entomology
It’s a Boy: Modified Male Flies Could More Efficiently Control Screwworm Population
Suppressing populations of devastating pests may be easier with the release of genetically modified males.
Expanding Outreach to Support Bees and Other Pollinators
A lot of people want to know what they can do to help bees – and a new initiative at NC State is aimed at helping to meet that demand.
How Native American Agriculture Spread Bees in Pre-Columbian North America
Using genetic markers, researchers have for the first time shown how cultivating a specific crop led to the expansion of a pollinator species. In this case, the researchers found that the spread of a bee species in pre-Columbian Central and North America was tied to the spread of squash agriculture.
No Junk-Food Diet: Even in Cities, Bees Find Flowers and Avoid Processed Sugars
New research from NC State finds that bees in urban areas stick to a flower-nectar diet, steering clear of processed sugars found in soda and other junk food.
Assessing the Positive and Negative Claims About Genetically Engineered Crops
Genetically engineered crops stir strong feelings from both critics and supporters. We talk to the researcher who chaired the National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine committee that just released a report, “Genetically Engineered Crops: Experience and Prospects,” which examines the evidence behind positive and negative claims about GE crops, and the research challenges that lie ahead.
Study Argues ‘Winner-Winner’ Behavior May Shape Animal Hierarchies
Researchers have developed a behavioral model that explains the complexity and diversity of social hierarchies in ants, and which scientists believe may help us understand the nature of other animal societies – from primates to dolphins.
Modified Maggots Could Help Human Wound Healing
NC State entomologists genetically modify maggots to aid human wound healing.
Study Finds More Social Insects Have Weaker Immune Response, Highlights Role of Hygiene
Research finds that among eusocial insects – like ants, bees and termites – the more individuals there are in a typical species colony, the weaker the species’ immune response. The finding strongly suggests that hygiene behaviors, and not just immune systems, play a key role in keeping eusocial insects healthy.
Rediscovering the Forgotten Benefits of Drawing
Over a century ago, the ability to draw was a necessity. No cameras, printers, copiers, or online images - if you wanted to convey information visually, you had to do it yourself. Jennifer Landin explains why those skills are still important.
Duplicate DNA a Hallmark of Tick Genome
What makes the tick, well, tick? NC State researchers involved in sequencing the pest's genome find a number of answers.