Using Parasitic Wasps to Control an Even Worse Bug



Humans have a long history of importing invasive species to places they shouldn't be, and then importing another species to eat them, after which the predatory species becomes an invasive pest. It's like that old children's rhyme that begins, "There was an old woman who swallowed a fly..." Tom Scott shows us how the Oregon Department of Agriculture is raising samurai wasps to help control the invasive brown marmorated stink bug. Is this really a good idea? Scientists struggled with the decision for so long that the wasps made their way to the US without being invited anyway, so they decided to just go with it. Will the parasitic wasps reduce the stink bugs? Will they run out of stink bugs and start eating beneficial insects? Will we have to come up with another predator to add to the chain? Only time will tell.

Despite the YouTube title, these wasps are not available to the general public just for asking.


Comments (0)

While this is a fun story, there is the concept of a pull-string. Whenever a section of conduit (not a pipe) is installed, a pull-string is run through it. That way the wires can be easily drawn through the entire length.

And what always gets installed along with the wires? Yes, you are right, another pull-string.
Abusive comment hidden. (Show it anyway.)
  1 reply
We had ferrets as kids. Takes a bit more effort to raise them than a dog or cat. They have extra glands that make them smell funny all the time. Very feisty too.
Abusive comment hidden. (Show it anyway.)
Login to comment.
Email This Post to a Friend
"Using Parasitic Wasps to Control an Even Worse Bug"

Separate multiple emails with a comma. Limit 5.

 

Success! Your email has been sent!

close window
X

This website uses cookies.

This website uses cookies to improve user experience. By using this website you consent to all cookies in accordance with our Privacy Policy.

I agree
 
Learn More