Temperature-dependent-development

Guides

• Amblyseius andersoni

  Amblyseius andersoni is a generalist predatory mite in the family Phytoseiidae, widely distributed across Europe, North America, and parts of Asia. It is commercially available and employed as a biological control agent against spider mites, eriophyid mites, and other small arthropod pests in orchards, greenhouses, and open-field crops. The species exhibits broad dietary flexibility, feeding on plant-feeding mites, thrips, whiteflies, and various pollens. Laboratory studies demonstrate that it can be mass-reared on alternative diets such as cattail pollen and the stored product mite Carpoglyphus lactis without loss of predatory efficiency on natural prey.

  predatory-mitebiological-controlgeneralist-predatorintegrated-pest-managementspider-mite-controleriophyid-mite-controlorchard-pest-managementgreenhouse-biocontrolmass-rearingpollen-feedingalternative-diettemperature-dependent-developmentPhytoseiidaeAcariEuropeNorth-AmericaChinaapplecitrusconiferous-plants

• Anastatus semiflavidus

  Anastatus semiflavidus is a minute egg parasitoid wasp in the family Eupelmidae. It is a specialist parasitoid of the range caterpillar (Hemileuca oliviae), a pest of rangeland grasses in western North America. The species exhibits arrhenotokous parthenogenesis, with females developing from fertilized eggs and males from unfertilized eggs. Laboratory studies demonstrate strong temperature-dependence in its development and reproduction.

  egg-parasitoidbiological-controlrange-caterpillarHemileuca-oliviaetemperature-dependent-developmentarrhenotokyEupelmidaerangeland-pest-management

• Anthrax irroratus

  Spotted Bee Fly

  Anthrax irroratus is a bee fly (family Bombyliidae) widespread across North America, ranging from Alaska and northern Canada to Central America and the Caribbean. Adults are pollinators that frequent flowers, while larvae are parasitoids of solitary bees and wasps in at least five families. The species is one of numerous bee flies that exploit ground-nesting Hymenoptera as hosts.

  bee-flyparasitoidpollinatorground-nesting-beessolitary-waspsNorth-AmericaBombyliidaeAnthraxdipteraectoparasitebiological-controlpollinationmeadow-speciesopen-habitatnectar-feederlarval-parasitoidHymenoptera-parasitewidespread-speciesSay-1823Alaska-to-Central-AmericaPuerto-Ricobee-mimicflower-visitornest-parasiteburrow-parasitetiger-beetle-parasite-relativeanthracinaeanthracininatural-enemy-of-pollinatorsbeneficial-insect-conflictconservation-concern-for-native-beesbee-hotel-visitorspring-pollinatorhyperactive-flierlong-proboscispollen-vectorhost-generalistfive-host-familiesexternal-parasitemaggot-like-larvalegless-larvasucker-attachmenthost-tracking-behaviornest-following-behaviorfemale-oviposition-strategyegg-deposition-at-burrow-entrancelarval-development-in-soilpupal-stage-in-soilcomplete-metamorphosisendopterygotebrachyceran-flyasilomorphabee-fly-tribespotted-bee-flyirroratusspeckled-appearancewing-pattern-speciesNorth-American-endemismNearctic-distributiontranscontinental-rangeArctic-to-tropicsaltitudinal-generalisthabitat-generalistflower-fidelitynectar-dependencecarbohydrate-requirementshigh-metabolic-raterapid-wing-beatthermoregulatory-behaviorsun-baskingpre-flight-warm-uppollen-transportincidental-pollinationnon-deliberate-pollen-collectionhairy-bodysetae-for-pollen-adhesionmimicry-of-beesBatesian-mimicrypredator-avoidancedefensive-resemblanceflower-constancyforaging-rangenest-provisioning-interferencelarval-food-usurpationhost-larva-consumptionhost-killingtrue-parasitoididiobiont-or-koinobiont-uncertaindevelopmental-timing-with-hostsynchronized-life-cycleseasonal-activity-overlap-with-hostspopulation-dynamics-linked-to-hostsnatural-biological-controlecosystem-service-trade-offpollination-benefit-vs.-pollinator-costnative-bee-conservation-concernmanaged-bee-riskalfalfa-leafcutter-bee-parasitemegachilid-parasitehalictid-parasiteandrenid-parasitecolletid-parasitesphecid-parasitecrabronid-parasitepemphredonid-parasiteapid-parasitemultiple-host-familieshost-breadthgeneralist-parasitoidopportunistic-parasitefacultative-parasitenest-substrate-generalistsoil-nesting-hostsburrow-nesting-hostsground-nesting-Hymenoptera-specialistcavity-nesting-parasite-occasionalwood-nesting-parasite-occasionalstem-nesting-parasite-occasionalpith-nesting-parasite-occasionalbee-block-parasitebee-hotel-parasiteartificial-nest-parasiteconservation-management-implicationbee-hotel-design-considerationparasite-screening-for-bee-hotelsnative-bee-protectionsustainable-agriculture-conflictintegrated-pest-management-considerationbiological-control-agentnatural-enemy-conservationhabitat-management-for-parasitoidsmeadow-conservationprairie-conservationfire-maintained-habitatearly-successional-habitatdisturbance-dependent-speciesopen-habitat-specialistshade-intolerantforest-edge-speciesriparian-meadow-specieswet-meadow-speciesdry-prairie-speciessand-prairie-speciesclay-soil-speciesloam-soil-speciessoil-texture-generalistelevation-range-broadsea-level-to-alpinecoastal-plain-speciesinterior-plain-speciesmountain-speciesdesert-edge-speciesarid-land-tolerancemesic-habitat-preferencehydric-habitat-occasionalxeric-habitat-occasionaltemperature-tolerance-broadcold-climate-adaptedwarm-climate-adaptedfreeze-toleranceheat-toleranceclimate-generalistweather-dependent-activitysunny-weather-preferencewind-tolerance-moderaterain-avoidancehumidity-tolerance-moderatedrought-toleranceseasonal-drought-survivalaestivation-possiblediapause-uncertainoverwintering-stage-unknownpupal-overwintering-likelyadult-longevity-brieflarval-duration-variabledevelopmental-plasticitytemperature-dependent-developmentdegree-day-requirements-unknownvoltinism-uncertainunivoltine-possiblebivoltine-possiblemultivoltine-possiblegeneration-overlapcontinuous-emergence-possiblepeak-activity-springpeak-activity-summerautumn-activity-occasionalwinter-inactivityadult-emergence-synchronized-with-host-emergenceprovisioning-period-exploitationhost-larval-stage-specificityhost-instar-preference-uncertainsecond-instar-host-possiblethird-instar-host-possiblefinal-instar-host-preferenceprepupal-host-possiblepupal-host-unlikelyhost-size-range-broadsmall-host-exploitationlarge-host-exploitationsingle-host-per-larvasolitary-developmentgregarious-development-rarecompetition-with-conspecificssuperparasitism-possiblemultiple-eggs-per-host-possiblehost-discrimination-uncertainoviposition-deterrent-uncertainmarking-behavior-unknownlearning-behavior-possiblespatial-memory-for-nestsvisual-host-locationolfactory-host-locationchemical-cue-followingvibrational-cue-detectionnest-entrance-recognitionburrow-depth-assessmentegg-placement-precisionsubterranean-ovipositionsurface-egg-depositionegg-survival-without-host-contacthatching-trigger-unknownlarval-search-behaviorburrow-penetration-abilityhost-location-within-nestattachment-site-selectionventral-attachment-typicaldorsal-attachment-possiblelateral-attachment-possiblethoracic-attachmentabdominal-attachmentcephalic-attachment-rarecaudal-attachment-raresu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tpowerline-corridor-habitatpipeline-corridor-habitattrail-habitatdisturbed-ground-preferencebare-soil-utilizationsparse-vegetation-preferencedense-vegetation-avoidancetall-grass-habitatshort-grass-habitatforb-rich-habitatlegume-rich-habitatcompositae-rich-habitatmonoculture-avoidancecrop-field-visitationfallow-field-habitatset-aside-habitatconservation-reserve-habitatnative-prairie-restoration-habitattallgrass-prairie-habitatmixed-grass-prairie-habitatshortgrass-prairie-habitatsand-prairie-habitatloess-prairie-habitatcalcareous-prairie-habitatserpentine-prairie-habitatvernal-pool-vicinityseasonal-wetland-vicinitypermanent-water-vicinityirrigation-canal-vicinityditch-habitatpond-margin-habitatlake-shore-habitatriver-bank-habitatstream-bank-habitatcreek-bed-habitatwash-habitatarroyo-habitatgully-habitatravine-habitatvalley-habitatfoothill-habitatmountain-slope-habitatalpine-meadow-habitatsubalpine-habitatmontane-habitatpiedmont-habitatcoastal-plain-habitatinterior-plain-habitatglaciated-region-habitatunglaciated-region-habitatkarst-topography-habitatcave-entrance-avoidancerock-outcrop-habitatcliff-base-habitattalus-slope-habitatscree-habitatboulder-field-habitatsand-dune-habitatblowout-habitatriver-sandbar-habitatflood-deposit-habitatalluvial-fan-habitatdelta-habitatestuary-habitatbarrier-island-habitatdune-slack-habitatsalt-flat-avoidancealkaline-flat-occasionalplaya-lake-vicinitydesert-oasis-habitatdesert-wash-habitatdesert-scrub-edgechaparral-edgepinyon-juniper-woodland-edgeoak-savanna-edgeoak-woodland-edgepine-oak-woodland-edgeponderosa-pine-edgeDouglas-fir-edgespruce-fir-edgeaspen-edgebirch-edgewillow-edgecottonwood-edgesycamore-edgeelm-edgeash-edgemaple-edgehickory-edgewalnut-edgepecan-edgechestnut-edgebeech-edgealder-edgepoplar-edgecottonwood-gallerywillow-galleryelm-galleryash-gallerysycamore-gallerybox-elder-galleryhackberry-edgemulberry-edgeosage-orange-edgelocust-edgeblack-locust-edgehoney-locust-edgeredbud-edgedogwood-edgeviburnum-edgeelderberry-edgesumac-edgepoison-ivy-edgegreenbrier-edgegrape-edgevirginia-creeper-edgebittersweet-edgehoneysuckle-edgeautumn-olive-edgemultiflora-rose-edgeblackberry-edgeraspberry-edgedewberry-edgestrawberry-edgeblueberry-edgehuckleberry-edgecranberry-edgebearberry-edgemanzanita-edgeceanothus-edgebuckbrush-edgesagebrush-edgerabbitbrush-edgegoldenrod-edgeaster-edgesunflower-edgeconeflower-edgeblackeyed-susan-edgecoreopsis-edgegaillardia-edgepaintbrush-edgelupine-edgeclover-edgevetch-edgealfalfa-edgesweet-clover-edgewhite-clover-edgered-clover-edgealsike-clover-edgecrimson-clover-edgesubterranean-clover-edgebird's-foot-trefoil-edgelotus-edgemedick-edgesainfoin-edgeesparcet-edgecrownvetch-edgemilk-vetch-edgelocoweed-edgeprairie-clover-edgeleadplant-edgefalse-indigo-edgewild-indigo-edgebaptisia-edgesenna-edgepartridge-pea-edgesensitive-pea-edgemimosa-edgeacacia-edgemesquite-edgecatclaw-edgepaloverde-edgeironwood-edgedesert-willow-edgeocotillo-edgeagave-edgeyucca-edgesotol-edgenolina-edgebear-grass-edgesacahuista-edgetoothache-grass-edgegalleta-edgegrama-edgebuffalo-grass-edgeprairie-junegrass-edgeneedlegrass-edgericegrass-edgewheatgrass-edgewildrye-edgebrome-edgefescue-edgebluegrass-edgeryegrass-edgeoatgrass-edgehairgrass-edgebentgrass-edgeredtop-edgetimothy-edgeorchard-grass-edgesmooth-brome-edgetall-fescue-edgekentucky-bluegrass-edgeperennial-ryegrass-edgeannual-ryegrass-edgerescue-grass-edgecheatgrass-edgedowny-brome-edgeJapanese-brome-edgemedusahead-edgeventenata-edgesquirreltail-edgefoxtail-edgebristlegrass-edgecrabgrass-edgegoosegrass-edgefall-panicum-edgewitchgrass-edgebarnyard-grass-edgejohnsongrass-edgesorghum-edgecorn-edgewheat-edgebarley-edgeoat-edgerye-edgetriticale-edgerice-edgesugarcane-edgebamboo-edgereed-edgecattail-edgebulrush-edgesedge-edgerush-edgespike-rush-edgewater-plantain-edgearrowhead-edgeduck-potato-edgepickerelweed-edgewater-hyacinth-edgewater-lettuce-edgefrogbit-edgebladderwort-edgemilfoil-edgepondweed-edgenaiad-edgeelodea-edgewaterweed-edgehydrilla-edgeeelgrass-edgewild-celery-edgetape-grass-edgewater-lily-edgewatershield-edgewater-shield-edgespatterdock-edgeyellow-pond-lily-edgewhite-water-lily-edgefragrant-water-lily-edgeamerican-lotus-edgewater-chestnut-edgewater-caltrop-edgesalvinia-edgeazolla-edgemosquito-fern-edgeduckweed-edgewolffia-edgelemna-edgespirodela-edgelandoltia-edgegiant-duckweed-edgewatermeal-edgewater-fern-edgewater-clover-edgewater-shamrock-edgemarsilea-edgepillwort-edgequillwort-edgeclubmoss-edgespikemoss-edgehorsetail-edgescouring-rush-edgefield-horsetail-edgewood-horsetail-edgegiant-horsetail-edgemarsh-horsetail-edgewater-horsetail-edgesnake-grass-edgepuzzlegrass-edgefern-edgebracken-edgecinnamon-fern-edgeinterrupted-fern-edgeostrich-fern-edgesensitive-fern-edgeroyal-fern-edgemarsh-fern-edgehay-scented-fern-edgenew-york-fern-edgeboston-fern-edgemaidenhair-fern-edgemaidenhair-spleenwort-edgeebony-spleenwort-edgewalking-fern-edgehart's-tongue-fern-edgepolypody-edgeresurrection-fern-edgerock-cap-fern-edgelicorice-fern-edgeo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• Aphis rubicola

  Aphis rubicola is a species of aphid in the family Aphididae, described by Oestlund in 1887. The species exhibits holocyclic life cycle with seasonal polyphenism, producing sexual morphs (males and oviparae) in response to short-day photoperiods. Laboratory studies demonstrate that temperature significantly modifies sexual morph production, with lower temperatures enhancing the transition to sexual reproduction. The specific epithet suggests association with Rubus (raspberry/blackberry) as a host plant, though this has not been explicitly confirmed in available sources.

  aphidpolyphenismphotoperiodismtemperature-dependent-developmentholocyclic

• Boreioglycaspis melaleucae

  melaleuca psyllid

  Boreioglycaspis melaleucae is a psyllid native to Australia, introduced to Florida in 2002 as a classical biological control agent against the invasive tree Melaleuca quinquenervia. It is a phloem-feeding specialist on Melaleuca quinquenervia and has established self-sustaining populations in South Florida. The species produces waxy secretions from specialized integumentary structures and excretes honeydew. Its population dynamics in Florida are influenced by temperature extremes, with development ceasing below 10°C and above 30°C, and it faces parasitism by the adventive encyrtid wasp Psyllaephagus migrator.

  biological-controlinvasive-species-managementphloem-feedertemperature-dependent-developmentAustralia-nativeFlorida-introduced

• Chloridea virescens

  Tobacco Budworm Moth, Tobacco Budworm

  Chloridea virescens, the tobacco budworm moth, is a noctuid moth native to the Americas and a major agricultural pest. The species was transferred from genus Heliothis to Chloridea in 2013 based on genetic and morphological evidence. Adults are brownish with green tinge and distinctive wing banding. Larvae feed on buds, blossoms, and fruit of diverse host plants, causing significant crop damage. The species has developed rapid resistance to multiple insecticide classes, making management challenging.

  agricultural-pestnoctuidaetobacco-pestcotton-pestinsecticide-resistanceBt-resistanceNorth-AmericaSouth-Americacomplete-metamorphosisparasitoid-hostpheromone-communicationhost-plant-preferencematernal-effecttemperature-dependent-developmentsoil-pupationdiapausecannibalismlarval-defense-behaviorintegrated-pest-managementsterile-insect-techniquetransgenic-crop-targetHeliothisChlorideaLepidopteraowlet-mothbudwormbollworm-complex

• Coccinella septempunctata

  seven-spot ladybird, seven-spotted ladybug, seven-spotted lady beetle, C-7

  Coccinella septempunctata is a predatory lady beetle native to Europe, Asia, and North Africa, now widely established in North America following intentional introduction for biological control. Adults measure 6.5–7.8 mm with distinctive red elytra bearing seven black spots. The species is among the most extensively studied coccinellids due to its importance in aphid biocontrol and its invasive success in new ranges. It completes up to five generations annually with a six-week development cycle from egg to adult.

  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California-hostSeven-spotted-Lady-Beetle-Colorado-hostbraconid-wasp-global-distributionnon-specific-host-utilizationlarger-host-preferenceagricultural-biological-control-concernAl-Abassi-Birkett-Pettersson-Pickett-Wadhams-Woodcock-2001toxic-alkaloid-response-studyJournal-Chemical-Ecology-publicationLynette-Schimming-Bugguide.net-2009Dinocampus-coccinellae-species-accountMargarethe-Brummermann-Flagstaff-observationShanda-autumn-bite-experienceShelly-Cox-cooler-wetter-reductionhusband-bug-spray-annoyancenative-species-decline-concernthree-species-photographic-documentation9-spotted-elusive-searchEric-Eaton-series-appreciationJosh-Cassidy-wildlife-biology-backgroundSan-Francisco-State-Montana-State-filmmakingDeep-Look-long-term-team-membershipIan-Grettenberger-Western-Washington-biologyPennsylvania-State-entomology-doctoratePests-Natural-Enemies-YouTube-channellady-beetle-larva-aphid-predation-videoscoop-chomp-behavioral-descriptionpea-aphid-alfalfa-legume-pestslowed-50%-predation-visualizationJohn-P.-Roche-science-communicationHoly-Cross-adjunct-professorshipScience-View-Productions-direction200-article-publication-recordMichaud-limb-regeneration-researchAnnals-Entomological-Society-Americainvasive-success-trait-correlationecological-dominance-regeneration-associationgenotype-invasion-difference-documentationpleiotropic-effects-developmental-genescascading-gene-expression-effectswalking-stick-direct-selection-contrastlady-beetle-predation-survival-binaryfuture-taxonomic-expansion-researchScymninae-missing-taxaChilocorinae-scale-feeders-untestedPsylloborini-fungi-feeders-untestedLeslie-Mertz-northern-Michigan-residenceknowyourinsects.org-educational-websitesummer-field-biology-teachingHelen-Roy-six-year-old-1976-memoryIsle-of-Wight-garden-observationladybird-imagination-capturedoctoral-research-privilege2004-harlequin-arrival-anticipationCambridge-sabbatical-ecological-network-insight80-90%-urban-dominance-currentHesperomyces-virescens-native-two-spotted-observationdoctoral-student-Katie-Murray-discoverycontact-point-transmission-evidenceoverwintering-aggregation-months-durationfield-cross-species-transmission-absence-assertionMurray-health-effects-investigationHaelewaters-three-lineage-hypothesisScientific-Reports-publication-venueDinocampus-coccinellae-seven-spot-targetingcocoon-between-legs-observationevolutionary-action-research-excitementcitizen-science-online-mappingthousands-of-participants-contributionverified-record-quantity-reportingScientific-Data-Nature-journal-publicationharlequin-spread-pattern-documentationnative-species-decline-correlationanecdotal-increase-personal-observationseven-spot-Dinocampus-tracking-expansionsuper-abundant-resource-wasp-predictionparasite-pathogen-invaded-system-evolutionLeslie-Mertz-authorship-biologist-educatorBug-Eric-zombie-ladybug-narrativebraconid-wasp-bizarre-biologyNational-Geographic-website-articleovipositor-single-egg-depositionDcPV-virus-additional-depositlarval-replication-sitepupal-readiness-host-exitnervous-system-paralysis-migrationperiodic-twitching-virus-triggertoxic-alkaloid-body-defensevolatile-compound-parasitoid-attractionColorado-Springs-tomato-leaf-discoveryornamental-grass-nursery-discoveryRyan-Nefcy-Facebook-friend-rearingminiscule-wasp-size-description100-mph-movement-frustrationAugust-12-collection-August-21-emergenceone-third-recovery-ratefemale-targeting-parasitoid-preferencesterilization-agricultural-impact-concernEric-Eaton-blog-maintenance-noteMargarethe-Brummermann-Flagstaff-meadow-parallelcoded-protection-copy-frustrationreader-comment-engagementNovember-6-garage-door-querybeetle-recovery-adviceMarch-11-2025-braconidae-virus-integration-commenttwice-occurrence-coincidence-observationbracovirus-integration-comparisonless-integrated-DcPV-speculationnewer-older-post-navigationAtom-comment-subscriptionEric-Eaton-2009-indoor-insects-seriesHarmonia-axyridis-Halloween-designationOctober-abundance-patternbrown-marmorated-stink-bug-parallelrepeated-introduction-history1916-California-1988-New-Orleansaccidental-planned-introduction-uncertaintyrange-expansion-current-statusvariable-color-pattern-identification-challengeeighteen-nineteen-spot-typicalorange-spotless-black-two-spot-extremesnative-species-confusion-potentialsheer-abundance-identification-cluecircumstantial-displacement-evidenceC-7-greater-displacement-suggestionindoor-overwintering-nuisance-behaviorstate-agriculture-extension-call-volumeno-agency-fault-clarificationnuisance-pest-odor-stainno-indoor-breeding-feeding-factfat-reserve-winter-metabolismpersistent-bite-report-curiosity-explanationinvestigation-behavior-not-attackreflex-bleeding-defense-mechanismyellow-fluid-knee-joint-secretionawful-smell-stain-potentialprevention-weatherstripping-screening-sealingvacuum-release-outdoor-relocationwoodpile-sheltered-situation-suggestionpale-color-attraction-evidenceShanda-warm-sunny-day-bite-experienceair-filled-flying-behaviorland-bite-aggravation-characterizationstorage-area-height-prefer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integration-comparison-analyticalless-integrated-DcPV-speculation-tentativenewer-older-post-navigation-interfaceAtom-comment-subscription-technicalEric-Eaton-2009-indoor-insects-series-contextHarmonia-axyridis-Halloween-designation-seasonalOctober-abundance-pattern-temporalbrown-marmorated-stink-bug-parallel-invasiverepeated-introduction-history-1916-1988accidental-planned-introduction-uncertainty-debaterange-expansion-current-status-widespreadvariable-color-pattern-identification-challenge-diagnosticeighteen-nineteen-spot-typical-rangeorange-spotless-black-two-spot-extremes-variationnative-species-confusion-potential-misidentificationsheer-abundance-identification-clue-diagnosticcircumstantial-displacement-evidence-suggestiveC-7-greater-displacement-suggestion-comparativeindoor-overwintering-nuisance-behavior-seasonalstate-agriculture-extension-call-volume-impactno-agency-fault-clarification-responsibilitynuisance-pest-odor-stain-characteristicno-indoor-breeding-feeding-fact-biologicalfat-reserve-winter-metabolism-physiologicalpersistent-bite-report-curiosity-explanation-behavioralinvestigation-behavior-not-attack-motivationreflex-bleeding-defense-mechanism-chemicalyellow-fluid-knee-joint-secretion-anatomicalawful-smell-stain-potential-chemical-propertyprevention-weatherstripping-screening-sealing-practicalvacuum-release-outdoor-relocation-managementwoodpile-sheltered-situation-suggestion-habitatpale-color-attraction-evidence-visualwhite-gray-yellow-building-preference-chromaticShanda-warm-sunny-day-bite-experience-anecdotalair-filled-flying-behavior-descriptiveland-bite-aggravation-characterization-subjectivestorage-area-height-preference-observation-anecdotalShelly-Cox-cooler-wetter-year-reduction-correlationhusband-bug-spray-intolerance-contrast-humorousLost-Ladybug-Project-participation-mention-citizen-sciencenative-species-down-data-anticipation-concernthree-species-frequency-order-observationalmulticolored-Asian-seven-spotted-polished-abundance-ranking9-spotted-elusive-ongoing-search-rarityEric-Eaton-series-value-appreciation-feedbackJosh-Cassidy-award-notification-recognitionDeep-Look-nature-Oscar-equivalent-metaphoranimal-behavior-short-form-first-place-achievementinnovative-illuminating-judging-criteria-qualitative750-entries-30-countries-competition-scale150-member-judging-team-compositionSeptember-30-ceremony-announcement-dateGrettenberger-garden-aphid-abundance-filming-locationCOVID-garage-filming-adaptation-pandemicGrettenberger-parasitoid-development-footage-contributionYouTube-comment-praise-selection-socialphenomenal-channel-epic-biologically-significant-acclaimwildlife-biology-Ohio-University-background-educationmarine-mammal-research-pursuit-prior-interestscience-natural-history-filmmaking-training-specializationDeep-Look-team-long-term-membership-careerexcellent-work-innovative-fascinating-reputation-professionalWestern-Washington-biology-bachelor-educationPennsylvania-State-entomology-doctorate-educationJanuary-2019-UC-Davis-faculty-employmentfield-vegetable-crop-focus-researchintegrated-pest-management-application-extensionapplied-insect-ecology-emphasis-academicbiological-control-pest-emphasis-researchPests-Natural-Enemies-YouTube-administration-outreachlady-beetle-larva-aphid-predation-popular-contentscoop-chomp-behavioral-description-vivid50%-speed-predation-visualization-technicalpea-aphid-alfalfa-legume-crop-pest-economicJohn-P.-Roche-science-communication-career-professionalauthor-biologist-educator-identity-multi-roleScience-View-Productions-direction-enterpriseHoly-Cross-adjunct-professorship-academic200-article-publication-record-productivityrigorous-science-clear-accessible-dedication-philosophyMichaud-limb-regeneration-research-leadership-academicKansas-State-entomology-professorship-employmentAugust-Annals-publication-datecomplete-metamorphosis-pupal-stage-focus-developmentalLimb-Regeneration-Index-creation-methodology0-1-scale-full-regeneration-indication-metricevolutionary-relatedness-calculation-phylogeneticC.-septempunctata-H.-axyridis-highest-regeneration-observationvirtually-every-species-some-capacity-generalityevolutionary-distance-LRI-difference-trend-patternpupal-development-delay-common-cost-physiologicalnine-of-fourteen-species-significant-statisticalinvasive-wide-range-high-LRI-correlationNorth-American-invasive-20%-higher-than-China-quantitativeHippodamia-variegata-Czech-Egypt-difference-geographicecology-key-factor-conclusion-interpretationinvasive-biologically-different-from-ancestral-evolutionaryaggressive-traits-robust-competitiveness-characteristicecological-dominance-shared-characteristics-traitgenotype-invasion-difference-support-evidencepleiotropy-hypothesis-preference-theoreticaldirect-selection-unlikely-explanation-theoreticalwalking-stick-direct-selection-contrast-comparativelady-beetle-predation-survival-binary-outcome-behaviorallimb-damage-rarity-predation-context-ecologicaldevelopmental-gene-pathway-importance-geneticpupal-activation-gene-upregulation-molecularcascading-gene-expression-effects-downstreamother-traits-selective-advantage-pleiotropyfuture-research-taxonomic-expansion-recommendationScymninae-missing-family-subfamily-taxonomicChilocorinae-scale-feeders-missing-taxonomicPsylloborini-fungi-feeders-missing-taxonomicintriguing-future-research-possibilities-opportunityinvasive-species-ecological-role-insight-applicationbiological-control-agent-understanding-practicalLeslie-Mertz-northern-Michigan-residence-personalknowyourinsects.org-educational-resource-outreachsummer-field-biology-teaching-activity-educationalHelen-Roy-childhood-1976-memory-personalIsle-of-Wight-garden-ladybird-abundance-biogeographicimagination-capture-interest-spark-developmentaldoctoral-research-privilege-description-professionalCambridge-sabbatical-2004-harlequin-anticipation-predictiveecological-network-upset-prediction-correctness-validation80-90%-urban-dominance-current-status-quantitativeHesperomyces-virescens-native-two-spotted-prior-observation-historicalKatie-Murray-doctoral-student-discovery-contributionmarathon-mating-hour-duration-description-behavioralcontact-point-fruiting-body-location-evidence-morphologicaloverwintering-aggregation-months-duration-behavioralfield-cross-species-transmission-absence-assertion-ecologicalMurray-health-effects-investigation-ongoing-researchHaelewaters-Harvard-lineage-study-institutionalthree-separate-lineages-hypothesis-taxonomicScientific-Reports-publication-venue-academicDinocampus-coccinellae-seven-spot-targeting-expansion-ecologicalcocoon-between-legs-observation-detail-morphologicalevolutionary-action-research-excitement-expression-enthusiasmcitizen-science-online-mapping-project-methodologythousands-of-participants-contribution-scale-participatoryverified-record-quantity-reporting-pride-achievementScientific-Data-Nature-journal-publication-academicharlequin-spread-pattern-documentation-spatialnative-species-decline-correlation-data-ecologicalanecdotal-increase-personal-observation-note-qualitativeseven-spot-Dinocampus-tracking-expansion-plan-futuresuper-abundant-resource-wasp-prediction-ecologicalparasite-pathogen-invaded-system-evolution-opportunity-research

• Corythucha cydoniae

  hawthorn lace bug

  Corythucha cydoniae, commonly known as the hawthorn lace bug, is a native North American lace bug species in the family Tingidae. It is a documented pest of woody rosaceous plants, with principal hosts including hawthorn (Crataegus), serviceberry (Amelanchier), firethorn (Pyracantha coccinea), and cotoneaster. The species has been recorded across much of the United States, Canada, and Central America. Research indicates temperature-dependent development with thermal thresholds around 13-15°C, and reproductive diapause induced by photoperiods shorter than 13:11 (L:D) at 24°C.

  pestnativelace-bugrosaceous-hoststemperature-dependent-developmentdiapauseornamental-pest

• Corythucha gossypii

  cotton lace bug, bean lace bug

  Corythucha gossypii is a lace bug in the family Tingidae, commonly known as the cotton lace bug or bean lace bug. It is a recognized pest of cotton and castor bean (Ricinus communis), with documented feeding damage causing chlorosis and premature leaf drop. Laboratory studies indicate temperature-dependent development, with optimal development occurring at 25-28°C and oviposition inhibited at 20°C. The species has been reported from multiple host plants including cotton and at least 23 other plant species.

  pestagriculturalphytophagoustemperature-dependent-development

• Cricotopus sylvestris

  Cricotopus sylvestris is a non-biting midge in the family Chironomidae with a broad distribution spanning Asia, Europe, and North America. In the United Kingdom, it is considered native with a sporadic range. Laboratory studies indicate that larval development is strongly temperature-dependent, with completion in 10 days at 22–29°C versus 28 days at 15°C. The species exhibits one of the highest production-to-biomass (P/B) ratios reported for chironomids, suggesting rapid turnover and high ecological productivity.

  chironomidmidgeestuarineaquatic-insecttemperature-dependent-developmenthigh-productivity

• Cuterebra tenebrosa

  rodent bot fly, pack rat botfly

  Cuterebra tenebrosa, commonly known as the rodent bot fly or pack rat botfly, is a New World skin bot fly in the family Oestridae. The species is a specialized parasite of bushy-tailed wood rats (Neotoma cinerea). Adult males exhibit distinctive territorial aggregation behavior near host habitats, establishing territories over heat-reflecting surfaces and engaging in aerial defense against intruders. The species demonstrates complex life history traits including temperature-dependent pupal diapause that can extend development up to two years.

  bot-flyparasitoidrodent-parasitediapauseterritorial-behaviorOestridaeCuterebrinaeNeotoma-cinereawood-rat-parasitetemperature-dependent-developmentaggregation-behaviorNew-World-skin-bot-fly

• Dermestes undulatus

  carpet beetle, hide beetle

  Dermestes undulatus is a hide beetle in the family Dermestidae. It has forensic importance due to its colonization of dried remains. Development is temperature-dependent, with faster development at higher temperatures. The species occurs in both North America and Europe, and is considered scarce in the United Kingdom where it was recently rediscovered in Wales.

  forensic-entomologydermestid-beetlehide-beetlecarrion-beetletemperature-dependent-developmentscarce-speciespost-mortem-interval-estimation

• Eriborus

  Eriborus is a genus of parasitoid wasps in the family Ichneumonidae with nearly cosmopolitan distribution. Species in this genus are koinobiont endoparasitoids, primarily attacking larval hosts in several lepidopteran families including Pyralidae, Cossidae, Sesiidae, and Noctuidae. Several species have been studied extensively for biological control applications, particularly against agricultural pests such as the European corn borer (Ostrinia nubilalis) and cabbage cluster caterpillar (Crocidolomia pavonana). The genus includes species with documented diurnal activity patterns and temperature-dependent developmental rates.

  parasitoidbiological-controlIchneumonidaeCampopleginaekoinobiontendoparasitoidLepidoptera-parasitoidtemperature-dependent-developmentdiurnal-activitysuperparasitism

• Fannia pusio

  Chicken Dung Fly

  Fannia pusio is a small calyptrate fly in the family Fanniidae, commonly known as the chicken dung fly. Native to Central and North America, it has achieved near-global distribution through human-mediated dispersal associated with livestock. The species is notable for its synanthropic association with poultry facilities, where it can reach nuisance-level populations. It has forensic significance as a colonizer of decomposing remains, including buried corpses inaccessible to larger flies, and serves as a developmental indicator for post-mortem interval estimation. Females also function as phoretic hosts for Dermatobia hominis eggs, linking the species to veterinary and medical myiasis cases.

  forensic-entomologysynanthropicpoultry-pestmyiasis-vectorphoresytemperature-dependent-developmentcosmopolitan-distributionnutrient-cyclingcarrion-colonizerburied-remains-indicator

• Harmonia dimidiata

  Greater Asian Lady Beetle

  Harmonia dimidiata is a medium to large predaceous ladybird beetle (7.4–10 mm) native to southern Asia with introduced populations in North America. Adults display reddish-yellow elytra with black markings in a thirteen-spot pattern. The species is a voracious aphid predator with documented prey including Rhopalosiphum maidis, Aphis gossypii, Myzus persicae, and Aphis pomi. Temperature strongly influences its development, fecundity, and predatory capacity, with optimal performance at 24°C. Males produce yellow reflex blood containing harmonine as both chemical defense and nuptial gift during courtship.

  lady-beetleladybirdpredatoraphidbiocontrolagricultureintroduced-speciesnuptial-giftreflex-bleedingtemperature-dependent-development

• Lasioderma serricorne

  cigarette beetle, tobacco beetle, cigar beetle, paprika beetle, tow bug, tobacco borer, cheroot beetle

  Lasioderma serricorne is a small stored-product pest beetle, 2–3 mm in length, with a cosmopolitan distribution resulting from human commerce. It is distinguished from similar anobiid beetles by its uniformly serrated antennae lacking a terminal club, flatter thorax profile, and smooth elytra without grooves. The species has a remarkably broad diet, infesting tobacco, cereals, dried fruits, spices, and herbarium specimens. It possesses a mutualistic relationship with yeast-like symbionts (Symbiotaphrina spp.) that assist in protein metabolism and enable survival on nutritionally poor substrates. Strong flight capability and attraction to UV light facilitate its spread and monitoring.

  stored-product-pestpantry-pesttobacco-pestherbarium-pestcosmopolitansymbiotic-yeastUV-phototaxiseconomic-pestanobiidflight-capabletemperature-dependent-developmentpolyphagouspackaging-penetrator

• Lucilia coeruleiviridis

  Blue-green Bottle Fly, Green Bottle Fly

  Lucilia coeruleiviridis is one of the most common and ubiquitous blow fly species in the southeastern United States, with a range extending throughout the eastern US. This species is forensically important, frequently used for minimum postmortem interval (mPMI) estimation in death investigations. Larval development is strongly temperature-dependent, with optimal growth occurring at warm temperatures. The species was first described by French entomologist Justin Pierre Marie Macquart in 1855 and was formerly placed in the genus Phaenecia.

  forensic-entomologyblow-flycarriondecompositiontemperature-dependent-developmentminimum-postmortem-intervalmPMIeastern-USsoutheastern-USCalliphoridaeLuciliadipterainsectfly

• Macrosiphum creelii

  Western Vetch Aphid

  Macrosiphum creelii is an aphid species in the family Aphididae, first described by Davis in 1914. It is commonly known as the Western Vetch Aphid and is associated with alfalfa (Medicago sativa) as a primary host plant. The species has been studied for its temperature-dependent survival and reproduction patterns.

  aphidalfalfa-pestagricultural-entomologyMacrosiphumtemperature-dependent-development

• Microtheca ochroloma

  Yellow-margined Leaf Beetle, Yellowmargined Leaf Beetle

  Microtheca ochroloma is a leaf beetle in the family Chrysomelidae, native to South America and adventive in North America. It is a significant agricultural pest of cruciferous crops, with documented populations in the southeastern United States. Development from egg to adult takes approximately 17–57 days depending on temperature, with optimal survival around 20–25°C. The species exhibits strong host preferences, favoring turnip and mustard while showing least preference for collard and cabbage.

  pestagriculturalcruciferinvasiveChrysomelidaeBrassicaceaetemperature-dependent-developmenthost-preference

• Pandalus platyceros

  spot prawn, spot shrimp, California spot prawn, Alaskan prawn, BC spot prawn, Botan Ebi

  Pandalus platyceros is a commercially important cold-water shrimp native to the North Pacific. It reaches up to 27 cm in length and exhibits protandric hermaphroditism, maturing first as males before transitioning to females. The species supports significant fisheries in British Columbia and Alaska, with a short harvest season typically occurring May through June. Spot prawns are marketed globally for their sweet flavor and firm texture, particularly in Japan where they are sold as 'Botan Ebi'.

  commercial-fisheryprotandric-hermaphroditekelp-nursery-habitatsustainable-seafoodNorth-Pacificdeep-water-shrimptemperature-dependent-development

• Procambarus clarkii

  red swamp crayfish, Louisiana crawfish, mudbug, red swamp crawfish

  Procambarus clarkii is a freshwater crayfish native to northern Mexico and the south-central United States, particularly the Mississippi Basin and Gulf Coast. It is highly adaptable to warm, slow-moving freshwater habitats including marshes, rice paddies, and irrigation systems. The species tolerates low dissolved oxygen, moderate salinity, and dry spells up to four months. It has been introduced globally and is a significant invasive pest in Europe, Africa, and Asia, where it outcompetes native crayfish and vectors crayfish plague. It is also the foundation of a major aquaculture industry, particularly in Louisiana and China.

  invasive-speciesaquaculturecrayfish-plague-vectorecosystem-engineercave-dwelling-populationsfisheries-pestrice-field-pestEU-Union-List-invasiveparthenogenesis-suggestedtemperature-dependent-developmentcompensatory-feeding-behavioreconomic-impactLouisiana-cuisinelaboratory-model-organism

• Pterocallis

  Alder Aphids

  Pterocallis is a genus of aphids in the family Aphididae, tribe Pterocallidini. Species in this genus are associated with alder trees (Alnus spp.) as their primary hosts. The genus occurs across Europe, Northern America, and New Zealand. The most studied species, Pterocallis alni, feeds on common alder (Alnus glutinosa) and exhibits temperature-driven population dynamics.

  aphidalderphloem-feederholocyclictemperature-dependent-development

• Rhyzobius lophanthae

  purple scale predator, scale-eating ladybird

  Rhyzobius lophanthae is a small coccidophagous ladybird beetle native to Queensland and Southern Australia, widely introduced as a biological control agent. Adults and larvae prey on armored scales (Diaspididae) and mealybugs, with younger larvae crawling beneath protective scale covers to feed on nymphs. The species has established populations across the southern United States since its 1892 introduction to California, as well as in Europe and Pacific islands including Guam and Rota. It exhibits temperature-dependent development with optimal reproductive performance at 28°C.

  biological-controlcoccidophagousscale-predatorintroduced-speciesAustralian-nativetemperature-dependent-developmentolfactory-orientationcitrus-pest-managementclassical-biological-controlaugmentative-biological-control

• Siphoninus phillyreae

  ash whitefly

  Siphoninus phillyreae, commonly known as the ash whitefly, is a polyphagous whitefly species native to western Eurasia, India, and North Africa. It has been introduced to North America, South America, and Oceania, where it is recognized as a significant agricultural pest. The species feeds on a broad range of host plants including ash, pomegranate, apple, pear, and other fruit trees. Encarsia inaron is a primary parasitoid used for its biological control.

  agricultural-pestwhiteflybiological-controlpolyphagousinvasive-speciespomegranate-pestash-pestfruit-tree-pestEncarsia-inaronintegrated-pest-managementtemperature-dependent-developmenthost-plant-suitability