Entomology

This single mother must learn quickly — or her colony won’t survive

61 new beetle species reveal how little we still know about biodiversity

Parasite emergence facilitated by host wing-raising behavior

Researchers document rice plants trapping and killing fall armyworm caterpillars

Does agriculture and climate affect feeding activities of soil animals?

Paleobiology: Fossil true bug with remarkable claws

Researchers found a 100-million-year-old forest ecosystem's diversity in Kachin region amber. The fossil, a true water bug with striking chelae, is the fourth known case of these structures evolving independently.

Another web in the wall: Researchers discover new spider species in Colombia and name it after Pink Floyd

Researchers discovered a new web-weaver spider species in Colombia, Pikelinia floydmuraria, which is named after Pink Floyd. The species is able to capture and consume ants up to six times its own body size, playing a significant role in managing household pests.

Too many cooks, or too many robots?

The study, led by Lucy Liu and L. Mahadevan, shows that adding the right amount of noise to individual robot movements can ease gridlock and improve efficiency in crowded environments. The researchers used computer simulations and experiments with small robots to test their ideas.

Smithsonian research associate discovers ants assemble to be picked clean by ‘cleaner’ ants, a novel insect behavior

Entomologist Mark Moffett observes harvester ants congregating with smaller cone ants in Arizona's Chiricahua Mountains. The unusual behavior involves the cone ants licking and nibbling the harvester ants' body surfaces, possibly consuming calorie-rich dust-size morsels.

SoCal honeybees can fend off deadly mites

A new study from UC Riverside shows that a locally adapted population of SoCal honeybees can naturally suppress deadly mites. The hybrid bees are less susceptible to Varroa mite infestations and cross-thresholds, making them more resistant than commercial breeds.

New study shows rapid hormonal rise in honey bees due to heat shock is mitigated by social conditions

A new study from Michigan State University finds that isolated honey bees experience a rapid hormonal rise when exposed to high temperatures, while those in groups remain stable. The discovery highlights the role of social conditions and chemical signals in shaping bees' ability to withstand environmental stress.

Bee dancing is better with the right audience

A recent study on honey bees' waggle dance reveals that the dance's precision is influenced by audience size and composition. When there are more observers, dancers become less precise, suggesting that the performer adjusts its movements to engage with a larger crowd, ultimately conveying critical information about food sources.

Bee dancing is better with the right audience

Researchers found that honey bees change the precision of their waggle dance depending on the size and composition of their audience. The dancers adjust their movements to search for a receptive crowd, resulting in less precise signals when few bees are present.

Cells in the mosquito’s gut drive its appetites

Researchers found that mosquitoes' rectal cells interact with their nervous system, influencing appetite and behavior. The study suggests the gut plays a key role in regulating behavior across species, with implications for understanding mosquito feeding habits and potential treatments.

Research: Moths are flying later in the year than a century ago

Researchers at Binghamton University found a significant shift in moth flight patterns over a century, with some species emerging later in the year. The study also identified missing moth species in the region, highlighting the impact of anthropogenic change on ecosystems.

UMD entomologist helps bring the world’s ant diversity to life in 3D imagery

Researchers at UMD used AI and 3D imaging to accelerate the scanning and creation of 2,000 interactive ant models, reducing scanning time from 10 hours to a single week. The project, dubbed Antscan, aims to create a living library of interactive models corresponding to Earth's biodiversity.

Soybeans recruit beneficial soil microbes to defend against major pest

Researchers discover that resistant soybean varieties actively recruit beneficial soil microorganisms to suppress the devastating soybean cyst nematode. These microbes can be transferred to soil to help defend susceptible soybeans, providing a promising new approach for sustainable crop protection.

Reconstructing the world’s ant diversity in 3D

A new database of 3D ant models, Antscan, provides high-resolution micro-CT scans of 800 different ant species, revolutionizing the study of organismal shape and form. The database facilitates large-scale digitization of small organisms, enabling scientists to better model ant movement and study locomotion.

Four and a half years supporting European wild pollinators: Safeguard project comes to an end

The Safeguard project, which aimed to expand understanding of declining wild pollinators, has come to an end. The project delivered a comprehensive reassessment of European wild pollinator trends and developed an integrated assessment framework to guide evidence-based management.

Scientists lay out what we do and don’t yet know about moths and butterflies

Researchers shed light on moths & butterflies' evolution, conservation needs, and diverse feeding habits. Discoveries suggest that these insects obtained plant-digesting abilities from fungi, while mandibled moths were once more diverse but largely extinct.

Courtship is complicated, even in fruit flies

Researchers used computer vision and machine learning to study Drosophila melanogaster courtship. They found that males rely on specific visual cues, particularly the female's eyes, to determine her anterior-posterior body axis. This recognition shapes when and how different elements of courtship are deployed.

Cannabis essential oils unlock how camphor repels mosquitoes - new study

Researchers have identified the specific smell receptor that causes mosquitoes to avoid borneol, a natural compound found in camphor tree oils. Activating this receptor triggers a neural pathway leading to avoidance behavior, offering potential strategies for designing more targeted and effective mosquito repellents.

Call me invasive: New evidence confirms the status of the giant Asian mantis in Europe

The giant Asian mantis has been formally recognized as an invasive alien species in Europe, posing a significant threat to native biodiversity. The species' high reproductive potential and predatory behavior are causing declines in native populations and altering ecosystems.

Water is bed bugs’ kryptonite

A University of California - Riverside study has identified bed bugs' fear of water and wet surfaces, which affects their behavior and movement patterns. Researchers found that all bed bug ages and genders avoid wet surfaces, with younger insects being more sensitive to moisture.

Mirror image pheromones help beetles swipe right

Researchers have discovered that the Japanese scarab beetle uses mirror-image pheromones to distinguish between potential mates. The discovery could lead to improved monitoring and control methods for this invasive species.

Reclaiming harsh habitats with black soldier fly larvae

Researchers from Texas A&M University are using black soldier fly larvae to recycle organic waste and produce protein fertilizer. The project aims to create autonomous systems for rehabilitating extreme environments, reducing human exposure to hazardous conditions.

Scientists identify smooth regional trends in fruit fly survival strategies

Researchers found a smooth variation in sensitivity to diapause induction with air temperature and daylight length, suggesting genes regulating circadian rhythm play a key role. The timeless gene was associated with variations in female diapause sensitivity, providing insights into molecular mechanisms behind diapause.

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.

Scientists solve the mystery of why termite kings and queens are monogamous

Researchers found that termites evolved from cockroach ancestors that became dependent on cooperation and food sharing within colonies. Monogamy and high relatedness were crucial for the evolution of complex social systems in termites, with genes involved in sperm motility being lost due to the absence of sperm competition.

Diversity of water striders emerged earlier than previously thought

The latest research on water striders, a true bug family, sheds light on their evolutionary history, revealing that most lineages originated up to 50 million years ago. The study, led by Dr. Michael Raupach, used genome analysis to reconstruct the family tree and identify key drivers of biodiversity.

Flowers shape the spread of viruses among wild bees, new study finds

A new study finds that viral presence in wild bees is linked to floral communities and landscape-level resource availability. Researchers discovered that certain flower communities increase the likelihood of viruses and that flowers can serve as hubs for virus transmission between wild bees and honey bees.

Never mind how grasshoppers hop. These engineers watch them fly

A team of Princeton engineers studied grasshopper gliding to develop a model for multimodal locomotion in tiny robots. They successfully created a glider that can fold its wings and change strategies depending on the situation, achieving performance comparable to actual grasshoppers.

Backyard insect inspires large-scale invisibility particles production

Researchers at Penn State develop high-speed platform to produce synthetic brochosomes, complex nanostructures that make insects invisible to predators. The breakthrough enables next-gen camouflage, sensors and other advancements for humans.

Fecal tests reveal active termite attacks

Researchers have developed a new test that uses microbes to determine the age of termite droppings, allowing for rapid on-site infestation assessments. The study found that the amount of DNA from E. coli bacteria in the pellets decreases significantly over time, with a nearly 190-fold drop by the 12-month mark.

Preempting a flesh-eating fly’s return to California

Researchers are tracking the New World screwworm's potential return to California, deploying traps baited with a lure that attracts the fly. Early detection is critical to preventing an outbreak, particularly among farm animals vulnerable to wounds. The project aims to raise awareness and prevent infestations if the fly were to reappear.

Bumblebees launch a three-stage defensive response when their nest is disturbed

When their nest is disturbed, bumblebees respond by preparing to defend the nest, searching for the threat, warning potential intruders to stay away, and finally recovering from stress. They maintain heightened vigilance for around 4 minutes after the disturbance.

Crop pests can develop ‘fighter-jet wings’ after eating specific mix of corn

Researchers found that a blend of non-toxic and genetically modified toxic corn can alter the shape of corn earworm moth wings, making them more aerodynamic and able to travel longer distances. This change in wing shape increases the moths' capability to fly long distances and spread resistance to the toxic corn.

Contributions to Entomology now indexed in Scopus

Contributions to Entomology is a peer-reviewed, open-access journal indexed in Scopus, reflecting its commitment to quality and accessibility. The journal publishes research on all aspects of entomology, including insect systematics, ecology, and applied entomology.

New frog-like insects leap into the science books

Seven new species of a distinctive frog-like insect belonging to the genus Batracomorphus have been discovered in Uganda's Kibale National Park. The findings are significant as they mark the first new species recorded in Africa since 1981 and add to the existing 375 known worldwide.

First ever discovery of Lepidosira springtails in China reveals four new species

Researchers from Nantong University have discovered four new species of Lepidosira springtails in China, representing the first record of this genus in the country. The findings, confirmed by molecular and morphological analysis, expand scientific understanding of springtail diversity and evolution.

Tracking the skies: What 90 years of data reveal about high-flying insects and growing pest threats

A new international study published in Insect Science offers a more complex picture of insect populations. High-flying migratory insects have remained largely stable over nine decades, but agricultural pests are on the rise, posing a persistent threat to food security.

New species of spider discovered, just in time for Halloween

Scientists at UC Davis have discovered a new species of trapdoor spider, Aptostichus ramirezae, in California's coastal sand dunes. The study reveals that what was thought to be one species is actually two, highlighting the need for conservation efforts to protect habitats shrinking due to climate change and human development.

Fossil reveals early evolution of mosquitoes

A 99-million-year-old fossil discovery sheds light on the evolutionary history of mosquitoes. The ancient larva shares modern species' morphology, challenging previous assumptions about their early evolution.

Cockroach infestation linked to home allergen, endotoxin levels

Researchers at North Carolina State University found a strong link between cockroach infestations and high levels of allergens and endotoxins in homes. Eliminating cockroaches significantly reduced these health risks, with most infested homes without extermination showing large amounts of both allergens and endotoxins.

Population decline of Franklin’s bumble bee wasn’t due to pathogens, museum genomic research shows

A team of scientists analyzed 300,000 years of genetic history of Franklin's bumble bee and found that population bottlenecks and environmental issues such as fire and drought led to its decline. The study suggests that the species' extinction vulnerability arose from historically low effective population size and genetic diversity.

Leafcutter ants have blind spots, just like truck drivers

Scientists discovered that leafcutter ants with large loads perform fewer antennae taps per step, limiting their ability to perceive the trail. By reducing the load, they increase antennae taps, highlighting the impact of oversized loads on trail navigation.

Natural antimicrobial drugs found in pollen could help us protect bee colonies from infection

Researchers have discovered that the same beneficial bacteria occur in pollen stores of honeybee colonies and on nearby plants, producing compounds that kill pathogens of bees and plants. These endophytes can be used to develop new treatments for crops and hives.

A wasp for the wild: New parasitoid species named in honor of the National Geographic Society

Researchers discover new parasitoid wasp species, Heinrichiellus natgeo, in honor of the National Geographic Society. The tiny insect plays a crucial role in regulating insect pest populations and is found in remote areas of India.

APS PRESS releases third edition of cotton industry’s most trusted diagnostic resource

The third edition of Compendium of Cotton Diseases and Pests features significant updates and new content, including expanded focus on entomology and emerging diseases. Hundreds of new images enhance identification and diagnosis, making it a comprehensive guide for plant pathologists, agronomists, and growers.

Study: Soybeans seem to inherit the bad memories of their parents

Researchers found that soybean plants can pass on adaptive responses to stress across generations without changing their DNA. This phenomenon, known as transgenerational plasticity, can lead to improved defense against pests but also reduces yield and fitness.

Changes to El Niño occurrence causing widespread tropical insect and spider declines

A recent international collaboration found significant biodiversity loss in multiple types of arthropod, including butterflies, beetles, and spiders, in tropical forests. The study suggests that climate change, specifically changes to the El Niño cycle, are causing these declines.

Wasps may hold the secret to slowing down the ageing process

Scientists at the University of Leicester discovered that jewel wasps can slow down their biological rate of ageing by undergoing a natural 'time-out' as larvae. This pause in development extends lifespan and decelerates the epigenetic clock, tracking chemical changes in DNA.

Making medicine out of millipedes

Researchers discovered complex structures in millipede secretions that can modulate specific neuroreceptors in ant brains, shedding light on potential new medications. The newly found alkaloids, named andrognathanols and andrognathines, have shown potent interactions with the Sigma-1 neuroreceptor.

Man’s best friend could be the spotted lanternfly’s worst enemy

A study led by Virginia Tech found that volunteer dog-handler teams can effectively detect the elusive egg masses of the spotted lanternfly, an invasive insect damaging farms and forests across the eastern and central United States. With proper training, dog owners can turn their pets into powerful partners for conservation.

Tracking insect and bug health in a heartbeat from a digital camera

Scientists have developed a method to extract insect heart rates from video footage taken with digital cameras, preserving their natural behavior. The technique uses advanced signal processing and machine learning algorithms to analyze subtle body movements and detect accurate cardiac activity.

A surprising ally in the fight against the spotted lanternfly: Ants

Researchers at Virginia Tech have found ants can be used to detect the presence of spotted lanternflies, a serious threat to crops and ecosystems. The method, called antDNA, uses environmental DNA testing to identify tiny traces of DNA in honeydew produced by the insect.

Have female earwigs evolved their forceps as weapons in battles for mates?

A new study from Toho University reveals that female earwigs exhibit positive allometry in their forceps, suggesting they too may have evolved these traits through sexual selection. The findings suggest that female forceps may have evolved as effective weapons in competition for mates.

How flies grow their gyroscopes: Study reveals how flight stabilizers take shape

A study by the CSIC-UMH Institute of Neurosciences uncovers how flies' flight stabilizers, the halteres, take shape. The structure is stabilized by a sophisticated cellular system that connects its two surfaces through an internal framework.

Study finds ethical justification to eradicate certain harmful species

Researchers argue that deliberate full extinction might be acceptable in rare cases, but only with careful consideration of ecological and moral implications. The study calls for robust ethical safeguards and inclusive decision-making frameworks to guide the use of genetic modification technologies.

Ladybirds' complex colors may result from a combination of pigments and physical properties of their wingcase

A recent study suggests that ladybird colors are produced by a combination of pigments and the physical properties of their wingcase. Researchers have discovered structural mechanisms underlying color production and pigment modulation in these insects.