Clues in the Clay: Decoy Insect Larvae Reveal Predator Presence in Turfgrass
Researchers at the University of Georgia are studying how clay models of caterpillars and other insect larvae can attract predator insects and arthropods in turfgrass and reveal their presence by the marks they leave behind. Their latest study fine-tunes the method by evaluating the colors, shapes, and sizes of the decoys that work best.
Try as One Mite: New Guide Reviews Management for Little-Known Turfgrass Pests
Eriophyid mites are a challenging pest for turfgrass managers due to their small size and poorly understood biology. A new guide in the open-access Journal of Integrated Pest Management outlines what is known about eriophyid mites, available management options, and avenues for future research.
From Butterflies to Billbugs: How One Student Found Her Way to Entomology
Meet Marian Rodriguez-Soto, master’s student in entomology at Purdue University researching turfgrass pest management, Puerto Rico native, and subject of a new “Student Spotlight” feature on Entomology Today.
Mixing Lawn Grass Varieties Could Trim Fall Armyworm Infestations
A simple change in the choice of grass varieties for lawns of St. Augustinegrass could be a key tool for fending off fall armyworm infestations, according to new research. While no single St. Augustinegrass cultivar rises above the rest in resisting infestation, mixing varieties may confer some benefits, as fall armyworms clearly preferred single-cultivar plantings in a series of lab tests.