The Asian wasp, Trissolcus japonicus, has been identified in the wild at a study site in Beltsville, MD. This wasp originates from the same region as the brown marmorated stinkbug (BMSB) and preys on the eggs of those insects along with other stinkbugs. While this wasp isn’t known to sting or hurt humans in any way,…
Native to the U.S. and New England, red pine, Pinus resinosa, populates many areas and has also been widely planted for its aesthetic appeal and to increase diversity of the white pine, Pinus strobus, dominated landscape, adding to soil conservation, wildlife mast and habitat and protecting other species from wind. Recently, however, red pines have,…
The annual bluegrass weevil (ABW) is a pest which, unfortunately, can develop resistance to commonly applied insecticides if and when they are applied too often or incorrectly. Some turf care specialists call this “making them angry”…and you won’t like them when they’re angry. Turning the tide on insecticide resistance can be very difficult, they best…
In research recently published in the journal Plos One, entomologists from the University of Florida postulate the emergence of a “super termite” created from the interbreeding of Asian and Formosan termites. These species of subterranean termites are some of the most destructive in the world, now there is alarming evidence that these species are interbreeding…
Black vine weevils, Otiorhynchus sulcatus, are primarily pests of species in the genera Taxus and Rhododendron. The weevils also target azaleas, mountain laurel and Euonymous. Adult black vine weevils feed on the leaf and needle margins, leaving distinct half-circular notches. Larvae appear similar to grubs you would find in your lawn except they are less “C” shaped…
Hawaii is not only paradise for people seeking adventure, relaxation, big waves and fun, it is also a haven for invasive species. State legislature in Hawaii has proclaimed the invasives problem “…the single greatest threat to Hawaii’s economy, natural environment and to the health and lifestyle of Hawaii’s people.” Among the offenders are little fire ants,…
Conifer bark beetles are tree pests of the genera Dendroctonus, Ips, Scolytus who prey primarily on pines (Pinus) but also additional evergreens such as fir (Abies), spruce (Picea), arborvitae (Thuja), others. Trees that are already under stress from drought, insufficient root area or damage, transplanting or disease are at higher risk for a bark beetle infestation. Young, healthy trees…
Invasive species find their way into the country via unchecked boxes, pallets, luggage and hitchhiking on animals. Once here they can multiply and spread unchecked due to the lack of natural predators and because it may take some time before we realize there is a problem, containment and elimination becomes near impossible. Unfortunately, often the…
The emerald ash borer beetle (Agrilus planipennis or EAB) is an exotic pest first discovered first in Detroit in 2002. It is thought that the borers arrived in the United States in solid wood packing on shipping containers from Asia. Since its initial discovery populations have been found in 20 additional states and in Ontario, Canada.…
Colony collapse has been a hot topic since the large decline of honeybee populations was noted several years ago. Since then many theories postulating various causes have made the rounds, each one has its merits and detractors and in the end it is possible that all are contributing factors. The most recent theory suggests that stress…
