Depredación, reproducción y desarrollo de la catarina Hippodamia convergens (Coleoptera: Coccinellidae) / Predation, reproduction, and development of the lady beetle Hippodamia convergens (Coleoptera: Coccinellidae)

Introducción: Mantener poblaciones de insectos depredadores en el agroecosistema ofreciéndoles presas y recursos alimenticios provenientes de las plantas es importante para mejorar el control biológico y contribuir con la conservación. Objetivo: Determinar si el consumo de presas y recursos alimenticios florales potencia los atributos biológicos del depredado Hippodamia convergens. Métodos: Las larvas de Hippodamia convergens fueron alimentadas con dos especies de áfidos, mientras que los adultos fueron alimentados con áfidos, espigas de maíz y dos especies de plantas no cultivadas. La presencia de azúcar en el intestino del depredador se comprobó mediante la prueba de antronas frías, y la presencia de polen mediante el método de acetólisis. Los experimentos demográficos se realizaron durante los primeros 40 días después de la emergencia de la hembra bajo condiciones controladas (25 °C ± 0.5; 75 % ± 1.75 HR; L12:D12). Resultados: H. convergens no consumió fructosa de Sorghum halepense, Parthenium hysterophorus o Zea mays, sino únicamente polen. En condiciones controladas (25 °C ± 0.5, 75 % ± 1.75 HR), el tiempo de desarrollo (huevo-adulto) del depredador fue más corto (21.36 días) cuando consumió Rhopalosiphum maidis en lugar de Uroleucon nigrotibium (24.6 días), mientras que la supervivencia (L1- adulto) y la proporción sexual no cambió. La fecundidad promedio fue mayor (55.5 huevos / 40 días) al consumir U. nigrotibium con polen de P. hysterophorus, que solo U. nigrotibium (22.5 huevos / 40 días), o R. maidis con polen de Zea mays (11 huevos / 40 días). La tasa intrínseca de crecimiento natural fue mayor al consumir U. nigrotibium con polen de P. hysterophorus (0.055), que U. nigrotibium (0.034) o R. maidis con polen de Z. mays (0.019). La tasa de depredación (L1-L5) fue mayor al consumir R. maidis (0.65) que U. nigrotibium (0.51). Conclusiones: Las especies de áfidos y su combinación con polen de plantas no cultivadas afectan de manera diferente el tiempo de desarrollo, reproducción y tasa de depredación de H. convergens.

Introduction: Keeping populations of predatory insects in the agroecosystem by offering them prey, as well as food resources from plants, is important for enhancing conservation biological control. Objective: To determine if the consumption of prey and floral food resources enhances the biological attributes of the predator Hippodamia convergens. Methods: We fed the beetle larvae two species of aphids; and the adults were fed aphids, maize tassels, and two non-cultivated plant species. We checked gut sugar in the predator by the cold anthrone test and pollen presence by the acetolysis method. Demographic experiments were done in the first 40 days after female emergence, under controlled conditions (25 °C ± 0.5; 75 % ± 1.75 Relative Humidity; Light 12 h: Darkness 12 h). Results: H. convergens did not consume fructose, but only pollen from Sorghum halepense, Parthenium hysterophorus or Zea mays. Developmental time (egg-adult) of the predator was shorter (21.4 days) when it consumed Rhopalosiphum maidis than Uroleucon nigrotibium (24.6 days); survival (L1-adult) and sex ratio did not change. Average fecundity was higher (55.5 eggs / 40 days) when consuming U. nigrotibium with pollen from P. hysterophorus, than U. nigrotibium (22.5 eggs / 40 days) or R. maidis with pollen from Zea mays (11 eggs / 40 days). The intrinsic rate of natural growth was higher when consuming U. nigrotibium with pollen from P. hysterophorus (0.055), than U. nigrotibium (0.034) or R. maidis with pollen from Z. mays (0.019). Predation rate (L1-L5) was higher when consuming R. maidis (0.65) than U. nigrotibium (0.51). Conclusions: Aphid prey species and its combination with pollen from maize and non-cultivated plants affected development time, reproduction, and predation rate of H. convergens.

Predicting the Major Organism Species in Tobacco in Cao Bang Province, Vietnam Based on the Weather Conditions

In recent years, some organism species are appearing popularly in the tobacco in Cao Bang province, Vietnam, and caused severe damage to the tobacco yield and quality such as budworm (Helicoverpa assulta Guene), aphid (Myzus persicea Sulzer), and powdery mildew (Erysiphe cichoracearum D.C). To manage them effectively, forecasting and controlling insect pests play an important role in tobacco cultivation. The predictive model was built base on the Skybit, Fuzzy, and Degree-days model to forecast and give suitable control methods for major insect pests in tobacco. This model is run on Excel software and calculated by an IF function for the growth of the organism. Result of the model predicted accurately the tobacco budworm, aphids, and powdery mildew damaging tobacco in Cao Bang in April 2022. Based on the results of prediction, we give proper control methods for each insect pests, preventing the quick growth and development of the organism species in the field, reducing the use of pesticides, and increasing the income of the growers. This model has also applied to forecast other pests in the tobacco in Vietnam. To increase the quality of the prediction, the model will continue to be perfected and completed in the coming years based on the practice field.

Inter - and intraspecific relationships between Macrosiphum rosae (Hemiptera: Aphididae) and Chrysoperla externa (Neuroptera: Chrysopidae)

ABSTRACT The predator Chrysoperla externa (Hagen, 1861) (Neuroptera: Chrysopidae) is a polyphagous species that has, among its wide range of acceptable prey, the aphid Macrosiphum rosae (Linnaeus, 1758) (Hemiptera: Aphididae), an important pest of rose plants. We assessed the consumption of nymphs and adults of M. rosae by C. externa larvae, the predatory efficiency, and larval survival under different predator:prey ratios, densities of aphids, and ages of aphids. The bioassays were performed at 25 ± 1°C and 70 ± 10% RH under a 12-hour photoperiod, with aphids taken from roses of the cultivar Avalanche. Consumption was assessed by making young aphids (2nd and 3rd instars) and more developed aphids (4th instar and adult) available throughout the larval stage of the predator. The predatory efficiency and survival were studied for second-instar larvae offered M. rosae nymphs at densities of 20, 40, 80, 120, and 160 using predator:prey ratios of 1:5, 1:10, and 1:20. The assessments were performed 24, 48, and 72 hours after putting the species together. All of the C. externa instars consumed younger than older aphids. Larvae in the third instar consumed 80% of the young aphids and 77% of the older aphids. The higher the predator:prey ratio and larval density, the higher the predatory efficiency and the lower the larval survival. The ratios 1:5 and 1:10 led to the elimination of younger and older aphid populations 72 hours into the interaction between species.

Extracts of native forest species of the southern amazon in the control of Aphis craccivora koch (Hemiptera: aphididae)

The objective of this study was to evaluate the mortality of Aphis craccivora Koch (Hemiptera: Aphididae) submitted to different extracts with different concentrations of leaves of the native forest species: Tetragastris altissima (Aubl.) Swart (Burseraceae), Metrodorea flavida K. Krause (Rutaceae) and Cheiloclinium cognatum (Miers) AC Sm (Celastraceae) under laboratory conditions. Adults of Aphis craccivora were collected in Gliricidia sepium (Jacq.) Kunthe Walp. (Fabaceae), and separated into groups of ten individuals, transferred to Petri dishes and exposed to topical application of aqueous, alcoholic and leaf infusion extracts of Cheiloclinium cognatum, Metrodorea flavida and Tetragastris altissima. The extracts were applied at concentrations of: 3, 6, 9, 12 and 15%, with 1% dimethylsulfoxide (DMSO), using a control treatment 1 (distilled water + DMSO 1%) and control treatment 2 (fipronil). Evaluations were performed at 24, 48 and 72 hours after the application of the extracts by counting the dead insects. The experimental design was completely randomized, with five replicates, three types of extracts and five concentrations with controls. In all the studied species, the aqueous and infusion extracts presented a lower mortality (less than 52%), whereas the alcoholic extract in higher concentrations of Cheiloclinium cognatum, Metrodorea flavida showed a mortality of up to 100%. The species Tetragastris altissima reached an average mortality of 92%. The lethal concentration for the alcoholic extract of Cheiloclinium cognatum was LC50 6.43% and LC90 12.22%, Metrodorea flavida LC50 was 3.08% and LC90 7.05% and that for Tetragastris altissima LC50 5.58% and LC90 17.47%, after 72 hours. The use of the alcoholic extract of the species Metrodorea flavida at a concentration of 9% in the control of Aphis craccivora is indicated.

No fitness costs are induced by Spiroplasma infections of Aphis citricidus reared on two different host plants / Custo adaptativo induzido por Spiroplasma em Aphis citricidus em duas plantas hospedeiras

Abstract Aphids can harbor several secondary symbionts that alter important aphid-related ecological traits, such as defense against natural enemies, heat tolerance and host plant utilization. One of these secondary symbionts, Spiroplasma, is well known in Drosophila as a sex modulator and by interacting with the host immune system. However, little is known on the effects of Spiroplasma on aphids, such as its influence on the host immune defense against fungi and on host plant utilization. Aphid infections by Spiroplasma are known to be low and few aphid species were reported to be infected with this secondary symbiont, however aphids belonging to the genus Aphis in neotropical regions show high infection rates by Spiroplasma. Thus, we investigated the association of Spiroplasma with the tropical aphid Aphis citricidus through comparative biology experiments on two host plants with different nutritional value to the aphid. We demonstrate Spiroplasma induced no significant fitness costs to A. citricidus on either host plant as no changes in the fitness traits we assessed were observed. Spiroplasma infection only induced sutle changes on host longevity and fecundity. Therefore, we concluded Spiroplasma established a neutral interaction with A. citricidus under the selection pressure we tested, and argue on stress conditions that could better demonstrate the role of Spiroplasma in A. citricidus bioecology and associated costs involved.

Resumo Pulgões podem abrigar vários simbiontes secundários que alteram características ecológicas importantes, como defesa contra inimigos naturais, tolerância ao calor e utilização da planta hospedeira. Um desses simbiontes secundários, Spiroplasma, é estudado em Drosophila por alterar a razão sexual e interagir com o sistema imunológico do hospedeiro. No entanto, pouco se sabe sobre os efeitos do Spiroplasma em pulgões, como sua influência na defesa contra fungos entomopatogénicos ou na utilização da planta hospedeira, por exemplo. Spiroplasma foi identificado em poucas espécies de pulgão e geralmente em baixa densidade, contudo pulgões pertencentes ao gênero Aphis em regiões neotropicais apresentam altas taxas de infecção por Spiroplasma. Assim, investigamos a associação entre Spiroplasma e o pulgão neotropical Aphis citricidus por meio de biologia comparativa em duas plantas hospedeiras com diferentes valores nutricionais para o pulgão. Spiroplasma não causou custo adaptativo significativo para A. citricidus em ambas planta hospedeira. A infecção por Spiroplasma induziu apenas pequenas mudanças na longevidade e fecundidade do hospedeiro. Portanto, concluímos que Spiroplasma estabeleceu uma interação neutra com A. citricidus sob ausência de pressão de seleção. Entretanto, discutimos sobre condições de estresse que possam demonstrar o papel de Spiroplasma na bioecologia de A. citricidus e os possíveis custos envolvidos.

Tritrophic interaction between the Mexican sunflower, the aphid Aphis gossypii and natural enemies in a greenhouse experiment

The establishment of invasive plants negatively affects natural environments. Invasive herbivores that attack weeds can be used as a form of biological control, but natural enemies of herbivores must be associated with this interaction to prevent the invasive phytophagous from become a local pest. We performed a greenhouse experiment to evaluate how the cotton aphid, Aphis gossypii, a ok and invasive herbivore, affects the performance of the weed Tithonia diversifolia, the Mexican sunflower. We also examined the relationship between the aphid and local natural enemies. Seedlings of T. diversifolia were divided in two groups: one infested by the aphid and another not infested. After 22 days, we assessed the relationship between aphid abundance and the presence of natural enemies (Coccinelidae and Aphidius platensis) on infested plants, and compared the vegetative performance of the two seedling groups. Both natural enemies were positively related to high aphid density on infested plants. Plants infested by the aphid presented foliar necrosis and senescence, and a reduction of around 50% in leaf number, foliar area, shoot length and shoot, root and total plant weight compared to non-infested plants. These results indicate potential biological control of Mexican sunflower seedlings by the cotton aphid, and control of this aphid by the studied natural enemies.

Population parameters as a way to evaluate the risk of attack of Aphis craccivora (Hemiptera: Aphididae) on cowpea / Parâmetros populacionais como forma de avaliar os riscos de ataque de Aphis craccivora (Hemiptera: Aphididae) em feijão-caupi

The objective of this research was to develop fertility life tables in order to estimate the population parameters of black aphid (Aphis craccivora Koch) in cowpea (Vigna unguiculata) varieties, aiming to propose a risk scale for its use. The experiment consisted of six treatments and six replicates (five varieties plus the cultivar VITA 7 as a susceptible control). A cohort was formed with six adult females distributed in six replicates of each genotype, and the insects were observed daily. Based on the data, fertility life tables were drawn for each variety and the population parameters were estimated. The different values of the finite growth rate (λ) were considered to propose a risk scale for the use of the genotypes. The results obtained give the dimension of the variability of V. unguiculata in respect to the character, resistance to A. craccivora, with antibiosis as the main mechanism of resistance. Considering all the results, the varieties studied can be classified according to their suitability as a plant favorable to the development of the black aphid as follows: VITA 7 > CE-13 > CE-51 > CE-08 = CE-07. The proposal of a risk scale for the use of V. unguiculata genotypes against the A. craccivora population, based on the finite growth rate (λ) values, was adequate to discriminate the varieties studied.(AU)

Objetivou-se nesta pesquisa elaborar tabelas de vida de fertilidade com o intuito de estimar os parâmetros populacionais de pulgão-preto (Aphis craccivora Koch) em variedades de feijão-caupi (Vigna unguiculata), visando propor uma escala de risco para o seu uso. O experimento constituiu-se em seis tratamentos (cinco variedades mais o cultivar VITA 7 como padrão de suscetibilidade) com seis repetições. Formou-se uma coorte com seis fêmeas adultas distribuídas em cada genótipo, sendo todos os indivíduos observados diariamente. De posse dos dados, foram elaboradas tabelas de vida de fertilidade para cada variedade e estimados os parâmetros populacionais. Para propor uma escala de risco de uso de genótipos, ponderou-se sob os diferentes valores da razão finita de crescimento (λ). Os resultados obtidos dão a dimensão da variabilidade de V. unguiculata com relação ao caráter da resistência a A. craccivora, sendo a antibiose o principal mecanismo de resistência associado. Considerando-se todos os resultados, foi possível hierarquizar as variedades estudadas segundo sua aptidão como planta favorável ao desenvolvimento ao pulgão-preto conforme segue: VITA 7 >> CE-13 > CE-51 > CE-08 = CE-07. A proposta de uma escala de risco do uso de genótipos de V. unguiculata frente à população de A. craccivora, baseada nos valores da razão finita de crescimento (λ), foi adequada para discriminar as variedades estudadas.(AU)

Establishment of the entomopathogenic fungus Beauveria bassiana as an endophyte in Capsicum annuum and its effects on the aphid pest Myzus persicae (Homoptera: Aphididae)

Introduction: Entomopathogenic fungi have been used as biological control agents of insect pests and have demonstrated a promising ability to colonize as endophytes a wide range of plant species. Objective: The aims of this study were to evaluate, in pepper plants, the most effective Beauveria bassiana inoculation techniques. In order to evaluate the presence of natural endophytes and its interaction with B. bassiana. Also to assess the effect of B. bassiana on the aphid Myzus persicae pepper leaf feeding preference and growth. Methods: Three inoculation techniques were evaluated: leaf spraying, seed immersion and root dipping. The pepper plants were inoculated with a conidia suspension adjusted to 1×108 conidia/ml. The presence of B. bassiana in the seedlings was evaluated at 7, 15 and 28 days after inoculation. Results: We found significant statistical differences between inoculation techniques. Foliar spraying showed the highest B. bassiana colonizationfrequency. The natural endophytes presented higher presence in the treatments in which B. bassiana had a low presence. This might indicate the occurrence of antifungal activity that interferes with the establishment of the entomopathogen in pepper tissues. We did not find statistical differences between inoculated and control pepper leaves with regard to the mortality and reproduction of the aphid pest M. persicae. However, the inoculation with B. bassiana showed a tendency to increase the mortality of adults and to decrease the offspring (nymphs). We did not find significant differences in the feeding preference between inoculated and control leaves, although there was a higher number of individuals on control leaves compared to those inoculated. Conclusions: The strain B. bassiana LPSC 1067 was established effectively as an endophyte in the pepper tissues. The most effective inoculation technique was leaf spraying. We did not find differences of statistical significance with regard to the mortality and reproduction of the aphid pest M. persicae. However, the inoculation with B. bassiana showed a tendency to increase the mortality of adults and to decrease the offspring (nymphs). Future studies evaluating the indirect effects of endophytic entomopathogens on both plants and herbivorous insects are needed to further explore their potential use in the management of insect pests.

Introducción: Los hongos entomopatógenos se han utilizado como agentes de control biológico de plagas de insectos y han demostrado una capacidad prometedora para colonizar una amplia gama de especies de plantas como endófitos. Objetivo: Los objetivos de este estudio fueron: evaluar las técnicas de inoculación más efectivas para B. bassiana en plantas de pimiento; evaluar la presencia de endófitos naturales y su interacción con B. bassiana y evaluar el efecto de B. bassiana sobre la preferencia de alimentación de la hoja de pimiento y el crecimiento de la plaga de áfidos M. persicae. Métodos: Se evaluaron tres técnicas de inoculación: aspersión foliar, inmersión de semillas e inmersión de raíces. Las plantas de pimiento se inocularon con una suspensión de conidias ajustada a 1x108 conidias/ml. La presencia de B. bassiana en las plántulas se evaluó a los 7, 15 y 28 días después de la inoculación. Resultados: Se encontraron diferencias significativas entre las técnicas de inoculación. La aspersión foliar mostró la frecuencia más alta. Los endófitos naturales presentaron frecuencias más altas en los tratamientos en los que B. bassiana tuvo una frecuencia baja, esto podría indicar la presencia de actividad antifúngica que interfiere con el establecimiento del entomopatógeno en los tejidos de pimiento. No se encontraron diferencias significativas en la mortalidad, reproducción y preferencia alimentaria de M. persicae. Conclusiones: Se demostró que la cepa B. bassiana LPSC 1067 se estableció efectivamente como endófito en los tejidos de pimiento. La técnica de inoculación más efectiva fue la aspersión foliar. No se encontraron diferencias significativas con respecto a la mortalidad, reproducción y preferencia alimentaria de M. persicae. Sin embargo, la inoculación con B. bassiana mostró una tendencia a aumentar la mortalidad de los adultos y a disminuir la descendencia (ninfas). Se necesitan estudios futuros que evalúen los efectos indirectos de los entomopatógenos endofíticos tanto en plantas como en insectos herbívoros para explorar más a fondo su posible uso en el manejo de insectos plaga.

Fumigant toxicity and sublethal effects of Teucrium polium essential oil on Aphis fabae scopoli A / 中草药·英文版

Objective: Black bean aphid (Aphis fabae) is one of the most important greenhouse and crop pests with a wide range of hosts, which causes damages through feeding on vegetable sap and transmitting viral diseases. Currently, chemical methods are mainly used to control this pest. Considering the adverse effects of pesticides, it is essential to apply less chemical pesticide in pest control programs. The lethal and sublethal effects of the essential oil (EO) of Teucrium polium leaves on one-day-old adults of black bean aphid were investigated under laboratory conditions. Method: The bioassay was evaluated at the concentrations of 0.88−12 µL/L air, for 24 h after treatment. Reproductive life table parameters of new emerged aphid surveyed at sub-lethal concentrations (LC20 and LC40) of EO and the biological reproductive table was calculated by Jackknife method. Results: The mortality rate increased significantly with the increasing of EO concentration. The estimated LC50 value was 4.5 µL/L air. Laboratory exposure to sublethal concentrations of EO caused significant decrease in adult female longevity and fertility of surviving aphids and as a result caused significant reduction in the intrinsic rate of natural increase (rm value). Conclusion: The results of this study revealed that EO of T. polium could be used as a potential control agent for the aphid.

Thermal requirements, life expectancy and fertility tables of Aphis craccivora (Hemiptera: Aphididae) in Vigna unguiculata (Fabales: Fabaceae) under laboratory conditions / Exigências térmicas e tabelas de esperança de vida e fertilidade de Aphis craccivora (Hemiptera: Aphididae) em Vigna unguiculata (Fabales: Fabaceae) sob condições de laboratório

The objective of this research was to determine the thermal requirements and develop life expectancy and fertility tables of Aphis craccivora (L.) in Vigna unguiculata (Walp.). The insects were kept in Petri dishes and fed V. unguiculata leaf discs (cultivar BRS-Tumucumaque) under five constant temperatures (18, 22, 25, 28 and 31ºC). Live and dead insects and stages of development; the onset and duration of the pre-reproductive, reproductive and post-reproductive periods; the number of nymphs per female; and the longevity of the adults were quantified daily. Based on these observations, fertility life expectancy tables were developed, and the thermal requirements of the cowpea black-aphid were determined. Increased temperature influenced all stages of insect development, as well as the pre-reproductive and post-reproductive periods and the total number of nymphs per female. The base temperature for development was 9.13ºC with thermal development constant of 99.0 GD. The highest net reproduction rate (Ro) was at 25ºC. At 28ºC, the greatest capacity to increase in number (rm) was observed, as well as the highest finite rate of increase (λ) and the shortest time to double in number (TD). The thermal range between 22 and 28ºC can be considered most favourable to the development of A. ­craccivora in V. unguiculata. Temperatures below 22 and above 28ºC affect the fertility and survival of cowpea black-aphids. Increased temperature induces reproduction and reduces the longevity and life expectancy of A. craccivora in cowpeas.(AU)

Objetivou-se com esta pesquisa determinar as exigências térmicas e elaborar as tabelas de esperança de vida e de fertilidade de Aphis craccivora (L.) em Vigna unguiculata (Walp.). Os insetos foram mantidos em placas de Petri, alimentados com discos foliares de V. unguiculata, cultivar BRS-Tumucumaque, sob 5 temperaturas constantes: 18, 22, 25, 28 e 31ºC. Diariamente, foram quantificados os insetos vivos e mortos, o estádio de desenvolvimento, bem como o início e a duração dos períodos pré-reprodutivo, reprodutivo e pós-reprodutivo, o número de ninfas por fêmea e a longevidade de adultos. Com base nessas observações, elaboraram-se as tabelas de esperança de vida de fertilidade e determinaram-se as exigências térmicas do pulgão-preto do caupi. O aumento da temperatura influenciou todos os estádios de desenvolvimento do inseto, bem como os períodos pré-reprodutivo e pós-reprodutivo e o número total de ninfas por fêmea. A temperatura base de desenvolvimento foi de 9,13ºC, e a constante térmica de desenvolvimento, de 99,0 GD. A maior taxa líquida de reprodução (Ro) foi a 25ºC. A 28ºC, constatou-se a maior capacidade de aumentar em número (rm), bem como a maior razão finita de aumento (λ) e menor tempo para duplicar em número (TD). Pode-se considerar que a faixa térmica mais favorável ao desenvolvimento de A. craccivora em V. unguiculata está entre 22 e 28ºC. Temperaturas abaixo de 22 e acima de 28ºC prejudicam a fertilidade e a sobrevivência do pulgão-preto do caupi. O aumento da temperatura antecipa a reprodução e reduz a longevidade e esperança de vida de A. craccivora em feijão-caupi.(AU)

Reaction of yellow passion fruit to passion fruit woodiness disease and to bacterial spot / Reação de maracujazeiro azedo à virose do endurecimento dos frutos e à bacteriose

The use of resistant varieties is a promising strategy for passion fruit woodiness disease (PWD) (Cowpea aphid-borne mosaic virus - CABMV) and bacterial spot (Xanthomonas axonopodis pv. passiflorae - Xap) control in yellow passion fruit (Passiflora edulis Sims). This study aimed at evaluating the reaction of nine genotypes of yellow passion fruit to both mechanically inoculated CABMV and Xap, under protected cultivation. The experiment was conducted using a randomized block design with subdivided parcels comprised of nine treatments, four repetitions, six replications per genotype, and five evaluations. Disease incidence (% plants infected) and severity (% of total leaf area with necrotic lesions or leaf symptoms) were calculated at 7-day intervals. All genotypes evaluated were classified as moderately susceptible to PWD. MAR20#10, MAR20#41, and Rosa Intenso were classified as moderately resistant to bacterial spot whereas the remaining genotypes were classified as moderately susceptible. Genotypes Rosa Intenso, MAR20#41, MAR20#15, and MSCA stood out for presenting the lowest PWD mean severity scores as well as the greatest numbers of plants presenting resistance to PWD after five evaluations. MAR20#10, MAR20#41, and Rosa Intenso demonstrated the lowest bacterial spot mean severity scores. Among the genotypes selected, Rosa Intenso and MAR20#41 were the most promising genotypes for presenting the lowest severity scores for both PWD and bacterial spot disease.

O uso de variedades resistentes é uma estratégia promissora para o controle da virose do endurecimento dos frutos (VEF) (Cowpea aphid-borne mosaic virus - CABMV) e da bacteriose (Xanthomonas axonopodis pv. passiflorae - Xap) no maracujazeiro amarelo (Passiflora edulis Sims). Este estudo objetivou avaliar a reação de nove genótipos de maracujazeiro amarelo à CABMV e Xap, ambos inoculados mecanicamente, sob cultivo protegido. O experimento foi conduzido em delineamento de blocos casualizados com parcelas subdivididas, composto por nove tratamentos, quatro repetições, seis plantas por genótipo e cinco avaliações. A incidência (% plantas infectadas) e a severidade (% da área foliar total com lesões necróticas ou sintomas foliares) das doenças foram calculadas em intervalos de sete dias. Todos os genótipos avaliados foram classificados como moderadamente suscetíveis à VEF. MAR20#10, MAR20#41 e Rosa Intenso foram classificados como moderadamente resistente à bacteriose enquanto os demais genótipos foram classificados como moderadamente suscetíveis. Os genótipos Rosa Intenso, MAR20#41, MAR20#15 e MSCA se destacaram por apresentarem menores severidades médias da VEF bem como pelo maior número de plantas apresentando resistência à virose após as cinco avaliações. MAR20#10, MAR20#41 e Rosa Intenso demonstraram as menores severidades médias de bacteriose. Entre os genótipos selecionados, Rosa Intenso e MAR20#41 foram os mais promissores por apresentarem os menores valores de severidade para a VEF e para a bacteriose.

Parasitism rate of Myzus persicae (Sulzer) by Diaeretiella rapae (McIntosh) in the presence of an alternative, resistant host

ABSTRACT The aphids Lipaphis pseudobrassicae (Davis) and Myzus persicae (Sulzer) (Hemiptera: Aphididae) are important Brassicaceae pests, occurring worldwide and causing significant damage to crops. Interspecific variations in the resistance to natural enemies can potentially impact the interaction among aphid populations. Here we evaluated the hypothesis of associational resistance by determining if the presence of resistant aphids (L. pseudobrassicae) reduces the rate of parasitism by Diaeretiella rapae (McIntosh) on non-resistant aphids (M. persicae). The experiment was conducted using collard green plants infested with M. persicae and L. pseudobrassicae either resistant or susceptible to D. rapae. The percentage of parasitism by D. rapae was greater on L. pseudobrassicae in the susceptible than in the resistant treatment, but parasitism rates on M. persicae did not differ between the treatments. There was no difference in average growth rate between M. persicae and susceptible L. pseudobrassicae populations, but resistant L. pseudobrassicae had greater growth rate than M. persicae. These results suggest that over a short period of time the presence of resistant L. pseudobrassicae does not affect the rate of parasitism by D. rapae on M. persicae.

Dual Biocontrol Potential of the Entomopathogenic Fungus, Isaria javanica, for Both Aphids and Plant Fungal Pathogens

Dual biocontrol of both insects and plant pathogens has been reported for certain fungal entomopathogens, including Beauveria bassiana and Lecanicillum spp. In this study, we demonstrate, for the first time, the dual biocontrol potential of two fungal isolates identified by morphological and phylogenetic analyses as Isaria javanica. Both these isolates caused mortality in the greater wax moth, and hence can be considered entomopathogens. Spores of the isolates were also pathogenic to nymphs of the green peach aphid (Myzus persicae), with an LC₅₀ value of 10⁷ spores/mL 4 days after inoculation and an LT₅₀ of 4.2 days with a dose of 10⁸ spores/mL. In vitro antifungal assays also demonstrated a strong inhibitory effect on the growth of two fungi that are pathogenic to peppers, Colletotrichum gloeosporioides and Phytophthora capsici. These results indicate that I. javanica isolates could be used as novel biocontrol agents for the simultaneous control of aphids and fungal diseases, such as anthracnose and Phytophthora blight, in an integrated pest management framework for red pepper.

Plant growth promoting rhizobacteria reduce aphid population and enhance the productivity of bread wheat

Abstract Plant growth promoting rhizobacteria increase plant growth and give protection against insect pests and pathogens. Due to the negative impact of chemical pesticides on environment, alternatives to these chemicals are needed. In this scenario, the biological methods of pest control offer an eco-friendly and an attractive option. In this study, the effect of two plant growth promoting rhizobacterial strains (Bacillus sp. strain 6 and Pseudomonas sp. strain 6K) on aphid population and wheat productivity was evaluated in an aphid susceptible (Pasban-90) and resistant (Inqlab-91) wheat cultivar. The seeds were inoculated with each PGPR strain, separately or the combination of both. The lowest aphid population (2.1 tiller1), and highest plant height (85.8 cm), number of spikelets per spike (18), grains per spike (44), productive tillers (320 m2), straw yield (8.6 Mg ha1), and grain yield (4.8 Mg ha1) were achieved when seeds were inoculated with Bacillus sp. strain 6 + Pseudomonas sp. strain 6K. The grain yield of both varieties was enhanced by 35.538.9% with seed inoculation with both bacterial strains. Thus, the combine use of both PGPR strains viz. Bacillus sp. strain 6 + Pseudomonas sp. strain 6K offers an attractive option to reduce aphid population tied with better wheat productivity.

Plant growth promoting rhizobacteria reduce aphid population and enhance the productivity of bread wheat

Abstract Plant growth promoting rhizobacteria increase plant growth and give protection against insect pests and pathogens. Due to the negative impact of chemical pesticides on environment, alternatives to these chemicals are needed. In this scenario, the biological methods of pest control offer an eco-friendly and an attractive option. In this study, the effect of two plant growth promoting rhizobacterial strains (Bacillus sp. strain 6 and Pseudomonas sp. strain 6K) on aphid population and wheat productivity was evaluated in an aphid susceptible (Pasban-90) and resistant (Inqlab-91) wheat cultivar. The seeds were inoculated with each PGPR strain, separately or the combination of both. The lowest aphid population (2.1 tiller−1), and highest plant height (85.8 cm), number of spikelets per spike (18), grains per spike (44), productive tillers (320 m−2), straw yield (8.6 Mg ha−1), and grain yield (4.8 Mg ha−1) were achieved when seeds were inoculated with Bacillus sp. strain 6 + Pseudomonas sp. strain 6K. The grain yield of both varieties was enhanced by 35.5-38.9% with seed inoculation with both bacterial strains. Thus, the combine use of both PGPR strains viz. Bacillus sp. strain 6 + Pseudomonas sp. strain 6K offers an attractive option to reduce aphid population tied with better wheat productivity.

Metabolic engineering of (E)-β-farnesene synthase genes for aphid-resistant genetically modified plants / 生物工程学报

Aphids are major agricultural pests that cause significant yield losses of crops each year. (E)-β-farnesene (EβF), as the main component of the aphid alarm pheromones, can interrupt aphid feeding and cause other conspecies in the vicinity to become agitated or disperse from their host plant. Furthermore, EβF can function as a kairomone in attracting aphid predators. EβF synthase genes, which encode enzymes that convert farnesyl diphosphate (FPP) to the acyclic sesquiterpene EβF, have been isolated and characterized from peppermint (Mentha × piperita and Mentha asiatica), Yuzu (Citrus junos), Douglas fir (Pseudotsuga menziesii), sweet wormwood (Artemisia annua) and chamomile (Matricaria recutita), respectively. Transgenic plant overexpressing EβF synthase genes has been one of the most efficient strategies for aphid management. In this review, the current statuses of transgenic plants engineered for aphid resistance were summarized. The plant-derived EβF synthase genes with their potential roles in aphid management via genetic-modified (GM) approaches were reviewed. The existing problem in GM plants with EβF synthase gene, such as low EβF emission was usually detected in the transgenic plant, was discussed and the development direction in this area was proposed.

No fitness costs are induced by Spiroplasma infections of Aphis citricidus reared on two different host plants

Abstract Aphids can harbor several secondary symbionts that alter important aphid-related ecological traits, such as defense against natural enemies, heat tolerance and host plant utilization. One of these secondary symbionts, Spiroplasma, is well known in Drosophila as a sex modulator and by interacting with the host immune system. However, little is known on the effects of Spiroplasma on aphids, such as its influence on the host immune defense against fungi and on host plant utilization. Aphid infections by Spiroplasma are known to be low and few aphid species were reported to be infected with this secondary symbiont, however aphids belonging to the genus Aphis in neotropical regions show high infection rates by Spiroplasma. Thus, we investigated the association of Spiroplasma with the tropical aphid Aphis citricidus through comparative biology experiments on two host plants with different nutritional value to the aphid. We demonstrate Spiroplasma induced no significant fitness costs to A. citricidus on either host plant as no changes in the fitness traits we assessed were observed. Spiroplasma infection only induced sutle changes on host longevity and fecundity. Therefore, we concluded Spiroplasma established a neutral interaction with A. citricidus under the selection pressure we tested, and argue on stress conditions that could better demonstrate the role of Spiroplasma in A. citricidus bioecology and associated costs involved.

Resumo Pulgões podem abrigar vários simbiontes secundários que alteram características ecológicas importantes, como defesa contra inimigos naturais, tolerância ao calor e utilização da planta hospedeira. Um desses simbiontes secundários, Spiroplasma, é estudado em Drosophila por alterar a razão sexual e interagir com o sistema imunológico do hospedeiro. No entanto, pouco se sabe sobre os efeitos do Spiroplasma em pulgões, como sua influência na defesa contra fungos entomopatogénicos ou na utilização da planta hospedeira, por exemplo. Spiroplasma foi identificado em poucas espécies de pulgão e geralmente em baixa densidade, contudo pulgões pertencentes ao gênero Aphis em regiões neotropicais apresentam altas taxas de infecção por Spiroplasma. Assim, investigamos a associação entre Spiroplasma e o pulgão neotropical Aphis citricidus por meio de biologia comparativa em duas plantas hospedeiras com diferentes valores nutricionais para o pulgão. Spiroplasma não causou custo adaptativo significativo para A. citricidus em ambas planta hospedeira. A infecção por Spiroplasma induziu apenas pequenas mudanças na longevidade e fecundidade do hospedeiro. Portanto, concluímos que Spiroplasma estabeleceu uma interação neutra com A. citricidus sob ausência de pressão de seleção. Entretanto, discutimos sobre condições de estresse que possam demonstrar o papel de Spiroplasma na bioecologia de A. citricidus e os possíveis custos envolvidos.

Biological parameters and fertility life table of Aphis forbesi Weed, 1889 (Hemiptera: Aphididae) on strawberry / Parâmetros biológicos e tabela de vida de fertilidade de Aphis forbesi Weed, 1889 (Hemiptera: Aphididae) em morangueiro

Abstract This study provides the first contribution of the biology and life table of Aphis forbesi Weed, 1889 (Hemiptera: Aphididae), an important strawberry pest throughout the world. This species lives in the crown and leaf petioles of the plant. It is difficulty to rear this species in laboratory due to protocooperation with ants observed only in the field. We studied the life cycle of A. forbesi on the leaves of the Albion strawberry cultivar at 25 ± 2 °C, 60 ± 10% relative humidity, and a 12-h photophase. The experiment was randomised with 100 replicates. The parameters of the fertility life table were calculated using TabVida. In the population studied, 25% and 46% had four and three instars, respectively. A mean of 1.43 nymphs per female per day was generated. The mean reproductive period was seven days and the mean longevity was 10 days. In every 11 days there is a generation of A. forbesi, where each female has the potential to generate between 6 to 9 individuals daily, increasing its population by 1.2 times. The average life cycle was 16.8 days. High viability observed in all instars and the resulting values of R0, rm and λ suggest that A. forbesi has the capacity to increase their numbers in a short period of time, while generating high populations in strawberry crops, requiring differential management.

Resumo Este trabalho apresenta a primeira contribuição ao estudo de biologia e tabela de vida de fertilidade de Aphis forbesi, Weed, 1889 (Hemiptera: Aphididae), uma importante praga de morangueiro no mundo. Esta espécie se desenvolve na coroa e pecíolo do morangueiro. O desenvolvimento desta espécie em laboratório apresentou dificuldades, possivelmente devido à protocooperação com formigas, observada em campo durante coletas. O ciclo de vida de A. forbesi foi estudado em folhas de morangueiro cultivar ‘Albion’ a 25 ± 2 °C, 60 ± 10% umidade relativa, e fotofase de 12 horas. O experimento foi inteiramente casualizado com 100 repetições. Os parâmetros da tabela de vida de fertilidade foram calculados usando o software TabVida. Na população estudada observou-se que as ninfas apresentaram três e quatro instares, sendo 46 e 25% respectivamente, dos indivíduos que completaram o ciclo de vida. Foi gerada uma média de 1,43 ninfas/ fêmea/ dia. O período reprodutivo médio foi de 7 dias e a longevidade média 10 dias. A cada 11 dias ocorre uma geração de A. forbesi onde cada fêmea tem capacidade de gerar de 6 a 9 indivíduos aumentando em 1,2 vezes a população. O ciclo de vida de A. forbesi durou em média 16,8 dias. A alta viabilidade observada em todos os estádios, e os valores de R0, rm e λ sugerem que A. forbesi tem a capacidade de aumentar seu número em um curto período de tempo, gerando altas populações no cultivo do morangueiro, exigindo manejo diferenciado.

Aplicação exógena do ácido salicílico em maracujazeiro-amarelo para o controle do vírus do endurecimento dos frutos / Exogenous application of salicylic acid in yellow passion fruit for the control of fruit woodiness virus

Foram avaliados o efeito do ácido salicílico (AS) no controle do Cowpea aphid-borne mosaic virus (CABMV), vírus que induz o endurecimento dos frutos do maracujazeiro (EFM), e a sua influência na expressão dos sintomas e na ativação das enzimas peroxidase e polifenoloxidase. O experimento foi delineado e conduzido de forma inteiramente casualizada. Os tratamentos consistiram em AS (2,5 mM) e controle (etanol 10%), aplicados 12 horas antes da inoculação mecânica do CABMV, agente causal do EFM no Brasil. Um experimento similar foi conduzido sob as mesmas condições, porém, quatro aplicações do AS foram realizadas semanalmente após a inoculação mecânica do CABMV. Em ambos os experimentos a avaliação da severidade da doença foi realizada empregando escala de notas que variaram de 0 a 3. Para avaliar a atividade das enzimas peroxidase e polifenoloxidase, as plantas foram tratadas (AS e controle) e, após 12 horas, inoculadas com o isolado de CABMV. Foram realizadas amostragens foliares 0, 12, 24 e 48 horas após os tratamentos (HAT), que foram processadas e analisadas em espectrofotômetro para a constatação da ativação da peroxidase e polifenoloxidase. Aos 30 dias após a inoculação (DAI), o AS aplicado uma única vez promoveu redução da severidade de 57,1%, quando comparado com o controle. Nas plantas submetidas às aplicações semanais de AS foi constatada a redução significativa da expressão dos sintomas aos 45 DAI. Nos ensaios bioquímicos foi observado aumento significativo de peroxidase nos intervalos de 12 horas (DAI)/24 horas (HAT). Para polifenoloxidase foi observado um aumento significativo de sua atividade nos intervalos de 24 horas (DAI)/48 horas (HAT). Sugere-se que o AS pode representar uma ferramenta adicional no manejo do EFM.(AU)

The effect of salicylic acid (SA) was evaluated in control of Cowpea aphid-borne mosaic virus (CABMV), which induces hardening of the fruits of passion fruit (EFM). Also, its influence on the expression of symptoms and the activation of peroxidase and polyphenol oxidases were evaluated. The experiment was designed and conducted in a completely random way. The treatments consisted of SA (2.5 mM) and control (10% ethanol), applied 12 hours before mechanical inoculation of CABMV, the causal agent of EFM in Brazil. A similar experiment was conducted under the same conditions, but four applications were performed weekly after CABMV mechanical inoculation. In both experiments a rating scale ranging from 0 to 3 was used to assess the severity of the disease. To evaluate the activity of peroxidase and polyphenol oxidase, the plants were treated (SA and control) and, after 12 hours, inoculated with isolated CABMV. Leaf samplings were performed at 0, 12, 24 and 48 hours after the treatments (HAT), processed and analyzed in a spectrophotometer to verify the activation of peroxidase and polyphenol oxidase. At 30 days after inoculation (DAI), the SA applied once promoted reduction of 57.1% of the severity, when compared with the control. In plants subjected to SA weekly applications, it was found a significantly reduction in the expression of symptoms at 45 DAI. In the biochemical assays, a significant increase in peroxidase in 12-hour intervals (DAI)/24 hours (HAT) was observed. For polyphenol oxidase, a significant increase of its activity was observed at 24 hour intervals (DAI)/48 hours (HAT). It is suggested that SA may represent an additional tool in the management of EFM.(AU)

Liquid Bioformulation of Metarhizium Anisopliae is Effective for the Management of Cow Pea Mosaic Disease.

Liquid bioformulation of Metarhizium anisopliae amended with oils and adjuvants was prepared. Six oils viz., sunflower, safflower, soybean, mustard, arachnid and coconut oils at three different concentrations, 0.1, 0.5 and 1.0 per cent and three adjuvants viz., glycerol @ 5, 8 and 10 per cent; tween-80 @ 0.02, 0.04, 0.06 and 1.0 per cent and arachnid oil @ 1, 5 and 10 per cent were tested to see their effect on growth and development of M. anisopliae in the bioformulation. Liquid bioformulation of M. anisopliae amended with Glycerol (10.0%) + Sunflower oil (0.5%) was found significantly effective which showed 84.33 per cent and 94.93 per cent higher surface area covered and biomass production respectively than the control. Efficacy of the bioformulation was tested against cow pea aphid, Aphis craccivora in pot as well as field condition. Liquid formulation of M. anisopliae supplemented with Glycerol (10.0%) + Sunflower oil (0.5%) was found to be significantly effective causing aphid mortality of 80 per cent at 30 days after spraying with protection of secondary spread of cow pea mosaic disease up to 100 per cent and 96.03 per cent in pot and field condition respectively. Spraying liquid formulation of M. anisopliae amended with Glycerol (10.0%) + Sunflower oil (0.5%) at 15 days interval for twice proved to be the best treatment with highest yield of 24.03 t/ha with a cost benefit ratio of 1:7.95 as compared to control (11.20 t/ha).