Pestology Blog
Pest Control Science, Explained
NPMA’s Pestology blog was created with the pest management professional in mind. The pest control industry is driven by science, but often the newest scientific discoveries are not easily digestible. With that in mind, NPMA's entomologists set off to read all of the latest pest management scientific articles and break them down for you!
Meet the Entomologists: Mike Bentley, Laura Rosenwald, and Ellie Sanders
These posts often accompany episodes of our podcast, NPMA BugBytes. If you would like to hear more live discussions about the articles with our hosts and guest stars, take a listen!
Read the Latest Blog Posts
The Thermal Breadth of Nylanderia fulva (Hymenoptera: Formicidae) Is Narrower Than That of Solenopsis invicta at Three Thermal Ramping Rates: 1.0, 0.12, and 0.06°C min −1
This study focuses on the invasive tawny crazy ant (TCA), Nylanderia fulva, in the southeastern US, where it outcompetes the aggressive red imported fire ant (RIFA) despite having a narrower thermal tolerance. The study highlights TCA's advantages, including sheer numbers and reproduction, providing insights for improved management strategies.
Temporal and Spatial Factors Influencing Systena frontalis (Coleoptera: Chrysomelidae) Behavior in Virginia Nurseries
The study focused on the red-headed flea beetle's impact on ornamental plants in Virginia nurseries. Over two years, the researcher monitored beetle populations, finding three generations annually, with peak activity in June, July, and August. Findings helped growers identify optimal spraying times and evaluate damage levels, enhancing pest management strategies.
Endosymbiotic Rickettsiella Causes Cytoplasmic Incompatibility in a Spider Host
This study explores the role of endosymbionts, particularly Rickettsiella, in spiders like Mermessus fradeorum. These bacteria can manipulate the reproductive systems of their hosts through cytoplasmic incompatibility, affecting offspring viability. The study highlights the potential use of such bacteria for pest management beyond just mosquitoes, emphasizing their widespread influence in arthropods.
The Return of BugBytes
After a long hiatus, NPMA Bugbytes returns with new co-hosts!
Laboratory and Field Evaluations of Food Based Attractants for Monitoring German Cockroaches
At Rutgers University, researchers evaluated various attractants for German cockroaches to enhance sticky trap effectiveness. They tested 18 substances, finding that combinations of apple and blueberry oils, along with commercial roach lure tablets, significantly improved catch rates by over 100%. More research is needed for reliable delivery methods.
Test Your Identification Skills With the Termite Teeth Challenge!
Allison Johnson, a Ph.D. candidate at UGA, seeks assistance in comparing expert termite teeth identifications with personal guesses, engaging participants in an advanced matching game.
