Brown Widow Spiders’ Aggression Likely Driver of Black Widow Decline
Black widow spiders have earned a fearsome reputation for their venomous bite. But in parts of the southern U.S. these spiders have much to fear themselves—from spider relatives who really don't like their company. A new study shows that brown widow spiders, of a species in the same genus, have a striking propensity to seek out and kill nearby black widows.
Small but Destructive: Hibiscus Mealybug Emerges as Concerning Pest of Florida Fruits, Ornamentals, Some Row Crops
The invasive hibiscus mealybug (Nipaecoccus viridis) has been documented on 51 host plants in Florida—so far. A new guide in the Journal of Integrated Pest Management provides one of the first in-depth looks at this emerging pest.
Feel the Vibe: Study Shows Spotted Lanternflies Sense Acoustic Stimuli
In a new lab study, spotted lanternflies moved toward the source of a nearby 60-hertz vibration. Further field experiments could reveal whether "vibrational trapping" might be a new tool for managing the invasive pest.
Beware, Boxwoods: Another Pest is On the Horizon
Cydalima perspectalis, sometimes known as the box tree moth, is established in Canada and was recently found in the U.S. Feeding by this moth can devastate boxwood plants, which are commonly planted in landscapes across the country. A new review highlights the life cycle and potential impact of this pest and makes recommendations for scouting and management.