All articles tagged with #entomology
A new study challenges the long-held view that high atmospheric oxygen powered giant prehistoric insects like griffinflies, showing that flying insects’ internal tracheal systems can supply oxygen to flight muscles, which could allow large sizes even today; if confirmed, this suggests oxygen levels were not the limiting factor, though researchers note other causes may explain why such giants disappeared.
Researchers in French Guiana describe a new termite species, Cryptotermes mobydicki, found eight meters up in the rainforest canopy. Its soldiers have an unusually long, forward-extending head that hides the jaws, giving a whale-like profile reminiscent of Moby-Dick. Genetic analysis links it to Caribbean populations (Colombia, Trinidad, Dominican Republic), suggesting an ancestral lineage across tropical America. The species lives in dead canopy wood and helps decompose it, posing no threat to human structures. The description was published in ZooKeys by Rudolf Scheffrahn and colleagues.
UC Riverside researchers report bed bugs actively avoid moisture and wet surfaces, likely because water can block their respiratory openings. Experiments using damp paper and water-covered areas showed bed bugs of all ages and both sexes retreat from moisture, with the youngest most sensitive. The finding could affect moisture-based pest-control strategies, and while a bath can remove bugs on a person, treating a room infestation still requires established methods.
UC Riverside researchers found bed bugs strongly avoid wet surfaces, with nymphs retreating from water even more quickly than adults; this water aversion could influence how liquid-based pest-control methods are applied and may guide new strategies for eradicating these pests.
The 2025 Nikon Small World photomicrography competition, celebrating its 51st year, awarded first place to Zhang You for a detailed image of a rice weevil on rice, highlighting the blend of artistry and scientific rigor in microscopy.
Mosquitoes have been spotted in Iceland for the first time, likely indicating a recent introduction possibly via ships or containers, despite the country's long-standing mosquito-free status. The discovery raises concerns about climate change and environmental adaptation, although the species found appears well-suited to colder climates. More monitoring is needed to assess their spread.
Three mosquitoes of the species Culiseta annulata were discovered in Iceland by Björn Hjaltason, marking the first confirmed sighting of this species in the country, raising questions about their potential establishment and origin, possibly from nearby shipping areas.
The article highlights award-winning microscopic images from the 2025 Nikon Small World competition, showcasing intricate details of tiny life forms like insects, cells, and microorganisms, emphasizing the importance of understanding and appreciating the complexity of microscopic worlds.
The Texas State Department of Public Health Services is actively studying dangerous mosquitoes to prevent the resurgence of vector-borne diseases like malaria and yellow fever, which are re-emerging in the US as efforts to control these insects have waned.
The article discusses surprising, science-backed methods to prevent mosquito bites beyond common solutions like bug spray and staying indoors, featuring insights from entomologists and environmental health experts, and includes a quiz to test your knowledge of effective tactics.
To keep mosquitoes out of your yard, eliminate all standing water, maintain gutters and pools, plant mosquito-repellent foliage, and encourage natural predators like birds and bats. When mosquitoes are already present, use fans, DEET or lemon eucalyptus oil, and set up traps, while avoiding ineffective methods like citronella candles. Community efforts and environmental management are also crucial for effective control.
A new species of mossy stick insect, Trychopeplus mashpiensis, has been discovered in the Chocó forests of Ecuador. The female insect, noted for its spiny thorax and lime-green eyes, was photographed in its natural habitat, while a male was also observed nearby. The discovery adds to the biodiversity of the region, though the dietary habits of these insects remain unknown. The species is part of the Trychopeplus genus, known for its reclusive nature.
The Joro spider, a large, venomous but docile spider native to East Asia, is spreading to the D.C. area. Despite its intimidating size, experts assure that its fangs are too small to harm humans or pets. The spider helps control invasive pests and travels by "ballooning" on wind currents. As climate change warms northern regions, these spiders are moving further north. Experts advise not to fear but to admire these colorful spiders.
The large, invasive Joro spider from East Asia is expected to reach New Jersey soon. These spiders, which travel by ballooning on silk strands or hitchhiking on human belongings, are not dangerous to humans or pets but could impact local biodiversity. They have been spreading across the eastern U.S. since their first sighting in Georgia in 2014.
Cicadas from Brood XIII have emerged in some Chicago neighborhoods after 17 years, but sightings are inconsistent across the city. Areas with more greenery like Beverly and Edgebrook report high numbers, while more urbanized neighborhoods like Ravenswood and Logan Square see fewer or none. Entomologist Allen Lawrance explains that cicadas have a patchy distribution and are affected by local environmental conditions, including tree density and predator presence. The current emergence window is closing, and future cicada populations may be influenced by climate change.