Scientists have solved a mystery surrounding destructive beetles attacking blueberry bushes in North Carolina, identifying a species whose massive larvae can grow up to five inches long and destroy plant roots. Although farmers have reported damage for more than a decade, the insects responsible remained unidentified until researchers used DNA analysis to uncover the culprit.
Five-inch-long beetle larvae are quietly destroying blueberry roots
Source: Science Daily
Original reporting
Science Daily: read the full reportRelated stories

NPR Health
Trump's global health strategy is emerging. What will the Democratic Congress say?
The Trump Administration has ushered in a fundamental shift in the U.S. approach to global health aid. How will the newly elected Democratic Congress weigh in?

BBC Science2 outlets
How climate change worsens heatwaves, droughts, wildfires and floods
Rising global temperatures mean extreme weather events are becoming more common and more intense.

BBC Science3 outlets
A really simple guide to climate change
Human activities are causing the world to heat up, posing serious threats to people and nature.

BBC Science2 outlets
What is the Paris Agreement and why does 1.5C matter?
The 2015 pact is at the heart of the international commitment to tackle rising global temperatures.

BBC Science2 outlets
What is net zero and is the UK on track to achieve it?
Reaching net zero carbon emissions worldwide is essential to limit global warming, UN scientists say.

BBC Science
US rockets firm eyes up mothballed Highland spaceport
Colorado-based Leap is looking at the spaceport near Tongue as its first launch site outside of the US.