Articles tagged with Beetles
Researchers used fossil beetles to determine winter temperatures in 50-million-year-old uplands of British Columbia and Washington, revealing mild, frost-free winters. This discovery may help scientists understand how natural communities are impacted by climate change.
Flea beetles sequester glucosinolates without triggering the plant's defense mechanism. They utilize the compounds for their own communication and defense against predators.
Research reveals EABs were feeding on ash trees in southeast Michigan by the early 1990s, well before their discovery in 2002. The study used tree ring analysis to track the spread of the invasive species across over 5,800 square miles.
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.
Researchers found that costly mating behaviors in females reduce overall reproductive productivity due to their primary role as caregivers. Artificial selection experiments revealed no change in male parental care behavior despite increased mating rates, highlighting the importance of female-led parental care.
Researchers analyzed the mountain pine beetle's genome and identified potential genetic markers that enable its rapid habitat range expansion. The study found that the beetles can adjust their cellular functions to withstand cooler climates, facilitating a larger geographic dispersal area.
Research by hydrologists and scientists found that the death of millions of trees in Rocky Mountain regions due to bark beetles increases groundwater flow and changes water quality. The study used water chemistry to identify the source of streamflow and found a significant increase in late-summer groundwater contributions.
A team of researchers led by Jane Wang from Cornell University has discovered a proportional control law in the tiger beetle's chasing behavior. The study reveals that the beetle uses a sideways force proportional to its prey's angular position to turn towards it.
Researchers developed a self-defending surface that releases hot foam to deter attackers, protecting cash boxes in ATMs. The film is made of plastic layers filled with chemicals that mix when damaged, producing a violent reaction.
Researchers have identified a new yeast species that travels the globe with beetles, offering hope for developing renewable fuels. Preserving biodiversity is crucial to unlock the microbial life's potential solutions to global challenges.
Male stag beetles have enlarged heads and muscles to compensate for their oversized mandibles, allowing them to generate powerful bites. Their male bites are six times stronger than females', with a recorded strength of 7N.
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.
Researchers have shed light on the red widow spider's restricted diet, revealing it primarily preys upon five species of scarab beetles endemic to the Florida scrub habitat. This finding highlights the need for habitat conservation efforts in this unique ecosystem.
Researchers found that western corn rootworm beetles resistant to crop rotation are less vulnerable to RNAi treatment, surviving longer on soybean leaves. The study suggests targeting a single gene may not be the best strategy for controlling pests.
Research shows that temperate ecosystems consisted of a mosaic of closed and semi-closed forests and parkland created by large grazers. The study also found that woodland beetles were less dominant in the previous interglacial period than in the early Holocene, indicating a shift towards more forested landscapes after human arrival.
Researchers discovered a female-specific pheromone that attracts males but repels virgin females, which could lead to managing the invasive Asian longhorned beetle. The team also found that sexually mature females continue to produce this pheromone after mating, potentially benefiting both sexes.
A new beetle genus and species was discovered by Dr. Stylianos Chatzimanolis, named after Charles Darwin, based on a specimen collected in Argentina in 1832. Only two specimens of the species, Darwinilus sedarisi, are known, and most of its habitat has been transformed into agricultural fields.
A new genus of rove beetles, Morphogenia, has been discovered in the Brazilian Amazon, featuring remarkable sexual dimorphism between males and females. The study highlights the vast number of species within this group, with over 9,000 known species, yet much still to be discovered about their ecology.
Research at Uppsala University found that rare mitochondrial genes are associated with better survival and reproductive outcomes in a common beetle species. The study suggests that these genetic variations play a crucial role in maintaining genetic diversity.
A new study tests the effectiveness of color-based traps against major pests in Montana, finding that red and green traps are most effective. The researchers also discovered that insects use chromatic cues to identify colors and will pursue further studies on this topic.
A new study by CU-Boulder found that trees with smoother bark can repel mountain pine beetles more effectively. The researchers tested how well the beetles could cling to different bark textures and found that only 21 of 22 beetles could stick to rough bark, while all fell off smooth bark in under a minute.
The California Academy of Sciences discovered 91 new plant and animal species in 2013, including 38 ants, 12 fishes, and 14 plants. This finds highlights the importance of biodiversity hotspots like Madagascar and the need for continued exploration and conservation efforts.
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.
The Natural Environment Research Council (NERC) has announced the winners of its inaugural short article and photography competition. Laura Hepburn's essay on underwater hydrothermal vents won the top prize, while Paul Hopwood's image of burying beetles processing an animal carcass took second place in the photography section. The comp...
Scientists describe a new, large, and colorful beetle species from French Guiana that lives among ants, defying the dull coloration of its relatives. The newly discovered species, Guyanemorpha spectabilis, belongs to the Pseudomorphini Tribe and is comparable to the Olinguito, a carnivore species recently described in ZooKeys.
A new study from the University of Alberta has identified key tree chemical compounds that play critical roles in the beetle's pheromone production and attraction. The research reveals that adding a volatile tree chemical to bait can increase beetle capture rates, providing hope for quicker monitoring and early detection of infestations.
A team of scientists collaborated with local volunteers to measure dung decomposition across Finland. Large tunnelling Dor beetles were found to remove dung twice as fast as smaller dung-dwelling beetles and earthworms. Climate also played a significant role in dung disappearance.
Two new species of the endangered ancient genus Gyronotus have been described from southern Africa, revealing unusual distribution patterns among these vulnerable beetles. The discovery highlights the importance of conserving biodiversity in grasslands and savannas, which are currently under threat due to massive environmental changes.
A total of 116 species of jewel-like beetles have been identified in the genus Baconia, known for their brilliant coloration and flattened body forms. The new species were discovered through studies of museum collections and fieldwork, shedding light on a previously underappreciated group of clown beetles.
A new CU study finds drought is a better predictor of spruce beetle outbreaks in northern Colorado than temperature, with warm and dry conditions causing stress in host trees. The study also suggests that climate fluctuations, including the Atlantic Multi-decadal Oscillation, contribute to drought conditions.
Two new species of southern Indian leaf beetles, Orthaltica eugenia and Orthaltica terminalia, have been discovered using existing holes in leaves to construct shelters. The beetles also modify and use artificially made holes, partitioning them with their own fecal pellets to create optimal hideouts.
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.
Researchers discovered that symbiotic bacteria inside beetles suppress plant defenses against chewing insects, allowing beetles to thrive. The findings suggest a new way plants can be vulnerable to insect attacks.
Researchers at Ateneo de Manila University discovered a new species of aquatic beetle in a small creek within the university's campus. The tiny insect, Hydraena ateneo, is one of 14 known species of its genus and highlights the diversity of life in urban areas.
Stanford biologists found that leaving patches of rainforest in coffee plantations increases bird biodiversity and reduces borer beetle infestation rates. The birds' activity can increase yield by $75 to $310 per hectare, providing a sustainable win-win opportunity for pest management.
Researchers found that beetles living in cow pats can reduce methane emissions from cattle farming. This discovery has significant implications for the climate impact of dairy and beef farming. The study suggests that if beetles can keep methane emissions down, it could lead to a smaller global warming effect.
Researchers have identified over 100 species of small predatory beetles in Tahiti, with 28 newly described in the open-access journal ZooKeys. These beetles have evolved to lose their flight wings and are highly specialized to specific habitats.
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.
The latest issue of the Journal of Integrated Pest Management features articles on controlling corn earworms, beetles, and other pest management issues. The Research Program for Deployed Warfighter Protection also highlights its accomplishments in developing new public health pesticides and repellent systems.
Researchers have identified nine fungal lineages associated with ambrosia beetles threatening avocado production in the US and Israel. The unique fungi adaptability poses a threat to global farms and forests.
A newly discovered threadworm, Pristionchus maxplancki, has been named after physicist Max Planck in recognition of his contributions to the fields of evolution, genetics, and ecology. The worm was discovered on a stag beetle in Japan and is now being studied by researchers at the Max Planck Institute for Developmental Biology.
Researchers discovered that gut microbes in rotation-resistant Western corn rootworms facilitate their ability to feed on soybean leaves and tolerate the plant's defenses. The study found significant differences in bacterial species abundance and digestive enzyme activity between resistant and nonresistant beetles.
Scientists have discovered a new species of burying beetle, Nicrophorus efferens, in the Solomon Islands Archipelago. The species was found after six specimens were identified as possibly new by PhD student Tonya Mousseau during a visit to the Bishop Museum.
A study by the University of Exeter found that older male burying beetles invest more in parental care than younger counterparts, as they have less chance of reproducing again. This investment is driven by a desire to reduce the likelihood of female infidelity.
The Asian lady beetle uses microsporidia to outcompete native species, producing a strong immune system with antibacterial peptides and harmonine. This allows it to successfully invade new habitats and ecosystems, displacing native beetles and other insect species.
A team of SFU researchers has created a sequencing of the mountain pine beetle's genome, revealing large variations among individuals. The genome data will help scientists understand how the beetle causes damage and potentially stop its spread.
Researchers found that high ozone levels interfere with pollinators finding flowers and predator insects finding host plants. Insects rely on volatile organic compounds to detect odors, but ozone degrades these compounds, leading to confusion.
Two Canadian scientists, Dr. Yves Bousquet and Dr. Patrice Bouchard, have updated the nomenclatural and taxonomic data in Pierre Dejean's Coleoptera catalogs. The review of the second (1833) and third (1836) catalogues revealed new synonymies and clarified the usage of genus-group names.
German researchers use DNA sequencing and high-resolution photos to identify over 100 previously unknown beetle species in New Guinea's tropical rainforests. The study employs innovative methods, including utilizing the Papuan phonebook to assign names to newly discovered species.
The mountain pine beetle's genome has been sequenced, revealing genes involved in tree colonization and potential sex chromosomes. This knowledge could help develop more effective control methods for this devastating pest.
The mountain pine beetle genome has been sequenced to understand its behavior and adaptability, revealing large genetic variation among individuals. The study also identified genes involved in detoxifying defense compounds and degrading plant cell walls, which could inform future management strategies.
A new species of long-horned beetle has been discovered in Yunnan Province, China, characterized by its striking blue-greenish body and blue legs. Seven previously unknown species have also been recorded from the region, including rare ones found only in China, Myanmar, and Vietnam.
Two new species of Dianous and two new species of Stenus have been discovered in the Liupan Shan Natural Reserve. The beetles possess a unique ability to glide on water due to special gland secretions.
Researchers have identified 138 new species of beetles within the Operclipygus genus, significantly expanding our understanding of tropical insect diversity. The study, published in ZooKeys, reveals that these tiny beetles play a crucial role in controlling pest populations and highlights the need for continued conservation efforts.
Researchers create female emerald ash borer decoy using polymers, allowing for more efficient trapping and detection of male beetles. The decoy is 40% more effective than previously used methods, paving the way for swift control of the pest.
A tiny insect that eats plants has developed a unique strategy to evade its beetle predator: using the plant's trichomes for physical protection. This clever tactic allows the pest to crawl between the plant hairs and feed on cycad sap, while the larger beetle cannot follow suit.
A Dartmouth study suggests that increasing competitor and predator beetle populations can prevent population explosions of pine beetles, a major forest pest. The research confirms that some species, like the southern pine beetle, exhibit extreme fluctuations in abundance with no middle ground.
Scientists have discovered that dung beetles use the Milky Way's gradient of light to ensure they keep rolling their balls in a straight line. The beetles' ability to orient themselves using this method has been proven, giving them an advantage in navigating their environment.
African ball-rolling insects guide themselves along straight paths under starlit skies but lose orientation under overcast conditions. Dung beetles exploit celestial cues like the Milky Way for navigation, suggesting other nocturnal insects might follow suit.
A CU-led study reveals that pine beetle outbreaks do not harm adjacent stream water quality, but instead increase the uptake of nitrates by smaller trees and understory vegetation. This compensatory response provides potent water quality protection in western forests.