Beetles
Articles tagged with Beetles
Baby bugs must play ‘game of roulette’ to find survival partners before time runs out
Does agriculture and climate affect feeding activities of soil animals?
Climate change threatens dung beetles in the Amazon
Rising temperatures in the Amazon are threatening dung beetle populations, with diversity and abundance highest at intermediate altitudes. The study found that temperature is the key factor limiting dung beetle diversity and abundance, while other conditions play a minor role.
Saving two lives with one fruit drop
Researchers found that the plant aborts almost all fruits containing larvae, but instead allows larvae to emerge and burrow into soil, promoting a stable balance in the relationship. This 'fallen-fruit compromise' is a novel mechanism that stabilizes nursery pollination mutualism between Sambucus and kateretid beetles.
How forest conversion can harm dung beetles
A study found that forest conversion harm dung beetles by increasing temperatures and drying out the ground, making it hostile for them. The key species, Anoplotrupes stercorosus, is particularly affected, with its population declining as temperatures rise.
Hidden insect diversity in grass shoots threatened by mowing
Researchers identified 255 insect species in perennial grasses, but few in annual grasses, highlighting the importance of unmown refuges for biodiversity
New species of ladybird beetle discovered on Kyushu University campus
A new species of ladybird beetle, Parastethorus pinicola, was discovered on a pine tree at Kyushu University's Hakozaki Satellite. The beetle measures just over one millimeter in length and is the first major update to Japanese ladybird classification in 50 years.
Feeling the heat
Researchers at Harvard University have discovered that cycads heat up their reproductive organs to attract beetle pollinators, who possess infrared sensors to detect these signals. The study found that all 17 cycad species followed a circadian pattern, with male cones heating first and females cooling down before warming up again.
Forest structure and recent infestations drive bark beetle damage clustering in Finland
A new study from the University of Eastern Finland found that bark beetle damage clusters in Finland tend to concentrate in groups near previous infestations and mature stands. The research analyzed forestry land data and identified forest characteristics increasing the likelihood of a stand becoming part of a cluster.
Beetles under climate stress lay larger male eggs: Wolbachia infection drives adaptive reproduction strategy in response to rising temperature and CO₂
Researchers found that azuki bean beetles infected with Wolbachia bacteria produce larger eggs yielding exclusively male offspring when exposed to elevated temperature and carbon dioxide. This adaptive reproduction strategy enhances the survivability of their offspring.
University of Oldenburg celebrates sensational success after securing funding for three Clusters of Excellence
The University of Oldenburg has secured funding for three research clusters: Hearing4all, Ocean Floor, and NaviSense. These clusters aim to improve hearing loss prediction, diagnosis, and treatment, as well as animal navigation research. The funding enables the continuation of high-quality research with social relevance.
Tiny “rhinoceros beetle” robot does micro-scale manipulation in extreme conditions
Researchers at Yokohama National University have developed a tiny, low-weight robot that can act independently and with ultra-high precision in extreme environments. The Holonomic Beetle 3 (HB-3) integrates piezoelectric actuators with autonomous technology for precise manipulation tasks, addressing industries such as laboratory automa...
Variable circularly polarized light reflector combining circularly polarized light-reflection by insect exoskeletons with a conductive polymer
Researchers have created a device that combines the properties of insect exoskeletons, which strongly reflect left circularly polarized light, with conductive polymers. The resulting material exhibits excellent optical properties and responsiveness to external fields.
1,400 species found in guts of Asian hornets
A study of Asian hornets found over 1,400 different species in their guts, including a wide range of bees, wasps, and insects. The diet varied strongly over the seasons and between regions, showing that they are highly flexible predators.
Bark beetle infestation slows down tree growth early on
A recent study from the University of Eastern Finland found that bark beetle infestation can slow down tree growth even before visible signs of mortality appear. The researchers used dendrometer measurements to monitor stem diameter variation in healthy and infested spruce trees.
Reading the genome and understanding evolution: Symbioses and gene transfer in leaf beetles
Researchers analyzed 74 leaf beetle species to understand how they digest plant cell wall components. They found that most species use either their own pectinases or those from symbiotic bacteria, with no overlap between the two.
Can plastic-eating bugs help with our microplastic problem?
A new study found that mealworms can ingest and absorb microplastics when fed a realistic diet, gaining weight in the process. The insects' digestive mechanisms hold potential for breaking down microplastics, offering a novel approach to addressing plastic pollution.
12 new Oriental weevil species discovered using advanced imaging tools
Researchers used x-ray microtomography to discover and describe 12 new weevil species from Japan, Malaysia, Vietnam, and Taiwan. The technique revealed significant morphological differences between species, which cannot be easily observed using other methods.
New study reveals larger insects' critical role in decomposition in arid ecosystems
A new study by researchers from The Hebrew University of Jerusalem challenges conventional beliefs about decomposition processes in arid environments. Larger insects such as termites and beetles play a crucial role in decomposition, with peak rates during the summer in arid sites.
Study finds genetic difference that determines head shape and feeding strategy in beetles
A recent study published in Molecular Biology and Evolution has discovered the genetic background of head shape variation in snail-eating carabid beetles. The researchers identified the odd-paired (opa) gene as a key factor determining the beetle's body shape, which is linked to its feeding strategy.
Beetle that pushes dung with the help of 100 billion stars unlocks the key to better navigation systems in drones and satellites
Researchers at the University of South Australia have developed an AI sensor that can accurately measure the orientation of the Milky Way in low light, using a technique inspired by the dung beetle. This system could improve navigation for drones and satellites in difficult lighting conditions.
'Masters of shape-shifting’: How darkling beetles conquered the world
A new research from Australian National University and CSIRO reveals darkling beetles' ability to adapt to diverse environments through multiple evolutionary events. The study found that these beetles underwent rapid evolutionary jumps, allowing them to thrive in various ecosystems.
Flapping frequency of birds, insects, bats and whales described by universal equation
Researchers found a universal equation that approximates the frequency of wingbeats and fin strokes across different animal groups. The equation shows a proportional relationship between body mass, wing area, and wingbeat frequency, revealing a relatively constant pattern across diverse species.
Biodiversity in the margins: Merging farmlands affects natural pest control
A new study found that removing hedgerows and field margins decreases the diversity and abundance of arthropods, which can lead to reduced natural pest control. The research suggests that using flowering plants in field margins and implementing agri-environmental measures can be effective ways to increase farmland biodiversity.
Tiger beetles fight off bat attacks with ultrasonic mimicry
Researchers found that tiger beetles respond to bat echolocation by producing their own ultrasonic signal, which they believe is a defense mechanism. The beetles' defensive chemicals are not effective at deterring bats, but the sound itself may be used to trick bats into thinking they are noxious.
Study explores biology, impact, management and potential distribution of destructive longhorn beetle
The invasive red-necked longhorn beetle is threatening fruit tree crops worldwide. Researchers highlight the need for targeted natural enemy surveys to control its spread and recommend alternative biological control methods, such as entomopathogenic fungi and nematodes.
A new species of fossil paederine rove beetle from Orapa
A new species of fossil paederine rove beetle, Mesostaphylinus orapa, has been discovered in the Orapa Diamond Mine in Botswana, dating back to around 90 million years ago. The finding enhances our understanding of beetle evolution and distribution.
Sap beetles vs wind: what pollinates screw pines?
Researchers found that Amystrops sap beetles pollinate fragrant screw pines, contrary to previous assumptions about wind-pollination. The study also revealed floral thermogenesis in male and female flowers of Pandanus odorifer.
“Tiny, beautiful, and completely unknown animals”: Citizen scientists discover new beetles from the Borneo forest
A team of citizen scientists, including local students, discovered a new beetle species in the Ulu Temburong forest. The newly described Clavicornaltica mataikanensis is one of the largest known relatives among its tiny flea beetle cousins, highlighting the need for further research on their ecology and diversity.
Beetles living in the dark teach us how to make sustainable colors
Researchers at Singapore University of Technology and Design have discovered how to produce sustainable colors using beetles that live in the dark. By understanding how these beetles' exoskeletons reflect light, scientists can create environmentally friendly materials for various industries. This breakthrough has significant implicatio...
Protecting the peppers: Unlocking the potential of the sterile insect technique
Researchers in Canada develop a new method to control the pepper weevil using gamma irradiation. The study found that insects sterilized at 110 Gy are completely sterile and cannot reproduce, making it an effective strategy for managing this economically significant crop pest.
NTU Singapore scientists develop artificial ‘worm gut’ to break down plastics
Researchers at NTU Singapore have developed an artificial 'worm gut' that can efficiently break down plastics using microbes found in worms' guts. The artificial system replicates the natural process of worms breaking down plastics and has potential for biotechnological approaches to process plastic waste.
For this beetle, ‘date night’ comes every other day
Researchers discovered that male large black chafer beetles have a 48-hour circadian clock to detect female pheromones, synchronized with females' mating behavior. The study sheds light on the biological mechanism behind this unusual cycle, leaving experts wondering about the underlying cues that govern natural rhythms.
Unveiling hidden biodiversity underfoot: DNA barcoding of Taiwanese forest leaf litter beetles
The Taiwanese Leaf Litter Beetles Barcoding project has created a comprehensive reference library for these elusive beetles using DNA barcoding. The dataset comprises 4,629 beetles representing 334 species candidates from 36 families, unveiling taxonomic insights and enhancing our understanding of their biology and ecological roles.
Fastest swimming insect could inspire uncrewed boat designs
Researchers have discovered that whirligig beetles use a lift-based thrust mechanism to achieve record-breaking speeds, challenging previous explanations of their propulsion system. This finding offers valuable insights for bio-inspired robotic ship design and uncrewed boat development.
Preventing the destruction of Eucalyptus forest plantations: naturally occurring pathogenic fungi to control the Eucalyptus snout beetle
Scientists have identified two fungi, Beauveria pseudobassiana and Metarhizium brunneum, with high insecticidal activity against the Eucalyptus snout beetle. These naturally occurring pathogenic fungi could be used to develop a bio-pesticide for controlling the beetle in forest plantations.
Diversity of bioluminescent beetles in Brazilian savanna has declined sharply in 30 years
A recent study found a significant decline in bioluminescent beetle diversity in the Brazilian savanna over the past three decades. The researchers recorded 51 species, mostly fireflies, click beetles, and glow worms, which have declined sharply due to agricultural expansion and artificial lighting.
New beetle species has bottle-opener shaped genitalia: Now that calls for a Carlsberg!
Researchers discovered six new species of rove beetles with unique genital shapes, including a bottle-opener like structure in one species. Climate change threatens the survival of these species due to habitat changes.
Human activities appear to drive insect declines in Europe
A review of 82 studies found human activities influencing insect habitats, leading to declines in Central and Western Europe. Agricultural activities, urbanization, and climate change are identified as primary drivers of observed changes in insect populations.
Japanese beetles could spread throughout Washington state in 20 years
A study found that Japanese beetles are likely to thrive in southeastern Washington and could spread throughout the region from Yakima to the Tri-Cities and north past Moses Lake. The beetles' potential dispersion is influenced by factors such as human activity and suitable habitat.
Liquid crystals that mimic beetle shell coloration units used to create more secure type of QR code
Researchers at Nagoya University developed a method to process cholesteric liquid crystals into micrometer-sized spherical particles, creating a unique anti-counterfeiting QR code that can only be displayed under a specific circular polarizer. The use of chirality in these particles enables the creation of more secure codes with potent...
Gloss is less effective camouflage in beetles compared to matte, according to latest study
A recent study has found that iridescence provides effective camouflage independent of glossiness in beetles. Iridescence is the most important aspect of colouration in enabling concealment. Researchers at the University of Bristol discovered that glossy surfaces are less effective at hiding than matte ones.
Weevils, long-nosed beetles, are unsung heroes of pollination
New research reveals that over 300 weevil species have intertwined relationships with specific plants, pollinating and relying on them for food and breeding sites. This unique interaction highlights the importance of weevils as unsung heroes in maintaining ecosystems and products like peanut butter and Nutella.
Beetles and their biodiversity in dead wood
Researchers found that beetles in dead wood diversity is influenced by energy types depending on their position in the food chain, with bottom-dwelling species benefiting from stored energy and top-dwellers responding to solar radiation.
Preserving pine forests by understanding beetle flight
Researchers used fluid dynamics models to study the mountain pine beetle's flight, finding that wing shape, age, and size impact thrust production. This knowledge can improve statistical confidence levels for insect dispersion studies and help preserve pine forests.
Diverse landscapes help insects cope with heat stress
A new study reveals that diverse landscapes and microhabitats play a crucial role in helping insects cope with heat stress caused by global warming. Insects that inhabit diverse environments exhibit different strategies to conserve energy, such as reducing activity or seeking shelter in cooler areas.
Fossils reveal the long-term relationship between feathered dinosaurs and feather-feeding beetles
The study found fossils of beetle larvae in intimate contact with dinosaur feathers, suggesting a symbiotic relationship where the beetles fed on the feathers. The discovery provides insight into coevolution between vertebrates and arthropods over 500 million years, revealing rare evidence of their interaction.
Natural History Museums of Los Angeles County’s Dr. Luis Chiappe co-authors paper on relationship between feathered dinosaurs and beetles
Researchers from Natural History Museums of Los Angeles County have discovered evidence of a symbiotic relationship between Cretaceous dinosaurs and feather-feeding beetles. The study found that the beetles fed on the feathers of theropod dinosaurs during the Early Cretaceous period, approximately 105 million years ago.
Farmer’ beetle finds suitable host trees by tracing scent of its fungus crop
Researchers discovered that ambrosia beetles Xylosandrus germanus use the volatile compounds of their fungal symbionts to aggregate and potentially kill trees. This finding suggests a new method for biological control by targeting specific beetle species with trapping lures based on these compounds.
Gone for good? California’s beetle-killed, carbon-storing pine forests may not come back
A study found that ponderosa pine forests in California's Sierra Nevada will not recover to pre-drought densities, reducing atmospheric carbon storage. The forests' ability to store carbon is threatened by western pine beetle infestations driven by climate change.
Male beetles neglect their genomes when competing for females
In a 50-generation evolutionary experiment, male beetles from lineages with intense sexual selection produced lower quality offspring after DNA-damaging radiation. This suggests that males invest more in competition at the expense of DNA repair, impacting future offspring survival and fertility.
Symbiotic yeast helps longicorn beetles eat wood
A research group at Nagoya University discovered that the Japanese longicorn beetle has a symbiotic yeast called Scheffersomyces insectosa. The yeast breaks down xylose and other wood components, making it edible for the beetles.
Rare beetle, rediscovered after 55 years, named in honor of Jerry Brown
A rare species of beetle, Bembidion brownorum, was rediscovered on Jerry Brown's ranch in Colusa County after 55 years. The beetle is notable for its unusual shape and metallic shimmer, and its population likely collapsed due to urbanization and agricultural development.
Habitat will dictate whether ground beetles win or lose against climate change
A new study by Penn State researchers found that ground beetle species will thrive or decline based on their habitats and traits. Habitat conservation can help mitigate the effects of climate change on these insects, which are critical pest control agents in North American agriculture.
Researchers get to the “bottom” of how beetles use their butts to stay hydrated
Researchers have shed light on the molecular mechanisms allowing beetles to absorb water rectally, a property enabling them to survive in extremely dry environments. This knowledge could be used to develop more targeted and eco-friendly methods to combat beetle species that destroy food production.
Research Brief: Jewel beetles evolve to see new colors by duplicating their genes
Researchers discovered that jewel beetles have duplicated genes allowing them to see new colors, including ultraviolet and blue light. This evolution likely occurred after the loss of blue vision in beetle ancestors around 300 million years ago.
Conifer-killing beetles use smell of beneficial fungus to select host trees
Researchers found that conifer-killing beetles can detect the smell of a beneficial fungus through specialized neurons in their antennae, allowing them to identify infected trees. This detection system enables the beetles to locate fungi-produced compounds in tree resin, which may serve as cues for feeding and breeding.
Symbiotic fungi transform terpenes from spruce resin into attractants for bark beetles
Researchers found that symbiotic fungi convert chemical defenses of spruce trees into attractive compounds for bark beetles. The fungi's volatile compounds, particularly oxygenated monoterpenes, serve as chemical signals to keep the symbiosis alive and stimulate tunneling behavior in beetles.
Click beetle-inspired robots jump using elastic energy
Researchers have developed insect-sized jumping robots capable of navigating tight spaces, with a new study demonstrating two configurations that can successfully jump without manual intervention. The robots use a dynamic buckling cascade process to store and release elastic energy, allowing them to propel themselves upward.