Department of Entomology and Plant Pathology

Aug 6, 2020

Study Could Lead to Power Over Parasite

Researchers find genetic targets for controlling the New World screwworm, a deadly insect pest that feeds on livestock, wildlife, pets and even humans in the Western Hemisphere. 

Jul 15, 2020

Bed Bugs Modify Microbiome of Homes They Infest

Bed bugs aren’t just an annoying, blood-feeding pest. They also seem to change the bacterial community in the homes they infest. 

Jun 30, 2020

Berrying On

This year's berry crops yielded lessons in adaptability for Extension experts. They weighed strawberries in the garage, delivered masks to farms, connected via technology and never stopped listening. 

Jun 5, 2020

Volcanic Glass Spray Shows Promise in Controlling Mosquitoes

An industrial mineral called perlite could help reduce mosquito populations and, in turn, malaria transmission. 

May 29, 2020

Here Come the Cicadas! At Least for Some of Us

Right now, in the northwest corner of North Carolina, a remarkable event is occurring - one that happens only every 17 years. It’s the emergence of Brood IX of the 17-year periodical cicadas, and it is a sight (with accompanying sounds) worth seeing. 

May 14, 2020

CALS Graduate Student Named Fulbright Scholar

CALS graduate student Tsz Wai “Sammi” Wong is one of six NC State graduate students named as a Fulbright Scholar for the 2020-21 academic year.  

May 7, 2020

Asian Giant Hornets Not a Problem for NC Beekeepers…Yet?

There is a viral news story circulating about the “murder hornet,” the unfortunate moniker of the Asian Giant hornet. A handful of colonies were reported in the Pacific Northwest and no documented cases of this new invasive insect in North Carolina. 

Apr 29, 2020

Plant Aid: A GRIP4PSI Big-Data Project to Detect Plant Diseases Faster

An interdisciplinary team led by professor Jean Ristaino will combine small sensors with big data for faster detection of the diseases plaguing tomato fields. From a hand-held plant disease ‘sniffer’ to a cloud-based database that can alert farmers about the cause of the stress and suggest possible mitigation strategies, the project aims to detect diseases early, improving yield. 

Mar 17, 2020

Boredom Busters

Spending unexpected time at home with the kids? NC State Extension's Liz Driscoll outlines five fun indoor projects to help keep everyone’s minds active and hands busy. 

Mar 15, 2020

Now What?

Without going far, kids can explore and learn from familiar environments. Liz Driscoll, an NC State Extension 4-H specialist, suggests five easy outdoor activities to try when your kids are feeling cooped up.