Analysis of 28S rRNA and COⅠ Gene Sequence of Nine Necrophagous Calliphorid Flies from Luoyang / 法医学杂志

Objective To assess the feasibility of using 28S ribosomal RNA （28S rRNA） and mitochondrial cytochrome c oxidase subunit Ⅰ （COⅠ） gene sequences of nine necrophagous Calliphorid flies for the identification of common necrophagous Calliphorid flies, and to provide technical support for postmortem interval （PMI） estimation. Methods Twenty-three Calliphorid flies were collected and identified morphologically, and DNA were extracted from legs. The gene fragments of 28S rRNA and COⅠ were amplified and sequenced, then the sequence alignment was performed with BLAST. The composition of obtained sequences was analyzed and evolutionary divergence rate between species and intraspecies were established. The phylogeny tree was constructed with neighbor-joining method. Results The 23 necrophagous Calliphorid flies were identified to 9 species of 5 genera. The 715 bp from 28S rRNA and 637 bp from COⅠ gene were obtained and the online BLAST result showed more than 99% of similarity. The phylogeny tree showed that the necrophagous flies could cluster well into 9 groups, which was consistent with morphological identification results. The intraspecific difference in 28S rRNA was 0 and the interspecific difference was 0.001-0.033. The intraspecific difference in COⅠ was 0-0.008 and the interspecific difference was 0.006-0.101. Conclusion Combined use of 28S rRNA and COⅠ gene sequence fragments can effectively identify the nine Calliphorid flies in this study. However, for closely related blowfly species, more genetic markers should be explored and used in combination in future.

Molecular characterization of matrix metalloproteinase-1 (MMP-1) in Lucilia sericata larvae for potential therapeutic applications

Background: The salivary glands of Lucilia sericata are the first organs to express specific endopeptidase enzymes. These enzymes play a central role in wound healing, and they have potential to be used therapeutically. Methods: Rapid amplification of cDNA ends and rapid amplification of genomic ends were used to identify the coding sequence of MMP-1 from L. sericata. Different segments of MMP1 gene, namely the middle part, 3' end, and 5' end, were cloned, sequenced, and analyzed using bioinformatics tools to determine the distinct features of MMP-1 protein. Results: Assembling the different segments revealed that the complete mRNA sequence of MMP-1 is 1932 bp long. CDS is 1212 bp long and is responsible for the production of MMP-1 of 404 amino acid residues with a predicted molecular weight of 45.1 kDa. The middle part, 3' end, and 5' end sequences were 933, 503, and 496 bp. In addition, it was revealed that the MMP-1 genomic sequence includes three exons and two introns. Furthermore, the three-dimensional structure of L. sericata MMP-1 protein was evaluated, and its alignment defined that it has high similarity to chain A of human MMP-2 with 100% confidence, 72% coverage, and 38% identity according to the SWISS-MODEL modeling analysis. Conclusions: MMP-1 of L. sericata has a close relationship with its homologs in invertebrates and other insects. The present study significantly contributes to understanding the function, classification, and evolution of the characterized MMP-1 from L. sericata and provides basic required information for the development of an effective medical bioproduct.

Proteolytic activity of excretory/secretory products of Cochliomyia hominivorax larvae (Diptera: Calliphoridae) / Atividade proteolítica de produtos de excreção/secreção de Cochliomyia hominivorax (Diptera: Calliphoridae)

The protein profiles and proteolytic activity of the excretory secretory products (E/SP) of the first (L1), second (L2) and third (L3) larval stages of Cochliomyia hominivorax were studied in the laboratory. Analysis on the E/SP protein profile was carried out using polyacrylamide gel containing sodium dodecyl sulfate (SDS-PAGE). The E/SP of each larval stage (L1, L2 and L3) treated with protease inhibitors, containing 30µg, 40µg and 50µg of protein, was applied to the 10% polyacrylamide gel. The proteolytic activity of the crude E/SP was analyzed in gels copolymerized with gelatin and by colorimetric assays using azocasein as a substrate, with the characterization of the proteases using synthetic inhibitors. Different protein profiles were observed for the larval instars, with L1 presenting the most complex profile. Nevertheless, various protein bands were observed that were common to all the larval instars. The E/SP of all the instars showed proteolytic activity on gelatin, evidenced by proteolysis zones, predominantly with apparently higher molecular masses in L1, while for L2 and L3 the proteolysis zones could also be observed in regions with lower masses. Tests with protease inhibitors using gelatin as substrate showed that the E/SP of larvae were mainly composed of serine proteases. Additionally, inhibition was observed in L2 E/SP treated previously with EDTA, an inhibitor of metalloproteases. The assays with azocasein revealed a gradual increase of proteolytic activity on this substrate with larval development progress, with the strongest inhibitions being observed after treatments with 3,4-dichloroisocoumarin (DCI) for E/SP of L1, L2 and L3. These results suggest that C. hominivorax larvae produce different proteases, a fact that can be related to the parasite's vital processes for survival, such as penetration into the host's tissues and nutrition during the larval stage.(AU)

Os perfis protéicos e a atividade proteolítica dos produtos de excreção/secreção (PE/S) das larvas de primeiro (L1), segundo (L2) e terceiro (L3) estágios de Cochliomyia hominivorax foram estudados em laboratório. Os perfis protéicos foram obtidos por eletroforese em géis de poliacrilamida (SDS-PAGE). Os PE/S de cada fase larval (L1, L2 e L3), tratados com inibidores de proteases, contendo 30µg, 40µg e 50µg de proteína, foram aplicados em géis de poliacrilamida a 10%. A atividade proteolítica dos PE/S na sua forma nativa, foi analisada em géis co-polimerizados com gelatina e por testes colorimétricos usando a azocaseína como substrato, com a caracterização das proteases feita por meio de inibidores sintéticos. Diferentes perfis protéicos foram observados para os instares larvais, com L1 apresentando o perfil mais complexo. Apesar disso, foram observadas várias bandas protéicas comuns a todos os estágios larvais. Os PE/S de todos os instares mostraram atividade proteolítica sobre a gelatina, evidenciada por zonas de proteólise, com predominância de massas moleculares aparentes mais altas em L1, enquanto que para L2 e L3 as zonas de proteólise puderam ser observadas também em regiões de menores massas. Os testes com inibidores de proteases usando a gelatina como substrato mostraram que os PE/S de L1, L2 e L3 eram compostos principalmente de serina-proteases. Adicionalmente, inibição foi observada nos PE/S de L2 tratada previamente com EDTA, um inibidor de metalo-proteases. Os ensaios com a zocaseína revelaram um aumento gradual da atividade proteolítica sobre este substrato com o progresso do desenvolvimento larval, com a mais forte inibição sendo observada após o tratamento com 3,4 dicloroisocumarina (DCI) para os PE/S de L1, L2 e L3. Estes resultados sugerem que as larvas de C. hominivorax produzem diferentes proteases, fato que pode estar relacionado a processos vitais para a sobrevivência do parasita, tais como a penetração nos tecidos dos hospedeiros e nutrição durante os estágios larvais.(AU)

Repellent Action of Carapa guianensis and Caesalpinia ferrea for flies species of Calliphoridae family / Ação repelente de Carapa guianensis e Caesalpinia férrea paraespécies de mosacas da família Callip horidae

ABSTRACT: Myiases occur by the infestation of fly larvae in tissues of live vertebrate animals, resulting in economic loss. Phytotherapy is considered an important alternative in the control of insects, which may reduce the economic impacts. Carapa guianensis is a plant that has been studied as a repellent against mosquitoes and Caesalpinia ferrea is reported in tropical climates, and there are few studies about its repellent action. The present study was designed to evaluate the repellent action of s C. guianensis and C. ferrea plants on flies species of the Calliphoridae family. W.O.T. traps containing deteriorated bovine liver and herbs cream of at concentrations of 20 and 50% were used to catch the flies. It was reported that the creams containing C. ferrea at concentrations of 20 and 50% and C. guianensis at the concentration of 50% have repellent effect against species of Calliphoridae family.

RESUMO: Miíases ocorrem pela infestação de larvas de moscas em tecidos de animais vertebrados vivos, resultando em perdas econômicas. Fitoterapia é considerada uma alternativa importante no controle de insetos, o que pode reduzir os impactos econômicos. Carapa guianensis é uma planta que tem sido estudada como um repelente contra mosquitos e Caesalpinia ferrea Mart. é encontrada em climas tropicais, e há poucos estudos sobre sua ação repelente. O presente estudo foi desenhado para avaliar a ação repelente das plantas C. guianensis e C. ferrea Mart. em espécies de moscas da família Calliphoridae. Armadilhas WOT contendo fígado bovino deteriorado e creme de ervas em concentrações de 20 e 50% foram usadas para capturar as moscas. Verificou-se que os cremes contendo C. ferrea Mart. em concentrações de 20 e 50%, e C. guianensis, na concentração de 50%, têm efeito repelente contra as espécies da família Calliphoridae.

A survey of necrophagous blowflies (Diptera: Oestroidea) in the Amazonas-Negro interfluvial region (Brazilian Amazon)

ABSTRACT The fauna of blowflies (Calliphoridae and Mesembrinellidae) in three localities of primary Amazon forest coverage in the Amazonas-Negro interfluvial region was assessed. A total of 5066 blowflies were collected, with Chloroprocta idiodea being the most abundant species (66.3%). A difference in species richness between the localities ZF2 and Novo Airão was observed. Comparison among sampled sites revealed no considerable variation in fauna composition, except for the species Eumesembrinella benoisti (Séguy 1925) and Hemilucilia sp., whose occurrence was observed only in a single locality. Apparently, Amazon rivers are not efficient geographical barriers to influence the current composition of necrophagous blowfly assemblages. Also, most of the blowfly species did not show a noticeable specificity for any specific forest among the interfluvial areas of the ombrophilous forest. Finally, an updated checklist of necrophagous blowfly species of the Amazonas state in Brazil is presented.

Review of Thompsoniella Guimarães with description of a new species from Colombia (Diptera, Calliphoridae, Mesembrinellinae)

Review of Thompsoniella Guimarães with description of a new species from Colombia (Diptera, Calliphoridae, Mesembrinellinae). The Mesembrinellinae (Diptera, Calliphoridae) are exclusively Neotropical with nine genera comprising 36 recognized species, including the genus Thompsoniella Guimarães with a single species, T. anomala Guimarães. We describe a new species, Thompsoniella andina sp. nov., from the Departments of Antioquia and Caldas, Colombia (Cordillera Central of the Andes, between 2600 - 2700 m) and redescribe T. anomala. A key to the nine genera of Mesembrinellinae and a key to the males of the two species of Thompsoniella are provided. Color photographs to illustrate the two species of Thompsoniella and drawings of the male genitalia of both species are also provided. Here we record Thompsoniella for the first time in Colombia.

Necrophagous diptera associated with wild animal carcasses in southern Brazil

Necrophagous Diptera associated with wild animal carcasses in southern Brazil. The aim of this study was to acquire a better knowledge concerning the diversity of necrophagous Diptera that develop on wild animal carcasses. For this purpose, the decomposition of six wild animal carcasses was observed in order to collect and identify the main species of necrophagous flies associated with the decomposition process. The carcasses were found on highways near the cities of Pelotas and Capão do Leão in the initial stage of decomposition, with no significant injuries or prior larval activity. Four wild animal models were represented in this study: two specimens of Didelphis albiventris Lund, 1840; two Tupinambis merianae Linnaeus, 1758; one Nothura maculosa Temminck, 1815; and one Cerdocyon thous Linnaeus, 1766. A total of 16,242 flies from 14 species were reared in the laboratory, where Muscidae presented the greatest diversity of necrophagous species. Overall, (i) carcasses with larger biomass developed a higher abundance of flies and (ii) the necrophagous community was dominated by Calliphoridae, two patterns that were predicted from published literature; and (iii) the highest diversity was observed on the smaller carcasses exposed to the lowest temperatures, a pattern that may have been caused by the absence of the generalist predator Chrysomya albiceps (Wiedemann, 1819). (iv) An UPGMA analysis revealed a similar pattern of clusters of fly communities, where the same species were structuring the groupings.

Sucesión de la entomofauna cadavérica a partir de un biomodelo con vísceras de res / Succession of necrofagous entomofauna from a biomodel of beef viscera

La entomología forense surge como apoyo técnico-científico a la investigación criminalística, aportando información sobre la data de muerte. Un método comúnmente utilizado es la sucesión de la entomofauna cadavérica sobre el cuerpo, sin embargo, la mayoría de los estudios se realiza empleando cadáveres de animales. Debido a esto, el presente estudio pretende utilizar como biomodelo vísceras de res, para determinar la secuencia de sucesión de las especies de importancia forense en el Estado Carabobo. Se emplearon pulmón e hígado, y la entomofauna fue colectada e identificada durante ocho días. Se obtuvieron 127 individuos adultos del Orden Diptera, pertenecientes a las Familias: Calliphoridae (67,9%), Muscidae (23,1%), Piophilidae (5,3%) y Sarcophagidae (3,7%); en Coleoptera se obtuvieron 7 ejemplares adultos de Dermestidae y Cleridae. Las especies reportadas fueron Chrysomya megacephala, Lucilia cuprina, Chrysomya albiceps y Cochliomyia macellaria, para Calliphoridae; Dermestes maculatus y Necrobia rufipes en Dermestidae y Cleridae, respectivamente. La mayor riqueza y abundancia de insectos se encontró en los primeros días de descomposición, seguido de la aparición de larvas que degradan de forma progresiva los tejidos y la presencia de coleópteros. El patrón de sucesión coincide con otros estudios realizados en los Estados Aragua y Carabobo, los cuales contemplaron el uso de cadáveres de conejos y roedores, respectivamente. La implementación de este biomodelo permitirá el desarrollo de protocolos de muestreo con el fin de generar una base de datos que relacione las fases de descomposición con listados de especies de importancia forense.

Forensic entomology emerges as technical and scientific support for criminal investigation, providing information on the date of death. A commonly used method is the succession of necrofagous entomofauna on the body; however, most studies are performed using animal carcasses. Because of this, the present study intends to use beef viscera as biomodel, to determine the succession of species of forensic importance in Carabobo State. Lung and liver were used, and the entomofauna was collected and identified during eight days. 127 adult individuals of the Order Diptera, belonging to the families: Calliphoridae (67.9%), Muscidae (23.1%), Piophilidae (5.3%) and Sarcophagidae (3.7%), were obtained; and in Coleoptera, seven adult insects of Cleridae and Dermestidae. The species reported were Chrysomya megacephala, Lucilia cuprina, Chrysomya albiceps and Cochliomyia macellaria in Calliphoridae; Dermestes maculatus and Necrobia rufipes in Dermestidae and Cleridae, respectively. The richest variety and abundance of insects was found in the early days of decomposition, followed by the emergence of Diptera larvae and beetles breaking down tissues progressively. The succession pattern is consistent with other studies conducted in the states of Aragua and Carabobo, which considered the use of dead rabbits and rodents, respectively. The implementation of this biomodel will allow the development of sampling protocols in order to generate a database that links the decomposition phases with species of forensic importance.

Estimativa do intervalo pós-morte em um canino (Canis lupus familiaris Linnaeus 1758) pela entomologia forense em Cabedelo-PB, Brasil: relato de caso / Estimate of postmortem interval through forensic entomology in a canine (Canis lupus familiaris Linnaeus 1758) in Cabedelo-PB, Brazil: case report

O intervalo pós-morte (IPM) é um instrumento importante de diagnóstico relacionado à prática forense. O uso de insetos tem sido relatado como um modo eficiente para estimá-lo, quando o cadáver encontra-se em estágio avançado de decomposição. Objetivou-se com este trabalho estimar o IPM com base em evidências entomológicas em um canino. Foram coletadas larvas de moscas no cadáver e encaminhadas ao laboratório de entomologia, onde foram criadas e eclodiram adultos da espécie Chrysomya albiceps (Wiedemann, 1819). Somando-se os dados abióticos de temperatura e umidade relativa do local de coleta e do local de criação, estimou-se um IPM mínimo de 3,34 dias do momento da postura dos ovos pelas moscas até a coleta das larvas. Com base nos resultados obtidos, conclui-se que a entomologia forense, como ferramenta para estimativa do IPM, mostrou-se eficaz e determinante na elucidação do caso em questão.

The postmortem interval (PMI) is an important tool for diagnosis related to the forensic practice. The use of insects has proved to be an efficient diagnosis tool when the cadaver is in advanced decomposition stage. The objective of this work was to estimate PMI based on entomological evidence in a canine. Fly larvae was collected from the cadaver and forwarded to the Entomology laboratory. The fly larvae were reared and hatched adults of Chrysomya albiceps (Wiedemann 1819). With these insects and the abiotic data of temperature and relative humidity, from the places of collection and rearing larvae, a minimum PMI of 3.34 days from the laying of eggs by the flies until the time that we collected the larvae was obtained. The results show that Forensic Entomology as tool to estimate PMI is decisive and effective in the elucidation of the case.

New records of Muscidae (Diptera) in Campo Grande, MS, Brazil / Novos registros de dípteros muscóides em Campo Grande, MS, Brasil

Synanthropic flies outstanding beside other flies due their relative abundance close to domestic animals and human population, to which they are able to cause myiasis or transmit pathogenic agents. As they're necrophagous they act as corpse decomposers and are useful in the forensic entomology in the post mortem interval determination. This study aimed to know flies diversity and abundance in Campo Grande, State of Mato Grosso do Sul. Captures were made weekly, utilizing three traps baited with decaying fish meat, from June of 2008 to May of 2009 in a remainder ciliary forest of the Embrapa's Cattle Beef Experimental Farm. The dipterans families that were considered and respectively number of collected specimens were: Calliphoridae (105,334); Muscidae (27,999); Sarcophagidae (21,083); Fanniidae (17,759) and Mesembrinellidae (305), totalizing 172,480 dipterous. To the local known species some Muscidae were increased as follows: Neomuscina atincticosta, Pseudoptilolepis elbida, Polietina orbitalis, Polietina flavithorax, Scutellomusca scutellaris, Graphomya analis and Morellia couriae.(AU)

As moscas sinantrópicas se destacam pelo fato de serem relativamente abundantes junto à população humana e animais domésticos, podendo causar a estes miíases ou transmitir agentes patogênicos. Por serem necrófagas, atuam na decomposição de cadáveres e são úteis para a entomologia forense como indicadores na determinação do intervalo post mortem - IPM. Este trabalho visou conhecer a diversidade e a abundância das espécies em Campo Grande, Estado de Mato Grosso do Sul. As capturas foram realizadas semanalmente, com três armadilhas, utilizando isca de peixe deteriorado, durante o período de junho de 2008 a maio de 2009 em mata ciliar remanescente na fazenda experimental da Embrapa Gado de Corte. Foram consideradas as seguintes famílias de dípteros, seguidas pelo número de exemplares obtidos: Calliphoridae (105.334); Muscidae (27.999); Sarcophagidae (21.083); Fanniidae (17.759) e Mesembrinellidae (305), totalizando 172.480 dípteros. Foram acrescentadas às espécies de Muscidae já notificadas para o local deste estudo: Neomuscina atincticosta, Pseudoptilolepis elbida, Polietina orbitalis, Polietina flavithorax, Scutellomusca scutellaris, Graphomya analis e Morellia couriae.(AU)

Allee effect in exotic and introduced blowflies

We combined two models to investigate the theoretical dynamics of five exotic and native blowfly species in response to the Allee effect by using demographic parameters estimated from experimental populations. Most of the results suggest stabilization of dynamic behavior in response to the Allee effect. However, the results depended on the magnitude of the demographic parameters of each species, and also indicated chaotic fluctuations and limit cycles. The results are discussed in the context of larval aggregation, an important biological process for blowflies, which naturally incorporates the Allee effect.

Nosocomial nasal myiasis in an intensive care unit

A 73-year-old Chinese man was admitted to the Accident and Emergency Premorbid Ward of a local hospital in Malaysia. The patient complained of shortness of breath with cough and was in a semi-conscious state. He was later admitted to an intensive care unit (ICU) of the hospital. Six days after admission 5-6 maggots were recoverd from the nasal cavity. The maggots were identifi ed as the third-instar larvae of Lucilia cuprina Wiedmann (Diptera: Calliphoridae) based on the morphological characteristics. This patient was classifi ed as having nosocomial myiasis. The presence of the third instar larvae indicated that the infestation was not more than three to four days. An adult sarcophagid identifi ed as Parasarcophaga rufi cornis (Fabricius) caught in the ICU where the patient was warded provided further evidence of the potential for the nosocomial infestation.

Diversidade de Calliphoridae (Insecta: Diptera) na base de extração petrolífera da Bacia do Rio Urucu, na Amazônia brasileira / Diversity of Calliphoridae flies (Insecta: Diptera) in the oil extraction field of Rio Urucu basin, in Brazilian Amazonian

A diversidade e abundância de dípteros califorídeos de três ambientes (clareira artificial, clareira natural e mata) de Porto Urucu/AM foram avaliadas em coletas anuais realizadas em 2004, 2005 e 2006. Ao longo destes três anos foram coletados 2.121 exemplares pertencentes a 14 espécies. As espécies mais abundantes foram Chloroprocta idioidea (Robineau- Desvoidy), Eumesembrinella randa (Walker) e Hemilucilia semidiaphana (Rondani). Os habitats de matas e clareiras naturais apresentaram maior abundância de califorídeos quando comparados às clareiras artificiais, com índices de diversidade e equitabilidade também maiores do que em clareiras artificiais, onde a dominância foi mais elevada.

The diversity and abundance of blow flies in three environments (anthropic gaps, tree-fall gaps, and primary "terra firme" forest) of Porto Urucu/AM were evaluated in annual collects realized in 2004, 2005, and 2006. During these three years were collected 2,121 specimens belonging to 14 species. The most abundant species were Chloroprocta idioidea (Robineau- Desvoidy), Eumesembrinella randa (Walker), and Hemilucilia semidiaphana (Rondani). Primary forests and tree-fall gaps enviroments, showed higher blow flies abundance than anthropic gaps, with diversity and equitability index higher than anthropic gaps, when the dominance value was high.

Rate of development of forensically-important Dipterain southern Brazil / Taxa de desenvolvimento de Diptera de importância forense no sul do Brasil

Dipteran larvae were collected from rabbit (Oryctolagus cunniculus L.) carcasses during the four seasons in 2005 in the southernmost state of Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil. The larvae were fed ground beef at ambient temperatures following collection from carcasses. The development of each species under these conditions was estimated. The most abundant species in the carcasses were Lucilia eximia (Wiedemann) and Chrysomya albiceps (Wiedemann) (Calliphoridae), and they were found in all seasons. The data were fitted to a linear model that describes the relationship between temperature and linear developmental rating. These two species are primary forensic indicators in southern Brazil. Other species such as Hemilucilia semidiaphana (Rondani) (Calliphoridae), Synthesiomyia nudiseta (Wulp), Muscina stabulans (Fallen) (Muscidae), and Fannia pusio (Wiedemann) (Fanniidae) were forensically less important because they only occurred in high frequency in certain seasons and during the first days of carcass decomposition.

Larvas de dipterous foram coletadas em carcaças de coelho-doméstico (Oryctolagus cunniculus L.) ao longo das quatro estações de 2005 no extremo-sul do Rio Grande do Sul, Brasil. As larvas foram alimentadas com carne bovina moída e acondicionadas em temperatura ambiente. O desenvolvimento de cada espécie foi acompanhado nestas condições. As espécies mais abundantes na carcaça foram Lucilia eximia (Wiedemann) e Chrysomya albiceps (Wiedemann) (Calliphoridae) em todas as estações. Os dados foram ajustados a um modelo linear da relação entre a taxa de desenvolvimento destas espécies e a temperatura média diária do ambiente. Estas duas espécies são as principais indicadoras forense no sul do Brasil. Outras espécies como Hemilucilia semidiaphana (Rondani) (Calliphoridae), Synthesiomyia nudiseta (Wulp), Muscina stabulans (Fallen) (Muscidae) e Fannia pusio (Wiedemann) (Fanniidae) foram menos importantes porque ocorreram em alta abundância em determinadas estações do ano no decorrer dos primeiros dias de decomposição.

Rearing Chrysomya megacephala on artificial diets composed of varying concentrations of albumin

Larvae of the blowfly Chrysomya megacephala were reared on an artificial diet composed of five different concentrations of albumin (2, 4, 6, 8 and 10 percent) and the control group was fed on putrid bovine meat. No larvae developed in the 2 and 10 percent albumin concentrations. The period from newly hatched larvae to adults reared on 4, 6 and 8 percent albumin was 13.1, 13.1 and 13.6 days, respectively, whereas for the control group, it was 11.2 days. Concentrations of 4, 6 and 8 percent albumin proved viabile for larval periods of 29.3, 44.0 and 57.3 percent, respectively, whereas for the control group, it was 77.3 percent. Pupal viability was 77.3, 36.4 and 83.7 percent, while for the control group, it was 84.5 percent; the newly hatched larvae to adult viability was 21.3, 16.0 and 48.0 percent, respectively, and for the control group, it was 65.3 percent.

O presente trabalho teve como objetivo avaliar o desenvolvimento pós-embrionário de Chrysomya megacephala (Fabricius, 1794) (Diptera: Calliphoridae) em dietas artificiais à base de albumina nas concentrações de 2 por cento, 4 por cento, 6 por cento, 8 por cento e 10 por cento de albumina e como controle foi utilizada a carne bovina moída putrefata. Não houve desenvolvimento nas dietas de concentração 2 por cento e 10 por cento de albumina. A duração do período de larva a adulto foi 13,1; 13,1 e 13,6 dias, respectivamente, e a do controle foi de 11,2 dias. As dietas artificiais nas concentrações 4, 6 e 8 por cento de albumina apresentaram viabilidades larvais de 29,3; 44,0 e 57,3 por cento, respectivamente e o controle 77,3 por cento; as viabilidades de pupa foram 77,3; 36,4 e 83,7 por cento e o controle 84,5 por cento, respectivamente; as viabilidades de larva a adulto foram 21,3; 16,0 e 48,0 por cento e o controle foi de 65,3 por cento, respectivamente.

Validação da armadilha adultrap® para capturade dípteros muscoides / Validation of the adultrap® trap for capture of muscoids dipterans

O potencial da armadilha adultrap® para captura de dípteros muscoides foi avaliado por comparação com a armadilha descrita por Ferreira (1978) e adaptada por Fraga e d' Almeida (2005). Iscas de sardinha foram utilizadas em ambas as armadilhas. O teste de Wilcoxon para duas amostras não pareadas foi empregado para comparação das armadilhas. Capturou-se um total de 8.909 dípteros muscoides, sendo 57,51 por cento desses pela adultrap®, mas sem diferença significativa (p = 0,147) entre as armadilhas. Do total de sarcofagídeos, califorídeos, muscídeos e de outras famílias de dípteros muscoides 79, 68, 29 e 31 por cento, respectivamente, foram capturados pela adultrap® com diferença estatística (p = 0,002) entre as armadilhas apenas para a família Sarcophagidae. Os resultados da adultrap® foram similares ao modelo modificado por Fraga e d' Almeida (2005). Entretanto, adultrap® foi mais eficiente na captura de dípteros da família Sarcophagidae.

The potential of adultrap® for capture of muscoid dipterans was evaluated by comparison with the trap described by Ferreira (1978) and adapted by Fraga and d' Almeida (2005). Sardine baits were used in both traps. The Wilcoxon two-sample test was used for trap comparison. A total of 8,909 muscoid dipterans was caught, 57.51 percent of them by the adultrap®. However, there was no significant difference (p = 0.147) between trap efficiency. From the total of sarcophagids, calliphorids, muscids and other families of muscoid flies, 79, 68, 29 and 31 percent were caught by adultrap®, respectively. Statistical difference (p = 0.002) between traps was found only for Sarcophagidae. The results of adultrap® were similar to the model used by Fraga and d'Almeida (2005), thus validating its use for seasonal fluctuation studies of muscoid dipterans. However, adultrap® has the highest efficiency in capturing Sarcophagidae flies.

Sobrevivência de pupas de Lucilia eximia (Wiedemann) (Diptera, Calliphoridae) após submersão em laboratório / Survival of Lucilia eximia (Wiedemann) (Diptera, Calliphoridae) pupae after submersion in laboratory

Entre Maio e Junho de 2008 foi observado a sobrevivência das pupas de Lucilia eximia (Diptera, Calliphoridae) após submersão em laboratório. Para este experimento foram utilizadas 480 pupas de mesma idade, sendo estas divididas em oito grupos: o controle não foi submerso e os demais grupos foram submersos de um a sete dias. O aumento do período de submersão diminui a sobrevivência, com um dia de submersão a sobrevivência é de 80 por cento, com dois dias 40 por cento, é de 30 por cento a partir do terceiro dia, no quarto dia cai para 23,34 por cento e no quinto dia fica em 10 por cento. Após este período a mortalidade sobe para 100 por cento. Este padrão pode ser explicado pela curva "U-shaped" que ocorre no consumo de O2 durante o período pupal, onde o consumo é maior no início e no final do período pupal. O tempo de submersão também afeta o tempo de desenvolvimento, aumentando o período pupal. Estes dados têm o potencial para serem utilizados em investigações envolvendo Entomologia Forense, para a estimativa do tempo de submersão de um cadáver.

Between May and June of 2008, the survival of the pupae of Lucilia eximia (Diptera, Calliphoridae) was observed after submersion in laboratory. For this experiment 480 pupae of same age were used, these were divided in eight groups: the group control was not submerged and the other groups were submerged from one to seven days. The increase of the submersion period reduces the survival, with one day of submersion the survival is of 80 percent, with two days 40 percent, of 30 percent with three days, in the fourth day it falls to 23,34 percent and in the fifth day it is 10 percent. After this period the mortality rises to 100 percent. This pattern can be explained by the curve "U-shaped" that happens in the consumption of O2 during the pupal period, where the consumption is larger at the beginning and at the end of the pupal period. The time of submersion also affects the development time, increasing the pupal period. These data are potentially useful in estimating duration of submergence of a corpse in forensic entomology investigations.

Use of Cytochrome c Oxidase Subunit I (COI) Nucleotide Sequences for Identification of the Korean Luciliinae Fly Species (Diptera: Calliphoridae) in Forensic Investigations

Blowflies, especially species belonging to the subfamily Luciliinae, are the first insects to lay eggs on corpses in Korea. Fast and accurate species identification has been a key task for forensic entomologists. Because conventional morphologic identification methods have many limitations with respect to forensic practice, molecular methods have been proposed to identify fly species of forensic importance. To this end, the authors amplified and sequenced the full length of the cytochrome c oxidase subunit I (COI) gene of the Luciliinae fly species collected in Korea. The results showed the COI sequences are instrumental in identifying Luciliinae fly species. However, when compared with previously reported data, considerable inconsistencies were noted. Hemipyrellia ligurriens data in this study differed significantly from two of the five pre-existing data. Two closely related species, Lucilia illustris and Lucilia caesar, showed an overlap of COI haplotypes due to four European sequences. The results suggest that more individuals from various geographic regions and additive nuclear DNA markers should be analyzed, and morphologic identification keys must be reconfirmed to overcome these inconsistencies.

Vejigas animales como sitios de oviposición y desarrollo de moscas en festividades, Heredia, Costa Rica / Animal bladders as oviposition and breeding sites for flies after festivities in Heredia, Costa Rica

Se realizó un recuento del númeo de vejigas dispersas en 15 manzanas del centro urbano de Barva, Heredia, luego de la celebración de las mascaradas, actividad enmarcada en las fiestas patronales de la ciudad. Adicionalmente se llevó a cabo una evaluación de los huevos, larvas y adultos de mosca presentes en 2 vejigas que fueron descartadas en lugares públicos y que no fueron contaminadas con tierra, fluidos u otros detritos. Luego de la actividad se contaron 29 vejigas, las cuales estuvieron localizadas en tendido eléctrico, 55.2 por ciento, aceras, 27,6 por ciento, jardines 6.9 por ciento, desagues 6.9 por ciento y techos 3.4 por ciento. Los grupos de moscas observados pertenecieron a las familias Calliphoridae, cochliomyia macellaria, lucilia eximia, phaenicia cuprina, chrysomyia megacephala, sarcophagidae, sarcophaga sp., muscidae, musca domestica y phoridae. Los promedios de huevos y larvas por vejiga fueron 176 y 44 respectivamente. Los resultados demuestran que las vejigas crudas constituyen un eficiente atrayente para diversas especies de moscas de importancia en salud pública, lo que plantea la necesidad de buscar alternativas de tratamiento para las mismas con el fin de garantizar la sostenibilidad de la tradición minimizando la contaminación del entorno urbano.

A study of the number of animal bladders dispersed in 15 blocks in the urban core of Barva- Heredia was performed following the masquerades, a traditional celebration during the festivities of the city. Additionally, an evaluation of the eggs, larvae and adult flies was performed in two bladders that were discarded in public areas, which were free from soil, fluids, or other debris. In total, 29 bladders were counted. They were located on power lines (55,2%), sidewalks (27,6%), drainages (6,9%) and roofs (3,4%). The flies observed corresponded to the families Calliphoridae (Cochliomyia macellaria, Lucilia eximia, Phaenicia cuprina, Chrysomyia megacephala), Sarcophagidae (Sarcophaga sp.), Muscidae (Musca domestica), and Phoridae. The average of eggs and larvae per bladder was 176 and 44, respectively. Results show that fresh bladders are an efficient bait for flies of medical importance. In this sense, there is a need to identify treatment methods for the bladders in order to guarantee sustainability of the radition, without the contamination of the urban...

Fecundity, body size and population dynamics of Chrysomya albiceps (Wiedemann, 1819) (Diptera: Calliphoridae)

In this study, the seasonal variation of fecundity, wing and tibia length were investigated in natural populations of Chrysomya albiceps (Wiedemann, 1819) in an attempt to determine the changes in life history of the species as a function of seasonality. A relative constant temporal trajectory was found for fecundity, wing and tibia length over twenty-four months. Positive correlations between fecundity and wing size, fecundity and tibia size and wing and tibia sizes were observed. The implications of these results for population dynamics of C. albiceps are discussed.

Neste estudo, a variação sazonal da fecundidade, comprimentos de asa e tíbia foram investigadas em populações naturais de Chrysomya albiceps (Wiedemann, 1819) como uma forma de determinar as variações bionômicas da espécie em função da sazonalidade. Uma trajetória temporal constante foi encontrada para fecundidade, comprimentos de asa e tíbia durante vinte e quatro meses. Correlações positivas entre fecundidade e comprimento de asa, fecundidade e comprimento de tíbia e comprimentos de asa e tíbia foram observadas. As implicações destes resultados para a dinâmica populacional de C. albiceps foram discutidas.