The Weekly Buzz is a roundup of stories in the bug and pest industry. This week includes research on how ants work and rest, abnormal winter bee activity in Texas, an investigation into possible cases of Seoul virus in two states and more.
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Ant Work-Life Balance
Researchers at Missouri University of Science and Technology suggest that like humans, ant colonies strive for a good work-rest balance. Could mimicking their behavior be beneficial in making our society more productive? Read more.
Related > Ant Colonies and SocialStructure
Abnormal Bee Activity
With warmer than usual winter weather, pest management professionals in South Central Texas have been receiving more calls than usual concerning bee activity. But Molly Keck, a Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service entomologist, says that there’s really no need for residents to worry. Read more.
Pet Rats and Seoul Virus
The Center for Disease Control and Prevention is working with both the Illinois Department of Health and Wisconsin Department of Health to investigate possible cases of Seoul virus among several people working at pet rat-breeding facilities in the two states. This virus is part of the Hantavirus family of rodent-borne viruses. Though there have been reported outbreaks among wild rats, Seoul virus is not common in the United States, and this is the first known outbreak associated with pet rats. Read more.
Research That May Benefit Agriculture
According to research and tests performed by two Rice University scientists, insects at the leading edge of an invasion are more likely to reproduce offspring with the right traits to carry on the same invasion spirit. This research can help agriculture and natural resource managers prepare for invasive pests. Read more.
Fruit Flies and Their Amazing Muscles
Fruit flies perform their impressive aerial maneuvers using only 12 flight muscles. New Caltech research provides insight into how so few muscles provide such complex flight. Read more.
