Researchers found that small hive beetles can detect some alarm pheromones at levels below those detected by honeybees. The beetles associate the alarm chemicals with a good food source and head for the hive. Domesticated European honeybees are not as diligent in cleaning their hives, making them more susceptible to infestation.
Researchers have identified a specific class of small peptide elicitors that help plants react to insect attack, triggering defensive chemistry and improving protection against pests. The discovery opens the door for genetic manipulation of plants with improved defense mechanisms.
A study by University of Illinois researchers explores the molecular mechanisms behind queen bee longevity, revealing that vitellogenin plays a vital role in maintaining reproductive viability and longevity. The findings suggest that the queen's unique biology allows her to devote energy to reproduction while extending her lifespan.
Researchers found termites prefer blocks with more wood content, even without touching them. The study suggests termites use vibrations to assess food quality, which could lead to new methods for controlling feeding termites and mitigating termite damage in buildings.
A genetic analysis of vespid wasps reveals that eusociality evolved separately in two groups, contradicting a long-held model. The study adds weight to earlier findings and sheds light on the complexity of evolutionary processes.
A study at Montana State University investigates a chemical that kills lice on cattle, aiming to determine its effectiveness on sheep. The research seeks to address the financial losses caused by African blue lice infestations, which can lead to nutrient deficiencies and reduced wool quality.
Researchers at UC Davis have created luminescent, magnetic nanoparticles that can be used for tests of environmental pollution and contamination in food products. The particles can also be labeled with antibodies or DNA for genetic analysis, and have the potential to revolutionize medical diagnostics.
A newly identified wheat gene produces proteins that bind to the stomach lining of Hessian fly larvae, causing them to starve. The gene's role in creating resistance to Hessian flies was a surprise to researchers, who found that it triggers a localized defense response that reduces energy costs for the plant.
A graduate student has discovered 25 new spiders and one previously unknown species in Brazos County, expanding the knowledge of local natural resources. The study highlights the importance of diverse spider populations in maintaining ecosystem balance.
Two studies on bee evolution support a new hypothesis that bees originated in Africa over 100 million years ago. The discovery of an ancient bee fossil in amber provides strong evidence for this theory.
A team of researchers found that controlling population peaks on the edges of the gypsy moth range can help slow their invasion into virgin territory. The study's findings suggest that suppressing outbreaks near the invasion front could reduce the number of dispersers and prevent periodic surges of growth.
The honey bee genome sequencing project has generated exciting results, providing new insights into diverse topics in honey bee biology, including neurobiology and caste determination. The project's findings have also shed light on disease-resistant pathways and metabolic adaptations to an all-floral diet.
A complex genetic mechanism determines honey bee gender and maximizes gene transmission to the next generation, allowing breeders to design better mating systems. The csd gene, shared among honey bees, evolved before they became different species.
Researchers at UC Davis have successfully engineered fruit flies to respond to the scent of silkworm moths, a breakthrough that could lead to designing better chemicals to attract insects. The findings have important implications for agricultural pest control and medical entomology, with potential applications in suppressing insect com...
Researchers have sequenced the honey bee genome, revealing insights into its remarkable social behavior and highly developed sense of smell. The study found that honey bees originated in Africa, have a unique set of genes related to odorant receptors, and exhibit complex social cues.
The Honey Bee Genome Sequencing Project has shed light on the biology of honey bees, revealing a possible cause for their sensitivity to insecticides and the characteristics of their silk. The study also found that bee silk is more amenable to artificial production than other insects, with potential applications in textile manufacturing.
Researchers traced the migration of honey bees from Africa to Europe, revealing two distinct European populations that are more related to African honey bees than each other. The study used genetic analysis of single nucleotide polymorphism markers, increasing the level of detail possible in genetic analysis.
Researchers found that honey bees have 170 odorant receptors, compared to 62 in fruit flies and 79 in mosquitoes. This allows them to detect pheromones, find food, and communicate with each other through subtle olfactory cues.
Researchers discovered that Antarctic midge larvae continuously produce heat-shock proteins to withstand environmental stresses, whereas adult midges only express these proteins during extreme stress. This unique mechanism offers the larvae protection and allows them to thrive in Antarctica's harsh conditions.
Researchers have developed a highly sensitive NMR probe to analyze small samples, unlocking volumes of information from tiny amounts of venom. This breakthrough could aid in finding natural substances for medicines and advance understanding of Alzheimer's disease.
Researchers discovered that parasitic plants like Cuscuta pentagona sense and respond to volatile chemicals emitted by potential host plants. They found that dodder seedlings grew towards tomato plants in a specific direction, indicating a directed growth response.
A newly discovered enzyme inhibitor identified by researchers looking for pest controls may provide pain relief for arthritis and inflammatory diseases sufferers. The finding, hailed as the most important discovery in inflammation in over a decade, reduces side effects associated with painkillers like Vioxx.
Researchers have found that trap-jaw ants can propel themselves through the air using their fast-moving jaws, with two types of defensive propulsion mechanisms discovered. The ants use these mechanisms to escape predators and eject intruders, with bouncer defense allowing them to bounce away from large objects.
Researchers found that a command hormone called ecdysis-triggering hormone (ETH) orchestrates activities in discrete groups of peptide neurons in the brain, initiating innate behaviors such as escape and defensive maneuvers. This discovery could lead to manipulation of behavior in animals and intelligent robots.
A study by University of Arizona researchers found that biotech cotton produces similar yields to traditional cotton with fewer pesticides used. The study, which examined 81 commercial cotton fields in Arizona, revealed that growers using Bt cotton needed fewer applications of broad-spectrum insecticides.
Native insects provide valuable services worth $50 billion in recreation industry, $4.5 billion in pest control, $3 billion in crop pollination, and conserving grazing lands valued at $380 million annually. Insects are crucial for human survival, and their ecological functions need to be conserved or enhanced through research investment.
A joint study between Dr. Spencer Behmer and researchers at the University of Oxford found that locusts preferred odors associated with a deprived state, even when well-fed. This suggests that physical state plays a significant role in learning and decision-making for these insects.
The Tree of Life Project, a massive collaboration among scientists worldwide, is growing its database of life on Earth. With the help of Katja Schulz's new system, researchers and non-scientists alike can now easily upload data, allowing for new connections and insights into biological patterns.
A study of accidentally imported ants in the US reveals that finding suitable nesting sites is key to successful invasion. Researchers identified 232 species from 394 samples and found that opportunity alone is no guarantee of success.
A recent study published in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences found that nesting preferences are a crucial factor in determining whether an invasive ant species will establish itself. According to researchers, ground-nesting and arboreal ants with specific biological characteristics are more likely to succeed. The stu...
Researchers at Ohio State University isolated three key genes controlling when female mosquitoes switch from feeding on blood to an all-sugar diet. These genes help the mosquitoes survive cold weather and potentially aid in understanding the West Nile Virus transmission.
A team of scientists from the University of Arizona found no net increase in resistance to Bt crops, with a decrease in resistance reported instead. This is contrary to experts' predictions when these crops were first commercialized. The use of refuges has driven pesticide use to historic low levels, saving growers $80 per acre.
Researchers at UK developed a new approach to controlling mosquitoes, which can prevent various forms of encephalitis including West Nile and malaria. The study was conducted in collaboration with colleagues from Johns Hopkins University.
Researchers are exploring possible links between biting water insects, water quality, and Buruli ulcer transmission, with the goal of understanding the disease's transmission. The study aims to identify potential insect vectors and man-made changes in water quality that may be contributing to the increase in Buruli ulcer infections.
Aphids vary in their resistance to wasp parasitism, but new research suggests that the difference lies in the symbiotic bacteria carried inside them. Carrying these bacteria reduces parasitism by up to 40% and demonstrates a heritable form of acquired resistance.
Researchers found that knocking out laccase-2 enzyme prevents tanning in red flour beetle, revealing protein responsible for hardened exoskeleton. The discovery opens possibilities for developing new insecticides and bio-rational methods to control pest populations.
Researchers found that parasitic fly larvae alter tiger moth caterpillar taste organs, favoring toxic plants containing protective chemicals. This change in behavior helps caterpillars escape parasites and survive.
A study by Penn State researchers found that invasive brushy honeysuckle hybridized with the Rhagoletis pomonella fruit fly, creating a new insect species. The discovery suggests that hybridization is a common mechanism for speciation in animals, similar to what occurs in plants.
Virginia Bioinformatics Institute researcher receives USDA functional genomics grant to develop control of major soybean pathogen, with a focus on early stages of infection and whole genome approach. The project aims to understand the complex web of interactions between pathogens and plant genes.
Researchers at Virginia Tech will use 'in situ click chemistry' to design a novel, species-specific insecticide for Anopheles gambiae mosquitoes, reducing toxicity and ensuring safety for humans and animals. The project aims to provide an effective solution for malaria control in communities worldwide.
Researchers found that concurrent use of single- and dual-gene Bt plants can put dual-gene plants at risk if single-gene plants are deployed in the same area. Dual-gene plants expressing two insecticidal proteins offer improved resistance to insects, but may be more vulnerable to resistance development.
Researchers found that Varroa mites reduce bee immunity by suppressing the production of chemicals that sterilize honey, allowing bacteria to increase. This combination with deformed wing virus is causing two-week death collapses in hives across the US.
Entomologists Quentin Wheeler and Kelly Miller named three slime-mold beetle species after former US leaders Bush, Cheney and Rumsfeld. The decision was made to pay homage to the U.S. leaders' commitment to freedom and democracy.
Researchers are drawing inspiration from honeybees' collaborative decision-making and ants' behavior to develop new collaboration frameworks for disaster relief efforts. The study aims to create flexible networks of responders who can act based on local information, mimicking the spread patterns of viruses and rumors.
Researchers have discovered that most C. atratus workers can glide back to their home tree after falling, a behavior crucial for survival in the high-risk tropical forest canopy. The ants use visual orientation and mechanisms to change direction and maintain a steady glide path through the air.
Researchers found that using plants with moderately effective genetic modifications in a buffer zone around main crops can play a major role in insect control. This approach delays the development of resistant insects by creating negative cross-resistance, effectively eliminating them from invading the main crop.
Honey bees given varying levels of ethanol exhibit behavioral changes, including impaired motor function and learning. The study aims to uncover molecular mechanisms underlying addiction and aggression in humans, leveraging the similarities between bee and human nervous systems.
The research project aims to identify tick genes that spread serious illnesses, such as Lyme disease. By analyzing the genome data, scientists hope to develop vaccines to block transmission of microbes that cause tick-borne illnesses.
Researchers use physics and transportation theory to define a network of spatial spread of contagious disease. The models accurately predicted the spread of childhood diseases like measles and animal diseases like phocine distemper.
Researchers develop a system to predict West Nile virus risk based on climate factors, including temperature. The model will provide early warnings for public health professionals and serve as a model for other vector-borne disease risks.
Researchers found that sphinx moths can learn to associate specific odors with food, demonstrating a complex learning process. The study's findings have wide-ranging applications, including potential uses in defense industry and law enforcement for detecting biological and chemical weapons.
Researchers found that a caterpillar's adaptation to a specific fruit's chemical composition allows it to survive without triggering the plant's defense mechanism, providing a stable food supply. This unique dietary preference also shields the caterpillar from parasites, enabling it to thrive in an otherwise hostile environment.
Researchers at Kansas State University are using the red flour beetle's genome to identify regions important for directing gene activity. The study aims to develop new strategies of insect control and advance understanding of insect genetics and development.
Wetland restoration projects must consider the inevitable creation of mosquito habitats, which can increase exposure to diseases like West Nile virus. Elizabeth Willott suggests explicitly addressing mosquito control in proposals to strengthen project outcomes.
Researchers found that biotech corn carrying a gene for insect protection can pollinate non-Bt corn plants up to 100 feet away, posing a risk of contaminating refuge areas. The discovery suggests measures are needed to reduce pollen spread from Bt corn to corn fields requiring refuge zones.
A Purdue University research team has found a set of genes that may orchestrate insects' ability to fight the effects of pesticides. The study identified dozens of genes different in resistant fly lines compared to non-resistant wild-type flies, indicating that multiple genes are involved in metabolic resistance.
Researchers at Purdue University have identified a method to identify chemical compounds that can be added to pesticides to overcome insect resistance. The approach, which was tested on fruit flies, shows promise for increasing the effectiveness of current pesticides and reducing the need for new ones.
A study by UC Berkeley researchers found that even brief contact with wood or leaf litter increases the risk of tick exposure. Precautions such as avoiding prolonged contact and inspecting skin carefully are recommended for people frequenting endemic areas.
Kansas State University researchers are using geographic tools to track the spread of a highly invasive soybean aphid, which could have significant implications for national security. By analyzing data and mapping patterns, they aim to predict future outbreaks and develop an early warning system.
Scientists at UC Davis create a novel fluorescent assay for detecting pesticides on a chip, utilizing lanthanide oxide nanoparticles as a reporter. The approach has the potential to improve pesticide detection in environmental testing and other fields.