Researchers at UC Davis have discovered a low-cost, easy-to-prepare attractant that lures blood-fed mosquitoes without causing human discomfort. The synthetic mixture of trimethylamine and nonanal is equivalent to current attractants but odorless to humans.
A recent UC study found that 42% of live sea otters and 62% of dead sea otters were infected with Toxoplasma. The researchers suggest that land-based freshwater runoff is a source of the parasite, likely transported by surface runoff from fields and yards to coastal areas.
The book examines California's commercial and recreational fisheries, discussing natural history and ecological health. With over 125 leading scientists contributing to the report, it provides valuable insight into the relationship between marine resources and economic prosperity.
A study by UC Davis scientists reveals that two organisms - a fungus and a bacterium - cause blossom blight in strawberries. The fungus Cladosporium cladosporioides renders the fruit unattractive, while the bacterium Xanthomonas fragariae causes occasional fruit loss, mainly of minor economic importance.
A UC Berkeley conference on population growth and the environment will explore the impact of human population on the planet's ecosystems. Renowned populations expert Joel E. Cohen will discuss how human population, culture, and environment interact.
Invasive pests are harming California's agricultural industry, ornamental plants, and wildlife. The glassy-winged sharpshooter spreads Xylella fastidiosa, causing Pierce's disease in grapevines and almond leaf scorch disease, while yellow starthistle infests 22% of the state, replacing desirable vegetation.
A study by Gregory Encina Billikopf found that farmworkers generally have positive attitudes towards their employment, with many rating their jobs as excellent and valuing respect and fair treatment from supervisors. Workers also appreciate being treated like 'working people' and receiving acknowledgement for their successes.
Researchers from University of California call for changes in management of agricultural and environmental resources to ensure sustainable food production and efficient water resource use. They emphasize the need for increased cooperation, public-private partnerships, and research into water resources management.
The article explores how biotechnology is changing agriculture, including the use of transgenic crops and genetic engineering. While these technologies offer benefits like effective pest control, they also raise concerns about patenting life forms and potential problems with pest resistance.
Researchers found that native gray ants are the most important predator of peach twig borer larvae in peaches and nectarines. Native gray ant populations were not affected by orchard floor management practices, but cultural practices like cover cropping or disking may benefit them by reducing southern fire ant numbers.
Eucalyptus trees grown in soil amended with gypsum can thrive in the sticky black soils of the Tulare Lake basin, demonstrating a potential sustainable farming method for the San Joaquin Valley's west side. The sequential reuse system reduces evaporation pond land use by 70% and increases tree plus pond area by 1.9 times.