Is a diet of Planococcus citri nymphs and adults suitable for Chrysoperla externa for use in biological control?

ABSTRACT Several studies have shown that the survival and reproduction of lacewings varies depending on the type of prey they consumed, especially during the first instar. In this study, we evaluated the effect of a diet consisting of Ephestia kuehniella (EK) and/or Planococcus-citri (PC) eggs offered to first instar Chrysoperla externa on subsequent development and survival. Larvae supplied only with P. citri (PC) nymphs had extended immature development, low survival, adults with lower weight and longevity, low fecundity and egg viability, and lower net reproduction rate (R0). Larvae submitted to the treatment EK+PC responded positively to the diet, showing results similar to those obtained in the control-EK treatment. Therefore, this mealybug supports suitable development and reproduction of C. externa when it is provided to second instar larvae after they fed on E. kuehniella eggs as first instars. As far as we know, this is the first report that demonstrates the effect of natural prey and alternatives on different larval stages of lacewings. This information is valuable in developing protocols for use of C. externaas a pest control agent.

DISEASES OF MOTH BEAN [VIGNA ACONITIFOLIA (JACQ.) MARECHAL]

Pulses are obtained from leguminous plants that have many bioactive components and good nutritional value, being rich in protein, vitamins, and abundant macro- and micronutrients and thus contribute to global food security. Moth bean is compatible with the climatic conditions of Rajasthan because it is a drought-resistant crop though it is affected by many pathogenic microorganisms as fungi, bacteria, and viruses. Infection of these microorganisms causes damage to plants which results in loss of productivity. In the current context, a review on fungal, bacterial, and viral diseases of moth bean has been dealt with. The major diseases of moth bean reported are leaf blight, leaf spots, seedling stem and root rot, pod rot, web blight, common bacterial blight, and mung bean yellow mosaic virus (MYMV) causing yield loss

Analysis of Quality Changes of Platycladi Semen Before and After Deterioration Based on HS-SPME/GC-MS and Electronic Sensory Technology / 中国实验方剂学杂志

ObjectiveTo analyze the quality changes of Platycladi Semen before and after the deterioration of moth-eaten and rancidity during storage. MethodFour types samples of Platycladi Semen， including normal， moth-eaten， oxidative rancidity and hydrolytic rancidity， were determined for volatile components， odor， and taste based on headspace solid phase microextraction/gas chromatography-mass spectrometry （HS-SPME/GC-MS） and electronic sensory techniques such as electronic nose and electronic tongue. Volatile components were identified by searching the database and manual comparison， the odor and taste were determined by the response values of the electronic nose and electronic tongue sensors， and the difference between samples before and after deterioration was studied by multivariate statistical analysis. ResultA total of 85 compounds were identified in Platycladi Semen samples. Compared with the normal samples， the number of volatile compounds in samples after hydrolytic rancidity decreased by 5， the number of volatile compounds in samples after moth-eaten and oxidative rancidity increased by 1 and 21， respectively. Aldehydes and acids accounted for majority of types. Among them， the contents of N-hexanoic acid， hexanal and propionic acid in the samples of oxidative rancidity reached 11.49%， 10.21% and 7.52%， which became the key indicators of rancidity. There was significant variance among the odor components corresponding to W1W， W2W and W1S sensors by electronic nose analysis. It was indicated that the value of sourness in deteriorated samples generally increased by mean of electronic tongue analysis. Compared with normal samples， the moth-eaten samples had changed slightly and rancidity samples had changed significantly especially oxidative rancidity samples of volatile components， odor and taste by multivariate statistical analysis. ConclusionIn terms of Platycladi Semen， the oxidative rancidity caused by nature storage for 12 months has the greatest impact on the quality. Therefore， it should be mainly to prevent oxidative rancidity to ensure the quality of Platycladi Semen.

Dual effects of entomopathogenic fungi on control of the pest Lobesia botrana and the pathogenic fungus Eutypella microtheca on grapevine

BACKGROUND: Entomopathogenic fungi (EPF) are the natural enemies of insect pests. Nevertheless, research on the use of EPF for simultaneous prevention of pest and disease agents on the same crop is limited. In this study, we explored the potential dual effects of three strains of the EPF Metarhizium anisopliae on the control of detrimental agents of Vitis vinifera L., including different developmental stages (larvae, pupae, and adult) of the insect pest Lobesia botrana and the phytopathogenic fungus Eutypella microtheca. METHODS: Laboratory pathogenicity trials were performed to examine the effects of the three M. anisopliae strains on the mortality rate of L. botrana. In addition, field trials were conducted to assess the biocontrol potential of one selected M. anisopliae strain on the larval stage of L. botrana. Moreover, inhibitory effects of the three EPF strains on E. microtheca growth were examined in vitro. RESULTS: All the M. anisopliae strains were highly effective, killing all stages of L. botrana as well as inhibiting the growth of E. microtheca. The in vitro mortality of larvae treated with the strains was over 75%, whereas that of treated pupae and adults was over 85%. The three EPF strains showed similar efficacy against larvae and adult stages; never-theless, pupal mortality was observed to be strain dependent. Mortality of L. botrana larvae ranged from 64 to 91% at field conditions. Inhibition of E. microtheca growth reached 50% in comparison to the control. CONCLUSIONS: Our study showed that M. anisopliae strains were highly effective in ensuring control of two different detrimental agents of V. vinifera L., providing new evidence to support the dual effects of entomopathogenic fungi.

Spatio-temporal variation of Mocis latipes (Guenée, 1852) (Lepidoptera: Erebidae) populations in Brazil according to meteorological factors / Variações espaço-temporais das popupações de Mocis latipes (Guenée, 1852) (Lepidoptera: Erebidae) no Brasil de acordo com fatores meteorológicos

Abstract: Mocis latipes (Guenée, 1852) (Lepidoptera: Erebidae) has been recognized as a major owlet caterpillar associated to the herbivory of gramineaceous plants across the American continent. During outbreaks, the caterpillars are capable of completely consuming preferred hosts (grasses) and, when these hosts are destroyed, they can move to adjacent non-grass plants and cause similar damage. Meteorological variable such as temperature and humidity are described as factors that affect the development and abundance of M. latipes. This paper aimed to describe and compare the spatial and temporal distribution of M. latipes in different locations in Brazil and to evaluate the influence of meteorological variables on the temporal range. A total of 12 locations were evaluated, in each collection point light traps were installed near cultivated areas. In order to understand the influence of meteorological variables on the abundance of M. latipes, the data were analyzed using a Generalized Linear Model according to Poisson regression. A linear regression was also used to verify the relation between the abundance and the latitude. A total of 1,985 moths were collected. The highest collections were in Amazon and Cerrado biomes. Results show that abundance was inversely related to increasing latitude and Poisson regression analysis indicated that the main meteorological variables were significantly related to abundance at each site. This study shows that due to the high preference for gramineas and the high temperature requirements (30°C), M. latipes is an important species in hot regions and regions with hight humidity. Furthurmore, even in higher latitudes, in subtropical areas, during summer months, populations can Rapidly growth being able to cause economic damages.

Resumo: Mocis latipes (Guenée, 1852) (Lepidoptera: Erebidae) tem sido reconhecida como uma das principais espécies consumidoras de gramíneas em todo o continente americano. Durante os surtos, as lagartas são capazes de consumir completamente os hospedeiros preferenciais (gramíneas) e, quando os hospedeiros preferenciais são destruídos, podem mover-se para plantas adjacentes não gramíneas e causar danos semelhantes. Variáveis meteorológicas, como temperatura e umidade, são conhecidas por afetar o desenvolvimento e a abundância de suas populações. Este trabalho teve como objetivo descrever e comparar a distribuição espaço-temporal de M. latipes em diferentes localidades do Brasil e avaliar a influência de variáveis meteorológicas sobre suas variações temporais. Foram avaliados 12 locais, em cada ponto de coleta foram instaladas armadilhas luminosas próximas às áreas de cultivo. Para entender a influência das variáveis meteorológicas na abundância de M. latipes, os dados foram analisados pelo Modelo Linear Generalizado, empregando a regressão de Poisson. Uma regressão linear também foi utilizada para verificar a relação entre a abundância e a latitude. Um total de 1.985 mariposas foram coletadas. Os maiores números de indivíduos foram coletados nos biomas Amazônia e Cerrado. Os resultados mostram que a abundância de mariposas está inversamente relacionada ao aumento da latitude. A análise de regressão de Poisson indicou que as principais variáveis meteorológicas foram significativamente relacionadas à abundância em cada local. Este estudo mostra que devido à preferência por gramíneas em estado vegetativo e às altas exigências de temperatura (30°C), M. latipes é uma espécie importante em regiões quentes, especialmente nas épocas de maior umidade. Além disso, mesmo em latitudes elevadas, durante os meses de verão, as populações podem aumentar rapidamente, podendo causar danos econômicos.

Biology and External Morphology of the Immature Stages of Dirphia moderata Bouvier (Lepidoptera: Saturniidae: Hemileucinae) in Anacardium occidentale L / Biologia e Morfologia Externa dos Estágios Imaturos de Dirphia moderata Bouvier (Lepidoptera: Saturniidae: Hemileucinae) em Anacardium occidentale L

Abstract The genus Dirphia Hübner, [1819] presents Neotropical distribution. This genus, besides causing accidents of interest in public health, is a potential defoliator pest of cultivated plants, among them the cashew tree (Anacardium occidentale L.), a crop of great economic importance. This study describes the biology, external morphology of the immature stages of Dirphia moderata Bouvier, 1929 including the first instar larva chaetotaxy. The egg stage had an average duration of 15 days, larval stage 45 days and pupa 60 days, totaling 120 days in average temperature of 28.8 °C and 59.5% relative humidity. Six instars were confirmed by the Dyar rule, with a growth rate of cephalic capsule K = 1.4 times per ínstar. The results found in the first ínstar chaetotaxy follow the general pattern known for Hemileucinae.

Resumo O gênero Dirphia Hübner, [1819] apresenta distribuição Neotropical. Esse gênero, além de causar acidentes de interesse na saúde pública, é uma potencial praga desfolhadora de plantas cultivadas, entre elas o cajueiro (Anacardium occidentale L.), cultura de grande importância econômica. Esse estudo descreve a biologia e morfologia externa dos estágios imaturos de Dirphia moderata Bouvier, 1929 incluindo a quetotaxia da larva de primeiro instar. O estágio de ovo teve duração média de 15 dias, estágio larval de 45 dias e pupa de 60 dias, totalizando 120 dias em temperatura média de 28,8 °C e 59,5% de umidade relativa. Seis ínstares foram confirmados pela regra de Dyar, com razão de crescimento da cápsula cefálica K = 1,4 vezes a cada ínstar. Os resultados encontrados na quetotaxia do primeiro instar segue o padrão geral conhecido para Hemileucinae.

Parámetros poblacionales de Tuta absoluta (Lepidoptera: Gelechiidae) y pérdidas asociadas en tomate de invernadero

Introducción: El minador de hojas de tomate, Tuta absoluta (Meyrick), la plaga más peligrosa para la producción de tomate, Solanum lycopersicum L., en todo el mundo; puede causar pérdidas totales y es difícil de controlar. Por lo tanto, comprender la dinámica de sus poblaciones en el cultivo es una prioridad para mitigar el daño. Objetivo: Aquí, los parámetros de la población de T. absoluta fueron evaluados en tomate var. Sonero en invernadero, en tres sistemas de gestión (comercial, población máxima y control total). Métodos: Durante 25 semanas en La Unión, Antioquia, Colombia, se aplicaron modelos matemáticos para describir las poblaciones de larvas y adultos (machos) en el tiempo, en relación con los parámetros de producción y las pérdidas asociadas. Resultados: La tasa de crecimiento intrínseco fue de 0.4466 larvas por semana. Los modelos gaussianos y exponenciales describieron mejor a la población en el tiempo. Las pérdidas se asociaron con el peso y la cantidad de frutos comercializables, y también con el peso total de producción y la cantidad de racimos y frutos totales. Conclusión: Las larvas de T. absoluta tienen un crecimiento exponencial en invernadero ventilado, con una tasa de crecimiento intrínseca menor que la calculada por las tablas de vida en el laboratorio.

Introduction: The tomato leafminer, Tuta absoluta (Meyrick), the most threatening pest for tomato, Solanum lycopersicum L., production worldwide, may cause total losses, and is difficult to control. Thus, understanding its populations dynamic in the crop is a priority to mitigate damage. Objective: Herein, population parameters of T. absoluta were evaluated in tomato var. Sonero in the greenhouse, in three management systems (commercial, maximum population and total control). Methods: During 25 weeks in La Union, Antioquia, Colombia, mathematical models were applied to describe the populations of larvae and adults (males) in time, as related to production parameters and associated losses. Results: The intrinsic growth rate was 0.447 larvae per week. The Gaussian and exponential models described best the population over time. The losses were associated with weight and number of marketable fruits, and with total production weight, and number of clusters and total fruits. Conclusion: T. absoluta larvae have growth exponentially in a ventilated greenhouse, with a smaller intrinsic growth rate than that calculated by life tables in the laboratory.

Exploración preliminar del potencial de adopción de un paquete biotecnológico para el control de T. solanivora por parte de productores de papa de la región Cundiboyacense de Colombia / Preliminary exploration of the potential for adoption of a biotechnology package for the control of T. solanivora by potato producers in the Cundiboyacense region of Colombia

RESUMEN La papa es afectada por el ataque de Tecia solanivora que causa pérdidas hasta del 80%. Variedades genéticamente modificadas y biocontroladores, pueden ser usados para su manejo. Este estudio pretendió determinó el potencial socioeconómico de pequeños productores de papa de la región Cundiboyacense para la adopción de estas estrategias biotecnológicas, mediante encuestas cara a cara y el uso de metodologías como presupuestos parciales y modelo de regresión logística. Los resultados revelan que el tipo de semilla define la adopción, existiendo un interés por tecnologías que permitan el control de la plaga, por lo cual estarían dispuestos a pagar hasta un 30% más del valor actual por esta. La metodología de presupuestos parciales evidenció un efecto económico positivo en los diferentes escenarios planteados. Se concluyó que los pequeños productores de papa de los municipios analizados cuentan con un alto potencial socioeconómico para la adopción del paquete biotecnológico.

ABSTRACT The potato is affected by the attack of Tecia solanivora that causes losses of up to 80%. Genetically modified varieties and biocontrol agents, can be used for its control. This study aimed to determine the socioeconomic potential of small potato producers in the Cundiboyacense region for the adoption of these biotechnological strategies, through face-to-face surveys and the use of methodologies such as partial budgets and logistic regression model. The results reveal that the type of seed defines adoption, there being an interest in technologies that allow pest control, so they would be willing to pay up to 30% more of the current value for this. The methodology of partial budgets showed a positive economic effect in the different scenarios proposed. It was concluded that small potato producers in the municipalities analyzed have a high socioeconomic potential for the adoption of the biotechnology package.

Megaselia Rondani (Diptera: Phoridae) larvae as a Sphingidae (Lepidoptera) parasitoid / Larvas de Megaselia Rondani (Diptera: Phoridae) como parasitoide de Sphingidae (Lepidoptera)

Detritivoria and parasitism are dietary habits already registered for the phorids of the genus Megaselia Rondani. The results of this study confirm the parasitic habit of Megaselia larvae. This is the first Pachylia ficus (Linnaeus, 1758) (Lepidoptera: Sphingidae) adult record as a host of Megaselia scalaris (Loew, 1866) and Megaselia sp. (Diptera: Phoridae).(AU)

Detritivoria e parasitismo são hábitos alimentares já registrados para os forídeos do gênero Megaselia Rondani. Os resultados do presente estudo confirmam o hábito parasitário das larvas de Megaselia. Este é o primeiro registro de adulto de Pachylia ficus (Linnaeus, 1758) (Lepidoptera: Sphingidae) como hospedeiro de Megaselia scalaris (Loew, 1866) e Megaselia sp. (Diptera: Phoridae).(AU)

Potential of endophytic fungi as biocontrol agents of Duponchelia fovealis (Zeller) (Lepidoptera: Crambidae) / Fungos endofíticos para o biocontrole de Duponchelia fovealis (Zeller) (Lepidoptera: Crambidae)

Abstract This study reports the first assessment of endophytic fungi isolated from strawberry leaves and selection of isolates for the control of Duponchelia fovealis, a new pest of strawberries. A total of 400 strawberry leaves of the cultivar 'Albion' were collected in four commercial farms. Leaves were disinfected, cut in fragments, and placed on Petri dishes containing potato dextrose agar media with tetracycline and incubated for 30 days. Following this time, 517 fungal colonies were isolated, and thirteen genera were identified: Cladosporium, Aspergillus, Nigrospora, Fusarium, Trichoderma, Chaetomium, Alternaria, Paecilomyces, Penicillium, Ulocladium, Bipolaris, Diaporthe, and Phoma. Eight isolates belonging to the genera Aspergillus, Diaporthe, Paecilomyces, and Cladosporium were selected for pathogenicity bioassays against third instar larvae of D. fovealis. Isolates of Paecilomyces induced the highest mortality rates.

Resumo Este trabalho apresenta a primeira contribuição no isolamento de fungos endofíticos de folhas de morangueiro e na seleção de isolados para controle de Duponchelia fovealis, uma nova praga do morangueiro. Foram coletadas 400 folhas da cultivar 'Albion' em quatro lavouras comerciais de morangueiro. As folhas foram desinfetadas, cortadas em fragmentos e depositadas em placas de Petri contendo Ágar Batata Dextrose como meio, em conjunto com tetraciclina e incubados durante 30 dias. Um total de 517 colônias fúngicas e treze gêneros foram isolados: Cladosporium, Aspergillus, Nigrospora, Fusarium, Trichoderma, Chaetomium, Alternaria, Paecilomyces, Penicillium, Ulocladium, Bipolaris, Diaporthe e Phoma. Oito isolados pertencentes aos gêneros Aspergillus, Diaporthe, Paecilomyces e Cladosporium foram selecionados para os bioensaios de virulência contra larvas de 3º instar de D. fovealis. Isolados de Paecilomyces causaram as maiores taxas de mortalidade.

Taxonomic Studies on the Tribe- Archipini (Lepidoptera: Tortricidae) from Kashmir Himalaya, India

Aims: Taxonomy refers to assignment of name to an organism which provides the only key to all the information available about that species and its relatives. Careful and accurate identification and classification of organisms are of vital importance so that the extents of their harmful and beneficial properties are established. Since some of the members of tribe Archipini are pests of various crops, so this study was conducted with the aim to identify, describe, name and classify these species and also prepare illustrated diagnostic keys for their quick and authentic identification and efficient management. Study Design: Taxonomy of tribe Archipini. Place and Duration of Study: The collection of these tortricid moth specimens was done in districts Anantnag, Ganderbal, Kupwara, Kargil and Leh of J&K State during 2010-2012, while as their processing was performed during 2014 in Biosystematics Laboratory, Division of Entomology, Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences & Technology of Kashmir, Shalimar, Srinagar- 190 025. Methodology: For this study, intensive and extensive collection-cum-survey tours were conducted to capture tortricid moth species from far-flung localities of different areas of Kashmir and Ladakh from March 2010 to November 2012. Since these moths being nocturnal in behaviour, their collection was done during night with the help of portable bucket type light traps fitted with 125 W mercury vapour lamp and mercury vapour lamp hung along a white cloth sheet secured to a wall or directly over a plain white wall to protect wings and scales from damage due to overcrowding during trapping in bucket of light trap. These specimens after collection from field were processed in laboratory. For preparation of permanent slides for wing venation, method proposed by Common (1970) and advocated by Zimmerman (1978) was followed, while as for studying male and female genitalia, the method suggested by Robinson (1976) was followed with slight modification. Results: Twelve Tortricid moth species belonging to six genera viz., Choristoneura Lederer, Archips Hubner, Pandemis Hubner, Clepsis Guenee, Neocalyptis Diakonoff and Homona Walker of tribe Archipini and sub-family Tortricinae were collected from Kashmir Himalaya and dealt with taxonomically. Overall, two species viz., Choristoneura pseudofumiferana and Clepsis kupwari are being reported as new to science. Besides, giving an illustrated account of new species, the taxonomic account of already known species has also been added to improve their diagnosis. Further, key to the presently examined species of all genera has been prepared on the basis of characters such as labial palpi, antennae, costal fold, anal fold, wing venation and male and female genitalic characteristics. Conclusion: In the Kashmir and Ladakh Himalayan region (North-west) of J & K state of India twelve species belonging to six genera viz., Choristoneura Lederer, Archips Hubner, Pandemis Hubner, Clepsis Guenee, Neocalyptis Diakonoff and Homona Walker of tribe Archipini have been collected during present investigation, out of which two species viz., Choristoneura pseudofumiferana and Clepsis kupwari are being reported as new to science. Further the reporting of two new species increased the number of species under genus Choristoneura Lederer from four to five and genus Clepsis Guenee from two to three in Kashmir zone of Jammu & Kashmir.

Selection of parasitoids of the genus Trichogramma (Hymenoptera: Trichogrammatidae) and parasitism at different eggs ages of Duponchelia fovealis (Lepidoptera: Crambidae) / Seleção de parasitoides do gênero Trichogramma (Hymenoptera: Trichogrammatidae) e parasitismo em ovos de diferentes idades de Duponchelia fovealis (Lepidoptera: Crambidae)

The European pepper moth Duponchelia fovealis (Zeller, 1847) (Lepidoptera: Crambidae), despite being among the principal pests of strawberries in Brazil. However, biological control methods are rarely documented for this pest. In the current study, the goal was to select promising Trichogramma strains to enable the control of D. fovealis and to determine the acceptance of different ages of host eggs by the parasitoid. In the first bioassay, evaluations were done on the biological parameters of five strains of Trichogramma pretiosum Riley and one of Trichogramma galloi Zucchi (Hymenoptera: Trichogrammatidae). The best performance came from the strains, Tp18 (T. pretiosum) and Tg (T. galloi), showing parasitism and viability higher than 50 and 90%, respectively. Another bioassay revealed the acceptance of both these species (Tp18 and Tg) for different ages of D. fovealis eggs. All host ages were accepted by T. pretiosum (Tp18) and T. galloi, with a preference for younger eggs (65% parasitism). Adult emergence, number of individuals per egg and sex ratio revealed no significant differences with respect to the host age. The current study provides pertinent data on the selection and performance of Trichogramma species on D. fovealis eggs of different ages.

A traça do morangueiro Duponchelia fovealis (Zeller, 1847) (Lepidoptera: Crambidae) é uma das principais pragas da cultura do morango no Brasil. Entretanto, métodos de controle biológico desta praga são raramente documentados. Este trabalho teve como objetivo selecionar linhagens de Trichogramma e avaliar o parasitismo de diferentes idades de ovos de D. fovealis. Foram avaliados os parâmetros biológicos de cinco linhagens de Trichogramma pretiosum Riley e uma de Trichogramma galloi Zucchi (Hymenoptera: Trichogrammatidae). As espécies/linhagens com melhor desempenho foram Tp18 (T. pretiosum) e Tg (T. galloi), com taxas de parasitismo e viabilidade acima de 50 e 90%, respectivamente. Em seguida, foi avaliada a suscetibilidade das duas espécies (Tp18 e Tg) em diferentes idades de ovos de D. fovealis. Todas as idades do ovo hospedeiro avaliadas foram aceitas pelos dois parasitoides e houve uma maior tendência a parasitar ovos mais jovens. Em todas as idades do hospedeiro houve emergência de parasitoides adultos, e sem diferença significativa entre idades. As variáveis número de indivíduos por ovo e razão sexual não apresentaram diferença significativa quanto à idade do hospedeiro. O atual estudo fornece informações sobre a seleção e o desempenho de espécies de Trichogramma em diferentes idades de ovos de D. fovealis.

Susceptibility of Grapholita molesta to insecticides in Brazil / Suscetibilidade de Grapholita molesta a inseticidas no Brasil

ABSTRACT: The use of insecticides has been the main tool for Grapholita molesta (Busck) control in Brazil, which is considered one of the most important pests in apple and peach orchards. In order to implement an Insect Resistance Management (IRM) program, studies were conducted to characterize the baseline susceptibility of G. molesta to major insecticides for its control. Then, we conducted an insecticide susceptibility monitoring in thirteen field-collected populations of the pest. Neonates (0-24h old) were exposed to insecticides applied on surface of artificial diet. A high susceptibility was verified when neonates of the Laboratory population of G. molesta were exposed to insecticides with LC50 values (µg a.i./cm2) of 0.1 (spinetoram), 1.0 (metaflumizone), 1.2 (chlorantraniliprole), 4.8 (novaluron), 5.1 (tebufenozide), 11.3 (phosmet) and 222.5 (pyriproxyfen). Based on the LC99 (µg a.i./cm2), the diagnostic concentrations of 0.6 (spinetoram), 5.5 (metaflumizone), 5.6 (chlorantraniliprole), 19.6 (tebufenozide), 37.4 (phosmet), 37.8 (novaluron) and 2011 pyriproxyfen) caused high mortality (>95%) of neonates from field populations. These diagnostic concentrations will be used in resistance monitoring programs of G. molesta in Brazil.

RESUMO: O uso de inseticidas tem sido a principal ferramenta para o controle da Grapholita molesta (Busck) no Brasil, considerada uma das mais importantes pragas em pomares de macieira e pessegueiro. Para implementar um programa de Manejo de Resistência a Insetos (MRI), estudos foram conduzidos para estabelecer uma linha básica de suscetibilidade de G. molesta a inseticidas utilizados para o seu controle. Posteriormente, foi realizado o monitoramento da suscetibilidade a inseticidas em treze populações da praga provenientes do campo. Lagartas (0-24 horas de idade) foram expostas a inseticidas aplicados na superfície da dieta artificial. Verificou-se alta suscetibilidade de lagartas neonatas de G. molesta (população de laboratório) quando foram expostas aos inseticidas, com valores de CL50 (µg i.a./cm2) de 0,1 (espinetoram), 1,0 (metoxifenozida), 1,2 (clorantraniliprole), 4,8 (novaluron), 5,1 (tebufenozida), 11,3 (fosmete) e 222,5 (piriproxifem). Com base na CL99 (µg i.a./cm2), as concentrações diagnósticas de 0,6 (espinetoram), 5,5 (metaflumizona), 5,6 (clorantraniliprole), 19,6 (tebufenozida), 37,4 (fosmete), 37,8 (novaluron) e 2.011 (piriproxifem) ocasionaram alta mortalidade (> 95%) de neonatas provenientes de populações de campo. Essas concentrações diagnósticas poderão ser utilizadas em programas de monitoramento da resistência de G. molesta no Brasil.

Two new species of Trichomyia Haliday 1839 (Diptera, Psychodidae, Trichomyiinae) from the Pantanal of Mato Grosso, Brazil

Abstract Two new species in the Trichomyiinae (Psychodidae), Trichomyia pantanensis sp. nov. and Trichomyia lamasi sp. nov., are described and illustrated. New records are given for the two additional species Trichomyia spinicauda Araújo & Bravo, 2016 and Trichomyia hispida Araújo & Bravo, 2016. These four species comprise the first records of the genus in the Pantanal region.

Sequencing and de novo assembly of the Asian gypsy moth transcriptome using the Illumina platform

Abstract The Asian gypsy moth (Lymantria dispar) is a serious pest of forest and shade trees in many Asian and some European countries. However, there have been few studies of L. dispar genetic information and comprehensive genetic analyses of this species are needed in order to understand its genetic and metabolic sensitivities, such as the molting mechanism during larval development. In this study, high-throughput sequencing technology was used to sequence the transcriptome of the Asian subspecies of the gyspy moth, after which a comprehensive analysis of chitin metabolism was undertaken. We generated 37,750,380 high-quality reads and assembled them into contigs. A total of 37,098 unigenes were identified, of which 15,901 were annotated in the NCBI non-redundant protein database and 9,613 were annotated in the Swiss-Prot database. We mapped 4,329 unigenes onto 317 pathways using the Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes Pathway database. Chitin metabolism unigenes were found in the transcriptome and the data indicated that a variety of enzymes was involved in chitin catabolic and biosynthetic pathways.

Potential of endophytic fungi as biocontrol agents of Duponchelia fovealis (Zeller) (Lepidoptera:Crambidae)

Abstract This study reports the first assessment of endophytic fungi isolated from strawberry leaves and selection of isolates for the control of Duponchelia fovealis, a new pest of strawberries. A total of 400 strawberry leaves of the cultivar Albion were collected in four commercial farms. Leaves were disinfected, cut in fragments, and placed on Petri dishes containing potato dextrose agar media with tetracycline and incubated for 30 days. Following this time, 517 fungal colonies were isolated, and thirteen genera were identified: Cladosporium, Aspergillus, Nigrospora, Fusarium, Trichoderma, Chaetomium, Alternaria, Paecilomyces, Penicillium, Ulocladium, Bipolaris, Diaporthe, and Phoma. Eight isolates belonging to the genera Aspergillus, Diaporthe, Paecilomyces, and Cladosporium were selected for pathogenicity bioassays against third instar larvae of D. fovealis. Isolates of Paecilomyces induced the highest mortality rates.

Resumo Este trabalho apresenta a primeira contribuição no isolamento de fungos endofíticos de folhas de morangueiro e na seleção de isolados para controle de Duponchelia fovealis, uma nova praga do morangueiro. Foram coletadas 400 folhas da cultivar 'Albion' em quatro lavouras comerciais de morangueiro. As folhas foram desinfetadas, cortadas em fragmentos e depositadas em placas de Petri contendo Ágar Batata Dextrose como meio, em conjunto com tetraciclina e incubados durante 30 dias. Um total de 517 colônias fúngicas e treze gêneros foram isolados: Cladosporium, Aspergillus, Nigrospora, Fusarium, Trichoderma, Chaetomium, Alternaria, Paecilomyces, Penicillium, Ulocladium, Bipolaris, Diaporthe e Phoma. Oito isolados pertencentes aos gêneros Aspergillus, Diaporthe, Paecilomyces e Cladosporium foram selecionados para os bioensaios de virulência contra larvas de 3º instar de D. fovealis. Isolados de Paecilomyces causaram as maiores taxas de mortalidade.

Biology and External Morphology of the Immature Stages of Dirphia moderata Bouvier (Lepidoptera: Saturniidae: Hemileucinae) in Anacardium occidentale L

Abstract The genus Dirphia Hübner, [1819] presents Neotropical distribution. This genus, besides causing accidents of interest in public health, is a potential defoliator pest of cultivated plants, among them the cashew tree (Anacardium occidentale L.), a crop of great economic importance. This study describes the biology, external morphology of the immature stages of Dirphia moderata Bouvier, 1929 including the first instar larva chaetotaxy. The egg stage had an average duration of 15 days, larval stage 45 days and pupa 60 days, totaling 120 days in average temperature of 28.8 °C and 59.5% relative humidity. Six instars were confirmed by the Dyar rule, with a growth rate of cephalic capsule K = 1.4 times per ínstar. The results found in the first ínstar chaetotaxy follow the general pattern known for Hemileucinae.

Resumo O gênero Dirphia Hübner, [1819] apresenta distribuição Neotropical. Esse gênero, além de causar acidentes de interesse na saúde pública, é uma potencial praga desfolhadora de plantas cultivadas, entre elas o cajueiro (Anacardium occidentale L.), cultura de grande importância econômica. Esse estudo descreve a biologia e morfologia externa dos estágios imaturos de Dirphia moderata Bouvier, 1929 incluindo a quetotaxia da larva de primeiro instar. O estágio de ovo teve duração média de 15 dias, estágio larval de 45 dias e pupa de 60 dias, totalizando 120 dias em temperatura média de 28,8 °C e 59,5% de umidade relativa. Seis ínstares foram confirmados pela regra de Dyar, com razão de crescimento da cápsula cefálica K = 1,4 vezes a cada ínstar. Os resultados encontrados na quetotaxia do primeiro instar segue o padrão geral conhecido para Hemileucinae.

Bioactivity of microencapsulated soursop seeds extract on Plutella xylostella / Bioatividade de extrato microencapsulado de sementes de graviola sobre Plutella xylostella

ABSTRACT: The aim of this study was to evaluate the bioactivity of microencapsulated extract from the soursop seeds, Annona muricata L. (Annonaceae), on diamondback moth, Plutella xylostela L. (Lepidoptera: Plutellidae). Microencapsulation was performed in a Mini Spray Dryer model B-290 using 50mL of ethanolic and hexanic extracts plus 150mL of ethanol and 150mL of ultrapure water, mixed with aerosil (first polymer) or arabic gum (second polymer). It was possible to microencapsulate the ethanolic extract of soursop seeds only by using the polymer arabic gum at 20%. The microencapsulated extract caused significant acute toxicity (LC50=258mg L-1) and chronic effects, especially reduction of larval viability and increased larval stage. We concluded that the microencapsulation of the ethanolic extract of soursop seeds can be a viable alternative for controlling diamondback moth with possible gains for the environment.

RESUMO: O objetivo deste estudo foi avaliar a bioatividade do extrato microencapsulado das sementes de graviola, Annona muricata L. (Annonaceae), sobre a traça-das-crucíferas, Plutella xylostella L. (Lepidoptera: Plutellidae). A microencapsulação foi realizada em um Mini Spray Dryer modelo B-290 utilizando-se 50mL dos extratos etanólico e hexânico mais 150mL de álcool etílico e 150mL de água ultrapurificada, misturado com aerosil (primeiro polímero) ou com goma arábica (segundo polímero). Só foi possível microencapsular o extrato etanólico de sementes de graviola com a utilização do polímero goma arábica a 20%. O extrato microencapsulado causou significativa toxicidade aguda (CL50=258mg L-1) e efeitos crônicos, especialmente redução da viabilidade larval e aumento da duração do estágio larval. Conclui-se que a microencapsulação do extrato etanólico da semente de graviola pode ser uma alternativa viável no controle da traça com possíveis ganhos para o meio ambiente.

Actividad insecticida y reguladora del crecimiento de extractos de blachnum chillones (blechnaceae) y condolía microphylla cav. (rhamnaceae), sobre larvas de gallería melonada (L.) (lepidoptera: pyralidae) / Insecticidal activity and growth regulatory of blechnum chilense (blechnaceae) and condalia microphylla cav. (rhamnaceae) extracts, on larvae of galleria mellonella (linnaeus) (lepidoptera: pyralidae)

Galleria mellonella (L.) es una de las plagas más importantes para la apicultura, debido a que en su estado larval se alimentan de la cera, polen y miel almacenados en los panales de Apis mellifera (L.). El objetivo del presente estudio fue determinar la actividad insecticida y reguladora del crecimiento de extractos obtenidos a partir de hojas y tallos de Blechnum chilense (Kaulf.) Mett y Condalia microphylla Cav. sobre larvas (L2) de G. mellonella. Los extractos fueron obtenidos con solventes orgánicos de diferente polaridad. Los resultados obtenidos indican que, el extracto de B. chilense obtenido con acetato de etilo y el extracto de C. microphylla obtenido con acetona, tienen efecto insecticida efectivo sobre larvas de G. mellonella y a aplicado en dosis sub-letales afectan negativamente la ganancia de peso larvario. A su vez, el extracto obtenido de B. chilense presentó actividad reguladora del desarrollo larvario de G. mellonella, induciendo el estado de pupa en forma prematura.

Galleria mellonella (L.) is the most detrimental pest to beekeeping, due the larvae feeds on hive of Apis mellifera (L.) consuming the wax, pollen and honey. The aim of this study was to determine the insecticidal activity and growth regulatory activity of extracts obtained from leaves and stems of Blechnum chilense (Kaulf.) Mett and Condalia microphylla Cav. for larvae of G. mellonella. The extracts were obtained with organic solvents of different polarity. The results show that the extract of B. chilense obtained with ethyl acetate, and the extract of C. microphylla obtained with acetone have effective insecticidal activity on larvae of G. mellonella, when applied at sub-lethal doses affect adversely the larval weight gain. In turn, the extract obtained from B. chilense showed regulatory activity on larval development of G. mellonella, inducing pupal stage prematurely.

Arapidly progressing, deadly disease of Actias selene (Indianmoonmoth) larvae associated with a mixed bacterial and baculoviral infection.

The outbreak of an infectious disease in captive-bred Lepidoptera can cause death of all the caterpillars within days. A mixed baculoviral–bacterial infection observed among Actias selene (Hübner 1807), the Indian moon moth (Insecta: Lepidoptera: Saturniidae), larvae was characterized and followed by a photographic documentation of the disease progression. The etiological agents were determined using mass spectrometry and polymerase chain reaction (PCR). It appeared that the disease was caused by a mixed infection of larvae with a baculovirus and Morganella morganii. A molecular phylogenetic analysis of the virus and microbiological description of the pathogenic bacterium are presented.