A historical viral infection gave some insects genes that allow them to parasitise their caterpillar hosts, a new study finds.
Many species of wasps lay their eggs inside caterpillars. To make this possible, the wasps’ have a secret weapon in the form of a dose of virus-like particles that are injected along with the eggs.
Not only do these disable the caterpillars’ immune system to stop it attacking the eggs, they also cause paralysis and keep the host from pupating – turning the caterpillar into an eternally youthful larder and nursery for the wasp grubs. Continue reading
The women inhalate less and fewer than men, and that’s a difference that transcends the forms and makes them have lower levels of carbon monoxyde (CO) than men.