Sucking insects and their predators on tree canopies of a monocultural stand of Caryocar brasiliense / Insetos sugadores e seus predadores na copa de Caryocar brasiliense em sistema de monocultura

Abstract Caryocar brasiliense Camb. (Malpighiales: Caryocaraceae) trees are widely distributed throughout the Cerrado ecosystem. The fruits of C. brasiliense trees are used by humans for food and as the main income source in many communities. C. brasiliense conservation is seriously threatened due to habitat loss caused by the land-use change. Sucking insects constitute an important ecological driver that potentially impact C. brasiliense survival in degraded environments. In addition, insects sampling methodologies for application in studies related to the conservation of C. brasiliense are poorly developed. In this study, sucking insects (Hemiptera) and their predators were recorded in three vertical strata of Caryocar brasiliense canopies. The distribution of sucking species showed vertical stratification along the canopy structure of C. brasiliense. The basal part of the canopy had the highest numbers of sucking insects Aphis gossypii (Glover 1877) (Hemiptera: Aphididae) and Bemisia tabaci (Genn. 1889) (Hemiptera: Aleyrodidae), and their predators Chrysoperla sp. (Neuroptera: Chrysopidae), spiders (Araneae), and Zelus armillatus (Lep. & Servi., 1825) (Hemiptera: Reduviidae). Predators' distribution follows the resource availability and preferred C. brasiliense tree parts with a higher abundance of prey.

Resumo Caryocar brasiliense Camb. (Malpighiales: Caryocaraceae) é amplamente distribuído por todo o ecossistema de cerrado. Os frutos de C. brasiliense são utilizados na alimentação humana e constitui uma importante fonte de renda para muitas comunidades. A perda de habitat provocada pelas mudanças de uso da terra coloca em risco a conservação de C. brasiliense. Insetos sugadores constituem um importante fator ecológico que, potencialmente, afeta o fitness de C. brasiliense em ambientes degradados. Além disso, as metodologias de amostragem de insetos para aplicação em estudos relacionados à conservação de C. brasiliense são pouco desenvolvidas. Neste estudo, o número de insetos sugadores (Hemiptera) e seus predadores foram avaliados em três estratos verticais do dossel de C. brasiliense. A distribuição das espécies sugadoras apresentou estratificação vertical ao longo da estrutura do dossel. O estrato basal do dossel apresentou o maior número de insetos sugadores Aphis gossypii (Glover 1877) (Hemiptera: Aphididae) e Bemisia tabaci (Genn. 1889) (Hemiptera: Aleyrodidae), e seus predadores Chrysoperla sp. (Neuroptera: Chrysopidae), aranhas (Araneae) e Zelus armillatus (Lep. & Servi., 1825) (Hemiptera: Reduviidae). Os predadores distribuíram-se de acordo com a disponibilidade de recursos, ocorrendo em maior número nas partes do dossel com maior abundância de suas presas.

Silicon as resistance inducer to control black apphid Aphis craccivora Koch, 1854 in cowpea beans [Vigna unguiculata (L)] Walp

The black aphid Aphis craccivora (Koch, 1854) stands out between the bugs considered cowpea pests. The objective of this study was to evaluate the effects of silicon application on the resistance induction of cowpea plants to the black aphid A. craccivora. The experiment was conducted in the Entomology Laboratory of the Phytosanitary sector of the Centro de Ciências Agrárias at the Universidade Federal do Piauí. The effects of the application of silicon on biological aspects were evaluated using a completely randomized design, with four treatments and 40 repetitions, being: silicon in soil (T1), silicon in soil + leaf (T2), silicone leaf (T3), and control (T4). The following biological variables were evaluated: generation period, reproductive period, fecundity, and daily average of nymphs per female. The silicon and lignin contents were also evaluated in the plants. The silicic acid was applied in a 1% solution around the stem of the plants (soil), 15 days after emergence, by diluting 2 g of the product in 200 mL of water. However, the leaf application was carried out with sprayer five days after application in soil. The non-preference of A. craccivora on bean was also evaluated. The evaluations were performed after 24, 48 and 72 hours of infestation by counting nymphs at 24, 48 and 72 hours and adults at each leaf session. The application of silicon promotes the reduction of the production of nymphs, interfering in the biological aspects of A. craccivora, and has potential to be used in a cowpea pest management program in cowpea.

Mutualistic interaction of aphids and ants in pepper, Capsicum annuum and Capsicum frutenscens (Solanaceae) / Interacción mutualista de pulgones y hormigas en pimiento, Capsicum annuum y Capsicum frutenscens (Solanaceae)

Abstract Introduction: Adequate biological identification is fundamental for establishing integrated pest management programs and identifying the trophic and mutualist relationships that can affect pest population dynamics. Aphids are the main pest of pepper Capsicum spp. (Solanaceae) crops in Southwestern Colombia, due to their role as vectors of viruses. However, the identification of aphid species is complex, limiting the investigations performed to address their interactions with other organisms. Ants and aphids present a facultative mutualistic relationship, that promotes the growth of hemipteran colonies, for this reason, the study of the ecological mutualistic association between aphids and ants is important. Objective: The main objective was to discriminate the aphid species present in commercial crops of Capsicum spp., and to identify the ant community that attends the aphid colonies and its effects on the size of the aphid colonies. Methods: Aphid species, and their ant mutualist, were collected from Capsicum annuum and Capsicum frutescens, in the Cauca valley, Southwestern Colombia. We used the DNA barcoding approach to identify aphid species, and the ants were identified by morphology-based taxonomy. To evaluate the effect of ant care on the size and structure of aphid colonies, generalized linear models were calculated using as the response variables the total number of aphids for each colony and the proportion of nymphs. Results: The aphid species that attack pepper crops, are: Aphis gossypii and Myzus persicae (Hemiptera: Aphididae), with A. gossypii being the species that interacts with ants (19 ant species). A. gossypii colonies attended by ants had larger sizes and more nymphs per colony, than those not attended. Conclusions: Although the aphid-ant interaction is not species-specific, it is necessary to consider its role in the propagation of viral diseases in peppers and to determine how this interaction may affect regional biological control strategies.

Resumen Introducción: La adecuada identificación biológica es fundamental para establecer programas de manejo integrado de plagas e identificar las relaciones tróficas y mutualistas que pueden afectar la dinámica poblacional de insectos plaga. Los áfidos son las principales plagas del ají Capsicum spp. (Solanaceae) en el suroccidente colombiano, debido a su rol como vectores de virus. Sin embargo, su identificación es compleja, y limita las investigaciones que intentan revelar sus interacciones con otros organismos. Las hormigas y los áfidos presentan una relación mutualista facultativa, que promueve el crecimiento de las colonias de los hemípteros, por esta razón, el estudio de la asociación ecológica y mutualista entre áfidos y hormigas es importante. Objetivo: El principal objetivo de esta investigación fue discriminar las especies de áfidos presentes en cultivos comerciales de Capsicum spp., e identificar la comunidad de hormigas que atiende las colonias de áfidos y su efecto en el tamaño de las colonias de áfidos. Métodos: Los áfidos, y las hormigas mutualistas de estos áfidos, se recolectaron de Capsicum annuum y Capsicum frutescens, en el valle del rio Cauca, en el suroccidente colombiano. Se empleó el Código de barras del ADN para identificar las especies de áfidos, y las hormigas se identificaron empleando taxonomía basada en morfología. Para evaluar el efecto que tiene el cuidado de las hormigas sobre el tamaño de las colonias de áfidos, se empleó un modelo lineal generalizado, utilizando como variables de respuesta el número total de áfidos por cada colonia y la proporción de ninfas por colonia. Resultados: Las especies de áfidos que atacan los cultivos de ají, son: Aphis gossypii y Myzus persicae (Hemiptera: Aphididae), siendo A. gossypii la especie que interactúa con hormigas (19 especies). Las colonias de A. gossypii atendidas por hormigas presentan mayor tamaño y número de ninfas, que aquellas desatendidas. Conclusiones: Aunque la interacción áfido-hormiga no es especie específica, es necesario considerar su rol en la propagación de enfermedades virales en plantas cultivadas y determinar cómo esta interacción puede afectar la implementación de estrategias de control biológico.

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.

Spatiotemporal analysis of distribution of pest and predator in corn crops

Crop pests have negative impacts on yield. This paper proposes a spatiotemporal geostatistical modeling to compare data of adult Syrphidae fly count and corn leaf aphid Rhopalosiphum maidis (Fitch, 1856) colonies in corn crops. The use of a geostatistical model that allows the space-time variation makes the approach more interesting because it is a more complete model. Multiple regression was used to model the trend component for the variable response adult Syrphidae fly count and corn leaf aphid colonies, with the coordinates serving as covariates and the spatiotemporal variations around the deviation are described by a random spacetime residual field. Finally, the prediction map obtained by kriging may be a biological indicator of possible corn leaf aphid colonies in the corn crop. It was possible to verify that the occurrence of the pest provided a significant increase in adult predators and seminatural habitats may favor populations of natural enemies.

Expression of Pinellia ternata leaf agglutinin under rolC promoter confers resistance against a phytophagous sap sucking aphid, Myzus persicae

BACKGROUND: Piercing/sucking insect pests in the order Hemiptera causes substantial crop losses by removing photoassimilates and transmitting viruses to their host plants. Cloning and heterologous expression of plantderived insect resistance genes is a promising approach to control aphids and other sap-sucking insect pests. While expression from the constitutive 35S promoter provides broad protection, the phloem-specific rolC promoter provides better defense against sap sucking insects. The selection of plant-derived insect resistance genes for expression in crop species will minimize bio-safety concerns. RESULTS: Pinellia ternata leaf agglutinin gene (pta), encodes an insecticidal lectin, was isolated and cloned under the 35S and rolC promoters in the pGA482 plant transformation vector for Agrobacterium-mediated tobacco transformation. Integration and expression of the transgene was validated by Southern blotting and qRT-PCR, respectively. Insect bioassays data of transgenic tobacco plants showed that expression of pta under rolC promoter caused 100% aphid mortality and reduced aphid fecundity up to 70% in transgenic tobacco line LRP9. These results highlight the better effectivity of pta under rolC promoter to control phloem feeders, aphids. CONCLUSIONS: These findings suggested the potential of PTA against aphids and other sap sucking insect pests. Evaluation of gene in tobacco under two different promoters; 35S constitutive promoter and rolC phloemspecific promoter could be successfully use for other crop plants particularly in cotton. Development of transgenic cotton plants using plant-derived insecticidal, PTA, would be key step towards commercialization of environmentally safe insect-resistant crops.

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.

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)

Biological aspects and feeding behavior of cotton aphid in watermelon cultivars submitted to silicon application / Aspectos biológicos e comportamento alimentar do pulgão-do-algodoeiro em cultivares de melancia submetidas à aplicação de silício

This research aimed to evaluate the biological aspects and the feeding behavior of Aphis gossypii in watermelon cultivars submitted to silicon application. The experiment was conducted at the Institute of Education, Agriculture and Environment of the Federal University of Amazonas, Humaitá, Brazil. The experimental design was completely randomized in a 2×3 factorial (with and without silicon; cultivars Crimson Sweet, Fairfax and Charleston), with ten replications. The application of silicic acid (1%) was carried out directly on the substrate using dose equivalent to 1 ton SiO2·ha-1, 25 days after sowing. The rearing of aphids was kept in cucumber plants, cultivar Caipira. Insect biology tests were conducted to evaluate the duration of the prereproductive, reproductive and postreproductive periods, longevity, number of nymphs, and feeding behavior using the honeydew secretion technique. Analysis of variance was performed using the statistical program SISVAR and the means were compared by the F and Scott­Knott test (p ≤ 0.05). The silicon application to watermelon plants affects the reproduction and feeding of A. gossypii. The watermelon plants cultivar Crimson Sweet treated with silicon has high resistance to feeding by A. gossypii.(AU)

Nesta pesquisa objetivou-se avaliar os aspectos biológicos e o comportamento alimentar de Aphis gossypii em cultivares de melancia submetidas à aplicação de silício. O experimento foi conduzido no Instituto de Educação, Agricultura e Ambiente da Universidade Federal do Amazonas, Humaitá, Brasil. Utilizaram-se o delineamento experimental inteiramente ao acaso e o esquema fatorial 2×3 (sem silício e com silício; cultivares Crimson Sweet, Fairfax e Charleston), com dez repetições. A aplicação do ácido silícico (1%) foi realizada diretamente no substrato, com dose equivalente a 1 ton SiO2·ha-1, 25 dias após a semeadura. Os pulgões da criação foram mantidos em plantas de pepino, cultivar Caipira. Foram conduzidos ensaios de biologia do inseto para avaliação da duração dos períodos pré-reprodutivo, reprodutivo e pós-reprodutivo, longevidade, número de ninfas e comportamento alimentar por meio da técnica de secreção de honeydew. Realizou-se a análise de variância dos dados utilizando-se o programa estatístico SISVAR e as médias foram comparadas pelo teste de F e Scott­Knott (p ≤ 0,05). A aplicação de silício em plantas de melancia afeta a reprodução e a alimentação de A. gossypii. Plantas de melancia do cultivar Crimson Sweet tratadas com silício apresentam alta resistência à alimentação por A. gossypii.(AU)

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.

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)

Thermal requirements and age-specific life tables of cowpea aphids in cowpea under natural field conditions / Exigências térmicas e tabelas de expectativa de vida específicas para pulgão preto em feijão-caupi sob condições naturais de campo

Thermal requirements and life tables of insects are important tools in the ecological management of pests. Thus, this study aimed to construct age-specific life tables for Aphis craccivora at different times of the year and, based on their thermal requirements, predict the occurrence of adults under field conditions. To that end, aphids of known age were kept in cages over cowpea plants at different times of the year - November 2016 and March, April, and June 2017 - at the Agricultural Sciences Center of the Federal University of Piauí. Parameters of development, fertility, and mortality were observed daily, allowing us to construct age-specific life tables, as well as an accumulated degree-day model to predict adult occurrence. The time of year affected the first and second stages of development of the cowpea aphid, the nymphal and reproductive periods, longevity, the biological cycle, the number of nymphs produced per female, the daily production of nymphs per female, life expectancy (ex), and survival (Lx). However, the fertility life tables showed significant differences only in the net reproduction rate (R0). The proposed degree-day model reached an accuracy of one day or more than the observed value, with a maximum error of 12.9%. We concluded that the proposed model is adequate to predict the occurrence of adults in the field and that the population parameters of A. craccivora in cowpea are negatively affected during November and positively affected in June.(AU)

As exigências térmicas dos insetos, bem como as tabelas de vida, são ferramentas importantes para o manejo ecológico de pragas. Assim, objetivou-se elaborar as tabelas de expectativa de vida específicas para Aphis craccivora em diferentes épocas do ano e, como base em suas exigências térmicas, prever a ocorrência de adultos em condições de campo. Para isso, pulgões de idade conhecida foram mantidos em gaiolas sobre feijão-caupi em diferentes épocas do ano, novembro de 2016 e março, abril e junho de 2017, no Centro de Ciências Agrárias da Universidade Federal do Piauí. Os parâmetros de desenvolvimento, fertilidade e mortalidade foram observados diariamente, permitindo a elaboração das tabelas de expectativa de vida, bem como a obtenção dos Graus-dia acumulados para a predição de ocorrência adulta. A época do ano afetou significativamente o primeiro e o segundo estádio de desenvolvimento do pulgão-preto-do-caupi, bem como os períodos ninfal e reprodutivo, a longevidade, ciclo biológico, o número de ninfas produzidas por fêmea e a produção diária de ninfas por fêmea, bem como a expectativa de vida (ex) e sobrevivência (Lx). No entanto, para as tabelas de vida de fertilidade, só houve diferenças estatísticas para a taxa líquida de reprodução (Ro). O modelo Graus-dia proposto obteve uma precisão de um dia ou mais do que o valor observado, com erro máximo de 12,9%. Concluiu-se que o modelo proposto é adequado para predizer a ocorrência de adultos no campo e que os parâmetros populacionais de A. craccivora em feijão-caupi são afetados negativamente durante o mês de novembro e positivamente em junho.(AU)

Entomofauna associated with Avena sativa in southern Mato Grosso do Sul, Brazil / Entomofauna associada à cultura da aveia branca no sul do Mato Grosso do Sul, Brasil

This study was aimed at examining the composition of insects and fluctuations in their populations in Avena sativa in southern Mato Grosso do Sul. The study was carried out at the experimental farm of the Federal University of Grande Dourados (FAECA) in Dourados, Mato Grosso do Sul, in 2014 and 2015, in an area of three hectares divided into 80 plots of 169 m2 each. The assessments were carried out weekly by sampling the area within a 0.25-m2 metal frame, totaling ten evaluations. Within the frame, ten plants were examined for aphids and all plants were inspected for other insects. Based on the faunistic analysis (abundance, constancy, frequency, and dominance), eight species were observed during the two years of study. The most frequent, abundant, dominant, and recurring species were Rhopalosiphum padi, Spodoptera frugiperda and dipterans of the family Syrphidae (hoverfly). The population of R. padi increased until approximately the 40th day after emergence (DAE), when the highest abundance of hoverflies was also observed. After that, the population of R. padi decreased. The aphid R. padi was the main insect observed in A. sativa during the two years of study but were naturally controlled by hoverflies; therefore, chemical intervention was not needed.(AU)

O objetivo deste trabalho foi analisar a composição faunística de insetos e sua flutuação populacional em Avena sativa na região sul do Mato Grosso do Sul. O experimento foi conduzido na Fazenda Experimental da Universidade Federal de Grande Dourados (FAECA), em Dourados, Mato Grosso do Sul, em uma área de três hectares divididos em 80 lotes de 169 m2 cada, nos anos de 2014 e 2015. As avaliações foram realizadas semanalmente por amostragem da área em uma estrutura metálica de 0,25 m2, perfazendo um total de dez avaliações. Dentro da estrutura, dez plantas foram examinadas para pulgões e todas as plantas foram inspecionadas quanto a outros insetos. Baseado na análise faunística (abundância, constância, frequência e dominância), oito espécies foram observadas durante os dois anos de estudo. As espécies mais frequentes, abundantes, dominantes e constantes foram Rhopalosiphum padi, Spodoptera frugiperda e dípteros da família Syrphidae. A população de R. padi aumentou até aproximadamente o 40° dia após a emergência (DAE), momento esse em que também houve a maior presença de sirfídeos. A partir deste ponto, ocorreu a diminuição na população de R. padi. O pulgão R. padi foi o principal inseto observado em A. sativa durante os dois anos de estudo, mas paralelamente houve um bom controle natural por sirfídeos, sendo dispensável, portanto, a necessidade de intervenções químicas.(AU)

The behavior of Aphis gossypii and Aphis craccivora (Hemiptera: Aphididae) and of their predator Cycloneda sanguinea (Coleoptera: Coccinellidae) in cotton-cowpea intercropping systems

ABSTRACT The intercropping is an important cultural practice commonly used in pest management. It is based on the principle that increased plant diversity in the agro-ecosystem can lead to reductions of pest populations in the crop. The current study aimed to assess the impact the colored fiber cotton-cowpea intercropped systems on Aphis gossypii and Aphis craccivora and on their predator Cycloneda sanguinea and the losses and the dispersion behavior of these aphids and their predator in these cropping systems. The experiment had a randomized block experimental design with two bioassays and four treatments. The number of apterous and alate aphids (A. gossypii) per cotton plant was 1.46 and 1.73 or 1.97 and 2.19 times highest in the solid cotton system than that found in the cotton-cowpea intercropped systems (S1) and (S2), respectively. On the other hand, the cotton-cowpea intercropped systems (S1 and S2) reduced, respectively, in 43% and 31% the number of apterousA. gossypiiper cotton plant compared to the control. Implementing cotton-cowpea intercropped system in the S1 scheme reduced A. gossypii infestation, favored the multiplication of C. sanguinea, and allowed obtaining heavier open bolls.

Population dynamics of Aphis gossypii Glover and in sole and intercropping systems of cotton and cowpea

ABSTRACT Population dynamics of aphids have been studied in sole and intercropping systems. These studies have required the use of more precise analytical tools in order to better understand patterns in quantitative data. Mathematical models are among the most important tools to explain the dynamics of insect populations. This study investigated the population dynamics of aphids Aphis gossypii and Aphis craccivora over time, using mathematical models composed of a set of differential equations as a helpful analytical tool to understand the population dynamics of aphids in arrangements of cotton and cowpea. The treatments were sole cotton, sole cowpea, and three arrangements of cotton intercropped with cowpea (t1, t2 and t3). The plants were infested with two aphid species and were evaluated at 7, 14, 28, 35, 42, and 49 days after the infestations. Mathematical models were used to fit the population dynamics of two aphid species. There were good fits for aphid dynamics by mathematical model over time. The highest population peak of both species A. gossypii and A. craccivora was found in the sole crops, and the lowest population peak was found in crop system t2. These results are important for integrated management programs of aphids in cotton and cowpea.

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 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.

Research on control effect of sulfoxaflor and flonicamid on Lonicera japonica / 中国中药杂志

The study was aimed to determine the efficacy of two pesticides in the control of aphids in Lonicera japonica, and study the applicability of pesticides in L. japonica. The number of insects was counted before and 2, 3, 7 and 10 days after the application of pesticide in the test area within different dosage groups. The method was 5-point sampling method. Five aphids on the L. japonica branches were selected, then the number of insects was recorded. The effect of the two pesticides on the control rate of aphid was more than 80% at 1 d after application. The results showed that the two pesticides had good efficacy. After 7 days and 10 days, the control effect was 100%. After 1 day of spraying, the effect of the two pesticides on the control of L. japonica aphids was more than 80%, which was higher than that of the control agent. The results showed that the two pesticides had good and fast effect. After 7 days and 10 days of spraying, the control effect was 100%. The control effect of two kinds pesticides for aphid sprayed in recommended dose on the L. japonica is good and showed no hytotoxicity.

Insect deterrent and nematicidal screening of microfungi from Mexico and anti-aphid compounds from Gliomastix masseei / Evaluación de la actividad disuasiva de insectos y nematotóxica de microhongos de México y compuestos anti-áfidos de Gliomastix masseei

Fungal metabolites are promising alternatives for the development of biorational pesticides. In this sense, microfungi from tropical regions are valuable sources of natural compounds for pest management. With the aim of broadening the search for new eco-friendly products to manage plant pests, this study was carried out to evaluate the biological activity of 23 tropical fungal extracts on three species of phytophagous insects and a plant parasitic nematode. In addition, the active principles of the most effective extract were identified. The insect deterrent activity of fungal extracts was evaluated on the settling of aphids Myzus persicae and Rhopalosiphum padi, and on the feeding of lepidoptera larva Spodoptera littoralis; the nematostatic activity was evaluated on the mobility of Meloidogyne javanica. Active metabolites from Gliomastix masseei were identified by GC-MS techniques and by comparison with commercial standards. Results showed seven extracts with strong effect on the settling of M. persicae and R. padi (settling inhibition >80%). The calculated median of effective concentration (EC50) values ranged from 8 to 38 µg/cm² for the extracts of Clonostachys rosea and G. masseei, respectively. Bioassay-guided separation of the ethyl acetate extract of G. masseei revealed the presence of fatty acids and their derivatives, where methyl 9-octadecenoate was the most active compound with EC50 values of 16 µg and 35 µg/cm² for M. persicae and R. padi, respectively. Extracts of C. rosea and G. masseei could be a promising option in the control of pest aphids in agriculture.

Los metabolitos fúngicos son agentes prometedores para el desarrollo de plaguicidas biorracionales. En este sentido, los hongos microscópicos de zonas tropicales representan una valiosa fuente de compuestos naturales para el manejo de plagas. Con la finalidad de ampliar la investigación en productos amigables con el medio ambiente, en este estudio se evaluó la actividad biológica de 23 extractos de hongos sobre 3 especies de insectos fitófagos y un nematodo fitoparásito; además se identificaron los componentes del extracto más activo. El efecto disuasivo de los extractos fúngicos se evaluó en el asentamiento de Myzus persicae y Rhopalosiphum padi, así como en la alimentación de Spodoptera littoralis; la actividad nematostática se evaluó sobre la movilidad de Meloidogyne javanica. Los metabolitos activos de Gliomastix masseei se identificaron por cromatografía de gases-espectrometría de masas y por comparación con muestras comerciales. Los resultados mostraron 7 extractos con fuerte efecto en la inhibición del asentamiento (> 80%) de M. persicae y R. padi. Los valores de la concentración efectiva media (CE50) estuvieron en el rango de 8 a 38 µg/cm² para los extractos de Clonostachys rosea y G. masseei, respectivamente. El extracto de acetato de etilo de G. masseei se fraccionó por un proceso biodirigido y reveló la presencia de ácidos grasos y sus derivados, donde el 9-octadecenoato de metilo fue el más activo, con una CE50 de 16 µg/cm² para M. persicae y 35 µg/cm² para R. padi. Los extractos fúngicos de C. rosea y G. masseei pueden ser una alternativa promisoria en el control de áfidos que son plaga en la agricultura.

Potencial inseticida de plantas medicinais encontradas na Amazônia Central contra o pulgão-da-couve Brevicoryne brassicae (L) (Hemiptera: Aphididae) / Insecticide potential of medicinal plants found in Central Amazonia against cabbage aphid Brevicoryne brassicae (L.) (Hemiptera: Aphididae)

O presente trabalho objetivou avaliar o potencial inseticida e a ação repelente sobre o pulgão-da-couve [Brevicoryne brassicae (L.)] de extratos de cinco espécies de plantas ocorrentes e cultivadas na Amazônia Central: Crescentia cujete L., Himatanthus articulatus (Vahl) Woodson, Syzygium malaccense (L.) Merr. & L.M. Perry, Schnella sp. e Protium sp. Os extratos foram utilizados na concentração de 10% e o inseticida botânico a base de azadiractina (Azamax®) foi usado como controle. Para avaliação inseticida, discos de folhas de couve-manteiga com 3,5 cm de diâmetro foram individualizados em placas de Petri (6 cm ø) e infestados com 10 ninfas de B. brassicae (até 48 h de idade). 1,0 mL de cada um dos tratamentos foi pulverizado sobre os discos e após 24 h foi avaliada a mortandade. Para avaliação da repelência, discos foliares (3,5 cm ø) foram divididos em duas partes: 1,0 mL de cada tratamento foi pulverizado em uma das metades do disco, na mesma concentração empregada para avaliação da atividade inseticida. Uma hora após a pulverização, cinco adultos de B. brassicae foram transferidos para o centro do disco e após 24 h foi avaliado o número de adultos sobre a área tratada e não tratada do disco foliar. O resultados foram submetidos a teste de normalidade e análise de variância (ANOVA). O contato direto e residual dos extratos de C. cujete, H. articulatus e Schnella sp. causaram uma mortalidade de ninfas entre 97,6 e 100%, resultados esses mais expressivos que S. malaccense (54,6%) e Azamax® (35,1%). Não foi detectada ação repelente dos extratos sobre B. brassicae