Articles tagged with Insects
Comprehensive exploration of living organisms, biological systems, and life processes across all scales from molecules to ecosystems. Encompasses cutting-edge research in biology, genetics, molecular biology, ecology, biochemistry, microbiology, botany, zoology, evolutionary biology, genomics, and biotechnology. Investigates cellular mechanisms, organism development, genetic inheritance, biodiversity conservation, metabolic processes, protein synthesis, DNA sequencing, CRISPR gene editing, stem cell research, and the fundamental principles governing all forms of life on Earth.
Comprehensive medical research, clinical studies, and healthcare sciences focused on disease prevention, diagnosis, and treatment. Encompasses clinical medicine, public health, pharmacology, epidemiology, medical specialties, disease mechanisms, therapeutic interventions, healthcare innovation, precision medicine, telemedicine, medical devices, drug development, clinical trials, patient care, mental health, nutrition science, health policy, and the application of medical science to improve human health, wellbeing, and quality of life across diverse populations.
Comprehensive investigation of human society, behavior, relationships, and social structures through systematic research and analysis. Encompasses psychology, sociology, anthropology, economics, political science, linguistics, education, demography, communications, and social research methodologies. Examines human cognition, social interactions, cultural phenomena, economic systems, political institutions, language and communication, educational processes, population dynamics, and the complex social, cultural, economic, and political forces shaping human societies, communities, and civilizations throughout history and across the contemporary world.
Fundamental study of the non-living natural world, matter, energy, and physical phenomena governing the universe. Encompasses physics, chemistry, earth sciences, atmospheric sciences, oceanography, materials science, and the investigation of physical laws, chemical reactions, geological processes, climate systems, and planetary dynamics. Explores everything from subatomic particles and quantum mechanics to planetary systems and cosmic phenomena, including energy transformations, molecular interactions, elemental properties, weather patterns, tectonic activity, and the fundamental forces and principles underlying the physical nature of reality.
Practical application of scientific knowledge and engineering principles to solve real-world problems and develop innovative technologies. Encompasses all engineering disciplines, technology development, computer science, artificial intelligence, environmental sciences, agriculture, materials applications, energy systems, and industrial innovation. Bridges theoretical research with tangible solutions for infrastructure, manufacturing, computing, communications, transportation, construction, sustainable development, and emerging technologies that advance human capabilities, improve quality of life, and address societal challenges through scientific innovation and technological progress.
Study of the practice, culture, infrastructure, and social dimensions of science itself. Addresses how science is conducted, organized, communicated, and integrated into society. Encompasses research funding mechanisms, scientific publishing systems, peer review processes, academic ethics, science policy, research institutions, scientific collaboration networks, science education, career development, research programs, scientific methods, science communication, and the sociology of scientific discovery. Examines the human, institutional, and cultural aspects of scientific enterprise, knowledge production, and the translation of research into societal benefit.
Comprehensive study of the universe beyond Earth, encompassing celestial objects, cosmic phenomena, and space exploration. Includes astronomy, astrophysics, planetary science, cosmology, space physics, astrobiology, and space technology. Investigates stars, galaxies, planets, moons, asteroids, comets, black holes, nebulae, exoplanets, dark matter, dark energy, cosmic microwave background, stellar evolution, planetary formation, space weather, solar system dynamics, the search for extraterrestrial life, and humanity's efforts to explore, understand, and unlock the mysteries of the cosmos through observation, theory, and space missions.
Comprehensive examination of tools, techniques, methodologies, and approaches used across scientific disciplines to conduct research, collect data, and analyze results. Encompasses experimental procedures, analytical methods, measurement techniques, instrumentation, imaging technologies, spectroscopic methods, laboratory protocols, observational studies, statistical analysis, computational methods, data visualization, quality control, and methodological innovations. Addresses the practical techniques and theoretical frameworks enabling scientists to investigate phenomena, test hypotheses, gather evidence, ensure reproducibility, and generate reliable knowledge through systematic, rigorous investigation across all areas of scientific inquiry.
Study of abstract structures, patterns, quantities, relationships, and logical reasoning through pure and applied mathematical disciplines. Encompasses algebra, calculus, geometry, topology, number theory, analysis, discrete mathematics, mathematical logic, set theory, probability, statistics, and computational mathematics. Investigates mathematical structures, theorems, proofs, algorithms, functions, equations, and the rigorous logical frameworks underlying quantitative reasoning. Provides the foundational language and tools for all scientific fields, enabling precise description of natural phenomena, modeling of complex systems, and the development of technologies across physics, engineering, computer science, economics, and all quantitative sciences.
A meta-analysis of 166 long-term surveys across 1,676 sites worldwide reveals highly spatially variable global insect population trends, showing an average 9% per decade decline in terrestrial insects. In contrast, freshwater insect abundance increases by 11% per decade, possibly due to successful clean water efforts.
Researchers developed a CRISPR/Cas9 protocol that allows genetic modification of whiteflies, which can lead to novel control strategies. The technique enables the deletion of genes in whiteflies, allowing scientists to investigate genetic control strategies for this devastating pest.
Researchers found that gypsy moth larvae feeding on fungal-infected poplar leaves grew faster and pupated earlier than those fed only on leaf tissue. Fungal spores contain important nutrients like amino acids, nitrogen, and vitamins, which enhance the caterpillars' performance.
Researchers analyze 13,000-year-old fossils to understand the origin of light-scattering nanostructures in insects, which create colorful iridescent colors. The study finds that these structures may have evolved as a means of camouflage, with similar color patterns maintained over hundreds of thousands of generations.
A team of researchers has identified the wallflower as a suitable model plant for discovering new cardenolides, which could lead to safer versions of heart disease and cancer treatments. The study provides a foundation for understanding the biosynthesis of cardenolides and their potential applications.
UC San Diego researchers have created soft, flexible robots using a new method that doesn't require special equipment or long manufacturing times. The 'flexoskeletons' are made from 3D printing and can be assembled quickly and easily, making them potentially suitable for large-scale deployment.
Researchers found high concentrations of selenium in stream insects and spiders that eat them, indicating pollutants move from water to land as they form the food chain. The study showed that even streams without mining contamination can still have selenium-rich spiders, highlighting the persistence of toxic substances.
Researchers discovered fossils of a group called euthycarcinoids in Scotland, which share similarities with living myriapods. These findings provide an early aquatic ancestor to land-dwelling arthropods, bridging the gap between molecular divergence dates and terrestrial fossil records
Research shows that bats rely on listening to their fellow bats' echolocation calls when hunting over insect-poor farmland. In contrast, they hunt individually in forest areas with more abundant prey. The study highlights the importance of population density for successful joint hunting and potential extinction threats
Researchers discovered an insect-specific metal-sensing receptor in the gut lining that plays a crucial role in regulating nutrient uptake and development. Inhibiting this receptor, called Hodor, was fatal in mosquitoes, making it a promising target for controlling mosquito populations and preventing disease transmission.
Scientists have been collecting soybean aphids in the Midwest for 18 years using an aerial insect trap network, revealing valuable insights into spatial and temporal migration patterns. The traps also capture other insects, including those expanding their range due to climate change or habitat suitability.
A graduate student at the University of Illinois has discovered a new treehopper species named after Lady Gaga, showcasing the diversity of this bug group. The newly identified species, Kaikaia gaga, features unusual characteristics, including horned thoraxes and leg hairs, which differentiate it from other treehoppers.
The disease-causing virus BYDV manipulates its host plant and aphid vector to create warmer regions for feeding, increasing the vector's heat tolerance. This allows certain aphids to thrive in warmer conditions, posing implications for crop health as the global climate warms.
A study by Ellen A. R. Welti and colleagues found that nutrient dilution in plants contributes to the decline of insect herbivores like grasshoppers. Climate cycles, such as El Niño Southern Oscillation, accounted for 40-54% of grasshopper population variation.
Anna Stöckl, a renowned biologist, has been appointed to the Young Academy for her exceptional research on insect visual recognition and processing. Her work focuses on understanding how hummingbird hawk-moths navigate through colorful patterns.
A new genus found in 99-million-year-old Burmese amber reveals the evolutionary origin of scorpionflies' distinctive long mouthparts. The discovery sheds light on the early evolution of pollinators and challenges previous assumptions about the development of fleas.
A new study reveals that crustaceans like shrimps and lobsters have a similar brain structure to insects, called mushroom bodies, which are essential for learning and memory. This discovery challenges the long-held belief that these structures are unique to insects.
A study by the University of Turku found that four damselfly species can catch and eat hundreds of thousands of insects during a summer, with chironomids being their favorite food. This has significant implications for understanding natural food web functions and the impact of predation on insect populations.
A team of researchers developed a fully packaged ultrathin arrayed camera inspired by the Xenos peckii eye, achieving high contrast clear images and super-resolution capabilities. The camera's unique configuration suppresses optical noise, resulting in improved image quality.
A Montana State University research team, led by Lindsey Albertson and Geoffrey Poole, is exploring the impact of caddisfly larvae on stream ecosystems. The study aims to understand how caddisflies influence nutrient processing and microbial communities in streams.
A study found that threshold-based insect management strategies, including conventional and organic pesticides, resulted in greater economic returns for small-scale tomato producers. Organic thresholds did not affect yields but had higher costs due to increased pesticide applications.
A Brazilian research group uses VideometerLab, a multispectral imaging instrument, to analyze pupae and detect dead or empty insects. The device provides precise data on sample quality, improving the efficiency of biological control.
A new species of hairy cicada, Maculaferrum blaisi, has been identified from a 100-million-year-old fossil in Labrador. The find sheds light on the region's insect biodiversity during the Cretaceous period, providing insights into the evolution of flowering plants and pollinating insects.
A recent CDC study shows that DEET and other EPA-approved repellents are highly effective against the invasive Asian longhorned tick. The study confirms that these personal protective measures can help prevent bites from both native and invasive tick species.
The Swedish Malaise Trap Project has documented 20 million insects collected over 15 years, providing a unique timestamp of the country's insect fauna. The project has identified over 1,300 new species and 87 previously unknown to science.
Researchers discovered functional diversity in TRPA1 receptors among mosquito species, affecting thermal sensitivity and citronella repellent efficacy. This study highlights the importance of considering species-specific traits for effective mosquito control.
A rapid DNA extraction and diagnostic method has been developed, allowing for same-day management decisions in insect-transmitted plant diseases. This technique reduced the identification time from two weeks to less than one hour.
Research reveals that climate warming reduces year-to-year variability in beech tree seed production, favoring seed predators like moths. This shift results in fewer surviving seeds and reduced fitness for the trees themselves.
Scientists warn that humanity is pushing ecosystems beyond recovery, leading to unquantified insect extinctions. To mitigate this, experts suggest setting aside land for conservation, transforming agricultural practices, and communicating with civil society and policy makers.
A recent study found that the burrowing mayfly population has declined by nearly 84% since 2015, mirroring a decrease in mayfly swarms during annual insect emergence events. This decline is attributed to human stressors such as climate change, runoff from agricultural land, and pesticide use.
Researchers identified a key driver of heat-seeking behavior in Anopheles gambiae mosquitoes, a primary vector of malaria transmission, by repurposing an ancestral thermoreceptor. Blocking this receptor significantly reduced the ability of female mosquitoes to find blood sources.
A new study reveals how symbiotic viruses in aphid saliva suppress plants' defense mechanisms, allowing aphids to thrive on new hosts. This unique relationship has potential applications for controlling aphid dispersal and improving crop yields.
A genetically engineered diamondback moth has been successfully released into an open field, showing promise for effective and sustainable pest control. The self-limiting strain, developed by Oxitec Ltd, is modified to target pest populations without harming the environment.
Researchers have found that a hormone required for insect sexual maturity cannot freely pass through the blood-brain barrier unless aided by a protein molecule. This discovery opens up new possibilities for controlling mosquito populations and potentially boosting beneficial bee reproduction. The study's findings also suggest potential...
Researchers at Cornell University discovered that wasps can recognize individual faces, a rare ability among insects. This finding sheds light on how intelligence evolves and has implications for other species, including humans.
A study published in PLOS ONE found that carcasses of dead deer have a positive effect on biodiversity in the Oostvaardersplassen nature reserve. Plants near carcasses grew five times larger, attracting more insects and predators. The researchers call for relaxing regulations to allow dead large grazers to remain, benefiting other natu...
Plant defenses against herbivory can impede resilience to elevated temperatures. The interplay between biotic and abiotic stresses suggests that jasmonate responses are enhanced by heat-shock protein HSP90.
A new study reveals that warmer temperatures worsen the productivity of infested tomato plants, causing them to produce more defense compounds in response to caterpillar attacks. This double-edged sword leads to impaired photosynthesis, decreased crop yield, and unexpected tradeoffs between defense responses and plant productivity.
Researchers have developed mosquitoes that can halt the transmission of the dengue virus, targeting four known types of the disease. The engineered mosquitoes use a human antibody to hinder virus replication and prevent transmission to humans.
A recent study published in Scientific Reports found that simple leaf wounding in plants can increase the production of healthier organic fruit. The research team discovered that stress responses created in the fruits and vegetables lead to an increase in antioxidant compounds prior to harvest, making them healthier for human consumption.
Researchers have identified hundreds of new viral diseases in insects, including those with negative strand RNA genomes that cause Ebola and measles. The discovery expands the database of known viruses, enabling scientists to investigate cases of rare illnesses in humans more effectively.
Researchers from over 70 countries develop a comprehensive road map to address the pressing issue of declining insect populations, driven by human-induced stress factors such as habitat loss and climate change. The plan outlines immediate, mid-term, and long-term actions to prioritize conservation efforts and restore ecosystems.
DEAnsect, a soft robotic insect, is equipped with dielectric elastomer actuators (DEAs) that enable it to move forward through vibrations. The insect is lightweight and quick, allowing it to navigate different terrain types, including undulating surfaces.
A new study reveals that plant-eating insects significantly impact forest ecosystems, causing nutrient leaching and increased carbon dioxide emissions. The researchers found that these insects can disrupt ecosystems more than previously thought, especially in cold areas where temperatures may rise.
Researchers used 3-D simulations to study how bats detect insect swarms, finding that small insects like mosquitoes become perceivable in large groups. The study's findings could provide insights into the evolution of bat echolocation and have potential applications for defense systems.
A University of Maryland-led study found that climate cycles and insect pests drive caribou migration timing. Caribou herds across North America synchronize their migrations at roughly the same time due to ocean-driven climate cycles, but arrival times depend on previous summer's weather conditions.
Researchers discovered small insects like mosquitoes become visible to bats in large swarms due to Quasi Constant Frequency signals. This finding sheds light on the evolution of bat echolocation and its potential applications for detecting drone swarms.
A new species of insect virus, Binjari virus, has been identified that can be engineered to house genes from disease-causing flaviviruses. This non-infectious virus represents a flexible tool for testing diagnostics and vaccines for various infectious diseases, including yellow fever, dengue, and West Nile encephalitis.
A new study found that female grape berry moths detect a subset of volatile organic compounds emitted by grapes, as well as nearby plants like gray dogwood and apple trees. The researchers suggest that the moths use these common volatiles to find their target habitat before using other cues to locate specific berries.
Researchers used a thrip's wing and microcantilever to study the drag force on an actual insect's wing under constant airflow. The study found that the natural bristled design could increase sensitivity in tiny flying or swimming robots.
Sweet potatoes use a unique terpene compound called DMNT to trigger a defense response in neighboring plants. This single-odor warning system protects the plant from herbivores and reduces the need for pesticides.
A University of Guelph study found that fruit flies' aggression depends on their previous interactions, not just who they're interacting with. The study showed that males in certain social groups became more aggressive after one-on-one encounters.
A University of Guelph study reveals that fruit flies' aggression is shaped by past interactions, not just who they interact with. The findings suggest that aggression is a complex trait influenced by social experiences, and its effects can last for up to three days.
Researchers found a 'kidney-shaped' brain region that processes and integrates visual information with other sensory inputs. This discovery sheds new light on how mantis shrimp make sense of their breathtaking visual input.
A WSU study published in Cell Reports demonstrates that mammalian insulin activates an antiviral immunity pathway in mosquitoes, increasing their ability to suppress flavivirus infections. This discovery has the potential to inhibit the spread of West Nile virus and other diseases such as dengue and Zika.
New study highlights significant advances in phloem-insect/pathogen interaction understanding, but notes research gaps and barriers to study. Researchers propose integrating phloem-feeding insect/pathogen interactions into plant science for improving host resistance.
Researchers at Johns Hopkins University discovered that mosquitoes use sound to communicate during mating, which could lead to quieter drones. The study also found that targeting the specific frequency of the sound can disrupt breeding and population growth.
A large-scale biodiversity study found that insect decline is more extensive than previously thought, with many species affected in both grasslands and forests. The researchers identified the biggest losses in grasslands surrounded by intensively farmed land, where the most heavily impacted species were those unable to travel far.
The study reveals that flies execute four perfectly timed maneuvers to land upside down, including a rapid body rotational maneuver and leg-assisted body swing. The findings aim to inspire advanced robotic technology and understand the biomechanical and sensory processes involved.
A joint research team has successfully designed a swarm of tiny drones to explore unknown environments autonomously. The drones use a novel bug algorithm that enables them to navigate back to a base station while avoiding obstacles and detecting victims, showcasing the potential for swarms in search-and-rescue scenarios.