Articles tagged with Entomology
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.
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.
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.
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.
A 44-member international team is conducting a comprehensive survey of fly species in a tropical cloud forest in eastern Costa Rica. The project aims to identify at least 3,000 new species and contribute to understanding complex ecosystems and conservation efforts.
Researchers found that commercial ultrasonic frequency devices did not deter or attract bed bugs, suggesting alternative methods may be more effective. The study's results highlight the importance of understanding bed bug bioacoustics and exploring low-frequency sounds produced by human hosts.
Marshall Johnson, a renowned UC Riverside entomologist, has received the Distinguished Scientist of the Year Award from the International Organization for Biological Control – Nearctic Regional Section. He has made significant contributions to the field of biological control through his research and extension work, developing and imple...
Joseph Morse, a UC Riverside professor of entomology, has received the California Citrus Quality Council's Albert G. Salter Memorial Award for his steadfast dedication to the field of entomology. His extensive research on controlling citrus pests has led to significant contributions to the California citrus industry.
Six Penn State faculty members have been named Fellows of the American Association for the Advancement of Science, including Peter Hudson, Soundar Kumara, Andrew Read, Nitin Samarth, Matthew Thomas, and Karl Zimmerer. They were recognized for their research in various fields, including wildlife disease ecology, interdisciplinary indust...
Researchers at Penn State have discovered a natural fungus, Beauveria bassiana, that can effectively control bed bugs. The study found that the fungus infects and kills bed bugs within five days, even when they are in close proximity to uninfected individuals.
USDA researchers have created toxic sugar-based baits luring mosquito death; five compound classes kill all three mosquito species. Scientists also discovered how repellents work by disrupting chemical attractants in mosquito receptors.
Entomologists at UC Riverside reconstructed the evolutionary history of assassin bugs using molecular, paleontological, behavioral, and ecological data. The new phylogeny reveals that kissing bugs originated around 27-32 million years ago, contradicting previous estimates, and suggests a single origin or two separate but close origins.
A new study found that nearly half of all retail firewood sold in the US West is infested with live insects. The research highlights the risks of untreated firewood transporting pests and pathogens to uninfested areas. Heat-treating firewood before sale could help mitigate these risks.
The apple flea weevil has reemerged as a significant pest in organic apple orchards, causing up to 90% damage. The authors discuss management options and highlight the need for proven methods in organic production.
The green stink bug is a significant native species causing cosmetic damage and yield reduction in various crops. The article offers management options, including neonicotinoids, trap cropping, and biological control, to address this pest's impact on integrated pest management systems.
This review paper reveals the achievements of deaf and hard-of-hearing scientists who communicated their discoveries in entomology, including Charles Bonnet and Charles Darwin. The authors highlight the struggles and triumphs of these pioneers in light of their isolation from the Deaf community.
A team led by UC Riverside's John Trumble has been recognized for its research on zebra chip disease, which devastated the potato industry. The team developed new techniques to identify the pathogen and developed sustainable integrated pest management programs that enable growers to minimize potential negative effects on the environment.
The Entomological Society of America has selected three new entomologists, Dr. Elizabeth F. Beckmeyer, Dr. Steve Clement, and Dr. Victoria Y. Yokoyama, as Honorary Members for their 20+ years of significant involvement in the Society's affairs. They will be honored at the Awards Ceremony in Knoxville, Tennessee this November.
Researchers found 20 times more brown widows than black widows outside homes, especially in hidden spaces. The authors suggest that homeowners take precautions when handling brown widow webs, but note that their bites are less toxic than black widow bites.
A new species of phorid fly has been discovered, belonging to a family known for 'decapitating' ants. The tiny fly, Euryplatea nanaknihali, is 15 times smaller than a house fly and feeds on the heads of small ant species.
Scientists recommend increasing refuge acreage for Bt corn to slow western corn rootworm resistance and promote integrated pest management. The current 20% refuge requirement may not be sufficient to delay resistance, and doubling the size of refuges could help sustain the success of transgenic corn.
New research published in Journal of Economic Entomology shows consumer products known as bug bombs or foggers to be ineffective against bed bugs. The study found that bed bugs can survive the insecticide mist and hide in protected sites, making it unlikely for them to be exposed.
Scientists at FAO and IAEA developed a larval rearing unit for efficient mosquito mass-rearing, promising to boost the Sterile Insect Technique's effectiveness. The new system maintains water temperature stability and minimizes evaporation, allowing normal larval development and reducing labor costs.
A new study found that alternative insecticides can provide equivalent fruit protection to AZM, but with different application timings and strategies. The researchers developed successful strategies incorporating insecticides targeting eggs and larvae for effective codling moth management.
A two-year study found that omnivore dung, including chimpanzee and human dung, is the most attractive to dung beetles. Native Nebraskan dung beetles showed little attraction to bison dung compared to exotic animal dungs.
The Asian fly species Drosophila suzukii is taking over European fruit, particularly cherries and red fruits, causing significant damages to crops. The study found that the fly can lay eggs in unaffected fruit, leading to destruction of the fruit by its larvae.
The study found that four of the six most commonly collected beetles were introduced species, suggesting they displaced native species due to available niches or competition. Dynamic and unique dung beetle diversity was observed on each farm, influenced by herd management practices.
The pecan weevil is a major pest of pecans in the southeastern US. Scientists from Oklahoma State University and Texas A&M University describe IPM strategies, including monitoring techniques and primary control methods. Biological control and livestock grazing are also considered for management.
A recent study examines ash tree removal and pesticide options to minimize urban forest loss due to Emerald Ash Borer infestations. The results show that insecticide treatments retain greater urban forest value, while preemptive removal without replacement is the least expensive option.
A new study suggests that native insect parasitoids in California can suppress the light brown apple moth population, with one species accounting for over 80% of larval parasitism rates. Further research is needed to determine the effectiveness of these natural enemies in controlling the pest's spread.
Invasive crane fly species threaten northeast US sod industry quality and shipment safety. Recommended IPM strategies include monitoring, cultural management, and chemical control to prevent infestations.
A new study published in the Journal of Integrated Pest Management found that an integrated pest management (IPM) program significantly reduced the use of insecticides in University of Florida housing. The program led to a near-total elimination of hydramethylnon and other chemicals.
A new study published in the Journal of Economic Entomology reveals that methionine, a key amino acid essential for human nutrition, is effective against caterpillars threatening the U.S. citrus industry. Methionine disrupts an ion channel controlling nutrient absorption in larvae, leading to their death within two to three days.
A team led by UC Riverside entomologist Thomas Miller is traveling to Rwanda to help solve the mystery of a defect called 'potato taste' that's threatening the country's specialty coffee exports. The team aims to determine the cause of the defect and devise a strategy to eliminate it.
A new study assesses the potential reasons for the continued lack of success in preventing and controlling Lyme disease in the US Northeast. The study identifies critical areas where additional knowledge is needed to improve prevention and control strategies, including host infestation rates, habitat diversity, and human behavior.
Researchers release Tamarixia radiata, a parasitic wasp that kills Asian citrus psyllid nymphs, potentially reducing pest densities and protecting citrus trees in California. The natural enemy is part of a larger integrated management program for the invasive pest.
A new study shows that radiation can effectively sterilize the light brown apple moth (LBAM), an insect pest found in California. The method involves using a 250 Gy irradiation dose on pupae to induce over 95% sterility in females and males, reducing the need for pesticides.
Researchers at Purdue University have discovered odorous house ants in Hawaii, forming large megacolonies that are outcompeting native species. The invasive ants are thriving in Hawaii's climate, which allows them to eat and expand faster than in their native range.
Researchers found that mosquitoes are attracted first to carbon dioxide, then to skin odors, which could lead to more effective mosquito traps. The study's findings provide crucial insights into how female mosquitoes locate human hosts for diseases like malaria and yellow fever.
Biologists have discovered that glow-in-the-dark millipedes use their bioluminescence as a warning signal to avoid attacks by nocturnal predators. In the experiment, four times more non-glowing millipedes showed evidence of predation compared to glowing ones.
Researchers successfully establish and release parasitic fly Cyzenis albicans to control invasive winter moths in four sites. The flies have shown active preying on the moth's young, marking a significant milestone in controlling defoliation of eastern Massachusetts trees.
The Entomological Society of America recognizes Marvin K. Harris, Gail E. Kampmeier, Kevin L. Steffey, and two others for their significant contributions to the field of entomology. These honorees have demonstrated extraordinary commitment to the society through their service, research, and leadership.
UC Riverside researcher Joao Pedra to investigate immune system response to rickettsial infections, potentially leading to novel therapeutics against devastating tick-borne diseases.