


New Method Makes for Faster Genetic ID of Eastern U.S. Termites
With multiple species of termites responsible for structural damage in the U.S., rapid identification is a critical part of management efforts. A team of researchers has developed a faster ID method that uses a genetic tool called inter-simple sequence repeats.

For an Understudied Ant Genus, Two Researchers Choose a “Bird Guide” ID Tool
The Rasopone genus of tropical leaf-litter ants gets a thorough taxonomic revision, and the researchers behind the long-term project present their identification manual in a "bird guide" format rather than the traditional dichotomous key.

How a Childhood Project Inspired a Life-Long Career
Meet Michael Skvarla, Ph.D., extension entomologist and director of the Insect Identification Laboratory at Penn State University, whose career path began with a Cub Scout insect-collection project. Skvarla is the subject of the next edition of our "Standout Early Career Professionals" series.

Insect Identification: Experts and Guides to ID That Bug You Found
So, you want to know what that bug is. Here at the Entomological Society of America, we know the experts. Check out this list for a variety of resources for bug and insect identification.