Scientists rethink why giant insects once ruled the skies, finding oxygen may not explain their size or disappearance.

Researchers have isolated genetic material from exuviae (discarded exoskeletons) left after insects like cicadas molt. The researchers tested five different methods of amplifying the DNA sample by PCR ...

The Japanese rhinoceros beetle, an insect with a hard exoskeleton. Courtesy of Gettyimages Bank Insects are considered one of the most adaptable biological groups, thriving in a vast range of ...

Quick Take Scientists used a powerful synchrotron X-ray system, robotics, and AI to scan 2,000 ant specimens in just one week ...

Tsukuba, Japan—Some beetles, such as Anomala albopilosa, strongly reflect left circularly polarized light (electromagnetic waves that oscillate leftward relative to the direction of light reception).

Secret Behind Hard Exoskeletons, Spreading Wings Revealed Date: July 13, 2004 Source: Vanderbilt University Summary: A team of biologists has discovered the structure and genetic sequence of the ...

Many insects and crustaceans possess hard, armor-like exoskeletons that, in theory, should weigh the creatures down. But, instead, the exoskeletons are surprisingly light -- even allowing the ...

The American military has been perfecting the art of disguise for more than a hundred years, employing a variety of materials and mimicking natural patterns to make soldiers invisible to enemy eyes.

I love taking selfies with my insect friends. They’re so tiny and look so different from me. But my friend Rich Zack told me that insects and humans have lots in common. He’s an insect scientist at ...

If you liked this story, share it with other people. Supplementing soil with insects’ cast-off outer skin after a molt can help increase plant biomass, the number of flowers, pollinator attraction, ...

A team of biologists has discovered the structure and genetic sequence of the hormone that makes insects develop their hard outer shells and allows them to spread their wings. The findings answer more ...