New Citizen-Science Project Explores Little-Known Behavior in Monarch Butterflies
Think you know monarch butterflies? Think again! A gardener's observation has spurred a new study examining how and when monarchs feed on plants rich in compounds known as pyrrolizidine alkaloids. Surprisingly little is known about the behavior, and researchers are asking citizen scientists for help to learn more.
Inducing Mosquitoes to Lay Eggs Aids in Insecticide Resistance Testing
Testing field-caught mosquitoes for insecticide resistance is a critical effort in the fight against malaria and other vector-borne diseases. Researchers in Thailand say a "forced oviposition" method has proven successful in inducing field-caught Anopheles mosquitoes to lay eggs and spawn lab populations big enough for insecticide-resistance testing.
Try as One Mite: New Guide Reviews Management for Little-Known Turfgrass Pests
Eriophyid mites are a challenging pest for turfgrass managers due to their small size and poorly understood biology. A new guide in the open-access Journal of Integrated Pest Management outlines what is known about eriophyid mites, available management options, and avenues for future research.
Inch by Inch, Fall Cankerworms Will Eat Your Trees
The fall cankerworm is a common, native defoliator of hardwood trees throughout North America. Prone to outbreaks, this insect can cause severe damage on trees and be a public nuisance. Landscape-level management is rarely necessary, but control measures may be worthwhile on individual trees.