Scientists have discovered that the precise, selective cutting mechanism of sawfly ovipositors could inspire new surgical tools that automatically avoid critical tissues, potentially revolutionizing complex surgeries by reducing errors and improving safety.
A genetic study revealed that the worm inside mezcal bottles is exclusively from the moth species Comadia redtenbacheri, dispelling myths that it could be from other insects like butterflies or weevils, and highlighting its cultural significance in Mexico.
A new species of tiny gnat, named Sciara serpens, has been discovered in Alaska, exhibiting a unique behavior where its larvae form long columns resembling a snake. Alaska insect expert Derek Sikes and his team identified the species through DNA sequencing and distinct differences in genitalia. The behavior of the larvae is believed to serve as protection against predators and to keep their bodies moist while crossing dry ground. This newly described species has not been found outside of Alaska and plays a role in pollination and recycling of decaying organic matter.
A woman in Taiwan sought medical help after experiencing "abnormal sounds" in her left ear for four days, only to discover that a small spider had crawled inside and shed its exoskeleton. Doctors successfully removed the spider using a suction tube, relieving the woman of her symptoms. Foreign objects in the ear, including insects, are not uncommon for ear, nose, and throat specialists, with insects accounting for around 14 to 18% of cases. If you suspect a bug in your ear, it is advised not to poke or prod it with a Q-tip, but rather seek professional medical assistance.
A technician discovered a genuine insect, suspected to be a fly, underneath the AD102 GPU chip of an RTX 4090 graphics card during a troubleshooting session. The presence of the insect in a controlled production environment is puzzling, but its removal and the replacement of a minor component restored the card's functionality.