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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
Researchers discovered that Venus flytraps convert sugars into carbon dioxide and energy to power their traps, contradicting the idea of passive plants. The plants' digestive process provides a means to capture prey, allowing them to thrive in nutrient-poor environments.
A University of Houston researcher is using a vacuum device to study the effects of the Deepwater Horizon oil spill on insects and spiders in salt marshes along the Gulf Coast. The goal is to understand how the food web is structured and affected by the oil spill.
A new study reveals that consistent year-round temperatures in the tropics, rather than higher temperatures or more sunlight, are key to its stunning biodiversity. The research suggests that the world is likely less diverse today than it was tens of millions of years ago, when the entire Earth had consistent year-round temperatures.
Researchers at Rockefeller University have identified two compounds emitted by mosquito predators that deter female mosquitoes from laying eggs in pools of water. These natural insect repellents could provide an environmentally friendly alternative to controlling disease-carrying insects.
A laboratory milling device called the 'insect-o-graph' can detect internal insects in wheat that are not visible to the eye or detectable by usual grading methods. The system estimates the number of live insects hidden in a one-kilogram grain sample in about one minute.
Researchers at Purdue University have successfully mapped the genome of the body louse, a human parasite that spreads through contact. The study identified key receptors in the louse's nervous system, which could be targeted for developing new, effective insecticides to combat head lice resistance.
Researchers from the University of Adelaide discovered how insects judge speed and motion in a natural setting, revealing additional brain mechanisms. Insects use visual motion analysis and adapt to different light conditions, similar to humans.
A study by University of Exeter biologists uses digital video technology, tagging, and DNA fingerprinting to examine the behavior and ancestry of field crickets in their natural environment. The research reveals that dominant males don't always have more mates or offspring, and females can benefit from having multiple partners.
Researchers at Michigan State University discovered that shiny black solar cells lure water insects away from critical breeding areas. Applying white grids or other methods can break up polarized reflection of light, making it less attractive to mayflies and other aquatic insects.
BBSRC funded researchers found that applying Bt to young plants enhances the bacteria's ability to infect insect pests. The study also reveals that the natural abundance of Bt in the environment plays a significant role in its effectiveness.
The USDA has released a new biocontrol, Megamelus scutellaris, to help control the invasive water hyacinth. The planthopper is highly host-specific and does not pose a threat to native or economically important species.
A recent study at the University of Illinois found that some impatiens plant varieties are more attractive to Western flower thrips than others. The researchers discovered that the Dazzler White variety emits volatile compounds that attract thrips, while the Cajun Carmine variety does not.
Research suggests that physical prowess was the key factor in human mate competition, with men competing for dominance and access to mates. Men are stronger than 99.9% of women, despite average differences in size, due to increased muscle mass.
Research at University of California, Riverside found that juvenile male crickets exposed to loud songs from adult males grow larger and invest more in testes. Meanwhile, those without exposure are more likely to act as 'satellites' hanging around singing males to intercept females.
Researchers at Case Western Reserve University have discovered a direct link between neural activity in an insect's brain and changes in behavior. The findings suggest that cockroaches can control their speed with their brains, which could inspire the development of more adaptive robots for search and rescue and space exploration.
Anna Whitfield, a Kansas State University plant pathologist, will receive a $1 million CAREER Award to study how viruses affect insect vectors. Her research may shed light on viruses that infect vertebrate animals as well as plants.
Scientists aim to prevent insects from spreading deadly diseases like Chagas' by manipulating physiology to stop the transmission of the illness. Researchers have identified genes controlling diuresis in kissing bugs and hope to create a peptide agonist to prevent waste and parasites from being left on wounds.
The gypsy moth continues to spread across the US, resistant to effective pesticides. Despite decades of pesticide use, the insect remains a threat to forests and urban landscapes.
Scientists uncover thousands of years-old hunting tools, including wooden arrows and dart shafts, as warming temperatures melt ancient ice patches in the Mackenzie Mountains. The discovery sheds new light on ancient caribou migration patterns and hunting practices.
A study on trembling aspen found that phenolic glycosides and extrafloral nectaries are distributed together in the same leaves, contradicting previous assumptions. The presence of extrafloral nectaries is positively correlated with higher levels of chemical defenses, suggesting a complex relationship between these defense mechanisms.
Researchers at Johns Hopkins Medicine have identified a protein in sensory cells of fruit flies that allows them to detect and avoid noxious chemicals. The discovery opens up new possibilities for controlling insect pests and protecting crops.
Scientists at Imperial College London have created a comprehensive 3D model of a fossilized cockroach ancestor, Archimylacris eggintoni, which lived around 300 million years ago. The study reveals the physical traits that helped it thrive on the forest floor, including sticky structures on its legs and claws for climbing.
A study published in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences found that insect-gobbling animals increase plant growth by reducing plant-feeding insects' damage. The research solidifies birds, bats, lizards, and other similar animals' importance to ecosystem health.
Researchers have developed self-pollinating almond trees that can produce high-quality nuts without insect pollination. This breakthrough is crucial for almond growers facing rising costs due to honeybee shortages.
A new study reveals that birds, bats, and lizards play a crucial role in maintaining forest health by controlling insect populations. By eating herbivores and their insect predators, these animals reduce plant damage by 40%, leading to a 14% increase in plant biomass.
A recent study found that carnivorous plants can be harmed when consuming insects contaminated with toxic metals like cadmium. The research, published in Environmental Science & Technology, highlights the importance of limiting exposure to these metals to protect endangered plant species.
Scientists found that milkweed species that grow quickly are more vulnerable to insect damage, while fast-growing plants rely on predators for protection. This study provides valuable insights into plant defense mechanisms and has implications for developing pest-resistant crops.
Researchers found that female moths outgrow their male counterparts by initiating a developmental change later in life, resulting in larger adult moths. This study provides insight into the evolution of sexual size dimorphism in moths, highlighting the importance of early developmental stages in determining adult body size.
Researchers at Cornell University have discovered how fruit flies employ a stabilizer reflex to right themselves after being disturbed by wind gusts. By studying the insects' aerial maneuvers, the team aims to develop more efficient and stable flapping-wing aircraft designs.
A new assay developed by USDA researchers can safely and reliably mark termites and other insects over vast acreage, allowing for their movements to be tracked. The method uses egg white, cow milk or soy milk proteins and has been shown to be effective in tracking the desert subterranean termite.
A new study has created a more accurate family tree for arthropods, including insects, crustaceans, and others. The research identified five newly discovered groupings, including remipedes as the closest living relatives of insects.
A common plant virus attracts aphids by elevating the odor cue of infected plants without changing it. The insects transmit the disease efficiently despite leaving quickly, implying a persistent mode of transmission beyond agriculture.
Yasuní National Park is home to an array of plant and animal groups, harboring extremely high numbers of animals and plants in small areas. The park's extraordinary diversity makes it a crucial area for sustaining biodiversity in the long term, with scientists recommending a moratorium on new oil exploration or development projects.
Scientists have documented unprecedented biodiversity in Yasuní National Park, including 596 bird species, 150 amphibian species, and over 1,100 tree species. The park's extraordinary diversity is threatened by proposed oil development projects.
Scientists have decoded the genome of Nasonia, a parasitic wasp that eliminates agricultural pests by infesting fly pupae. The study reveals insights into the wasp's ability to prevent host death and its potential for genetic engineering to improve biological pest control.
The study provides new insights into pest control and genetics by sequencing the genomes of three parasitoid wasp species. The findings suggest that harnessing the full potential of parasitoid wasps could be a more effective alternative to chemical pesticides.
Researchers at Oregon State University are developing a legged robot that can run stably over rough terrain using principles found in insects like cockroaches and guinea hens. The goal is to create robots that can perform difficult jobs, such as military operations or space exploration, with minimal computing power.
The industry is shifting towards organic methods, with growers citing environmental concerns and a desire to reduce their ecological footprint. Organic bedding plant producers face challenges such as insect and disease management, fertility issues, and substrate problems, highlighting the need for future research in this area.
Researchers at the University of Minnesota have discovered how a brain hormone controls insect metamorphosis, allowing scientists to develop new and more environmentally safe ways to control agricultural pests. The study sheds light on human development as well, as both puberty and metamorphosis involve similar biological processes.
Assessing biological processes under global warming requires accurate estimates of temporal changes in species. Long-term studies show that neglecting increasing seasonal climate lag can lead to distorted results.
A new study analyzes data from five continents to conclude that existing strategies can be used to predict, monitor and manage insect resistance. By understanding what accelerates and delays resistance, farmers can more effectively thwart pest resistance using tactics like refuge strategy and pyramided crops.
A new supplement reviews the history and application of the Sterile Insect Technique (SIT) in eliminating malaria. SIT involves releasing sterile male mosquitoes to wipe out a pest population, which can be effective against Anopheles mosquitoes that spread malaria.
A fossil plant discovery by Peter Wilf and colleagues has reassigned the species Libocedrus prechilensis to Papuacedrus, indicating that Patagonia was once a warm, wet tropical place. This find also establishes a connection between tropical West Pacific regions and Australia via a forested Antarctic land bridge during the Eocene.
Scientists tracked the movement of pollen between African fig trees using genetic tests and field work. The research found that trees pollinated by similar insects can survive if isolated through deforestation due to their increased resistance to forest fragmentation.
Researchers at Binghamton University found that when water striders have the freedom to move between groups, females prefer to cluster around non-aggressive males. This suggests that a 'gentleman' approach to mating is beneficial for group productivity. In contrast, male psychopaths disrupt the group's dynamics and reduce fertility.
A recent study found that female water striders prefer non-aggressive males over highly sexually aggressive ones when it comes to mating. In contrast, groups of low-key male water striders mated with more females than did groups of highly aggressive males.
Researchers are using two tiny insects, the predatory mite and the lady bug, to control European red mites and two-spotted spider mites in Pennsylvania apple orchards. By reducing pest mite numbers, biological control saves growers millions in integrated pest management costs.
A new species of fly discovered in Burmese amber had a unique horn and three eyes on top, suggesting it was an evolutionary dead end that later disappeared. It likely fed on tiny flowers and had other unusual characteristics.
Scientists used novel DNA sequencing technology to analyze bug splatters on car windshields, estimating insect diversity in the region. The study's metagenomic pipeline accurately identified sequences corresponding to various insect taxa, including significant differences between two trips.
Three UC Riverside entomologists, Timothy Paine, Bradley Mullens and Allison Hansen have won prestigious awards from the Entomological Society of America. Paine received the Distinguished Achievement Award in Horticultural Entomology for his work on improving integrated pest management of woody ornamental plants.
Researchers have discovered molecules that can interfere with insects' sense of smell, confusing them and reducing crop damage. The findings could contribute to food security by preventing damage from insect pests.
Researchers found that a specific glutathione S-transferase in the insect gut converts plant hormone cis-OPDA into iso-OPDA, which is then used by caterpillars to survive on host plants. This adaptation allows generalist caterpillars to thrive on diverse plant species.
Researchers found female crickets store more sperm from unrelated males and choose the best father for their offspring. This study challenges common behaviors among insect species and sheds light on the complex mating strategies in the insect world.
Researchers have discovered new mosquito repellents that last up to three times longer than DEET, the current gold standard. The repellents do not cause skin irritation or unpleasant odors, making them a promising alternative for people sensitive to DEET.
Researchers investigated deet's mode of action and toxicity, finding it inhibits the activity of a key central nervous system enzyme, acetycholinesterase, in both insects and mammals. This discovery questions the safety of deet, particularly when used with other chemicals.
Researchers found that blocking octopaminergic and dopaminergic neurons prevents crickets from recalling rewarding or punishing stimuli. This suggests a 'cognitive' account of classical conditioning applicable to insects.
Research at the ESA annual meeting reveals that urban stream pollution can be beneficial to mosquitoes, while lakefront development reduces food supplies for fish. Greenroofs, on the other hand, can absorb significant amounts of stormwater, saving cities millions of gallons of water.
Researchers at the University of Leicester have identified a sap-sucking psyllid called Aphalara itadori as a potential biocontrol agent to combat Japanese Knotweed. The plant, which costs £1.5 billion to control in Britain, is a single clone and lacks population resistance.
Scientists have identified a distinct new species of insect, Tyrrhenoleuctra antoninoi, living on the Balearic Islands. The study reveals genetic differences between this population and others found in the Western Mediterranean region.
Researchers at the University of Washington have found that flexible moths' wings are better suited for flight due to their ability to generate more lift and airflow velocity. This discovery challenges traditional assumptions about wing structure and function in insects.