Articles tagged with Entomology
Alexander Raikhel, a UC Riverside researcher, has received a $4.3 million NIH grant to study the regulation of genes in mosquitoes. Understanding these mechanisms could lead to developing means to interrupt disease transmission cycles and prevent mosquito-borne illnesses like West Nile virus and Dengue Fever.
Researchers at Cornell University discovered a previously undetected gene that regulates insect sex-pheromone production, leading to rapid evolution of chemical systems and new species emergence. The delta-14 gene allows females to change their pheromone components, attracting only one male out of 200 with the same response.
Researchers found that nepetalactone in catnip is about ten times more effective at repelling mosquitoes than DEET. The compound can be used as an alternative to commercial insect repellents with lower concentrations required, making it a promising discovery for pest control.
Researchers found that warmer temperatures will allow the Asian tiger mosquito to breed faster and potentially spread farther north, possibly surviving year-round in areas where winter freezes now kill it off. The study also suggests that global warming may alter the distribution of other mosquito species, with potentially severe conse...
Researchers at Cornell University have identified and cloned a key gene in the reproductive system of male cockroaches, which could lead to the development of safe and effective birth control. The goal is to create a pesticide that specifically targets pests without harming other insects or humans.
Scientists say Western corn rootworms are changing behavior, laying eggs in soybean fields instead of corn, due to crop rotation failure. The beetles' adaptation poses a significant threat to corn crops in the Midwest, potentially costing $100 million per year to control.
Forensic entomologist Gail Anderson's work helps secure conviction for two Canadian bear poachers. Insect egg samples from the victims' bodies were analyzed to determine the time of death, tying the suspects to the crime scene.
A new species of ground beetle, Platynus indecentis, has been officially named and described by entomologists at Cornell University. The beetle was found in the Ithaca area and has a natural range extending from Maine to Ohio and Ontario to Maryland.
Researchers challenge conventional wisdom that scraping off bee stings is more effective than pinching them out. Immediate removal of the sting, rather than its method of removal, reduces the amount of venom injected. Delaying removal increases welt size and envenomization.