Articles tagged with Entomology
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 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.
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.
Researchers found no association between mosquito abundance and dengue virus risk, but longitudinal indicators showed individuals living with mosquito evidence were more likely to contract dengue. Alternative surveillance frameworks incorporating human outcomes may be necessary for effective dengue control programs.
A new study reveals that host-targeted bait boxes employing a sneaky trick can significantly reduce the prevalence of ticks on residential properties. The boxes use a cloth wick soaked in tick-killing insecticide to lure mice and chipmunks, which subsequently die after attachment.
Researchers found that tropical bed bugs can climb out of smooth-walled traps more effectively than US common bed bugs due to unique adaptations. This discovery has significant implications for monitoring and managing bed bug infestations.
Two top entomology students, Paul Baker and Emily Nadeau, were honored with the naming of new wasp species, Leuroagathis paulbakeri and Scabagathis emilynadeauae. A new genus, Chimaeragathis, is also named after the Greek mythological monster Chimera, reflecting its distinct diagnostic characters.
A new water-resistant ant bait has been shown to offer significant advantages over existing baits in controlling invasive species such as the red imported fire ant. The bait's ability to withstand moisture makes it an effective tool for managing pest ants, especially in humid environments.
A new paper outlines expressions of skin conditions often misdiagnosed as brown recluse bites, including bacterial infections and deadly reactions. The authors introduce the NOT RECLUSE mnemonic device to help doctors accurately diagnose these cases.
Researchers found that mosquitoes responsible for transmitting malaria often rest in cattle sheds and feed on both humans and cattle. The team suggests that extending mosquito-control efforts to include cattle sheds could help reduce transmission dramatically.
A new study has confirmed the presence of ticks carrying Lyme disease in nine eastern national parks, highlighting the need for visitors to take precautions. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and National Park Service collected ticks along hiking trails and found all nine parks had infected blacklegged ticks.
New analysis suggests US is unlikely to experience large-scale Zika outbreak due to access to clean water and air conditioning. However, localized outbreaks remain a concern, particularly in southern states with lower socioeconomic conditions.
A collaborative group of insect scientists, educators, and professionals created a Bed Bugs and Book Bags curriculum to educate teachers and children about bed bugs. The program, available for free, includes hands-on activities and learning topics to promote awareness and prevention.
Researchers found that the Anthophora pueblo bees use water to excavate sandstone, creating durable shelters that protect them from erosion and parasite buildup. This unique adaptation allows the bees to survive in drought-prone desert ecosystems.
Researchers have discovered that anthranilic diamides can effectively control pests in snap bean crops, rivaling industry standards. The compounds show promise as a replacement for neonicotinoid seed treatments and pyrethroid sprays.
Researchers at UCR are using big data to track mosquitoes, predict outbreaks, and understand insects. The new program will train scientists and engineers to exploit the power of big data to improve human health and alleviate food waste.
Researchers reviewed various methods for preventing bites from blacklegged ticks, which transmit Lyme disease. Effective measures include wearing protective clothing, using insect repellent, and controlling tick hosts such as deer and small mammals.
Researchers discover northern oak hairstreaks consume non-nectar sources like galls and aphid honeydew. This finding suggests the species may be more common than thought.
A special collection of articles from the Journal of Medical Entomology provides in-depth research on Asian tiger mosquito, Aedes albopictus, including its introduction to North America, disease transmission, and control measures. The studies highlight the importance of understanding this invasive insect for effective mosquito management.
A new study maps the geographical ranges of Aedes aegypti and Aedes albopictus mosquitoes, which transmit dengue, chikungunya, and Zika viruses, across 183 counties in 26 states and 1,241 counties in 40 states.
Entomologists have described a traumatic insemination process in which male twisted-winged parasites inject semen directly into the female's body cavity. The fertilization process is unusually prolonged, lasting up to 30 minutes, and is likely used to reduce sperm competition.
Researchers found that bed bugs strongly preferred red and black colors, but avoided green and yellow due to their resemblance to brightly-lit areas. The study's findings may have implications for controlling bed bug populations by using color preference in traps.
A new species of black fly, Simulium kalimantanense, has been discovered in Indonesia's Kalimantan state. The newly identified species belongs to the family Simuliidae and is part of a larger group known to carry filariasis-causing parasites.
Researchers found that six known predators, including beetles and lacewings, naturally controlled cochineal scale insects on prickly pear plants, regulating their growth. Autonomous biological pest control may be a viable alternative to chemical pesticides under specific ecological conditions.
A new genus of flea and its five new species have been described from Indonesian collections. The discovery sheds light on the history of Indonesia and highlights the complexity of male flea genitalia.
The Mexican rice borer infestation causes significant crop loss, with potential losses of over $200 million annually in Louisiana. A new article provides information on the pest's biology and life cycle, as well as management suggestions.
Researchers have developed a new trap to monitor and control Aedes aegypti mosquitoes, the primary transmitters of Zika, dengue, chikungunya, and yellow fever. The plastic ovitrap infused with pyriproxyfen has been shown to be 100% effective in preventing larvae from developing into adults.
A recent study by Rutgers University researchers found that approximately 12% of apartments had bed bug infestations, with higher rates in African American homes. Women were more likely to report symptoms and express concern upon learning of infestations.
A new genus of treehoppers has been discovered in Texas and northern Mexico, with one species named Selenacentrus wallacei. The researchers found the species among mislabeled specimens from various collections, highlighting the importance of accurate taxonomy.
Masked chafer larvae cause root damage to turfgrass, leading to brown and dying blades. Biological approaches like entomopathogens offer promising solutions for reducing grub numbers.
Researchers at Michigan State University created a lighter, cheaper moth trap using LED lights and everyday materials. The new trap is effective but less abundant in insect capture compared to traditional mercury vapor black light traps.
Scientists have developed an illustrated key to distinguish between 41 snout moth grass borers using genitalia analysis. This helps identify economically important pests that feed on crops like sugarcane and corn in the Western Hemisphere.
Plant breeders have discovered that the best time to infect trees with citrus greening disease is during 'flush,' a stage in growth from leaf emergence to full size. This knowledge can help growers improve pesticide applications and protect their citrus crops.
Researchers have found an artificial diet that makes it easier to rear insects, including moths and other species. They successfully reared 39 different moth species on the McMorran diet, saving time, space, and money.