Articles tagged with Entomology
A new study suggests that raking leaves just out to forest edges can result in a three-fold increase in blacklegged ticks. Homeowners can reduce tick habitats by removing leaves from high-use areas, composting them, or taking advantage of municipal curbside leaf pickup.
A recent book on the ecology of woody introducents in the Murmansk oblast of Russia identified only 4 out of 19 plant-damaging insect species correctly. The study emphasizes the need for accurate insect identification to prevent cascading effects of mistakes.
A recent CDC study shows that DEET and other EPA-approved repellents are highly effective against the invasive Asian longhorned tick. The study confirms that these personal protective measures can help prevent bites from both native and invasive tick species.
Researchers found that each bumble bee species selected a different assortment of flowers, even when foraging across the same landscape. The study identified 14 plant species preferentially selected by bumble bees, including thickstem aster and Rydberg's penstemon.
A study published in Integrative Organismal Biology reveals that ants like Gigantiops destructor use their abdomens to add speed and power to their jumps, enabling them to travel faster through leaf litter habitats. This unique behavior allows the ants to navigate complex forest floors with greater ease.
Researchers at Cornell University used high-powered cryo-electron microscopy to study mosquito sperm and fertilization. They discovered that sperm shed their outer coat within 24 hours of insemination, triggering rapid motility and increased fertility in females.
Fourteen Penn State faculty members have been named AAAS fellows for their exceptional work in various scientific disciplines. These new fellows were recognized for their contributions to fields such as physics, astronomy, computer science, and entomology.
Researchers have scrutinized West Nile virus and its transmission cycle, demonstrating the need for a one health approach. The body of knowledge built since 1999 is empowering efforts to minimize West Nile virus impact and prevent other mosquito-borne diseases.
A Cornell University study reveals that spotted-wing drosophila adults and larvae eat mushroom and apple mixtures, as well as bird manure, to survive before and after the growing season. The results may help curb pest populations by encouraging growers to limit access to certain non-fruit food sources.
Researchers at Penn State found that plants can induce 'leaky gut syndrome' in insects by disrupting their protective gut barriers. This can lead to septicemia or an immune response that weakens the insect, providing a new strategy for plant defenses.
Two new species of narrowly distributed moths, Arctesthes titanica and Arctesthes avatar, have been discovered in New Zealand. The moths are named after mythological deities from Greek and Hindu mythology, respectively, highlighting their unique connection to James Cameron's films.
Deer keds, a type of parasite fly that occasionally bites humans, have been found in more locations than previously thought, according to Penn State researchers. The team mapped their distribution across North America, documenting new state and county records, and warned that they may transmit disease-causing bacteria.
Pennsylvania's tick population has shifted significantly over the past century, from Ixodes cookei to Ixodes scapularis, with climate change and habitat loss contributing to these changes. The dominant species is now linked to Lyme disease, highlighting the importance of robust surveillance and analysis of historical data.
A study analyzing 15 years of mosquito surveillance data found that Culex tarsalis is the most likely species to transmit West Nile virus in Iowa, particularly in western counties along the Missouri River. The research also identified increased risk areas and recommended preventive measures.
Two fungal pathogens, Batkoa major and Beauveria bassiana, have been found to decimate spotted lanternfly populations near Reading, Pennsylvania. These native fungi could be used to develop environmentally-friendly control methods for the invasive species.
A recent study found that mixing different cultivars of St. Augustinegrass reduced fall armyworm infestations in lawns. The researchers discovered that the caterpillars preferred single-variety plantings, but when multiple cultivars were planted together, it created a more pest-resistant lawn.
Researchers from the University of Adelaide named ten new parasitic wasp species inspired by everyday objects like chocolate biscuits and Doctor Who aliens. The discovery highlights the importance of taxonomy in understanding and documenting ecosystems.
Researchers have developed a new method to detect mosquito-borne viruses in the wild by collecting and testing mosquito waste. The technique, which has been proven effective in detecting three types of viruses, could speed up virus detection and provide an early warning system for public health officials.
Researchers found that sealing holes less than 3mm wide can keep out most brown marmorated stink bugs. Removing dead stink bugs can also deter new arrivals, while 'seeding' traps with corpses may improve performance but requires further testing.
Researchers found that slits less than 3mm wide and holes less than 7mm wide can successfully exclude most brown marmorated stink bugs. The study provides guidance on how to keep stink bugs out of homes and buildings.
The ESSENTIALS project aims to develop robust entomological indicators for assessing the public health value of new vector control tools, reducing the need for lengthy trials.
A new study by Cornell University researchers found that orchards surrounded by natural habitats draw a broader selection of bee species, leading to improved apple production. This is because bees from different species exhibit unique behaviors when pollinating flowers, affecting fruit development and quality.
A new study models potential habitat for the Asian longhorned tick in North America, suggesting a large swath of eastern US could be suitable. The tick's adaptable nature and ability to reproduce via parthenogenesis make it a significant public health concern, with over 300,000 people infected with Lyme disease each year.
A new Central American butterfly species, Catasticta sibyllae, has been named after Maria Sibylla Merian in recognition of her groundbreaking work on the metamorphosis of butterflies and moths. Merian's discoveries, made centuries ahead of her time, were instrumental in changing the course of entomology.
Researchers examine data on 660 bee species found within the monument's original boundaries, which is still home to 87% of these pollinators. The reduction in protected areas threatens 'edge' populations that could be first to go extinct due to climate change.
A Rutgers University study found that German cockroaches were present in 29% of surveyed apartments, with poor sanitation and resident tolerance being key predictors. Residents unaware of cockroach presence had higher rates of infestation and allergens.
Scientists have discovered that a fungus and a caterpillar are in a symbiotic relationship, allowing the caterpillar to thrive in orchards while also helping the fungus spread. The navel orangeworm caterpillar can metabolize aflatoxins produced by the Aspergillus flavus fungus, making it immune to its toxic effects.
Researchers monitored bee activity during the 2017 total solar eclipse and found that bees ceased flying during totality. The study, supported by a grant from the American Astronomical Society, engaged over 400 participants in setting up acoustic monitoring stations across the US.
A study found that men exceed women in university and federal entomology jobs by a roughly 3-to-1 ratio, despite women earning over 40% of doctoral degrees in entomology. The research highlights the need for gender equity in academia and government.
Researchers propose a new epidemiologic triad model emphasizing the role of vectors in disease transmission, highlighting the need for increased vector surveillance and community education. The new approach aims to reduce unnecessary pesticide use and promote cost-effective management methods.
A new research collection targets insect pests of pulse crops, providing guidance on integrated pest management. The collection features nine articles covering major pests, microbial control methods, and economic threshold levels.
Researchers successfully attached miniature radio transmitters to kissing bugs in Texas, tracking their movements and revealing average distance traveled of 12.5 feet. The study opens the door for more in-depth studies into kissing bugs' movements and potential impact on Chagas disease.
A new study reveals the presence of Asian tiger mosquitoes is negatively associated with altitude and positively associated with fresh water surfaces. Effective prevention and control campaigns can be planned by removing breeding sites, according to lead author Dr. Ana Sanz-Aguilar.
Researchers documented termites' behavior in a tiny, built-to-scale dream home, revealing key findings about their destructive nature. Termites require moisture to survive and quickly find structural weaknesses, causing damage to the foundation and walls.
A new CDC study reveals that permethrin-treated clothing is effective in repelling disease-carrying ticks, with the insects experiencing sluggish movement after contact. The study found strong toxic effects on three primary tick species, including blacklegged and lone star ticks.
A new study reveals that a polydnavirus suppresses the defense mechanisms of both caterpillar hosts and plant hosts, allowing parasitic wasps to thrive. The virus reduces glucose oxidase in caterpillars' saliva, triggering lower enzyme activity and defense-gene expression in plants.
A study from Michigan State University reveals the postmortem microbiome provides crucial insights into public health, with consistent patterns regardless of factors like sex or ethnicity. The research also suggests that the microbiome can be used to assess health conditions, such as heart disease, in living populations.
A team of scientists discovered four new species in the rare parasitoid genus Habroteleia, while also correcting the classification of five previously known species. The study maintains the species number within the group intact and provides an illustrated identification key to prevent future taxonomic confusion.
A 2015 flood in south central Oklahoma led to a 93% decrease in invertebrate abundance, a 60% decrease in species presence, and a 64% decrease in biomass among insects and other invertebrates. Only well-adapted creatures were quick to return.
A comprehensive review of 30 years' worth of research concludes that lone star ticks do not transmit the bacteria that cause Lyme disease, but can transmit other human illnesses such as ehrlichiosis and red meat allergy. The evidence, based on over 60 published articles, shows that lone star tick saliva is a barrier against Lyme bacteria.
The Entomological Society of America has published a new guide for managing brown recluse spider infestations. The guide reviews existing research and summarizes best practices for integrated pest management, including monitoring, mechanical removal, targeted insecticides, and fumigation.
A new butterfly species, Polyommatus australorossicus, has been discovered in southern Russia with a unique 46-chromosome genome organization. The discovery was made possible through a 20-year study of Russian butterflies using various research techniques.
A study published in PLOS ONE found that the total flying insect biomass decreased by more than 75 percent over 27 years in protected areas. Insects play a crucial role in ecosystem functioning, pollinating 80 percent of wild plants and providing a food source for 60 percent of birds.
A new Central Park fly species, Themira lohmanus, has been discovered and named after City College of New York entomologist Professor David Lohman. The insect's unique mating ritual involves unusual methods and appendages used by males to store sperm for the female's selection.
According to a new study by CDC researchers, three-quarters of US counties are suitable for Aedes aegypti or Aedes albopictus mosquitoes, which transmit Zika, dengue, chikungunya, and yellow fever viruses. The mosquito species thrive in regions with mild winters and high humidity, with the eastern and southern US being most at risk.
New research reveals that a significant portion of monarch butterflies perished in the March 2016 snowstorm in Mexico, contradicting initial estimates. The severe cold and strong winds led to an estimated 30-38 percent mortality rate, emphasizing the need for protecting the surrounding forest.
The Annals Science Communication Collection features innovative methods for delivering science to the public, including comics and social media engagement. The collection aims to stimulate interdisciplinary dialogue across entomological disciplines and advance cooperative interaction among diverse groups of entomologists.
The discovery of two new beetle genera and four new species from the Australopacific Region highlights the diversity of saprinine hister beetles. The newly described insects feature interesting morphologies and ecologies, with some species dependent on ants or termites for survival.
A coalition of entomologists suggests working together in local communities to protect pollinators while managing mosquito and tick populations. The research emphasizes the importance of collaboration between vector-control professionals and pollinator experts.
A new open-access guide provides best practices for protecting pollinators like bees and butterflies while reducing pests in lawns and fields. Methods include mowing before applying insecticides and creating pollinator habitat strips, which can reduce the hazard to pollinating insects.
A collaborative effort between citizen volunteers and researchers has led to the identification of seven fly species that parasitize monarch butterfly caterpillars. The study found that 9.8% of monitored monarchs were parasitized, with Lespesia archippivora being the most abundant species.
A new species of bacteria, Borrelia mayonii, that causes Lyme disease has a similar transmission risk as previously known bacteria. Prompt removal of ticks after a bite can help prevent its transmission, aligning with existing guidelines.
The study highlights potential widespread presence of mosquitoes Aedes aegypti and Aedes albopictus in the US, as well as gaps in local surveillance capabilities. This information will help target limited public health resources and improve understanding of these mosquito species' distribution.
A survey of US travelers found that most business and leisure travelers can't identify a bed bug, yet evokes a stronger response than other room deficiencies. Hotels should proactively provide information on preventing bed bug infestations to improve guest trust.
Researchers find that Varroa mite populations are growing and spreading in managed bee colonies due to close proximity and lack of swarming. The study suggests new integrated pest management strategies are needed to control the migratory pest.
Agricultural production improves hive health by providing adequate food resources and nectar yields, outweighing pesticide risks. Bees in agricultural areas had better colony thermoregulation and higher brood production than those in non-agricultural environments.
Researchers found that traps baited with pheromone attract only a small fraction of overwintering stink bugs, which don't respond until daylight hours increase. Prevention is key to stopping brown marmorated stink bug invasions, and the use of traps during this time may not be effective.
Research detects fragments of Zika virus RNA in Asian tiger mosquito eggs collected in Brazil, highlighting potential role in Zika transmission. The findings emphasize the need for further research into additional vector species.
Researchers found that many Culex species lay eggs on terra cotta and mangrove roots instead of open water. This discovery challenges previous generalizations about mosquitoes' egg-laying habits and may aid in better targeting mosquito control efforts.
Researchers have discovered the oldest specimens of insects from the bed bug genus in Oregon, dating back to around 5,100 and 11,000 years ago. The remains were identified as relatives of the common bed bug, but were not the bed bugs found in hotel rooms.