UF/IFAS
UF/IFAS Entomology and Nematology Department

Category: Recreation

Is it true that there are brown recluse spiders in Florida?


May 20, 2014

That depends on your definition of ‘here.’ No breeding populations of any species of recluse spiders (Loxosceles laeta, Loxosceles reclusa, and Loxosceles rufescens have all been found in the state), has been found in any Florida county ... READ MORE

Category: Agriculture, Forests, Home Landscapes, Home Management, Natural Resources, Pests & Disease, Pests & Disease, Recreation, Work & Life
Tags: Brown Recluse Spider, BugWeek, Dangerous, Entomology, FAQ

I heard that UF was responsible for releasing the lovebug. Is that true?


May 6, 2014

No, it’s not true. Not by a long shot. Not even close. NO! This rumor’s been around for decades and its origins are unknown. But we can tell you a few things to bust this myth: First, it’s clearly contradicted by the historical record: The ... READ MORE

Category: Agriculture, Home Landscapes, Natural Resources, Pests & Disease, Recreation, UF/IFAS, UF/IFAS Extension, Work & Life
Tags: Entomology, FAQ, Insects, Lovebug

What’s the best mosquito repellent to use?


May 6, 2014

Scientific studies have shown the mosquito-repelling effectiveness of the chemical N,N-Diethyl-meta-toluamide, which is better known by the acronym DEET. Although people have reported good results with other options ranging from cosmetics to ... READ MORE

Category: Agriculture, Farm Management, Florida-Friendly Landscaping, Health & Nutrition, Home Landscapes, Natural Resources, Pests & Disease, Pests & Disease, Recreation, Work & Life
Tags: Bug, BugWeek, Dangerous, DEET, Entomology, FAQ, Insects, Mosquito, Repellent