Articles tagged with Entomology
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.
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 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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
A team of entomologists, including Dr. Ed Vargo and Dr. Spencer Johnston from Texas A&M AgriLife Research, has mapped the bedbug genome, revealing its unique features and ecological niche. The study identifies critical genes for survival, providing a valuable resource for developing new control targets.
A study published in the Journal of Medical Entomology found that the OFF! Clip-On repellent device is highly effective against hungry Aedes aegypti mosquitoes. The device causes high mosquito mortality and knockdown rates, making it a promising tool for preventing Zika bites.
A global research collaboration sequenced the bed bug genome, identifying genes linked to pesticide resistance, mating traits, and blood digestion. The study provides a comprehensive understanding of the biology of human ectoparasites and offers new avenues for controlling bed bug populations.
A new study reveals bed bugs have developed resistance to neonicotinoid insecticides, making pest control more challenging. The levels of detoxifying enzymes in the resistant bed bugs were higher than those in susceptible populations, indicating pre-existing resistance mechanisms may have contributed to this development.
Researchers found that bed bugs that fed after being treated with insecticides had significantly lower mortality rates than those that didn't. The study suggests that feeding stimulates detoxification enzymes, leading to increased resistance and survival.
Lyme disease is transmitted by the blacklegged tick and western blacklegged tick, with a significant expansion of their range across the US. The study found that over 45% of counties have established populations of these ticks, highlighting areas of high risk for human exposure.
A comprehensive check list of 1,541 snout moth species has been compiled by Dr. Brian Scholtens and Dr. M. Alma Solis, shedding light on the fauna of North America and its potential threats to crops and forests.
A study by University of California, Riverside scientists reveals that backyard chickens have a higher diversity of ectoparasites, including six species of lice, the northern fowl mite, scaly leg mite, and chicken red mite. This finding suggests that the benefits of backyard chicken keeping may come with an itchy price.
New chigger mites discovered on rodents in Thailand expand the country's total known species to 99. The three new species were named after historical figures and belong to the same family as scrub typhus vectors.
Researchers found that Asian tiger mosquitoes prefer containers with large water volumes and near flowering butterfly bushes. These findings could lead to the development of traps using flower fragrances to control mosquito populations.
The invasive spotted lanternfly can cause considerable damage to crops and ornamental plants. A new resource provides information on how to identify and manage the pest, which has already been detected in Pennsylvania and may spread to other areas.
The latest volume of Research on Chrysomelidae celebrates its 30-year legacy, featuring works from a multinational research team and dedicated to Prof. Pierre Jolivet's contributions. New areas for investigation are highlighted, including Madagascar and the impact of deforestation.
Entomologists from the University of California, Riverside, discovered a new genus of plant bug, Restiophylus, and four new species from Australia. The new species are closely associated with Australian restiid clade (Poales). Detailed information on the insects is provided in the Annals of the Entomological Society of America.
A new sand fly species, Psathyromyia baratai, has been discovered in Brazil. The species was originally misidentified and found to be an undescribed species through detailed analyses.
A recent study found that global warming can reduce the effectiveness of permethrin in killing yellowfever mosquitoes. As temperatures increase, permethrin's efficacy decreases, highlighting the need for temperature consideration when choosing a pest-control product.
Researchers found Ixodes affinis parasitizing five songbird species in southeastern Virginia, increasing the tick's range and potential for Lyme disease transmission. The study suggests that having two competent tick vectors may lead to an increase in Lyme disease cases.
A new species of whirligig beetle has been discovered in Alabama's Conecuh National Forest, identified by PhD student Grey Gustafson and entomologist Dr. Robert Sites. The newly described species, Dineutus shorti, is the first to be found in the US since 1991.
Researchers find oil-based pesticides outperform water-based counterparts in killing contents of brown widow spider egg sacs. The silk layer's hydrophobic properties hindered water-based pesticide penetration, but oil-based aerosols effectively breached this barrier.
The invasive Aedes japonicus mosquito has been found in western Canada, carrying diseases like La Crosse encephalitis and dengue. The discovery was made in a suburb of Vancouver, British Columbia, in February 2015.
A new technique developed by Polish scientists uses geometric morphometry to identify the European corn borer by analyzing the arrangement of veins in its wings. The method achieved an accuracy of 97% and has the potential to be used by farmers to control the pest at optimal times.
Researchers found that male mosquitoes are lured to traps emitting sounds similar to female wing-beats. The frequency used was around 484 Hz, capturing over 95% of males exposed to it. This method could enhance studies and mosquito control in developing countries.
A study by Michigan State University researchers found that changes in a new species of fruit fly have an almost domino effect on several species, including parasitic wasps. The research reveals how these sequential events can generate a large number of species in a short period.
Three new species of trombiculid mites and 23 new records of previously-known species have been found in Taiwan, increasing the total number of chigger species to 47. The discovery highlights the potential for more species to be discovered in mountainous regions.
A new study describes three new species of fruit flies, including A. minor, A. summissus, and A. unicus, which are potential biological control agents and pests of economically important crop plants. The research also provides a revision of the genus Acanthiophilus and sheds light on its phylogeny.
Researchers discovered ticks carrying Borrelia burgdorferi parasite in Richmond Park and Bushy Park, posing a risk to visitors. The team advises taking preventative measures to avoid tick bites, especially in areas with frequent parkland usage.
Researchers at the London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine found Ixodes ricinus ticks in Richmond and Bushy parks, carrying the Borrelia burgdorferi bacterial pathogen that causes Lyme disease. The risk is low but caution is advised as most humans are infected through nymphs' bites.
A new open-access article provides an overview of the olive fruit fly, its biology and life history, and current control methods. The article discusses various techniques, including biological control programs and cultural practices, to help manage commercial olive orchards.
Researchers report brown widow spider discovery in Tahiti and Cook Islands, but caution against alarm. The non-aggressive nature of the spider and a natural control agent make it less of a concern.
A new stink bug has been identified as the primary pest problem for soybean crops in Texas, causing economic damage. Entomologists are developing targeted control methods, including using trap crops and resistant varieties, to mitigate the issue.
The Entomological Society of America (ESA) has selected three individuals as its 2015 Honorary Members for their significant contributions to the field. Dr. Wayne A. Gardner is honored for his 41 years of continuous service, while Dr. Michael E. Gray is recognized for his extensive research and leadership roles in integrated pest manag...
Researchers have developed a cost-effective method for producing hundreds of female emerald ash borer decoys using biomimetic fabrication. The new approach, which requires only one mold, is 40% more successful than previous methods and can be produced faster and less expensively.
Researchers found stink bugs track ripening fruit to maximize food access, suggesting limiting fruit availability in spring and fall could be an effective strategy for controlling stink bug populations. The study provides critical intelligence in the battle against these pests and their annual destruction.
The harlequin ladybird's arrival in Britain has led to declines in seven native ladybird species due to its predatory behavior. Research on the invasive species has provided new insights into biological invasions and their impact on ecosystems.
A study by University of Maryland researchers found that climate warming has made potato leafhoppers arrive an average of 10 days earlier and cause more severe infestations. The pests cause significant economic damage to farmers across the eastern US, with losses estimated in millions of dollars.
A new device developed by French researchers can efficiently collect bed bugs without damaging them. The modified Dyson hand vacuum is effective in collecting adults, larvae, and eggs, and has the potential to increase monitoring and control levels of this pest insect.
A new device has been developed that can detect the presence of chikungunya virus in mosquitoes within an hour, revolutionizing the field of public health. This fast and easy-to-use test has the potential to save lives by enabling swift detection and control of disease outbreaks.
Scientists have identified two new species of creeping water bugs, Ambrysus cayo and Procryphocricos pilcopata, found in streams in western Belize and southeastern Peru. The discovery highlights the vast unexplored world of aquatic insects, with many still to be discovered before it's too late due to habitat destruction.
A new study documents the presence of Philornis downsi at two sites near Ecuador's coast, harming 37 bird species, including the streak-headed woodcreeper and fasciated wren. A parasitoid wasp that attacks the flies has also been discovered.
The article provides a thorough review of the Asian longhorned beetle's biology, life stages, distribution, ecology, and methods of detecting and controlling it. The new online resource will be particularly helpful for forest managers and policymakers, offering a summary of the scientific backing for cooperative eradication programs.
UGA researchers have identified a hormone receptor that plays a key role in regulating female mosquito reproduction, enabling them to produce eggs after consuming blood. The discovery fills a major gap in understanding how mosquitoes reproduce and could potentially lead to strategies for controlling mosquito populations.
Researchers find that ticks are prevalent on lemurs' noses, particularly male Haemaphysalis lemuris, which attach to the nostrils. The study suggests that the nose is a strategic location for ticks to find mates and avoid being plucked off during grooming.
A study published in Journal of Medical Entomology found that ActiveGuard mattress liners impregnated with permethrin significantly reduce bed bugs' ability to feed and lay eggs. The researchers found that even sublethal exposure to the fabric can have far-reaching consequences for bed bug populations.