Category Archives: Invasive Species

Ants Endanger Butterflies

The Schaus swallowtail butterfly, Heraclides aristodemus ponceanus, is an endangered species of butterfly in Florida with critically low numbers. Habitat loss is an important component in its decline, but exotic species are having a detrimental effect. . Clayborn and Koptur* … Continue reading

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Living With Antarctic Insects

Humans have been living on the continent of Antarctica for decades in bases heated to temperatures that support human life. Those conditions also support insects associated with human habitation. The house fly is now a permanent resident of Antarctica living … Continue reading

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Living With Ornamental Plants

Ornamental plants that stay green in the winter can be aesthetically pleasing additions to office spaces, coffee shops and foyers. Sitting next to a Florida palm tree can trigger memories of a tropical vacation. What could go wrong? Inspectors in … Continue reading

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Living With Varroa Mite

Modern beekeeping developed in the absence of Varroa Mite, a parasite of honey bees that invaded North America in the late 20th century. Varroa mites are widespread and are an important factor in loss of bee colonies. The parasites feed … Continue reading

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The Global Honey Bee

Bee keeping is global. The honey bee, Apis mellifera is not native to North America. It was intentionally introduced by Europeans who migrated to North America. Ever since, there has been movement of honey bees between Europe and many parts … Continue reading

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Fire Ant Block Aid

Wildfires in the Great Plains states have killed livestock and caused a shortage of forage in the affected areas. Farmers in southern OK wanted to help their neighbors to the north by shipping hay. Unfortunately, those areas have fire ants and … Continue reading

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Fighting the Spotted Lanternfly

The spotted lanternfly, Lycorma delicatula is a plant hopper (Fulgoridae) native to south and east Asia. It was first detected in southeastern Pennsylvania in 2014. Evidence from egg masses suggest it has been in the US since at least 2012. … Continue reading

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