Invertebrates
Articles tagged with Invertebrates
Earliest Cambrian microfossils preserve ringed worms
The discovery of seven millimeter-sized phosphatized fossils from the early Fortunian Kuanchuanpu Formation provides evidence of annelid body fossils from Cambrian Orsten-type fossil localities. The findings suggest that early annelids were polychaetes, supporting the hypothesis that polychaete morphologies were primitive among annelids.
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.
Smithsonian research associate discovers ants assemble to be picked clean by ‘cleaner’ ants, a novel insect behavior
Entomologist Mark Moffett observes harvester ants congregating with smaller cone ants in Arizona's Chiricahua Mountains. The unusual behavior involves the cone ants licking and nibbling the harvester ants' body surfaces, possibly consuming calorie-rich dust-size morsels.
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.
Brown recluse spiders rare in Florida, reluctant to bite, USF study finds
A new USF study challenges long-standing assumptions about the brown recluse spider, finding it's far less common in Florida and exhibits a lower propensity to bite. The research also reveals that bites typically produce shallow wounds with minimal tissue damage.
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.
Call me invasive: New evidence confirms the status of the giant Asian mantis in Europe
The giant Asian mantis has been formally recognized as an invasive alien species in Europe, posing a significant threat to native biodiversity. The species' high reproductive potential and predatory behavior are causing declines in native populations and altering ecosystems.
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.
Treasure trove of data on worms in Europe's seas
A collaborative effort by researchers from the University of Göttingen and other institutions is creating a genomic inventory of European marine annelids. The goal is to accelerate biodiversity research worldwide and counteract the 'silent extinction' of marine species.
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.
Devastation of island land snails, especially in the Pacific
A comprehensive review reveals devastating loss of island land snail biodiversity, with extinction rates ranging from 30% to 80%. The Hawaiian Islands, in particular, have lost up to 90% of their unique native snail species due to human arrival and colonization.
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.
Ticking time bomb: Some farmers report as many as 70 tick encounters over a 6-month period
A new study reveals that farmers in the Northeast are facing a growing threat of tick-borne diseases, which can be devastating to their livelihoods. The research found that farmers often experience multiple tick bites per month, with some contracting serious illnesses like Lyme carditis.
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.
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.
How do winter-active spiders survive the cold?
Researchers discovered that Clubiona spiders have unique antifreeze proteins that bind to ice crystals, preventing their growth at sub-zero temperatures. This adaptation is crucial for perennial agriculture as it could lead to reduced reliance on insecticides and combatting resistance.
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.
1st death linked to ‘meat allergy’ spread by ticks
A 47-year-old man from New Jersey died after consuming beef due to a tick-borne meat allergy caused by the Lone Star tick's alpha-gal sugar. Researchers identified the allergy and its link to fatal anaphylaxis, urging physicians to investigate severe abdominal pain after eating red meat in areas with high Lone Star tick populations.
When ants battle bumble bees, nobody wins
In a study by Michelle Miner at UC Riverside, bumble bees were found to avoid foraging near ant colonies due to the risk of being bitten. However, aggressive bees who fought back were victorious in individual fights but may ultimately harm their colony by wasting energy.
From the depths to discovery: a tiny limpet reveals big secrets of the deep sea
Scientists have discovered a new species of deep-sea limpet clinging to a sunken log in the Central Pacific Ocean. The discovery provides crucial insights into ocean biodiversity and ecosystem secrets, revealing that even tiny islands of habitat can sustain deep-sea communities long enough for population turnover and dispersal.
Half-billion-year-old parasite still threatens shellfish
Researchers discovered a common parasite of modern oysters has been infecting bivalves for hundreds of millions of years. The parasite, belonging to the spionid group, has remained largely unchanged despite multiple mass extinction events.
Carpenter ants: Better safe than sorry
Researchers at University of Würzburg discover carpenter ants perform prophylactic amputations on injured workers, halving infection spread and doubling survival rate. This unique approach is reminiscent of human medical logic, highlighting the importance of timely treatment in densely populated colonies.
New research shows a tiny, regenerative worm could change our understanding of healing
New research from the Stowers Institute for Medical Research reveals planarian stem cells ignore their nearest neighbors and respond to signals further away in the body. This discovery may help explain the flatworm's extraordinary ability to regenerate and offer clues for developing new ways to replace or repair tissues in humans.
Island ant communities show signs of ‘insect apocalypse’
A study by Okinawa Institute of Science and Technology researchers found that 79% of endemic ant species in Fiji are declining over the past few hundred years, coinciding with European contact and modern agricultural techniques. In contrast, non-native ant species are exploding in population.
New study finds concerning sea star response to a neurotoxin
A new study found potentially concerning concentrations of domoic acid in wild sea stars, which could have cascading consequences for marine biodiversity. The researchers also observed behavioral and physiological changes in response to the neurotoxin, raising concerns about its potential impacts on keystone species.
Scientists discover rare wasp species in the U.S. for the first time
Researchers at Binghamton University have identified two previously unknown species of parasitic wasps living in the United States, highlighting the importance of biodiversity and oak gall wasp diversity. The discovery sheds light on how these insects escape diverse and evolving clades of parasites.
Saving bees with ‘superfoods’ – engineered supplement boosts colony reproduction
Researchers developed a sustainable solution to help tackle honeybee decline by creating an engineered food supplement. The new feed, designed to provide essential compounds found in plant pollen, significantly enhances colony reproduction.
Ancient cephalopod, new insight: Nautilus reveals unexpected sex chromosome system
Researchers identified X- and Y-linked sequences in Nautilus, indicating a more dynamic sex determination system than previously thought. The study's findings have implications for cephalopod biology and conservation.
North American monarch butterflies use magnetic fields to migrate to and from their overwintering sites - using cold temperatures to tune how they use magnetic fields - per experimental study, which might be disrupted under climate change
Monarch butterflies utilize magnetic fields for migratory directionality, with orientation recalibrated by cold temperatures. Experimental study suggests this ability may be disrupted under climate change, threatening their migration patterns.
MBARI researchers deploy new imaging system to study the movement of deep-sea octopus
Researchers at Monterey Bay Aquarium Research Institute used the EyeRIS camera system to track the movements of deep-sea pearl octopuses. The study revealed simplified control mechanisms in their arms, which could inspire the design of octopus-inspired robots.
Robot crab reveals how males compete in claw-waving contest
Scientists studied male fiddler crabs competing over females in a claw-waving contest. The robot crab, Wavy Dave, waved its claw, causing real males to respond by waving longer and less retreating into their burrows.
Ancient arthropods on the move: Unraveling the secret steps of the burgess shale trilobites
A study of Olenoides serratus trilobite limbs reveals a simpler, functional design than horseshoe crabs, with specialized appendages for walking, burrowing, and mating. The research provides new insights into the behavior and movement of ancient arthropods, offering a rare window into life over half a billion years ago.
Poor health scores for England's rivers mask biodiversity improvements, experts tell Defra
Despite poor health scores for England's rivers, independent review reveals important improvements in freshwater biodiversity, including increases in species richness and diversity. An alternative monitoring standard has been proposed to better reveal the status of different species and inform local decisions.
Record-breaking ‘gigantic’ deep-sea limpet species named after ONE PIECE character
Researchers have discovered a new species of deep-sea limpet, measuring up to 40.5 mm in shell length, found 5,922 meters beneath the northwestern Pacific Ocean. The species, named Bathylepeta wadatsumi, has broader ecological implications as it appears to graze on sediment layers over rock.
World-first deep-sea DNA study reveals global connectivity of marine life
A world-first study has mapped the global distribution and evolutionary relationships of brittle stars, revealing their quiet migration across entire oceans over millions of years. The research highlights the interconnectedness of deep-sea communities, particularly at temperate latitudes.
Condo-style living helps keep the peace inside these ant plants
Scientists studying ant plants in Fiji have discovered a way for the plant to keep the peace among conflicting ants by providing separate chambers. The new research reveals that compartmentalization is an effective evolutionary strategy to mitigate conflicts, allowing the host plant to benefit from multiple symbiotic relationships.
Beetles under climate stress lay larger male eggs: Wolbachia infection drives adaptive reproduction strategy in response to rising temperature and CO₂
Researchers found that azuki bean beetles infected with Wolbachia bacteria produce larger eggs yielding exclusively male offspring when exposed to elevated temperature and carbon dioxide. This adaptive reproduction strategy enhances the survivability of their offspring.
Four newly-discovered species of cave-dwelling pseudoscorpions have jaws like dragons and are completely blind
Four new species of dragon pseudoscorpions have been discovered in caves of South Korea, characterized by their unique dragon-like jaws. These blind creatures were identified through integrative taxonomy, providing insight into the biodiversity of cave-dwelling animals.
How ants actively protect themselves against dehydration
Researchers discovered that ants' wax layers exhibit complex phase behavior, allowing them to balance hydration and communication needs. The layer's viscosity decreases with rising temperatures, but also shows unique effects when exposed to different acclimatization temperatures.
Nature-friendly farming boosts biodiversity and yields but may require new subsidies
Agroecological methods improve biodiversity, pollination, natural pest control, and crop yields, but new subsidies are needed to support farms' transition. The study found that incorporating nature-friendly practices increases benefits for nature and farmers, with higher soil carbon and overall increased crop yields.
Deciphering starfish communication may help protect coral reefs
Researchers have discovered a synthetic peptide that attracts Crown-of-Thorns Starfish at low concentrations and with no toxicity, offering an efficient pest-management solution. This breakthrough may lead to the development of potent attractins to control CoTS outbreaks, protecting coral reefs from devastating damage.
Stargazing flight: how Bogong moths use the night sky to navigate hundreds of kilometers
Researchers have discovered that Bogong moths use constellations of stars and the Milky Way to navigate long distances, making them the first known invertebrate to rely on a stellar compass for navigation. The moths also use the Earth's magnetic field to maintain their direction even when clouds obscure the stars.
Hey Doc, you got something for snails?
A team of researchers at Kyoto University has identified four species of snail parasites in Japanese sea cucumbers, including two previously unknown species. The study provides insights into the geographic distribution and invasion routes of these tiny parasites, which have a significant impact on the health of their host species.
100 new ribbon worm species and counting
A recent study documents the discovery of over 100 new ribbon worm species off Oman's coast, highlighting a significant underestimation of global marine biodiversity. The finding underscores the importance of exploring lesser-studied regions, such as the tropics, to uncover the full extent of oceanic diversity.
Even bumble bee queens need personal days, too
A study by UC Riverside reveals that bumble bee queens pause egg-laying after a burst of activity, likely in response to cues from their developing brood, and typically resume production within 1.5 days when pupae are present.
How male mosquitoes target females—and avoid traps
Researchers found that male mosquito brains respond to a wider range of sounds than females and have more diverse responses. This suggests that males use complex acoustic cues to locate females in noisy environments, making traditional traps less effective.
The scent of death? Worms experience altered fertility and lifespan when exposed to dead counterparts
Roundworm C. elegans avoids deceased conspecifics due to olfactory cues from metabolites AMP and histidine, leading to reduced fitness and increased egg laying. The detection of these signals may be an evolutionarily maintained mechanism for detecting cellular death.
Discovery of a novel mode of contact between somatic and germ cells in the ovaries
Researchers discovered a novel mode of contact between somatic and germ cells in the ovaries of two arthropod species, challenging the general understanding of epithelial layer function. The basement membrane, typically a barrier, is penetrated by follicle cells to establish direct contact with oocytes.
A head and a hundred tails: how a branching worm manages reproductive complexity
Researchers created first complete genetic activity map of a branching worm, revealing how it controls reproduction across its multiple body branches. The study highlights the unique genetic toolkit and challenges understanding of animal bodies' organization.
Study reveals tool use in insect predator
Chinese researchers have identified an insect predator using tools to exploit the collective defenses of social insects. The assassin bug, Pahabengkakia piliceps, weaponizes resin from stingless bee nests to lure bees into its optimal hunting position.
Discovery: a better, more targeted termite terminator
Researchers have discovered a chemical called bistrifluron that prevents drywood termites from creating new exoskeletons, ultimately killing the colony. This innovative method offers a safer alternative to traditional fumigation methods and has shown promise in reducing toxicity.
Insects are disappearing due to agriculture – and many other drivers, new research reveals
A new study analyzing over 175 scientific reviews found that agricultural intensification is a major driver of insect decline, but climate change has multiple individual drivers such as extreme precipitation and temperature. The research highlights the need for a multi-pronged approach to conserve insect biodiversity.
Temperature during development influences connectivity between neurons and behavior in fruit flies
Researchers found that lower environmental temperature during pupal development correlates to more synapses and postsynaptic partners in the brain, which affects odor-driven behavior. The study suggests a metabolic theory for brain wiring at different temperatures.
20% of butterflies in the U.S. have disappeared since 2000
A comprehensive analysis of butterfly data in the US found that butterfly abundance fell by 22% between 2000 and 2020. The study, led by Eliza Grames at Binghamton University, examined data from over 12.6 million butterflies across the continental US.
Michael Sars Centre partners with Paris Aquarium to introduce comb jellies to the public
The Michael Sars Centre and Paris Aquarium have partnered to cultivate and display comb jellies, a challenging species to maintain in captivity. The collaboration benefits both institutions, offering new resources for researchers.
Australia’s extinction tally is worse than we thought
A new study estimates that more than 9,000 invertebrates, including pollinators and earthworms, have become extinct in Australia since European arrival. The study suggests that many species remain at high risk of extinction due to habitat loss and climate change.
Study shows action to eradicate yellow-legged (Asian) hornet has been effective
A new study confirms the UK's effective action against the invasive Asian hornet has prevented its establishment. The invasive species, which devastates honeybee colonies in France and Italy, was first reported in the UK in 2016 but has not spread due to rapid eradication efforts by authorities and vigilant citizens.