larvae preferring these cultivars over 'Howes'. The identified compounds could be investigated as potential insect-feeding deterrents for new cranberry cultivars.
SourceAmerican Society for Horticultural Science·JournalJournal of the American Society for Horticultural Science·DateJun 22, 2011
Glaciations may have larger influence on biodiversity tan current climate
A study published in Ecology Letters found that the last glacial maximum has a significant impact on the current distribution of European scarab dung beetles. The insects' presence is more influenced by the climate of the past glaciation than the present one, with two distinct patterns emerging in the north and south.
Study shows how mosquitoes handle the heat of a hot blood meal
Female mosquitoes produce heat shock proteins to protect themselves from stress caused by hot blood meals, helping them digest the meal and maintain egg production. Tests on other insects also showed a similar response.
UT professor finds economic importance of bats in the billions
Bats play a crucial role in reducing pesticide use and crop damage, with estimates suggesting their value to agriculture is roughly $22.9 billion annually. However, widespread bat population declines due to diseases like White-Nose Syndrome and wind turbine collisions threaten this ecological balance.
Spiders target sexy signals from 'vibrating' insects
Scientists at Cardiff University discovered that spiders can intercept and use vibrational signals from insects to locate their prey. The study found that male leafhopper vibrations are more attractive to predatory spiders, suggesting a preference for males during courtship.
Food forensics: DNA links habitat quality to bat diet
A new study uses genetic techniques to link bat diet to habitat quality, showing that bats rely heavily on insects from aquatic environments. The research also identifies specific pollution tolerances among insect species, providing insights into the bats' foraging behavior and conservation efforts.
Insects hold atomic clues about the type of habitats in which they live
Scientists discovered an 'atmospheric imprint' in insects, revealing where they can survive under climate change. By analyzing oxygen isotopes, researchers determined the type of atmosphere each insect needs to thrive.
Global warming may reroute evolution
Research at the University of Michigan suggests that rising carbon dioxide levels associated with global warming may affect interactions between plants and insects, altering the course of plant evolution. The study found that plant families responded differently to elevated carbon dioxide in their production of chemical and physical de...
Household bugs -- a risk to human health?
Research published in BMC Microbiology suggests that insects on pig farms can carry and transmit antibiotic-resistant bacteria to humans. The study found high prevalence of resistant Enterococcus faecalis and faecium in insect intestines, mirroring those found in pigs' feces.