Tracking the Invasion: New Technique Traces Spotted Lanternflies for Life
A tracing technique involving a stable nitrogen isotope gives scientists a new window into the life cycle of the invasive spotted lanternfly.
Advanced Mass Spectrometry Method Could Give Forensic Entomologists Faster Fly IDs
Identifying the species of blow flies that colonize a corpse is a critical step in forensic entomology investigations, but it typically requires rearing collected fly larvae to adults first. However, a new "real time" method for conducting mass spectrometry could allow maggot specimens to be analyzed and identified in a matter of minutes—even up to six species at a time from the same sample.
Gaga for Gum: Study Shows Sticky Mixture Distracts Fruit Fly Pest
A food-grade gum substance shows promise as a new tool for managing the invasive spotted-wing drosophila. The flies don't get stuck, but the scent interferes with their reproductive behavior, and the gum can last up to three weeks in the field.
Why Forensic Entomologists Say Crime-Scene Investigators Should Carry Cans of Tuna
When fly larvae are collected from a corpse at a crime scene, they still need to eat so they can be raised to adulthood and identified to species. A new study says a simple can of tuna could be an easy and cost-effective solution for keeping the larvae alive until a forensic entomologist can conduct analysis.