Insects

This single mother must learn quickly — or her colony won’t survive

61 new beetle species reveal how little we still know about biodiversity

Parasite emergence facilitated by host wing-raising behavior

Baby bugs must play ‘game of roulette’ to find survival partners before time runs out

Does agriculture and climate affect feeding activities of soil animals?

Developing a passive antenna sensor from a mosquito muse #ASA190

Researchers developed a mechanical prototype to demonstrate their bio-inspired sensor's ability to enhance vibration signals without amplification circuits or signal processing. The design aims to benefit acoustic and vibration sensors that need to detect very weak signals, such as microphones or biomedical sensors.

How a strange fruit fly became a bloodthirsty underwater hunter

Researchers at Lund University mapped the genome of Drosophila enhydrobia, a carnivorous fruit fly that lives entirely underwater in African streams. The study shows clear genetic adaptations to its unusual lifestyle, highlighting the importance of natural history museums for understanding biodiversity and evolution.

Chilean wasp named in honor of Sir David Attenborough’s 100th birthday

Scientists describe new genus and species of parasitic wasp, Attenboroughnculus tau, found in Natural History Museum collections. The discovery highlights the scientific value of museum collections and showcases the unique characteristics of this rare subfamily.

How higher temperatures can benefit (or devastate) bumble bee populations

New research finds that higher temperatures can benefit bumble bees with underground nests by allowing them to spend more time foraging, but may devastate those with aboveground nests due to increased cooling costs. The benefits appear to outweigh the costs, but just a few damaging hours of extreme heat could set a colony back.

Fewer insects, fewer nutritious crops: pollinator decline puts our health at risk

The study reveals how pollinators support food production and diets, highlighting the risks of biodiversity loss for human health. Simple steps like planting wildflowers or using fewer pesticides can help boost pollinator numbers, strengthening both nature and people's wellbeing.

Cornell researchers document one of the largest known ground-nesting bee populations

A team of Cornell researchers has discovered a massive aggregation of ground-nesting bees, estimated to be over 5.5 million individual bees, in the East Lawn Cemetery. The discovery highlights the importance of these solitary bees as agricultural pollinators and adds credence to claims that cemeteries serve as preserves of biodiversity.

A bacterium from bumblebees can produce vitamin B2 in soya drinks

Researchers at DTU have developed a new method to identify bacteria capable of producing vitamin B2 in soya drinks. A bacterium from bumblebee guts was found to thrive in plant-based dairy alternatives and produce the nutrient in high quantities.

SoCal honeybees can fend off deadly mites

A new study from UC Riverside shows that a locally adapted population of SoCal honeybees can naturally suppress deadly mites. The hybrid bees are less susceptible to Varroa mite infestations and cross-thresholds, making them more resistant than commercial breeds.

Avoiding the very hungry caterpillar

A team of researchers at Kyoto University found that predatory mites avoid laying eggs on plant leaves bearing traces of caterpillars. Additionally, they discovered that even when predators are unlikely to encounter caterpillars, they still avoid their traces.

Pollinator-friendly gardens don’t have to sacrifice style

A new study from Northwestern University and the Chicago Botanic Garden found that some cultivated plants, such as black-eyed Susan and foxglove beardtongue, can attract pollinators at similar rates to their wild counterparts. This research provides a middle ground for gardeners who want to support pollinators without going fully wild.

A secret code that patches a problematic relationship

Researchers at Kobe University have identified a rare scent, dihydroedulan I, that guides the pollinator to male flowers first and female flowers later in a specific plant species. The chemical system ensures the partnership remains beneficial to both parties and promotes reliable pollen transfer.

Global warming may be a boon for this aggressive prairie plant

A recent study found that global warming can offset the negative effects of insect galls on tall goldenrod, a common wildflower in North America. The research suggests that warmer temperatures and drought conditions can boost the growth and biomass of gall-infested plants, making them more competitive than unaffected counterparts.

Study in search of a tropical spring is the first to show some birds flip their breeding season in response to climate

A team of researchers, led by Felicity Newell, tracked over 8,000 birds in Peru's cloud forests and found that breeding times vary significantly due to changing environmental conditions. The results suggest a more complex response to climate change than previously thought.

Climate change threatens dung beetles in the Amazon

Rising temperatures in the Amazon are threatening dung beetle populations, with diversity and abundance highest at intermediate altitudes. The study found that temperature is the key factor limiting dung beetle diversity and abundance, while other conditions play a minor role.

Snow flies create their own heat to avoid freezing

A new study reveals snow flies produce bursts of heat and antifreeze proteins to survive freezing temperatures. The insects generate body heat like mammals and produce antifreeze proteins like Arctic fish, allowing them to remain active at -6°C.

Some Canadians are willing to eat insect-based food — but conditions apply

A study found that 44% of respondents were open to trying insects, while 27% were willing to include them in their regular diet. Curiosity and perceived health benefits were key motivators, while disgust and fear were major barriers. Presenting insect-based products in a appealing way can help increase acceptance.

How mosquitoes “smell” danger and why it matters

Scientists discovered a built-in 'avoid' switch in the mosquito brain that is highly tuned to detect borneol, a naturally occurring organic compound found in aromatic plants. This finding could lead to the development of more effective mosquito repellents protecting human health.

Hubland Campus: a home for many wild bees

The Hubland Campus of the University of Würzburg is a rich habitat for 170 species of wild bees, with 31 species listed as endangered. Targeted measures, such as a hymenoptera garden and sustainable mowing, have created a species-rich and ecologically important environment for pollinators.

Villages: An underestimated habitat with potential

Researchers found that village habitats, such as green spaces and fallow land, support a wide variety of insects, including wild bees. Native wildflowers like Knautia and Cirsium are valuable resources for pollinators. Tips for gardeners include using pollinator-friendly plants and allowing vegetation to grow without frequent mowing.

Diversification of termite diets was made possible by genome modifications

A study analyzing 47 termite species found that genome expansion occurred before the division into wood- and soil-feeders, allowing termites to adapt to various environments. The research provides a comprehensive toolbox for future studies on social behavior, immunity, and ecological adaptations.

Climate change pushes tropical insects to their heat limit

A recent study reveals that tropical insects have limited ability to adapt to climate change, with many species unable to tolerate high temperatures. The research highlights the threat of far-reaching consequences for entire ecosystems, particularly in regions like the Amazon.

Aussie native ‘buffet’ creates honey with stronger anti-microbial punch

A University of Sydney-led study found that honey made from mixed floral sources has superior performance against bacteria, with high levels of bioactive compounds. The findings could help develop new treatments for drug-resistant infections while supporting bushfire recovery and sustainable beekeeping practices.

Moths use magnetic compass and visual cues to guide them during migration

A study suggests that moths integrate geomagnetic and visual cues to orient themselves during seasonal migration. The research found that visual cues are indispensable for accurate migratory orientation in the fall armyworm species.

Four and a half years supporting European wild pollinators: Safeguard project comes to an end

The Safeguard project, which aimed to expand understanding of declining wild pollinators, has come to an end. The project delivered a comprehensive reassessment of European wild pollinator trends and developed an integrated assessment framework to guide evidence-based management.

Rice stink bug genetic mapping offers clues to curb a costly crop pest

Researchers have discovered that native rice stink bugs have more genetic diversity than invasive species, which could help monitor the spread of insecticide resistance. This study provides valuable insights into pest management for Arkansas rice growers, who face significant costs due to the bug's impact on their crops.

Scientists lay out what we do and don’t yet know about moths and butterflies

Researchers shed light on moths & butterflies' evolution, conservation needs, and diverse feeding habits. Discoveries suggest that these insects obtained plant-digesting abilities from fungi, while mandibled moths were once more diverse but largely extinct.

Bug beats: caterpillars use complex rhythms to communicate with ants

Researchers found caterpillars mimic ant signals using precise rhythmic beats to gain acceptance, feeding, and protection. The most ant-dependent species produce regular, complex rhythms similar to those used by ants.

Students run ‘bee hotels’ across Canada - DNA reveals who’s checking in

A Canada-wide study using DNA metabarcoding reveals the intricate relationships between cavity-nesting bees and wasps and their food sources. The project, involving over 5000 students, creates detailed maps of these interactions, providing valuable insights into biodiversity and conservation.

Helping beekeepers fight mites through more effective treatments

A study published in the Journal of Apicultural Research found that combining a widely used mite-killing pesticide with an agent inhibiting its tolerance can effectively control varroa mites. The new treatment increases amitraz's killing power by 50% and shows promise for developing novel synergists to target these destructive mites.

Water is bed bugs’ kryptonite

A University of California - Riverside study has identified bed bugs' fear of water and wet surfaces, which affects their behavior and movement patterns. Researchers found that all bed bug ages and genders avoid wet surfaces, with younger insects being more sensitive to moisture.

Honey bee "dance floors" can be accurately located with a new method, mapping where in the hive forager bees perform waggle dances to signal the location of pollen and nectar for their nestmates

Researchers have developed a new method to map the location of honey bee 'dance floors,' where forager bees perform waggle dances. This method allows for accurate quantification and comparison of waggle dance regions, enabling better understanding of honey bee communication.

Debilitating virus can spread in cool weather, increasing health risk in Europe

A recent study found that chikungunya can spread in temperatures as low as 13 degrees Celsius, posing a greater health threat in Europe than previously thought. The Asian tiger mosquito is expanding northwards through the continent, and warming temperatures may lead to local outbreaks in the UK.

How forest conversion can harm dung beetles

A study found that forest conversion harm dung beetles by increasing temperatures and drying out the ground, making it hostile for them. The key species, Anoplotrupes stercorosus, is particularly affected, with its population declining as temperatures rise.

Hidden insect diversity in grass shoots threatened by mowing

Researchers identified 255 insect species in perennial grasses, but few in annual grasses, highlighting the importance of unmown refuges for biodiversity

New species of ladybird beetle discovered on Kyushu University campus

A new species of ladybird beetle, Parastethorus pinicola, was discovered on a pine tree at Kyushu University's Hakozaki Satellite. The beetle measures just over one millimeter in length and is the first major update to Japanese ladybird classification in 50 years.

Scientists solve the mystery of why termite kings and queens are monogamous

Researchers found that termites evolved from cockroach ancestors that became dependent on cooperation and food sharing within colonies. Monogamy and high relatedness were crucial for the evolution of complex social systems in termites, with genes involved in sperm motility being lost due to the absence of sperm competition.

These caterpillars can hear using tiny hairs on their bodies

Researchers at Binghamton University discovered that caterpillars can hear airborne sounds via microscopic hairs on their bodies. The study found that the caterpillars were 10 to 100 times more responsive to airborne sound than surface vibrations felt on their feet, suggesting a new approach for improving microphone technology.

Evasive butterfly mimicry reveals a supercharged biodiversity feedback loop

A new study in Systematic Entomology reveals that evasive butterfly mimicry in the genus Adelpha may be a rare and overlooked type of mimicry. The researchers found that Adelpha butterflies use speed and unpredictability as a defense mechanism, making them difficult to catch for birds and other predators.

Artificial nighttime lighting is suppressing moth activity

A study by University of Exeter researchers found that moths move significantly less under artificial light compared to natural night conditions. The results suggest that light pollution has widespread effects on nocturnal moth activity, irrespective of lighting type, with implications for moth populations and ecosystem services.

Living walls boost biodiversity by providing safe spaces for urban wildlife

A new study has found that living walls can significantly enhance urban biodiversity by attracting pollinators and other wildlife. The research revealed that soil-based living walls with plants in soil attracted more wildlife than those with artificial substrates, and specific plant species like ivy and honeysuckle were most effective.

​​​​​​​Insects are victims too: Global study shows impacts of invasive alien species on populations

A global study reveals invasive alien species reduce terrestrial insect abundance by 31% and species richness by 21%. Insects are often overlooked victims of invasion, exacerbating population declines and ecosystem disruption.

Spot the males: New gene-editing method could transform mosquito control

Researchers developed a genetic method to produce dark males and pale females, making it easier to sort sex in mosquito control. The approach uses CRISPR gene editing to create an engineered sex-linked trait that enables fast and accurate sex separation without complex equipment.

Paleontologists find first fossil bee nests made inside fossil bones

Researchers found thousands of hutia fossils in a Caribbean cave, including nests made from compacted soil and coated with a waxy substance. The discovery provides evidence of the presence of bees in the area thousands of years ago, challenging initial findings on wasp nests.

Bees' honey contains clues to their health, with 98% of honey samples testing positive for at least one bee pathogen, according to analysis of 679 (honey) samples across Italy

A study analyzed 679 honey samples from Italy and found that 98% contained at least one bee pathogen. This analysis may provide clues to bees' health, highlighting the need for further research on bee health.

Fecal tests reveal active termite attacks

Researchers have developed a new test that uses microbes to determine the age of termite droppings, allowing for rapid on-site infestation assessments. The study found that the amount of DNA from E. coli bacteria in the pellets decreases significantly over time, with a nearly 190-fold drop by the 12-month mark.

The Florida Museum of Natural History publishes “The Butterflies of California,” a book five decades in the making

The Florida Museum of Natural History has published 'The Butterflies of California' after five decades of work by brothers Thomas and John Emmel. The book, which clocks in at 854 pages, explores the diversity and life histories of butterflies in western North America.

Locusts use regurgitation as a chemical defense against predators

Researchers discovered that locusts regurgitate to repel ant attacks, and the mixture of diethyl glutarate, 3-methylindole, and 2-(formylamino)benzoic acid stimulates ant gustation, leading to aversion

Discovery could give investigators a new tool in death investigations

Forensic researchers at Florida International University have developed a new technique to estimate the time of death by analyzing the genetic markers of maggots. This method, known as a molecular clock, can accurately determine the age of late-stage maggots and revolutionize death investigations worldwide.

Crickets munch on microplastics — especially if they have a big mouth

Researchers found that crickets are unable to distinguish between plastic and food, and will consume large plastic particles if their mouth can fit them. Crickets also break down microplastics into smaller nanoplastics during digestion, which may have negative environmental effects.

Crop pests can develop ‘fighter-jet wings’ after eating specific mix of corn

Researchers found that a blend of non-toxic and genetically modified toxic corn can alter the shape of corn earworm moth wings, making them more aerodynamic and able to travel longer distances. This change in wing shape increases the moths' capability to fly long distances and spread resistance to the toxic corn.

When the air gets dry, cockroaches cuddle: Binghamton University study reveals survival strategy

Madagascar hissing cockroaches gather in groups to conserve water when the air is dry, a behavior that helps them retain moisture. This strategy, previously observed in small insects and larvae, may become more common as climate change alters humidity patterns.

Can social media help clarify the threat domestic cats pose to insect and spider populations?

A study published in Insect Conservation and Diversity analyzed over 17,000 social media photos and videos to understand domestic cats' prey in urban settings. The research found that cats hunt a diverse range of arthropods, including Orthoptera, Hemiptera, and Blattodea.

Parasitic ant tricks workers into killing their queen, then takes the throne

A parasitic ant queen tricks ant workers into killing their queen mother by spraying a foul-smelling chemical, causing her daughters to turn against her. The parasitic queen then usurps the throne and is served by the workers.

Parasitic matricide, ants chemically compel host workers to kill their own queen

Researchers discover a new parasitic strategy where an invading ant queen uses a chemical spray to manipulate host workers into killing their own mother. The study details two species of parasitic ants that use formic acid as a chemical camouflage to get past the colony's defenses.

New frog-like insects leap into the science books

Seven new species of a distinctive frog-like insect belonging to the genus Batracomorphus have been discovered in Uganda's Kibale National Park. The findings are significant as they mark the first new species recorded in Africa since 1981 and add to the existing 375 known worldwide.