From Tokyo to Trinidad and Tobago, theirs an abundance of bees worldwide, pollinating most, if not all, plants within its periphery. Small in stature but feared by many, their ability to transform ecosystems is unprecedented within the animal kingdom. They play a pivotal role that extends far beyond their reputation as honey producers. These tiny, ...
The concept of utilizing insects as biological surveillance devices may sound like something from a science fiction novel, but it’s quickly becoming a reality. The Pentagon is exploring innovative ways to harness the natural capabilities of insects to monitor and gather environmental data. This approach is not only fascinating but potentially revolutionary in the field ...
In the fascinating world of insects, strength comes in surprising forms. These tiny creatures, often overlooked in the grand tapestry of nature, perform acts of strength that defy their size. While they may not be lifting weights at the gym, their feats are no less impressive. From the bustling ant colonies to the solitary beetles, ...
n Texas Hill Country, the Knipling-Bushland U.S. Livestock Insects Research Laboratory in Kerrville has been instrumental in combating the New World screwworm fly (Cochliomyia hominivorax), a parasitic insect once responsible for devastating losses in livestock and wildlife across the United States. The Menace of the Screwworm Fly The New World screwworm fly poses a unique ...
Pollinators play a crucial role in maintaining the ecosystem, yet their contributions often go unnoticed. These industrious creatures go beyond simply visiting flowers. They are vital to the reproduction of many plants and contribute significantly to food production and biodiversity. In this article, we explore ten ways pollinators keep our planet alive, highlighting their importance ...
When most people think about fossils, dinosaurs often come to mind. However, the world of fossils is much more diverse and includes ancient plants and insects. These fossils provide valuable insights into the Earth’s past, offering clues about the planet’s evolutionary history, climatic shifts, and ecological transformations. This article explores the intriguing realm of plant ...
Imagine tiny heroes patrolling your garden, keeping your tomatoes safe from destructive pests. These heroes are baby wasps, and they have a special talent for taking care of one of the most mischievous tomato destroyers: hornworm caterpillars. Let’s explore on how these mini warriors can save your precious tomato plants from destruction. Hornworm Caterpillars: The ...
A multi-billion dollar industry, American farming is the cornerstone of the nation. Without it, millions would perish – they’re why we eat eggs in the morning, salad for lunch and steak for dinner. The Paradox A paradox facing farmer’s is that while it’s essential to society, it’s being suppressed by increasing costs, such as fuel, ...
Have you ever wondered how new species come into existence? Well, buckle up, because we’re about to dive into a moth-tivating story of evolution that might just blow your mind! A recent study published in the Proceedings of the Royal Society B: Biological Sciences has uncovered a unique form of moth speciation, and it’s all ...
We’ve all seen insects swarm towards a source of light at night like, well, like a moth to a flame. Notably, insects seem to only be attracted to artificial light sources. It’s not like they fly upwards towards the moon. No, instead they congregate at the light by your front door. Theories that have flown ...
Maria Faith Saligumba
