Why the Connections Between Cells Could be New Targets for Managing Insect Pests
The channels that link insect cells, known as gap junctions, control a wide array of biological functions. Biologists are exploring gap junctions as potential targets for new insecticides, and a new review in Annals of the Entomological Society of America examines existing knowledge and future directions for this line of research.
Essential Oils: An Untapped Resource for Managing Urban Insect Pests
A new research review outlines current knowledge on essential oils as alternatives to synthetic insecticides for managing insect pests such as ants, termites, and cockroaches. Essential oils show a lot of promise, but more research on real-world applications is sorely needed.
Snow-Covered Tires Help Invasive Mosquitoes Survive Cold Winters
Abandoned car tires are known for providing attractive egg-laying sites for mosquitoes, but new research shows that tires—especially when covered in snow—also insulate mosquito eggs from harsh winter temperatures.