Articles tagged with Larvae
Scientists have found that warming waters in the tropics are slowing the development of baby fish larvae, putting their survival at risk. This discovery raises concerns about the impact of global warming on fish populations and food security for millions of people living near the equator.
Researchers have discovered the early stages of two African sawfly species, Xenapates braunsi and Xenapates gaullei. These larvae feed on specific grass and day flower species, with potential implications for crop protection and invasive weed control.
The Menetries's tiger moth was recorded feeding on the native devil's helmet host plant, Aconitum rubicundum, for the first time. This discovery confirms that the species is polyphagous and may rely on aconite alkaloids for protection against diseases.
A 150-million-year-old fossilized crab larva from southern Germany provides critical evidence for understanding the early rise of crabs. The discovery reveals a modern morphology, indicating that ancient and modern crabs share similar life habits.
The oldest known crab larva was recently discovered in a fossil, dating back 150 million years. The specimen's morphology is remarkably modern, resembling that of present-day crabs. This finding provides unique insights into the evolution of brachyurans and suggests early specialization of larvae within the crab lineage.
The American leafminer species Coptodisca lucifluella has invaded Italy's walnut orchards, a new hostplant for the insect. The moth feeds on walnut leaves, making short galleries and leaving characteristic holes, while its larvae attach small shields to leaves or surfaces.
Larvae use chemical cues to identify adults likely to provide food, increasing their chances of survival. They selectively beg from unfamiliar beetles over familiar ones, potentially benefiting young beetles by increasing resource intake.
The emerald ash borer has expanded its host range to include the white fringetree, causing significant damage and economic losses. The insect's larvae disrupt tree nutrient flow, leading to dieback and deformities.
Researchers have documented Brazilian scarab beetles living in termite nests for the first time. The beetles' larvae likely feed on the nest structure rather than roots, allowing them to survive undetected.
Researchers found that cooler temperatures and presence of symbiotic algae influence coral larvae's choice of settlement location. The study suggests a link between crustose coralline algae and symbionts, which may change how corals select their life-long position on the reef.
Researchers at the University of Guelph have identified a toxin released by the pathogen Paenibacillus larvae that causes American foulbrood disease. The study found a lead-based inhibitor against this toxin, which could lead to natural and effective approaches for fighting bee brood diseases.
Research finds that young larvae emit specific pheromones influencing adult bee behavior, leading to increased pollen collection and reduced foragers returning empty. This discovery could benefit agricultural enterprises by optimizing pollination services through colony management.
A recent study by Germán Orizaola and colleagues found that female frogs can influence the growth rate and development of their offspring in response to changes in reproduction dates. By delaying breeding, females can accelerate larval growth, potentially helping species adapt to environmental uncertainty.
Scientists found that Maculinea butterfly larvae mimic Myrmica ant queen sounds to fool workers into feeding them, even when the real ants are starving. The researchers recorded and analyzed sound signals emitted by both butterflies and ants, finding similarities in patterns between the two.
Researchers found that sediment concentrations in plumes from dredging or floods can delay clownfish larvae development by up to two weeks. This delay has a significant impact on adult populations as it increases the risk of mortality for young fish during their most vulnerable stage.
Fossilized lamprey larvae, 125 million years old, have been discovered in Inner Mongolia, providing insights into the life cycle and evolution of this ancient fish. The study sheds light on the development of all animals with a backbone, revealing that human body features originate from jawless fishes like the lamprey.
Fish larvae produce distinct 'knock' and 'growl' sounds within the hearing range of adult fish to maintain group cohesion during their pelagic journey. The sounds were observed in 70% of nighttime trials, suggesting a mechanism for larval communication.
Researchers at UNSW Australia found that the size of young flies is determined by the first male mated with, not the second. The team proposes that molecules from seminal fluid are absorbed by eggs and influence growth.
Researchers use zebrafish and rodents to identify efficient RNA delivery vehicles, a major breakthrough in disease treatment development. The technology enables the rapid testing of hundreds of drug-delivery systems, overcoming a significant bottleneck in biotech research.
Researchers found that the hormone melatonin governs the nightly migration of a plankton species and may have evolved early in animal history. The study suggests that melatonin's role in controlling daily rhythms could be linked to the evolution of human sleep patterns.
Marine species use reflectors on scales to reduce contrast with background, but tiny mantis shrimp larvae hide compound eyes behind brilliant eye reflections that match surrounding water spectrum. Lab tests show little contrast between eye reflections and environment, revealing potential role for larval eyeshine in camouflage
A new species of mayfly, Labiobaetis soldani, has been discovered in the Indian Western Ghats. The larvae have distinctive light-brown heads and antennae, while adults are similar in size to those of related species.
Research found that frog larvae coexisting with the invasive species for 30 years have deeper tails and larger bodies to evade predators. This rapid evolutionary change helps increase their survival chances.
A new study by Tel Aviv University researchers has identified the biological flaw that causes most fish larvae to die within days of hatching. The 'hydrodynamic starvation' mechanism is triggered by the physical interaction between the larva and its environment, leading to poor feeding ability and high mortality rates.
A recent study published in PLOS Genetics has discovered that the development of wings in fruit flies is coordinated with the whole body at two milestones: moulting and pupariation. This coordination ensures robustness against environmental and physiological perturbations.
Researchers discovered that certain blockages in fruit fly brains quickly resolve themselves, suggesting a distinction between benign and permanent blocks. This study could help scientists identify and treat neurodegenerative diseases by focusing on permanent blockages.
A new species of sea bass was discovered off the coast of Curacao after DNA barcoding revealed a match between its larval stage and adult, previously unknown species. The discovery highlights the importance of exploring underexplored deep-reef ecosystems in the southern Caribbean.
Goldenrod gall fly larvae produce a novel class of lipids that remain fluid at low temperatures, allowing them to survive freezing winters. These acetylated triacylglycerols are less energy dense than standard lipids and have antifreeze characteristics.
Researchers at the University of Exeter found that burying beetle size depends on a combination of early life experiences and adult competition. Beetles with good nutrition as larvae had an advantage over those with poor nutrition, especially in high-competition contests.
Coral reefs are experiencing a decline in connectivity due to rising ocean temperatures, with more coral babies staying on birth reefs. This shift has both positive and negative implications for reef systems and their ability to recover from disturbances.
Research suggests that rising ocean temperatures will lead to a decrease in inter-reef connectivity and coral diversity. As reefs retain more of their own coral larvae, they may recover faster from disturbances but also become more vulnerable to climate change.
Scientists have discovered new types of neurons in zebrafish brains that help them perceive and compensate for self-motion. These neurons enable the fish to stabilize their position and gaze during movements, preventing drift in the current.
New research shows that male Eurasian jays can respond to their female partner's desire, even when it conflicts with their own. The study found that males can inhibit their own biases and prioritize their partner's wishes.
Four common pesticides commonly used on crops to kill insects and fungi also kill honeybee larvae within their hives. The team found that mixtures of pesticides can have greater consequences for larval toxicity than individual pesticides, with chlorothalonil being the most toxic.
Researchers used DNA barcoding to dissect the complex interactions between predators and prey in a simple food web, finding three times as many interactions than previously thought. The study revealed that most predator-prey relationships are less specialized and more interconnected than initially believed.
A new study at Caltech describes a mechanism for bacterial biofilms to induce the transformation of marine invertebrates from larvae to adults. Researchers discovered that phage tail-like structures, similar to those used by viruses to inject genetic material into bacteria, play a crucial role in this process.
Researchers at UH Manoa discovered a biological trigger behind marine biofouling, where certain bacteria induce larval metamorphosis. This process has implications for boat owners and the mariculture industry, which rely on larval settlement to create new communities.
A study found that the European grapevine moth is better adapted to certain French wine-growing regions due to regional differences in grape variety and natural enemies. The research showed a geographical variation in immune defense among wild populations, with larvae from southern areas having higher levels of antimicrobial activity.
Researchers used a new ocean model to simulate the migration of eel larvae from the Sargasso Sea to Europe. The study found that small-scale ocean currents play a crucial role in determining eel population fluctuations and that eels return to specific locations within the Sargasso Sea where their mother spawned.
Scientists discovered that Atlantic slipper shell larvae control their swimming speed by subtly shifting the position of their velar lobes, demonstrating complex neuromuscular control. The ability to make small movements with these lobes allows the larvae to swim at varying speeds, determining individual dispersal and survival.
Researchers develop a reaction-diffusion model to account for seasonal patterns in Lyme disease transmission, taking into consideration factors such as temperature, rainfall, and resource availability. The model aims to drive the basic reproduction number R0 below 1 to eradicate the disease.
Researchers discovered that marine snail larvae control their swimming speed by shifting the position of their velar lobes, exhibiting complex neuromuscular control. The larvae can vary their speed from one body length per second to four body lengths per second within a single day.
A new study revises the cuckoo wasp genus Cleptes in China, discovering nine beautifully colored new species. The study highlights the genus' unique parasitoid habits, where they lay eggs in host nests and consume provisions after eliminating competition.
Scientists discovered that ABC transport proteins, found in glandular cells of leaf beetle larvae, enable the accumulation of defensive substances like salicyl aldehyde. This process allows the larvae to save energy by synthesizing toxins only when needed.
A new study found that fruit flies exhibit a strong preference for laying eggs on citrus substrates compared to other types of fruit. The basis for this preference lies in a single odorant receptor called Or19a, which is responsible for detecting the characteristic smell of citrus.
Researchers from Bielefeld University and TU Braunschweig found that female fire salamanders can store sperm from multiple males, leading to increased offspring numbers and fitness. Polyandry appears to be a key mechanism for reproductive success in this species, contradicting the long-held assumption of monogamy.
Researchers found that ocean acidification impairs digestion in larvae of the green sea urchin, leading to reduced growth and fertility. The study used novel pH micro-electrode techniques to investigate digestion and digestive enzymes in the larvae.
Researchers found that oyster larvae settle in response to habitat-associated underwater sounds, particularly those of oyster reefs. This discovery could provide insights into establishing healthy oyster beds and monitoring the health of undersea reefs.
A new study on cryptic worms reveals that their ancestors had a highly complex muscular body plan, which is lost in the adult stage. The findings suggest that the common ancestor of aplacophorans and polyplacophorans was similar in complexity, implying that the worm-like groups lost these traits over evolutionary time.
A Canadian research team, led by a UC Riverside expert, has won the Hult Prize to develop insect-based meals for impoverished regions. Insects are excellent low-cost sources of protein and essential nutrients.
Researchers found evidence of maternal care in eight species of Chrysomelinae beetles, including defense mechanisms against predators and parasitoids. The study reveals complex subsocial behaviors and provides insight into the natural history of these insects.
A new method for producing nootkatone, extracted from grapefruit, could lead to the development of more effective and affordable insect repellents. The ingredient has been shown to repel mosquitoes, ticks, and other insects with a broad-spectrum effect.
Research published in PLOS ONE reveals that fish larvae can smell the presence of coral reefs from far offshore and use this odor to navigate home. The study found that water temperature and current directions do not influence the orientation of larvae, but rather a proximal cue allows them to settle and find their way back.
A new study reveals that fish larvae of cardinalfish and damselfish use olfactory cues to detect the presence of coral reefs, allowing them to navigate their way back home. The researchers used an o-DISC device to track larval movement and orientation in response to odor cues.
A new study models how baby corals disperse in the world's oceans to understand their responses to changing sea conditions. The researchers used a computer model to simulate the paths of coral larvae worldwide, revealing that some may travel thousands of kilometers across open ocean.
A new simulation model reveals coral larvae's long-distance journeys across the world's seas, with some traveling up to 9,000 km. The study provides insights into coral reef distributions and potential effects of climate change.
A new species of Spider Water Beetle, Ancyronyx buhid, has been discovered in the Philippine Rainforest Creeks, showcasing the country's diversity as a global hotspot. The beetle's unique characteristics make it an ideal bioindicator species for healthy ecosystem conditions.
A Smithsonian scientist has found that similar color patterns in fish larvae indicate a closer evolutionary relationship among species than their adult forms. The research, published in the Zoological Journal of the Linnean Society, reveals phylogenetic connections between marine fish species.
A new Anagnorisma moth species was found in Iran's Binaloud Mountain, with a wingspan of 34-35 mm and characteristics similar to its sister species A. eucratides from eastern Afghanistan. The study provides insights into the diversity of Noctuidae moths in the region.
Increased precipitation and changes in forest structure in Argentina's forests are leading to higher rates of parasitic fly infection in young birds. This study found that slight changes in precipitation and vegetation structure, coupled with crowding of nests, result in large increases in the number of parasites per chick.