Articles tagged with Entomology
A new study by University of Missouri biologist James E. Carrel found that southern house spiders prefer holes and cavities that are three to four times as big as their own body size for building nests. The spiders select nest sites based on their size, similar to how hermit crabs trade up for bigger shells as they grow bigger.
Researchers at Virginia Tech have developed a more efficient method to edit the mosquito genome using CRISPR-Cas9, enabling faster studies of disease-causing genes. This breakthrough may aid in developing novel strategies to control mosquito-borne diseases and reduce their impact on human health.
Researchers in Georgia have discovered a new tick species, Dermacentor limbooliati, found in Malaysia and Vietnam. The species can be distinguished from similar ones by several characteristics.
Researchers found sap-feeding butterflies have proboscis conformations closely resembling the Golden Ratio, suggesting a connection between feeding habits and substrate type. The study suggests this discovery can be used to predict the feeding habits of unstudied lepidopteran species.
The rice water weevil is a devastating insect pest of rice in the US, causing yield losses of up to 25%. Researchers offer new management strategies, including cultural control methods and microbial control options, to combat this invasive species.
Researchers found that mosquitoes respond weakly to human skin odor alone and require a fluctuating concentration of carbon dioxide to land on human skin. This suggests that upwind flight towards human odor may be used to locate dwellings rather than feeding sites.
Forensic entomologists have discovered that scorpionflies and noctuid caterpillars interact with human cadavers, offering new insights into decomposition ecology. These findings may assist in determining postmortem intervals and interpreting postmortem artefacts.
A new study found that Asian citrus psyllid populations decrease with higher elevations, dropping to zero above 600 meters. This trend may provide insights into the insects' vulnerabilities and potentially lead to strategies to control their spread.
The emerald ash borer has expanded its host range to include the white fringetree, causing significant damage and economic losses. The insect's larvae disrupt tree nutrient flow, leading to dieback and deformities.
Researchers at UC Riverside devised a method to isolate hydrocarbon molecules used by insects for communication and differentiation. The study found that nearly all insects produce the R form of these chemicals, paving the way for understanding their functions and potential applications in controlling pest species.
Researchers have documented Brazilian scarab beetles living in termite nests for the first time. The beetles' larvae likely feed on the nest structure rather than roots, allowing them to survive undetected.
A hybrid of two malaria mosquito species has been found to be highly resistant to insecticide-treated bed nets, threatening efforts to control malaria in Africa. The discovery highlights the urgent need for new and effective vector control strategies.
A team of scientists led by UC Riverside expert Richard Vetter analyzed spider bite data to conclude that the evidence for spider-vectored infections is scarce. The study found that bacterial infections are often misattributed to spider bites, and spiders should not be blamed for human skin infections.
A new species of assassin bug, Sinea incognita, has been discovered in the Midwestern United States after remaining undiscovered for over 100 years. The new species was identified by Dr. J.E. McPherson and is distinct from its close relatives, Sinea complexa and Sinea integra.
Kansas State University professors C. Michael Smith and Christopher Sorensen were selected as AAAS fellows for their pioneering contributions to entomology and soft matter physics, respectively. Their research has been recognized for advancing science, education, and outreach.
Three new species of leafhoppers from China's Futasujinus genus were identified and described, one named after Dr. Chris Dietrich, a renowned University of Illinois entomologist. The newly discovered species exhibit unique characteristics, including processes on their aedeagal shafts.
A new study has identified the most common non-mygalomorph spiders found in international cargo, highlighting that many are harmless species. The study provides a simple key for proper identification of cargo-borne spiders to prevent costly and unwarranted measures.
Researchers have designed decoys that mimic female emerald ash borers, enticing male beetles to land on them and get electrocuted. The team's bioreplicated decoys were more attractive to males than simpler 3D-printed decoys due to their fine-scale texture and color.
Researchers have discovered Ixodes scapularis ticks in North Dakota, which vector Lyme disease, and are concerned about the potential spread of other tick-borne diseases. The ticks were found in six counties with established populations, raising concerns for public health.
Scientists have discovered two new species of carabid beetles in the Ethiopian Highlands, Calathus juan and Calathus carballalae. These beetle species were found at high elevations and were named after their collaboration partners. The study was published in Annals of the Entomological Society of America.
The ESA Certification Corporation has recognized two professionals, Bob and Kathy, with the ACE Professional Award and Distinguished Service Award to the Certification Program. These individuals were honored for their contributions to the field of entomology and pest management.
A new species of parasitoid wasp, Spasskia brevicarinata, has been discovered in China, adding to the genus Spasskia. The newly identified species exhibits distinct characteristics, including a short ridge on its first tergite.
Dr. Fred Baxendale, an entomology professor at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, has been recognized for his significant contributions to the field with Honorary Membership in the Entomological Society of America (ESA). He has served the organization for over 20 years through various roles and publications.
Researchers discovered that a type of bacteria called Asaia blocks invasion of Wolbachia into mosquitoes' germlines, stopping the insects from transmitting Wolbachia to their offspring. This finding provides a potential answer to why some insect species are infected with Wolbachia while others are not.
Jocelyn Millar, a professor of entomology at UC Riverside, has been awarded the Silver Medal by the International Society of Chemical Ecology. His research primarily focuses on how insects use odors and tastes for communication, with practical applications for detecting and managing insect populations.
A 13-year study in Connecticut found that reducing deer populations by ≥87% results in a significant reduction in tick abundance and resident-reported cases of Lyme disease. This suggests that managing deer populations could be an effective strategy for reducing human interactions with infected ticks.
Researchers found that malaria-infected mice are more attractive to mosquitos than uninfected mice, especially during recovery from symptoms. This altered scent profile may help identify asymptomatic carriers who can transmit the disease.
Researchers discovered that trap-jaw ant species are expanding their territory in the southeastern United States. The study identified two new species, O. haematodus and O. ruginodis, which have spread across the Gulf Coast region, including Florida and Alabama.
Researchers at Virginia Tech created a cheap and effective stink bug trap using a foil roasting pan, dish soap, and light. The homemade trap eliminated 14 times more stink bugs than store-bought models, providing a pesticide-free solution for homeowners.
New research suggests that stink bug traps can actually increase damage to tomato fruits, with trap placement causing higher abundance of pests on the fruit. This phenomenon is known as 'trap spillover,' where pests rest on nearby vegetation before being captured by the trap.
A study published in Agricultural Systems found that planting cover crops increases eight of eleven ecosystem services, including carbon and nitrogen retention, erosion prevention, and weed suppression. The research highlights the importance of considering temporal dynamics when assessing management system effects on ecosystem services.
Researchers found that planting cotton in May reduced boll damage by up to 36% compared to June planting dates. Early planting avoids peak stink bug pressure during the bloom cycle, reducing the need for insecticides.
Resistance to pesticides has increased in nearly a thousand pest species, including insects, weeds, and fungi. Entomologists updated definitions for key terms related to resistance to facilitate understanding and management of the issue.
New research shows ordinary hair conditioner outperforms special nit-removal products in removing head lice eggs. The study found that ordinary conditioners were equally effective in loosening the glue-like substance holding the eggs in place, making them easier to remove.
Researchers found that Wolbachia reduced malaria parasite infection and oocyst intensity at 82 degrees Fahrenheit. However, its effect varied across different temperatures, with increased oocyst intensity at 75 degrees Fahrenheit.
Fred Gould will deliver a lecture on Dr. Robert L. Rabb, a pioneer in developing ecologically sound approaches to insect pest management. Gould's research has profoundly influenced global crop management and vector-borne disease control.
A recent study found that the use of wasps to combat citrus greening disease is unlikely to threaten non-target insects. The parasitoid wasp Tamarixia radiata was tested against seven non-target psyllid species, with only one showing a low level of parasitization.
Two new studies have found that genetically modified, insect-resistant crops have no negative effects on beneficial insect predators or a beneficial, entomopathogenic nematode. The research demonstrated that Bt proteins used in corn and cotton crops do not harm two important insect predators that help suppress pest populations.
A new study from South Africa reveals that genetically modified maize has a comparable diversity of insects to conventional crops. The research collected over 8,700 arthropod individuals and found no significant differences in abundance or diversity across different functional groups.
A recent study published in the Journal of Medical Entomology found that bed bug nymphs develop 2.2 days faster when living in groups than as solitary individuals. This significant difference suggests that social interaction plays a key role in accelerating bed bug development.
A new species of cockroach discovered in Colorado's Green River Formation reveals that the genus Ectobius originated in the New World over 49 million years ago. The finding challenges a long-held assumption about the cockroach's evolutionary history, instead suggesting a complex migration history between the Old and New Worlds.
A new study published in Annals of the Entomological Society of America has found that low temperatures can be used to store eggs of the predatory stink bug Podisus nigrispinus. This allows for greater flexibility in mass rearing and storage, increasing the availability of insects for release in the field at an early opportunity.
Researchers have discovered seven new species of nearctic wasps from the Charipinae subfamily, characterized by their small size and shiny bodies. The newly described species are detailed in a recent article published in Annals of the Entomological Society of America.
Researchers found that sweetpotato weevils prefer red light for indoor conditions and green light for outdoor field conditions. The study suggests that understanding the differences in insect behavior between indoors and outdoors may help develop more effective control methods without toxic pesticides.
A new laboratory rearing method has been developed to study the western bean cutworm's susceptibility to Bacillus thuringiensis toxins. This allows for the evaluation of toxin efficacy and potential resistance development.
The Turkestan cockroach has become a dominant invasive species in urban areas of the southwestern United States, replacing the oriental cockroach. Its shorter developmental period and higher reproductive rate are key factors contributing to its success.
A new study found that bed bugs can survive freezing temperatures for a certain period, but prolonged exposure to cold can lead to their death. The researchers discovered that minimum exposure times of 80 hours at -16°C are required for 100% mortality.
Scientists have sequenced the genome of the spotted wing drosophila, a major pest affecting blueberries, cherries, and other fruits. The publicly accessible SpottedWingFlyBase Web portal provides valuable data for researchers to develop more effective monitoring and control strategies.
The Bagrada bug, an invasive stink bug, can be managed through Integrated Pest Management (IPM) techniques. IPM strategies include understanding the bug's biology and host range to develop effective control methods. Farmers and growers can benefit from downloading this free, open-access article for guidance on managing this invasive pest.
A new study suggests that genetically modified Bt sweet corn can reduce the need for traditional insecticides, resulting in increased marketability and profitability for farmers. The research found that Bt sweet corn outperformed non-Bt varieties in controlling pest infestations, even with conventional insecticide applications.
The NTA IPM team developed a science-based framework to assess Bt crop risks on beneficial non-target arthropods. Their research and outreach information validated the tier-testing system used by regulatory agencies.
The Entomological Society of America has named winners of the 2013 student travel grants to attend the Annual Meeting in Austin. The grants, funded by USDA-NIFA, provide financial support for graduate students in entomology.
A new bed bug trap captures twice as many insects as current traps by incorporating a pitfall trap design, a chemical lure, and a sugar-and-yeast mixture producing carbon dioxide. The trap's taller design makes it harder for bed bugs to escape.
Jocelyn Millar, a professor of entomology at UC Riverside, has been elected a fellow of the Entomological Society of America (ESA) for his outstanding contributions to entomology. He is recognized internationally as an expert in chemical ecology and has developed practical applications for detecting and managing insect populations.
Maple tree owners can benefit from a new open-access article that provides information on the biology, damage, and management of key pests. The article offers practical integrated pest management (IPM) solutions for each pest, helping to reduce economic and aesthetic value.
Research reveals parasitic wasp Tetrastichus planipennisi populations are increasing and expanding in Michigan, suggesting they will play a critical role in suppressing the invasive EAB. By 2012, rates of parasitism on EAB increased from 1.2% to 21.2%, with 92% of sampled trees hosting wasp broods.
Researchers found that mosquitoes may be responding to an immune challenge rather than manipulating their behavior to transmit malaria parasites. Mosquitoes will wait to feed until the parasites mature and migrate to the salivary glands, but this response is also seen in non-infected mosquitoes.
Serguei Triapitsyn, an entomologist at UC Riverside, has discovered a new wasp species, Gonatocerus ucri, from the Russian Far East. The wasp is mostly brown in color and has long antennae and wings, with its host unknown but potentially beneficial insects.
Researchers monitored WNV in California Culex mosquitoes and found that the virus is passed vertically from females to eggs, but with significantly lower rates when transmission occurs from larvae to adults. This loss of infection during larval development remains unclear.
Researchers found that baited black pyramid traps are more effective at capturing stink bugs than other traps, with higher yields of adults and nymphs. The study also discovered that stink bugs can produce two generations per year in the Mid-Atlantic region.