How an Invasive Species Spreads: The Case of Aedes notoscriptus in Southern California
First arriving in California in 2014, the mosquito species Aedes notoscriptus, native to Australia and the southwest Pacific, has since established and spread to 44 cities in three counties. A new study examines the public health implications of this species and documents its likely arrival and expansion routes.
How Flea-Killing Fungus Could Keep Prairie Dogs From Spreading Plague
Prairie dogs in the western U.S. can carry the bacterium that causes bubonic plague, and their fleas play a primary role in spreading it among prairie dogs and to other animals. A group of scientists say insect-pathogenic fungi that target those fleas could be a useful tool in interrupting that transmission route.
Why Genes That Make Mosquitoes Glow Can Help Reduce Vector-Borne Disease
Genes that make mosquitoes glow under UV light help scientists measure the spread of transgenic mosquitoes after they've been released to suppress wild populations of vector mosquito species. A recent study identifies a new promoter gene for turning on fluorescent protein production in Aedes aegypti mosquitoes.
Coming Full Circle: How an Entomologist’s Experience With Vector-Borne Diseases Inspired Her to Study Them
Meet Ashley Kennedy, Ph.D., BCE, tick biologist, active ESA volunteer, and subject of the next installment of our "Standout Early Career Professionals" series.