A new species of bacteria, Borrelia mayonii, that causes Lyme disease has a similar transmission risk as previously known bacteria. Prompt removal of ticks after a bite can help prevent its transmission, aligning with existing guidelines.
The study highlights potential widespread presence of mosquitoes Aedes aegypti and Aedes albopictus in the US, as well as gaps in local surveillance capabilities. This information will help target limited public health resources and improve understanding of these mosquito species' distribution.
A survey of US travelers found that most business and leisure travelers can't identify a bed bug, yet evokes a stronger response than other room deficiencies. Hotels should proactively provide information on preventing bed bug infestations to improve guest trust.
A new review of pest management strategies for bed bugs highlights the importance of early detection and regular monitoring. Nonchemical methods such as clutter reduction, mattress encasements, and heat treatment can help reduce risks associated with chemical methods.
Researchers find that Varroa mite populations are growing and spreading in managed bee colonies due to close proximity and lack of swarming. The study suggests new integrated pest management strategies are needed to control the migratory pest.
The Entomological Society of America has published a comprehensive review on identifying, biology, impacts, and management of various stink bug species affecting Midwestern corn and soybean growers. The guide provides methods for differentiating species, life cycle summaries, and guidance on monitoring and managing pests.
Researchers found that traps baited with pheromone attract only a small fraction of overwintering stink bugs, which don't respond until daylight hours increase. Prevention is key to stopping brown marmorated stink bug invasions, and the use of traps during this time may not be effective.
Research detects fragments of Zika virus RNA in Asian tiger mosquito eggs collected in Brazil, highlighting potential role in Zika transmission. The findings emphasize the need for further research into additional vector species.
Researchers found that many Culex species lay eggs on terra cotta and mangrove roots instead of open water. This discovery challenges previous generalizations about mosquitoes' egg-laying habits and may aid in better targeting mosquito control efforts.
Research found reduced susceptibility to chlorfenapyr among three out of 10 bed bug populations, and five populations showed resistance to bifenthrin. The study suggests adherence to integrated pest management practices can slow the development of resistance.
A new study suggests that human activity is driving the spread of honey bee pathogens, leading to colony losses. The research argues for collective actions to mitigate this issue, including stronger regulations and increased education among beekeepers.
Researchers tested house fly survival on erythritol and found flies died no faster than if fed water alone, suggesting starvation, not toxicity, is the cause of death.
Researchers have discovered the oldest specimens of insects from the bed bug genus in Oregon, dating back to around 5,100 and 11,000 years ago. The remains were identified as relatives of the common bed bug, but were not the bed bugs found in hotel rooms.
A recent study reveals that rearranging nest boxes increases the return of blue orchard bees to managed sites, leading to higher nesting success and potential for sustainable commercial pollination. The experiment found a uniform nest-box distribution resulted in significantly higher nesting by all three factors measured.
New research finds that commonly used fungicides in almond orchards can be harmful to honey bees, leading to a significant reduction in their survival rate. The study's findings suggest that bees may face danger from chemical applications even when responsibly applied.
A new study reveals that host-targeted bait boxes employing a sneaky trick can significantly reduce the prevalence of ticks on residential properties. The boxes use a cloth wick soaked in tick-killing insecticide to lure mice and chipmunks, which subsequently die after attachment.
Researchers found that tropical bed bugs can climb out of smooth-walled traps more effectively than US common bed bugs due to unique adaptations. This discovery has significant implications for monitoring and managing bed bug infestations.
A new water-resistant ant bait has been shown to offer significant advantages over existing baits in controlling invasive species such as the red imported fire ant. The bait's ability to withstand moisture makes it an effective tool for managing pest ants, especially in humid environments.
Researchers found that DEET and PMD-based sprays were the most effective at repelling Aedes aegypti mosquitoes, while wearable devices showed little to no effect. The study tested five wearable devices and five spray-on repellents, concluding that consumers should seek out the most effective products to avoid mosquito bites.
Carol M. Anelli will deliver the Founders' Memorial Lecture at Entomology 2017, recognizing Anna Botsford Comstock's contributions to entomology and education. Dr. Anelli is a renowned researcher and educator with multiple awards for her teaching.
Researchers developed a new genetic-testing method to identify the invasive coconut rhinoceros beetle, which can be conducted in just a few hours. This test offers potential for improved defense against the species and prevents misidentification that could lead to wasted resources.
A new study has confirmed the presence of ticks carrying Lyme disease in nine eastern national parks, highlighting the need for visitors to take precautions. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and National Park Service collected ticks along hiking trails and found all nine parks had infected blacklegged ticks.
New analysis suggests US is unlikely to experience large-scale Zika outbreak due to access to clean water and air conditioning. However, localized outbreaks remain a concern, particularly in southern states with lower socioeconomic conditions.
A collaborative group of insect scientists, educators, and professionals created a Bed Bugs and Book Bags curriculum to educate teachers and children about bed bugs. The program, available for free, includes hands-on activities and learning topics to promote awareness and prevention.
Researchers have discovered that anthranilic diamides can effectively control pests in snap bean crops, rivaling industry standards. The compounds show promise as a replacement for neonicotinoid seed treatments and pyrethroid sprays.
A new study reveals that certain beetles, such as hidden-snout and toe-winged beetles, were pollinating orchids 20 million years ago. This discovery suggests that these beetles may have played a more significant role in orchid reproduction than previously thought.
A new study found that sulfoxaflor is as effective as broad-spectrum insecticides in controlling soybean aphids, while causing less harm to beneficial predators like the convergent lady beetle and insidious flower bug. This could improve integrated pest management strategies and reduce the risk of insecticide resistance.
Researchers found that ground-nesting bees were the most abundant insects in corn and soybean fields, accounting for 65% of total pollinators. The study suggests that adopting no-till practices and programs like STRIPS could benefit pollinators, potentially increasing yields by up to 6%.
Researchers have successfully reared the larvae of a parasitic fly on chicken blood, paving the way for a new method to control its population. This breakthrough could be key to saving critically endangered birds like the mangrove finch in the Galapagos Islands.
Honey bees can manipulate the shape of their abdomens by curling in one direction due to asymmetrical membranes connecting abdominal segments. This unique movement is made possible by a thin, flexible layer of cells called the folded intersegmental membrane (FIM), allowing each segment to slide into the next one.
Researchers reviewed various methods for preventing bites from blacklegged ticks, which transmit Lyme disease. Effective measures include wearing protective clothing, using insect repellent, and controlling tick hosts such as deer and small mammals.
Researchers have developed a new method to observe and identify male and female tsetse flies using near infrared still photographs and time-lapse video. This technique could make the Sterile Insect Technique more efficient by sorting males and females earlier, allowing for easier sterilization and control of the fly population.
Researchers discover northern oak hairstreaks consume non-nectar sources like galls and aphid honeydew. This finding suggests the species may be more common than thought.
Research reveals that a fly species uses cicada sounds to locate hosts, attracting both females and males for potential mating. The study found that hearing may have originated as a means of finding a host but has become useful in another way.
A special collection of articles from the Journal of Medical Entomology provides in-depth research on Asian tiger mosquito, Aedes albopictus, including its introduction to North America, disease transmission, and control measures. The studies highlight the importance of understanding this invasive insect for effective mosquito management.
Researchers found that commercial formulations of entomopathogenic fungus Metarhizium brunneum and Beauveria bassiana were effective in reducing house fly and stable fly egg-laying. The most effective product, Met52 EC, reduced oviposition by more than half and inhibited house fly development.
A new study maps the geographical ranges of Aedes aegypti and Aedes albopictus mosquitoes, which transmit dengue, chikungunya, and Zika viruses, across 183 counties in 26 states and 1,241 counties in 40 states.
A new article provides a comprehensive guide to managing billbugs in turfgrass, including regional information and alternative control methods. The study highlights the potential of using resistant turfgrass varieties and encouraging natural predators to manage billbug populations.
Researchers found that bed bugs strongly preferred red and black colors, but avoided green and yellow due to their resemblance to brightly-lit areas. The study's findings may have implications for controlling bed bug populations by using color preference in traps.
A new study found that different strains of bed bugs have varying levels of resistance to insecticides, with some having oxidases and others esterases. The researchers used a synergist called EN16/5-1 to determine which enzyme type was responsible for the resistance.
A new species of black fly, Simulium kalimantanense, has been discovered in Indonesia's Kalimantan state. The newly identified species belongs to the family Simuliidae and is part of a larger group known to carry filariasis-causing parasites.
Researchers found that six known predators, including beetles and lacewings, naturally controlled cochineal scale insects on prickly pear plants, regulating their growth. Autonomous biological pest control may be a viable alternative to chemical pesticides under specific ecological conditions.
Scientists found neonicotinoid seed treatments yield higher results in southern U.S. states, with economic benefits in four out of 10 years studied.
A new genus of flea and its five new species have been described from Indonesian collections. The discovery sheds light on the history of Indonesia and highlights the complexity of male flea genitalia.
The Mexican rice borer infestation causes significant crop loss, with potential losses of over $200 million annually in Louisiana. A new article provides information on the pest's biology and life cycle, as well as management suggestions.
A new study reveals that copper sulfate, commonly used as a fungicide in agriculture, is lethal to the native Brazilian bee Friesella schrottkyi. Sublethal exposure also affects its behavior, highlighting concerns for growers and pollinator conservation.
Researchers have developed a new trap to monitor and control Aedes aegypti mosquitoes, the primary transmitters of Zika, dengue, chikungunya, and yellow fever. The plastic ovitrap infused with pyriproxyfen has been shown to be 100% effective in preventing larvae from developing into adults.
Scientists have discovered nanpillars on the surface of drone fly larvae that prevent bacterial colonization. These unique structures may also exhibit superoleophobic properties, hindering biofilm formation and bacterial growth.
A recent study by Rutgers University researchers found that approximately 12% of apartments had bed bug infestations, with higher rates in African American homes. Women were more likely to report symptoms and express concern upon learning of infestations.
A new genus of treehoppers has been discovered in Texas and northern Mexico, with one species named Selenacentrus wallacei. The researchers found the species among mislabeled specimens from various collections, highlighting the importance of accurate taxonomy.