Pests can be a real headache, but using cruel traps or harmful chemicals isn't the only way to deal with them. There are smarter, kinder methods that work just as well. First, let's talk about those sticky tape bands people use to keep pests off trees. They might stop some bugs, but they also catch butterflies, bees, and even birds. Freeing them often means hurting ...
Pests are a big problem for crops and health. Scientists have been working on a smart solution called the Sterile Insect Technique (SIT). This method involves releasing sterile insects into areas where pests are a problem. The goal is to reduce pest populations in a way that's safe for the environment. One big challenge with SIT is sorting male and female insects. R...
Piper mikanianum, a plant that's been quietly guarding stored grains and seeds from pests and fungi. It's not just any ordinary plant. It has a powerful secret weapon: its essential oil. This oil has been shown to be a strong fighter against common storage problems. The oil was carefully extracted using a process called hydro-distillation. This process took four...
Fruit flies are a nuisance that can invade your kitchen, especially during the summer. These tiny pests are drawn to ripe fruits and sugary substances, making your kitchen a prime target. But how do they get in, and how can you stop them? Fruit flies, also known as vinegar flies, are attracted to fermented liquids. This includes rotting fruit, but also sugary drinks...
A recent health inspection roundup revealed a mix of stellar and shocking results. While many restaurants aced their inspections, a few notable spots faced significant issues. Saigon Tapioca, a Vietnamese eatery, found itself in hot water after a series of inspections. The first inspection on March 11 uncovered 14 violations, but that was just the beginning. A fo...
In the world of pest control, it turns out that having a diverse team of predators can make a big difference. These teams, made up of different species, often do a better job at keeping pests in check compared to a single species. This is especially true when each predator has its own unique way of hunting and living. Orius bugs are a great example of this. They are...
Farmers today face a big challenge. They need to keep pests away from their crops while also protecting the environment and their communities. There's no easy way out. They can't just spray chemicals whenever they want. So, they are getting creative and using technology to stay ahead of the game. They are using drones to scout their fields for trouble. Sensors help t...
Grain pests can cause major problems for farmers worldwide. One particularly troublesome pest is the lesser grain borer, a beetle that can wreak havoc on stored grain. Researchers have been exploring new ways to control these pests. They've found a promising method using something called double-stranded RNA, or dsRNA. This dsRNA targets a specific gene in the pest, c...
Ever wondered why catching Mediterranean fruit flies, or medflies, can be so tricky? It's not just about having the right traps. A bunch of things can make a difference. Scientists wanted to figure out what makes traps more or less effective. They looked at four main things: the sex of the flies, how hot or cold they were before being caught, where the traps...
Ants are a worldwide disruptor. Longlegged ants are making Taiwan's forests crumble. Scientists feel new hope, with a new type of weapon against them. The problem? Basically, this ant is going on a killing spree, leaving many native species dead. They are like bullies of the forests and beaches. Taiwan's land crabs are on the defensive....