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Understanding the Insect Microbiome
Insects, like humans, have a rich microbiome that plays a crucial role in their digestive and overall health. This community of microorganisms, including bacteria, viruses, fungi, archaea and protozoa, are known as “symbionts.” They work together to provide life-saving and species-perpetuating benefits to their hosts. Discovery and Importance While the human gut microbiome was first…
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Ground Beetles: Natural Pest Control for a Thriving Garden
Do you ever wish you had an army of tiny critters working tirelessly in your garden, devouring harmful pests and enriching your soil — without asking for anything in return? Meet the ground beetle, one of Mother Nature’s pest control agents. These mini but mighty insects are hard at work in gardens, forests and fields,…
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Do Pollinators Play Favorites? Discover the Flowers Bees, Butterflies and Other Pollinators Love
When it’s time to pick a place for dinner, do you have a go-to spot? Pollinators aren’t so different. When a honeybee sets out from the hive for a snack, will it settle for any run-of-the-mill chrysanthemum? Not a chance. It’s making a beeline for the nearest vibrant patch of sunflowers. So, let’s dive into…
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Entomology Research: From the Lab to the Real World
Entomologists are changing the world, one insect at a time. From boosting pollination by increasing bee populations to reducing the number of disease-carrying mosquitoes, entomologists directly impact the health of our ecosystems and communities. Often, these groundbreaking advancements in entomology research start in the lab. In the Lab: The Role of Entomology in Scientific Discovery …
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7 Trends in Entomology to Watch in 2025
Entomology had quite the year in 2024. New York City declared all-out war against the spotted lanternfly, rallying citizens to stomp them on sight. Australia introduced a fire ant prevention program that’s in “absolute shambles.” And for the first time since 1803, 13-year and 17-year periodical cicadas emerged simultaneously from underground. If 2024 is any…
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Challenges in Urban Pest Management
Picture this: You’ve been craving those mouthwatering appetizers at your favorite weekend spot all afternoon. You finally arrive, eager to dig in, only to find the restaurant’s closed. Odd, right? It was open just last week. Upon closer inspection, you spot a notice slapped on the door—a failed health inspection. The culprit? A significant pest…
