Spotted Lanternfly: Large Potential Range in U.S. and Beyond
A new study published today in the Journal of Economic Entomology models potential suitable habitat for the invasive spotted lanternfly and shows large swaths of the United States and beyond are likely to be vulnerable should the spotted lanternfly continue to spread.
Large-Scale Study Points to Simpler Trap for Monitoring Brown Marmorated Stink Bugs
Tested in more than 100 locations across the U.S., a clear sticky-panel trap proves effective in attracting brown marmorated stink bugs, putting an easier-to-use tool in the hands of growers and IPM professionals for monitoring populations of the invasive pest.
Did Two Florida Populations of Conehead Termites Arise From a Single Colonization Event?
Native to Central and South America, the conehead termite has been found in just two places in the United States: Dania Beach and Pompano Beach, Florida. A new genetic analysis of these two populations suggests they arose from a single invasion.
Early Detection, Collaboration Key to Invasive Fruit Fly Eradication in Florida
The largest-ever outbreak of the invasive oriental fruit fly in Florida in 2015 was successfully quelled through a six-month eradication program that combined outreach, control, science, technology, and regulation.
A Promising New Parasitoid Drills Down on Emerald Ash Borers
In a recent study, the wasp Spathius galinae successfully established wild populations and outperformed other parasitoids in attacking invasive emerald ash borers in three northeastern states in the U.S. Researchers say it could become a useful biological control agent to protect native ash trees.
Drosophilid Melting Pot: African Fig Fly Meets Spotted-Wing Drosophila in the U.S.
The African fig fly (Zaprionus indianus) is an invasive fruit fly in North America that has been found commingling with its cousin spotted-wing drosophila (Drosophila suzukii), sometimes even using the latter's egg-laying sites for its own. A new profile in the Journal of Integrated Pest Management highlights the African fig fly's biology and range and offers options for management.
An Invasive-Species Success Story: The Eradication of the European Grapevine Moth in California
The successful eradication of the European grapevine moth (Lobesia botrana) in northern California after it was found there in 2009 offers important lessons for invasive species response. Researchers are studying the dynamics of the invasion and eradication effort to prepare future response plans for other potential invasive species both in California and beyond.
Why Researchers are Re-Creating an Infamous Hitchhiker’s Month-Long Journey Around the Globe
New Zealand is working hard to keep the invasive brown marmorated stink bug from reaching its shores, and researchers there are working with colleagues at the U.S. Department of Agriculture to understand the dynamics of the pest's ocean voyage aboard cargo ships bound for the island nation, in hopes of finding new ways to detect and prevent its arrival.
The Path Forward on Invasive Arthropods: Collaboration, Innovation, and More
Invasive insects and related arthropod species are a global challenge that transcend national borders. Stakeholders from the United States, Canada, and around the world convened in Vancouver in November 2018 to chart a path forward. Here are the key calls to action they identified to address the challenge of invasive arthropod alien species.
Khapra Beetle Can’t Beat the Heat
The khapra beetle does outsize damage to stored grains and is a top target at ports and border crossings. Researchers in Canada have found the threshold temperature that will kill the beetle at all life stages, even diapause.
In Search for Better Stink Bug Management, Scientists Look Up
A parasitoid wasp from Asia offers promise for biological control of the brown marmorated stink bug in North America, but new research suggests that monitoring efforts using primarily ground-level traps may be looking in the wrong place.
Why Taxonomic Preparedness is Critical for Invasive Species Response
The story of "Team Trissolcus," insect taxonomists who sprang into action to identify the parasitoid wasps that might help us fight the invasive brown marmorated stink bug.
A Gathering of Minds on Managing Invasive Insects and Arthropods
Part of the Grand Challenge Agenda for Entomology, the summit “Addressing the North American and Pacific Rim Invasive Insect and Arthropod Species Challenge,” drew more than 150 experts in invasive species from academia, industry, government, and entomological societies, hailing from Canada, the United States, and beyond.
Attract-and-Kill Strategy Shows Promise for Managing Brown Marmorated Stink Bugs
By using the brown marmorated stink bugs' own aggregation pheromone, the pests can be lured into a condensed area, thereby reducing the area that a grower must spray with insecticide. A two-year study in apple orchards suggests the method could soon become economically feasible.
Field Tour Offers Close-Up Look at Invasive Species Security
In August 2018, a diverse group of stakeholders gathered for the Entomological Society of America Plant-Insect Ecosystem Section's Science Policy Field Tour, "Invasive Species Security: Protecting Our National Health, Food Supply, and Environment."
Water Mites Discovered Parasitizing Two Mosquito Species in Pennsylvania
A survey of mosquitoes in Pennsylvania discovered 12 mosquitoes parasitized by larval mites. Water mites can reduce the survival and reproductive success of mosquitoes, and entomologists are investigating such parasitism to evaluate its potential as a method for biological control efforts.