Insects

Thousands of larvae from the pine processionary moth have been found on eastern Gotland. The County Administrative Board warns about the barbed hairs that can cause itching and rashes.

July 06, 2026 Iniulat ng AI

New experiments reveal that bumblebees alter their tongue movements based on internal conditions, pointing to subjective experiences similar to emotions.

Scientists observed a rare tropical katydid changing color from bright pink to green over 11 days in Panama. The transformation helps the insect mimic young rainforest leaves that start pink before maturing green. Researchers describe it as a survival strategy rather than a mutation.

April 25, 2026 Iniulat ng AI

A new study published in Nature challenges the idea that high atmospheric oxygen levels enabled giant insects 300 million years ago. Researchers led by Edward Snelling of the University of Pretoria found that tracheoles in insect flight muscles occupy minimal space, leaving room for expansion. The discovery prompts scientists to seek alternative explanations for the insects' massive sizes.

Fungus-farming ants have developed a way to capture atmospheric carbon dioxide and incorporate it into their exoskeletons as dolomite, a mineral that strengthens their armour and regulates nest air quality. This process, observed in species from Central and South America, occurs without the need for high temperatures or pressures that challenge lab synthesis. Researchers suggest it could inspire human carbon capture techniques.

February 23, 2026 Iniulat ng AI

A parasitic ant species from Japan, Temnothorax kinomurai, has been confirmed to produce exclusively queens, with no males or workers. Researchers found that these queens reproduce asexually and invade colonies of related species to raise their offspring. This discovery reveals a novel form of social organization in ants.