Episode 70: Thrips and Aphid Husbandry

 

Thrips are a prevalent horticultural pest, yet due to their small stature, they operate under our radar and go mostly unseen. Daniel describes the damage they can do to plants, as well as the interesting way these minuscule, bristle-winged creatures fly.

thrips (via eol.org)

Casey introduces us to aphids, another horticultural pest, but one that is more commonly known and experienced. Like thrips, they suck the juices out of plants, and then poop out the excess sugars. Casey explains how ants have learned how to exploit this behavior. It is, as we say, fascinating!

Aphids “farming” ants for their honeydew (via wikimedia commons)

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This episode aired on Radio Boise in July 2019 and featured music by Toy Zoo.

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