Latest news with #Chouvenc
Yahoo
24-06-2025
- Science
- Yahoo
Scientists issue stark warning after harmful creatures breed to form hybrid species: 'We have confirmed the presence of hybrid swarms'
Invasive species can wreak havoc on your local ecosystem, but imagine two invasive insects coming to your area and breeding. That's exactly what's happening in Florida. According to News Channel 8, "The Formosan subterranean termites and Asian subterranean termites" are mating in southern areas of the Sunshine State. Associate Professor Thomas Chouvenc from the University of Florida Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences had his suspicions about these two species breeding 10 years ago. He noticed both males and females from each species showing courtship behaviors. A study from the university, published in Proceedings of the Royal Society B, confirmed that these two invasive creatures have bred to form a hybrid species. Chouvenc's team began collecting termite samples "in the Fort Lauderdale area that didn't match the shape or form of either termite species," per News Channel 8. Chouvenc said, "Since then, we have confirmed the presence of hybrid swarms every year since 2021, including in April 2025." The team genetically tested the termites and found that they had genes from both species. The study found that "both termite species are prone to forming massive colonies and, once mature, the winged termites can be sent out to find a mate and establish a new nest as king and queen," per News Channel 8. According to the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services, Formosan subterranean termites can cause more damage than U.S. termites due to their large colonies. Should the government be paying people to hunt invasive species? Definitely Depends on the animal No way Just let people do it for free Click your choice to see results and speak your mind. While termites can cause extensive damage to buildings, Suburban Pest Management noted that they do play a role in helping the ecosystem. These tiny bugs "fertilize the soil," "improve soil quality," and "sequester carbon in the soil." Unfortunately, they also release a large amount of toxic gas, such as methane, which is one of the gases contributing to warming the planet. They also negatively affect agriculture. In general, invasive species have a dangerous impact on native ecology. They outcompete native species for vital resources and can decimate ecosystems. Native plants and animals are crucial for maintaining natural environments and processes, limiting the spread of diseases, and protecting our food supply. Although this particular hybrid invasive species is located in Florida, it could soon spread. Chouvenc told News Channel 8: "This may be a Florida story now, but it likely won't stay just in Florida. Give it time." The hybridization process is believed to have been ongoing for the last 10 years, and scientists cannot stop it. Scientists will continue to study this new species to understand its biology and weaknesses. Then, pest management solutions can be implemented to combat them. Join our free newsletter for good news and useful tips, and don't miss this cool list of easy ways to help yourself while helping the planet.
Yahoo
26-05-2025
- Science
- Yahoo
Invasive hybrid termite species discovered in Florida
FORT LAUDERDALE, Fla. (WFLA) — A new study conducted by the University of Florida Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences has confirmed the presence of hybrid termite colonies in South Florida. Published in the journal Proceedings of the Royal Society B, the study documents how two variations of the destructive and invasive species, the Formosan subterranean termites and Asian subterranean termites, are not only coexisting but are now crossbreeding. According to the findings, both termite species are prone to forming massive colonies and, once mature, the winged termites can be sent out to find a mate and establish a new nest as king and queen. Suspicions about their ability to breed began about 10 years ago when Thomas Chouvenc, associate professor of urban entomology at the UF/IFAS Fort Lauderdale Research and Education Center, said that they observed males and females from both species exhibiting interspecies courtship behaviors. 'This was unexpected, and it raised red flags about the possibility of hybrid populations forming in the field,' said Chouvenc. PHOTOS: Brush fire at Alafia River State Park In 2021, Chouvenc reported his team had begun collecting winged termites in the Fort Lauderdale area that didn't match the shape or form of either termite species, prompting them to ramp up monitoring. 'At first, I could not believe it, as I was hoping to never find it,' said Chouvenc. 'Since then, we have confirmed the presence of hybrid swarms every year since 2021, including in April 2025.' Genetic testing confirmed the new species to be samples of hybrid termites, sharing half of their genes with each of the two species. Fire Chief urges caution after woman pulled from water at Treasure Island Beach With this discovery, scientists warn that the repercussions of a new invasive termite species could extend far beyond Florida, which is a hotspot for the spread of invasive termites via private boats. 'This may be a Florida story now, but it likely won't stay just in Florida. Give it time,' Chauvenc warned. The hybridization process has likely been underway for a decade and is impossible to stop. However, scientists say that understanding the biology of this new termite species, and its weaknesses, could help improve pest management and foster better solutions as time goes on. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
