Articles tagged with Entomology
A previously unknown glacial relic, the Alpine rose leaf-miner moth, has been discovered in the Alps. The caterpillars specialize on the rust-red alpine rose, avoiding it like most other moths and butterflies due to its toxicity.
A new study reveals that climate change is altering the balance of microbes in nectar, making it less palatable for bumblebees. This could lead to a decline in pollinator populations and affect human health by reducing fresh food availability.
Researchers from Wellesley College discovered that honey bees (Apis cerana) produce unique sounds, including 'antipredator pipes', to warn fellow bees of giant hornet threats. These signals result in increased bee activity and defense actions against the attackers.
Researchers discovered that a single protein, Kr-h1, responds to socially regulated hormones to orchestrate the complex social transition in Harpegnathos saltator ants. The study reveals important roles for gene regulation and hormone response in controlling animal brains' plasticity.
A recent USDA study analyzed two centuries of alien species discoveries to estimate the rate of new insect arrivals and potential future invasions. The research found that efforts to reduce biological hitchhiking on live plant imports have been successful, but a significant number of Hemiptera insects remain undetected.
Researchers found that honeybee colonies modify their social interactions and movement patterns in response to parasite infestations, increasing social distance between young and old bees. This adaptation helps reduce the spread of diseases while maintaining beneficial social behaviors.
Scientists discover 28 new species of Trigonopterus beetles, including T. corona, named after the coronavirus and Star Wars characters. The discovery fills a gap in understanding Sulawesi's geological history and biodiversity.
A severe upsurge of desert locusts in 2019-2020 caused $3.4 billion to $10.21 billion in monetary losses and severe acute food insecurity for over 3 million people in Pakistan. The authors suggest improving the prevention system, developing compensatory measures, and increasing the use of alternative pesticides.
Researchers tested spider silk from seven species and found no signs of antimicrobial activity, casting doubt on previous reports. The team attributed methodological shortcomings to compromised studies, suggesting that the silk may serve as a physical barrier rather than an intrinsic antimicrobial agent.
Researchers at the University of California - Riverside discovered that hummingbirds can avoid insects with defensive compounds, such as formic acid, which harm birds. The study shows that scent plays a crucial role in hummingbird foraging decisions and ecosystem function.
Researchers tracked insect evolution with major Pacific Ocean currents, revealing species adapted to different conditions. Genetic analysis of ocean skaters found distinct variations among species, mirroring changes in currents and climate.
A study found that palm phytoplasmas in Florida were transmitted by the American palm cixiid bug, originating from Jamaica. The research revealed a network of movement across the Caribbean basin, with distinct groups of insects found in different countries.
Researchers have developed a way to bottle the 'smell of fear' produced by predators to repel and disrupt destructive insects. The odor blend can be used in essential oil diffusers to spread over time across gardens or fields, offering a natural alternative to pesticides.
Researchers discovered that Neuropeptide F (NPF) in fruit flies controls sugar and fat metabolism through glucagon-like and insulin-like hormones. The study reveals similarities between insect and mammalian metabolic processes.
A new beetle species, Pulchritudo attenboroughi, was identified in a fossil from the Green River Formation in Colorado, with its unique beauty and preserved patterns making it an exceptional find. The beetle was named after Sir David Attenborough, who inspired its discoverers.
A recent UC Riverside study reveals that neonicotinoids, commonly used in commercial plant nurseries, are deadly to bees regardless of watering levels. The research found a 90% decrease in bee reproduction with both high and low irrigation levels, highlighting the need for alternative management practices to reduce harm to pollinators.
New research shows that certain types of urban greening efforts can support multiple ecosystem services provided by plants and insects. Large green spaces with native plants, particularly flowering prairies, are ideal for conserving native bees and predatory wasps.
Researchers successfully tested gene drive technology to control malaria-carrying mosquitoes in large cages mimicking natural environments. The technology, which spreads a genetic modification blocking female reproduction, worked as expected and showed significant population decline within one year.
A new species of alpine moth has been discovered in the Alps, with its discovery resolving a 180-year-old mystery. The moth, named Dichrorampha velata, was found to be different from a previously known species and had to be described as new to science.
Entomologists say pairing solar energy with pollinator habitat has great promise, but standards are key to making it successful. Research suggests surrounding vegetation can boost solar panel efficiency, but more analysis is needed.
Researchers at Virginia Tech have discovered a new species of millipede, Nannaria hokie, living on campus and in nearby woods. The discovery highlights the importance of preserving native habitats and showcases the diversity of these often-overlooked creatures.
A growing body of research helps understand spotted lanternfly biology and management, featuring 25 articles on its impact on native plants and crops. The collection showcases progress made so far in containing the spread of this invasive pest.
Esther Ngumbi, an entomologist, has made significant contributions to public engagement with science through her research, writing, mentoring, and community outreach. Her work has benefited farmers in Kenya and across sub-Saharan Africa, as well as students from underrepresented minority groups.
A new study finds that salt-based mosquito-control products have no effect on killing adult mosquitoes, despite claims of its effectiveness. The researchers tested nine species of mosquito and found no evidence that ingestion of salt water kills the insects.
A new species of 'soft' tick associated with bats has been reported in New Jersey, raising concerns about public health risks. The tick, Carios kelleyi, was found on big brown bat larvae in Mercer and Sussex counties, highlighting the need for further research into its disease-carrying potential.
A three-year intervention in southern Mozambique averted almost 40,000 malaria cases and reduced disease transmission by 85%. Despite this drastic reduction, the study finds that disease transmission was not interrupted, highlighting the need for new strategies to achieve elimination.
The Asian tiger mosquito has become more abundant in Illinois over the past three decades, spreading diseases like chikungunya and dengue fever. The mosquito's spread is linked to global trade, particularly with used tires, which provide a conducive environment for its eggs to develop.
Researchers have discovered three new moth species in the Alps, named after legendary climbers Reinhold Messner, Peter Habeler, and David Lama. The moths are closely related and belong to the genus Caryocolum, living exclusively on carnation plants and inhabiting dry habitats.
A new low-cost imaging system can accurately identify Aedes aegypti mosquitoes, which spread Zika, dengue, and yellow fever. The system enables faster and more targeted control of mosquito-borne diseases, saving lives.
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.