Articles tagged with Lepidoptera
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A review of 82 studies found human activities influencing insect habitats, leading to declines in Central and Western Europe. Agricultural activities, urbanization, and climate change are identified as primary drivers of observed changes in insect populations.
Researchers found that aphid-infested tropical milkweed is less inviting to monarch butterflies, with reduced egg-laying and slower caterpillar development. Aphid-free plants, on the other hand, provide a better chance for monarchs to thrive.
Researchers have identified 30 basic units of 'synteny' that exist in all butterflies and moths, dating back to their common ancestor with caddisflies. This study improves understanding of chromosome evolution in Lepidoptera and may provide insights into other animal or plant groups.
The Xerces Blue butterfly's genome shows signs of population decline and inbreeding, revealing its extinction story. The research could help detect vulnerable insect species and pave the way for de-extinction using genetic engineering techniques.
A global analysis of pollinator decline in cities reveals that butterflies are most affected, with shrinking habitats and food availability causing populations to drop. Meanwhile, certain groups of wild bees, such as those nesting above ground, remain less impacted by urbanization.
A study by University of Georgia researchers found that monarchs with larger white spots fly more efficiently, making long trips easier. The team discovered a correlation between increased solar radiation and the evolution of larger white spots on the butterflies' wings.
A new butterfly species, Caeruleuptychia harrisi, has been discovered and named in recognition of Brian P. Harris' decades-long work supporting researchers at the Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History. Harris provided critical support to visiting researchers, including the paper's lead author, Shinichi Nakahara.
Unseasonably warm and cold days prolong moth and butterfly activity by nearly a month, according to the study. Insect lifespans may also be affected, potentially leading to increased pathogen transmission.
The study reveals the life cycles of four Lonomia Walker species, characterized by unique morphological features. New parasitoids and host plants have also been discovered, shedding light on the complex relationships within this genus.
Scientists have discovered where the first butterflies originated and which plants they relied on for food, tracing their movements through time. The results show that butterflies first appeared in Central and western North America, with some groups traveling vast distances while others remained stationary.
Research at Kyoto University found that spider mites avoid caterpillar traces due to a repellent effect, lasting days. This discovery may lead to the development of a safer and longer-lasting spider mite repellent derived from natural substances.
Researchers uncover 70 Euptychiina genera and over 500 species of butterflies, previously considered monotonous, revealing surprising color patterns and mysterious mimicry. The study's classification provides a framework for further investigation into euptychiine biology.
Researchers found that Luna moth tails are primarily used for bat evasion, but also make the insects conspicuous to birds and other predators. The study suggests that the tails' role in predation may have co-opted their function in attracting mates.
A new study found that artificial light at night increases top-down pressure on caterpillars, leading to higher mortality rates. The research used clay models of caterpillars to demonstrate the impact of light on predators in a forest ecosystem.
Researchers have discovered that mezcal gusanos de maguey are actually the caterpillars of agave redworm moths (Comadia redtenbacheri), not a single type of insect larva. This finding has significant implications for the sustainability of agave production and the potential impact on wild populations of these caterpillars.
Research reveals that Mahogany trees shape the right-forewing of the Mahogany shoot borer, a forest insect-pest. The study found that the wing form differs between males and females, with larger wings on Cedro host plants.
Scientists from Poland's Institute of Physical Chemistry have discovered a way to control the population of the pine-tree lappet moth, which threatens coniferous forests. A new pheromone blend based on biocomponents of the sex pheromone has been developed to monitor and potentially control the moth's abundance.
Researchers will study how genetics and environment affect butterfly vision and behavior in the region's unique light environment. The goal is to understand how climate change impacts pollinators like butterflies.
Researchers discovered that cabbage white butterfly caterpillars use two complementary enzymes for detoxification, allowing them to adapt to various cruciferous plants. The NSP and MA enzymes differ in their capacity to process different glucosinolates, enabling the caterpillars to fine-tune their detoxification mechanisms.
A new study has identified 195 previously unknown nectar plants for the painted lady butterfly, providing a source of food in Southern California. The research suggests that droughts may impact the butterflies' ability to reproduce, but the discovery of these nectar plants offers hope for their survival.
Researchers found the moths originated from the Baja Peninsula and Arizona, with a new subspecies discovered in western North America. The study recommends using synthetic pheromones to control the invasive pest.
Researchers discovered pesticide-contaminated milkweed plants in retail nurseries across the US, threatening western monarch caterpillars. The study found an average of 12 pesticides per plant and 38% with residues harming migration and foraging abilities.
A long-term research project found creating wildlife habitats significantly increased local bird and butterfly populations without damaging food production. The study assessed the effectiveness of agri-environmental measures in reducing biodiversity losses caused by intensive farming practices.
Researchers uncover the 'cortex' gene responsible for leaf mimicry in Kallima butterflies, revealing a complex interplay between genetics and environmental pressures. The study provides insights into the evolution of this remarkable adaptation and its potential applications in understanding biodiversity.
Researchers discovered a vast network of ultrasonic signals among moths, revealing complex acoustic mimicry rings. These sounds may be used by moths to evade bats and are found in many species beyond previously known tiger and hawk moths.
A study reveals that over 1,400 genes in 218 insect species originated from bacteria, viruses, fungi, and plants through horizontal gene transfer. This discovery suggests that these genes contributed to beneficial traits such as mating behavior, nutrition, and adaptation to environmental changes.
Three new hawk moth species have been discovered in The Bahamas, measuring only about the length of a vitamin pill. Their small size is thought to be an adaptation to survive harsh weather conditions such as hurricanes and drought.
A new study finds that monarch butterflies are stabilizing their breeding trends, with some regions experiencing population declines while others show increases. The research suggests that changing environmental variables are offsetting negative factors, such as the impact of glyphosate on monarchs.
Research from the University of Georgia shows that monarch populations have remained relatively stable over the past 25 years due to summer breeding growth. The study suggests that population growth during the summer compensates for losses due to migration, winter weather, and environmental factors.
Scientists have partnered with park rangers in Ecuador to monitor butterfly populations, which serve as an indicator of ecosystem health. This approach aims to provide a more comprehensive understanding of biodiversity changes over time, addressing the limitations of traditional conservation methods.
Researchers found that warmer and longer autumn conditions made it less likely for green-veined white butterflies to survive winter. The butterflies used more energy under these conditions, which can lead to lasting negative consequences, including reduced fitness.
The SPRING project is establishing an EU-wide census of pollinators, building on existing butterfly monitoring schemes. The project will use a variety of methods, including standard routes for counting wild bees and hoverflies, to gather data on the diversity and abundance of pollinators.
A new analysis from Emory University reveals a significant increase in the parasitism rate of monarch butterflies over 50 years, with the O.E. parasite infecting up to 10% of eastern monarch populations. The rise in infection rates may endanger the mass migration of monarchs, threatening their survival.
Researchers have developed a low-cost device to track insect activity, providing insights into their circadian rhythms and behavior. The portable pLAM device can monitor nocturnal species that were previously difficult to track, enabling scientists to study their habits and predict how environmental changes impact them.
A new study reveals that butterfly transparency is not only for camouflage but also to signal toxicity. Researchers found that transparent wings can serve both purposes, allowing butterflies to 'cheat' by having the best of both worlds - visibility in sunlight and concealment in shadows.
Researchers discovered that California mice consume monarch butterflies, which could disrupt ecosystems due to declining western monarch populations. The study highlights the interconnectedness of species and the importance of conservation efforts to protect native animals.
A study reveals that some butterfly and moth species have evolved transparent wing patches as a dual defence system to warn predators and hide from sight. The patches' unique structures enhance transparency, controlling how light passes through the wing.
Researchers created detailed distribution map of glasswing butterflies, showing highest diversity at high elevations. The study highlights pressing need for conservation efforts in mountainous regions threatened by habitat loss and climate change.
Researchers from the University of Würzburg discovered that monarch butterflies process sun information as a compass during migration, but only when flying actively. The butterfly's brain represents the heading direction relative to the sun in a similar way to a compass.
A previously unknown glacial relic, the Alpine rose leaf-miner moth, has been discovered in the Alps. The caterpillars specialize on the rust-red alpine rose, avoiding it like most other moths and butterflies due to its toxicity.
Scientists have discovered that four types of monarch predators - a bird, a mouse, a parasitic wasp, and a worm - evolved the same unusual cellular mutations as monarchs. These mutations allow them to resist the toxic effects of milkweed plant toxins, which can be deadly to most animals.
Researchers found monarch-like genetic mutations in four organisms that eat monarchs, including the black-headed grosbeak and eastern deer mouse. These mutations help these predators tolerate the toxic milkweed toxins stored in the butterflies' bodies.
A major new study found that woodland and hedgerow creation can support higher numbers of pollinators, including bees, hoverflies, and butterflies. The survey, which covered hundreds of sites across Wales, revealed the importance of carefully managed habitats in land management incentive schemes.
A new study reveals that city butterflies and moths have genetically adapted to the warmer urban environment, starting their overwintering state later in the year. This allows them to take advantage of a longer growing season, reproducing successfully before winter sets in.
Researchers used isotope mapping to track monarch butterfly migration routes and identify their natal origins. The study, led by a University of Ottawa student, revealed that monarchs from the eastern US likely originated in Texas, providing valuable insights into population decline.
A new study found that LED streetlights have a detrimental impact on local insect populations, with moth caterpillar numbers being 52% lower under LED lighting than in unlit areas. The study suggests that this is due to female moths laying fewer eggs in habitats illuminated by streetlights.
Researchers used statistical models to study the co-evolutionary history of pierid butterflies and their host plants. They found that butterfly-plant relationships are resilient to changes in species composition but can destabilize over larger structural changes.
A single butterfly species introduced to an island in the 1990s had a significant impact on several insect populations, leading to genetic decline and high extinction risk for some species. The parasitoid wasp's mobility and symbiotic bacterial relationships played key roles in shaping this outcome.
Researchers at CU Boulder's ATLAS Institute have developed shape-changing objects inspired by origami that can bend, wiggle, and flutter using artificial muscles. The 'Electriflow' designs utilize hydraulically amplified self-healing electrostatic actuators to create paper-thin, fast-moving, and almost silent objects.
A new study has confirmed the Xerces blue butterfly's extinction due to human activities, sparking concerns about the impact on ecosystems. The DNA analysis reveals a unique genetic sequence distinct from other butterflies, emphasizing the importance of protecting remaining species.
A new species of butterfly has been discovered in Canada, the European Common Blue, which could become widespread due to its preference for urban areas. The study found that the butterfly can reach extremely high densities relative to native butterflies and is a low-moderate disperser.
A new species of alpine moth has been discovered in the Alps, with its discovery resolving a 180-year-old mystery. The moth, named Dichrorampha velata, was found to be different from a previously known species and had to be described as new to science.
A recent study led by Michigan State University ecologists reveals that changing climate has nearly seven times more significant impact on eastern monarch population decline than other contributors. The team analyzed data from over 18,000 surveys of monarchs in the midwestern US, central Mexico, and southern Canada between 1994 and 2018.
A comprehensive study of Lepidoptera's transparent wings reveals multiple approaches to achieve transparency, including the absence of scales and varying scale densities. The research suggests that transparency acts as ultimate camouflage, making butterflies less visible to predators.
A species of butterfly found in Sub-Saharan Africa can migrate thousands of miles to Europe crossing the Saharan Desert in years with favorable weather conditions, increasing understanding of how insects could spread between continents due to climate change.
Winter rainfall in sub-Saharan Africa limits painted lady butterfly migrations to Europe. The size of migrating populations varies greatly, increasing by a hundredfold in some years, likely driven by weather conditions in West Africa.
A study by researchers at the University of Basel found that excess nitrogen deposited into soils via air pollution endangers butterfly diversity in Switzerland. The team analyzed data on plant and butterfly diversity across 383 plots and discovered a clear link between nitrogen intake and reduced vegetation diversity.
Researchers discovered the glasswing butterfly's unique wing structure, creating transparency through a lower density of scale cells and nanostructures. The findings also revealed an anti-glare coating made of waxy hydrocarbon nanopillars, making butterflies nearly invisible to predators.
A recent study found that only 45% of moth and butterfly species can adjust to a changing climate by advancing their flight period or shifting their range further north. The remaining 55% have seen their populations decline due to insufficient habitats, making it essential to preserve biodiversity through high-quality habitats.
Researchers found that captive-raised monarchs can establish proper orientation using their sense of flight direction after being exposed to sunlight and natural cues. The process takes between 24-48 hours, allowing them to fly in the correct direction once released into the wild.