Phenology and thermal requirements of the species Cyperus difformis L. in southern Brazil

Cyperus difformis L. is a Cyperaceae, annual, of natural occurrence in marshy environments in southern Brazil, considered a weed in irrigated rice crops. Studies on its development are scarce, especially regarding its cycle and thermal requirements. Therefore, the objective of this work was to determine the base temperature, the thermal sum and the duration of the different sub-periods of the biological cycle of the species. The experiment was carried out at the Campus of the Universidade Federal de Santa Maria – UFSM, Santa Maria, Rio Grande do Sul, in four sowing seasons. In a completely delineated design and factorial scheme involving five soil water conditions (water depth and 50% soil water retention capacity [WRC]) from the sowing, water depth and 50% WRC introduced 21 days after emergence and 100% WRC during the whole cycle, with six repetitions each. Each experimental unit consisted of a cultivated in pot plant with 11 L capacity filled with soil. The cycle of the plants was subdivided into the sowing-emergence sub-periods, emergence-emission of the floral tassel and emission of the floral-maturing physiological tassel, being estimated the thermal requirements for the species. The conditions of the soil water condition the base temperature, the sum of the degree-days and the duration of the species cycle. The base temperature varies for each treatment, the sum of degrees-day decreases with the water deficit and the plants under flood accelerate the biological cycle.

Ecological relationships of Haemagogus spegazzinii (Diptera: Culicidae) in a semiarid area of Brazil

Abstract INTRODUCTION: Haemagogus are mosquitoes with diurnal habits that live preferentially in forest areas. In Brazil, they are considered the primary vectors of wild yellow fever. METHODS: The ecological relationships between Haemagogus spegazzinii, the environment, and some of its activities in the semiarid region of Rio Grande do Norte were analyzed by collecting eggs with ovitraps, actively searching in tree holes, capturing adults in Shannon traps, and conducting an investigation for viral infections. RESULTS: A total of 2420 eggs, 271 immature specimens (larvae and pupae), and 206 adults were collected. Egg collection depended on rainfall and relative humidity, with oviposition occurring between January and May. Larvae were found in five plant species, including Tabebuia aurea (craibeira), with 160 larvae collected. We observed shared breeding sites between Hg. spegazzinii and the following species: Aedes albopictus, Aedes terrens, Culex spp., and Toxorhynchites theobaldi. Adults exhibited greater activity between 5 pm and 6 pm, when 191 (92.7%) specimens were captured, while only 1 (0.5%) was collected between 7 pm and 8 pm. The relationship between Hg. spegazzinii and rainfall was significant, with positive correlations with accumulated rainfall 5, 10, 15, 20, and 30 days before mosquito collection. We found that the species was infected with the DENV-2 virus. CONCLUSIONS: This work contributes new information on the bioecology of Hg. spegazzinii, with data on the main reproduction periods, oviposition, breeding sites, activity times, and the relationship between the species and meteorological variables in the Caatinga of northeastern Brazil.

Biology and fertility life table of Bactrocera carambolae on grape and acerola

ABSTRACT Bactrocera carambolae Drew & Hancock (Diptera: Tephritidae), native of Southeast Asia, is present in Brazil but restricted to Amapá, Pará and Roraima, where it has quarantine pest status. The possible dispersion to other fruit producing regions of Brazil could cause damages, including for exportation, due to quarantine restrictions imposed by fruit importing countries. The objective of this work was to describe the biological parameters and calculate the fertility life table of B. carambolae on grape (Vitis vinifera L.) and acerola (Malpighia emarginata DC.). The experiment was conducted in the laboratory under controlled conditions. The mean number of punctures and the mean number of eggs per female on grapes were 1.48 ± 0.05 and 9.87 ± 0.36, respectively. The mean number puparia per fruit was 0.1 ± 0.02 (grape) and 0.5 ± 0.10 (acerola). The pupal viability was 82.4% (grape) and 70.6% (acerola). The mean time ± SE of one generation, in days, was 25.8 ± 1.10 (grape) and 19.7 ± 0.21 (acerola). The mean fecundity was 1663.8 ± 501.01 (grape) and 206.9 ± 26.21 (acerola) with eggs viability of 5.6% (grape) and 12.5% (acerola). The mean longevity, in days, was 77.3 ± 12.13 on grape and 82.4 ± 4.24 on acerola. The study found that B. carambolae completes its biological cycle on grape and on acerola leaving offspring.

The life cycle of Neotropical ground beetle, Abaris basistriata (Coleoptera: Carabidae) reared on different substrates / Ciclo de vida do besouro de solo Neotropical, Abaris basistriata (Coleoptera: Carabidae) criado em diferentes substratos

Abstract Carabids are recognized worldwide as biological control agents of agricultural pests. The objective was to compare the life cycle of Abaris basistriata Chaudoir (Coleoptera: Carabidae) on three substrates: soil, fine vermiculite, or paper napkins. The biological cycle of A. basistriata presented different durations in soil and paper. The viability of eggs and larvae survival of the first and second instars were similar on all three substrates, while the third instar and pupa in the soil presented higher survival when compared with vermiculite and paper. The soil substrate was more favorable for the longevity of the carabid beetle. Abaris basistriata showed a shorter pre-oviposition period and a higher oviposition and post-oviposition period in the soil. Fecundity and fertility were higher when A. basistriata was reared on soil. The soil was most favorable substrate for rearing of A. basistriata in the laboratory. This information may make this species useful for the biological control.

Resumo Os carabídeos são reconhecidos mundialmente como agentes de controle biológico de pragas agrícolas. O objetivo foi comparar o ciclo de vida de Abaris basistriata Chaudoir (Coleoptera: Carabidae) em três substratos: solo, vermiculita fina, ou guardanapos de papel. O ciclo biológico de A. basistriata apresentou diferentes durações no solo e no papel. A viabilidade dos ovos e a sobrevivência das larvas do primeiro e segundo instares foram semelhantes nos três substratos, enquanto que o terceiro instar e a pupa apresentaram maior sobrevivência no solo quando comparados com vermiculita e papel. O substrato solo foi mais favorável à longevidade do carabídeo. Abaris basistriata mostrou menor período de pré-oviposição e maior período de oviposição e pós-oviposição no solo. A fecundidade e a fertilidade foram maiores quando A. basistriata foi criado no solo. O solo foi o substrato mais favorável para a criação de A. basistriata no laboratório. Estas informações são importantes e podem tornar essa espécie útil para o controlo biológico.

Aspectos biológicos de Archaeoprepona demophon muson (Fruhstorfer, 1905) (Lepidoptera: Nymphalidae, Charaxinae) en la Amazonía peruana

El objetivo de este trabajo fue elucidar el ciclo biológico de la mariposa diurna Archaeoprepona demophon muson, determinar las especies de plantas con las que se relaciona, caracterizar su hábitat y contribuir al conocimiento sobre sus enemigos naturales. El trabajo de campo se desarrolló en dos áreas cercanas a la ciudad de Iquitos (Perú). Para describir el ciclo biológico se utilizó 20 huevos recientemente depositados en las hojas de su planta hospedera. La duración del ciclo, desde huevo hasta adulto fue de 85.40 ± 4.66 días en condiciones de laboratorio. El periodo de huevo se extendió por 5.60 ± 0.52 días. La larva pasa por cinco estadíos: el primero duró 8.61 ± 0.77 días, el segundo 6.12 ± 0.68 días, el tercero 11.44 ± 0.73 días, el cuarto 8.13 ± 0.34 días, y el quinto 27.37 ± 1.29 días. El periodo de la prepupa duró 3.60 ± 0.51 días y el de pupa 14.13 ± 2.62 días; los adultos nacieron aproximadamente entre las 9:00 a 11:00 h. La hembra vivió 41.00 ± 6.35 días y el macho 19.25 ± 4.49 días. Las plantas alimenticias utilizadas fueron Siparuna bifida (Poepp. & Endl.) A.DC., Pouteria caimito (Ruiz & Pav.) Radlk. y Musa x paradisiaca L. Registramos dos enemigos naturales, una araña y un hongo

The aim of this study was to elucidate the life cycle of the butterfly Archaeoprepona demophon muson, determine the species of plants to which it relates, characterize its habitat and contribute to the knowledge about their natural enemies. Fieldwork was conducted in two areas near Iquitos (Peru). For the description of the life cycle 20 eggs laid on leaves of it host plant were used. The cycle from egg to adult lasted 85.40 ± 4.66 days under laboratory conditions. The egg period took 5.60 ± 0.52 days. The larva goes through five stages: the first one lasts 8.61 ± 0.77 days; the second 6.12 ± 0.68; the third 11.44 ± 0.73; the fourth 8.13 ± 0.34; and the fifth 27.37 ± 1.29. The prepupa lasted 3.60 ± 0.51 days and the pupa 14.13 ± 2.62; adults were born approximately between 9:00 to 11:00 h. The female lived 41.00 ± 6.35 days and the male 19.25 ± 4.49 days. The host plants were Siparuna bifida (Poepp. & Endl.) A.DC., Pouteria caimito (Ruiz & Pav.) Radlk. and Musa × paradisiaca L. We report two natural enemies, a spider and a fungus

The life cycle of Neotropical ground beetle, Abaris basistriata (Coleoptera: Carabidae) reared on different substrates

Abstract Carabids are recognized worldwide as biological control agents of agricultural pests. The objective was to compare the life cycle of Abaris basistriata Chaudoir (Coleoptera: Carabidae) on three substrates: soil, fine vermiculite, or paper napkins. The biological cycle of A. basistriata presented different durations in soil and paper. The viability of eggs and larvae survival of the first and second instars were similar on all three substrates, while the third instar and pupa in the soil presented higher survival when compared with vermiculite and paper. The soil substrate was more favorable for the longevity of the carabid beetle. Abaris basistriata showed a shorter pre-oviposition period and a higher oviposition and post-oviposition period in the soil. Fecundity and fertility were higher when A. basistriata was reared on soil. The soil was most favorable substrate for rearing of A. basistriata in the laboratory. This information may make this species useful for the biological control.

Resumo Os carabídeos são reconhecidos mundialmente como agentes de controle biológico de pragas agrícolas. O objetivo foi comparar o ciclo de vida de Abaris basistriata Chaudoir (Coleoptera: Carabidae) em três substratos: solo, vermiculita fina, ou guardanapos de papel. O ciclo biológico de A. basistriata apresentou diferentes durações no solo e no papel. A viabilidade dos ovos e a sobrevivência das larvas do primeiro e segundo instares foram semelhantes nos três substratos, enquanto que o terceiro instar e a pupa apresentaram maior sobrevivência no solo quando comparados com vermiculita e papel. O substrato solo foi mais favorável à longevidade do carabídeo. Abaris basistriata mostrou menor período de pré-oviposição e maior período de oviposição e pós-oviposição no solo. A fecundidade e a fertilidade foram maiores quando A. basistriata foi criado no solo. O solo foi o substrato mais favorável para a criação de A. basistriata no laboratório. Estas informações são importantes e podem tornar essa espécie útil para o controlo biológico.

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.

Bionomy of two flies of sanitary and forensic importance: Peckia (Sarcodexia) lambens (Wiedemann) and Oxysarcodexia amorosa (Schiner) (Diptera, Sarcophagidae)

ABSTRACTThis study aims to elucidate the bionomy of Peckia(Sarcodexia) lambens and Oxysarcodexia amorosa to provide data for medical, veterinary and forensic entomology analyses. We analyzed larval stage duration (L1–L3), weight of the mature larvae (L3), pupal stage duration, L1–adult duration, adult emergence and viability of larvae and adults of both species. Larval viability of P. (S.) lambens was 82% and the mean duration of the larval stage was 3.51 ± 0.99 days. The mature larvae had a mean weight of 33.67 ± 7.13 mg. The mean duration of the pupal stage was 8.26 ± 0.93 days and the mean duration of the L1–adult was 11.53 ± 1.22 days. Mean lifespan for females and males was 39.33 ± 1.52 and 57.33 ± 4.72 days, respectively. Larval viability of O. amorosa was 76% and mean duration of larval stage was 3.51 ± 0.64 days. Mature larvae had a mean weight of 28.28 ± 3.38 mg. Mean duration of the pupal stage was 10.14 ± 0.63 days and mean duration of the L1–adult was 13.60 ± 0.69 days. Mean lifespan for females and males was 83.66 ± 15.94 and 84.00 ± 19.97 days, respectively. Oxysarcodexia amorosa showed a L1–adult stage longer than P. (S.) lambens; however both species showed low viability. O. amorosa laid more larvae than P. (S.) lambens, this fact may occur because O. amorosa had longer life duration.

Biological aspects of immature stage of Nyssomyia whitmani (Antunes and Coutinho) (Diptera, Psychodidae, Phlebotominae) in laboratory conditions

Nyssomyia whitmani (Antunes and Coutinho, 1939) has been considered as a complex of cryptic species, and some of the populations of this complex plays an important role in the transmission of Leishmania spp. in Brazil. The present study reports the biological aspects concerning the productivity out of eggs and the development time of the descendants of females obtained in Dourados municipality, Mato Grosso do Sul state. The females were captured with modified electric aspirators, fed in hamsters and further individualized in containers for breeding. At the insectary, temperature and relative humidity were maintained on average of 24.5 °C and 67.3%, respectively. From 944 females 3737 eggs were obtained, 748 (20.0%) evolved to the stage of larvae, and 93 (12.4%) of these reached adult stage. The life cycle lasted 80.6 days and the last larval instar was the longest. The use of a higher protein diet revealed a significant improvement in larval development.

Ecoepidemiology and biology of Eratyrus mucronatus Stål, 1859 (Hemiptera: Reduviidae: Triatominae), a sylvatic vector of Chagas disease in the Brazilian Amazon

Introduction Eratyrus mucronatus Stål, 1859 is a wild triatomine vector of Trypanosoma cruzi Chagas, 1909. However, little is known regarding the biology and ecoepidemiology of this triatomine in the Brazilian Amazon. The present study describes the biology of E. mucronatus grown under laboratory conditions and the epidemiological aspects of its natural breeding sites. Methods Five colonies were monitored in the field for 3 years. Temperature and humidity measurements were taken in the mornings and afternoons at the natural breeding sites, and the behavior and distribution of the nymphs and adults were observed in the wild colony. We also monitored the life cycle under controlled laboratory conditions. Results Some factors that were considered decisive for the establishment of these colonies were present at all of the colonies studied in the field. These factors included an active termite nest, a vertebrate for repast, and dry and shaded substrates with temperatures of 24-28°C and with humidity of 80-90%. A generation was developed in 274 days under these microclimatic conditions in the laboratory. Conclusions The climatic variables described in the field indicate that these environmental parameters have a limiting effect on the dispersal and colonization of E. mucronatus to new environments. ...

Estudos biológicos de espécies de Puccinia utilizando "Germinatélios" / Biological studies of puccina species using "Germinatelia"

Apesar da importância dos fitopatógenos pertencentes à Ordem Pucciniales (=Uredinales), popularmente denominados de ferrugens, certas particularidades de sua biologia são pouco conhecidas, principalmente devido à dificuldade de cultivá-los em meios de cultura e também pela falta de metodologias adequadas ao desenvolvimento das pesquisas. Portanto, o objetivo deste trabalho foi verificar a eficiência de aparatos denominados "germinatélios" para a obtenção de dados sobre a produção de basidiósporos e biologia de diferentes espécies de Pucciniales. Foram utilizadas no estudo as espécies Puccinia psidii, P. pampeana, P. pelargonii-zonalis, P. arachidis, P. mogiphanis, P. emiliae, P. hetereospora, P. malvacearum e P. cnici oleracei. A utilização dos "germinatélios" permitiu constatar elevada produção de basidiósporos (estruturas infectivas) por um período de até 5 meses, à temperaturas entre 12 a 21oC. Além disso, em P. malvacearum foi possível registrar a germinação por repetição (estratégia de sobrevivência) em 4,5% dos basidiósporos produzidos. Todas as espécies foram favorecidas a temperaturas amenas. Estes resultados demonstram, portanto, que a utilização dos "germinatélios" é eficiente, auxiliando na obtenção de dados sobre a biologia e ciclos de diferentes espécies de Puccinia, possibilitando melhor conhecimento sobre estes fitopatógenos, resultando em medidas de manejo e controle mais adequadas/precisas.

Despite the importance of plant pathogens belonging to the Order Pucciniales (=Uredinales), popularly called rusts, certain peculiarities of its biology is poorly known, mainly due to the difficulty of growing them in culture media and also by the lack of appropriate methodologies for the development of research. Therefore, this study was to verify the efficiency of apparatus called "germinatelia" to obtain data about the basidiospores production biology of different Pucciniales species. Were used in the study Puccinia pampeana, P. psidii, P. pelargonii-zonalis, P. arachidis, P. mogiphanis, P. emiliae, P. hetereospora, P. malvacearum and P. cnici-oleracei. The use of "germinatelia" have revealed high basidiospores production for a period up to 5 months at temperatures between 12o and 21oC. Furthermore, in P. malvacearum was possible to record the germination by repetition (survival strategy) in 4.5% of basidiospores produced. All species were favored to mild temperatures. These results therefore demonstrate that the use of "germinatélios" is efficient, assisting in obtaining data about the biology and cycles of different Puccinia species, enabling better understanding of these pathogens, resulting in management and control measures most appropriate/accurate.

Occurrence of adults and biological aspects of Geniates borelli Camerano (Coleoptera, Scarabaeidae, Rutelinae) in Aquidauana, MS, Brazil / Ocorrência de adultos e aspectos biológicos de Geniates borelli Camerano (Coloptera, Scarabaeidae, Rutelinae) em Aquidauana, Mato Grosso do Sul, Brasil

Occurrence of adults and biological aspects of Geniates borelli Camerano (Coleoptera, Scarabaeidae, Rutelinae) in Aquidauana, Mato Grosso do Sul, Brazil. Due to the importance of Geniates borelli Camerano as a pest in many crops, studies were developed at Universidade Estadual de Mato Grosso do Sul, Aquidauana campus, MS, Brazil. Adults were collected with a light trap from January 2006 to December 2007. 3,320 adults were collected, and the highest quantities were obtained in October 2006 and November 2007, with 1,548 and 802 adults recorded, respectively. Collected adults were kept in plastic containers with soil and Brachiaria decumbens seedlings for oviposition. 535 eggs measuring 2.30 × 1.60 mm were obtained. As the embryonic development progressed, eggs increased in size to 3.00 × 2.70 mm, and this change occurred between 6 and 10 days after oviposition. The embryonic period lasted 17.9 days. The first, second, and third instars lasted 37.6, 49.7, and 74 days, respectively. The prepupal stage lasted 65.9 days and the pupal stage lasted an average of 18.5 days. The biological cycle is completed in 315.8 days, which characterizes the species as univoltine. The average longevity of females was 35.4 days and 28.5 days for males.

Ocorrência de adultos e aspectos biológicos de Geniates borelli Camerano (Coloptera, Scarabaeidae, Rutelinae) em Aquidauana, Mato Grosso do Sul, Brasil. Devido a importância de Geniates borelli Camerano como praga de culturas, foram desenvolvidos estudos na Universidade Estadual de Mato Grosso do Sul, no campus de Aquidauana, MS. Com o uso de armadilha luminosa realizou-se a coleta de adultos de janeiro de 2006 a dezembro de 2007. Foram coletados 3.320 adultos, e as maiores quantidades foram obtidas em outubro de 2006 e novembro de 2007, onde se registraram, respectivamente 1.548 e 802 adultos. Os adultos coletados foram mantidos em recipientes de plástico, contendo solo e mudas de Brachiaria decumbens, para que estes realizassem a oviposição. Foram obtidos 535 ovos com dimensões de 2,30 x 1,60 mm e com o desenvolvimento embrionário ocorre aumento de tamanho para 3,00 x 2,70 mm e essa mudança do formato ocorreu entre o 6º e 10º dia após a oviposição. O período embrionário durou 17,9 dias, o primeiro, segundo e terceiro instar duraram 37,6, 49,7 e 74 dias, respectivamente. A pré-pupa durou 65,9 dias e a fase de pupa durou a média de 18,5 dias. O ciclo biológico completa-se em 315,8 dias, o que caracteriza a espécie como univoltina. A longevidade média das fêmeas foi de 35,4 dias e dos machos 28,5 dias.

Aspectos biológicos de Pelidnota fulva Blanchard, 1850 (Coleoptera, Scarabaeidae, Rutelinae) / Biological aspects of the Pelidnota fulva Blanchard, 1850 (Coleoptera, Scarabaeidae, Rutelinae)

Algumas espécies de Scarabaeidae apresentam importante função na decomposição e reciclagem de material vegetal e como existem poucas informações sobre esse grupo de insetos, o presente trabalho teve por objetivo estudar os aspectos biológicos de Pelidnota fulva Blanchard, 1850. A determinação do período de ocorrência foi realizada com coletas de adultos com armadilha luminosa e em fontes luminosas na fazenda experimental da Universidade Estadual de Mato Grosso do Sul de janeiro de 2008 a dezembro de 2009. Com a formação de casais e obtenção de ovos foram iniciados os estudos de biologia, sendo os insetos mantidos em câmara climatizada a 26 + 1 ºC, com fotofase de 12 horas. Os adultos ocorreram durante curto período de tempo em campo, pois foram coletados em outubro e novembro de 2008, e em setembro e outubro em 2009. Em laboratório foram obtidos ovos, os quais possuem dimensões médias 2,5 × 1,9 mm, e após alguns dias atingem as dimensões médias de 3,4 × 3,3 mm. O período embrionário durou 15,1 dias, as larvas de primeiro instar duraram 22,4 dias, as de segundo instar 36,9 dias e as de terceiro 209,7 dias, a fase de pupa durou 20,7 dias. A duração média do ciclo de ovo a adulto foi de 309,3 dias, caracterizando a espécie como univoltina. Os adultos possuem longevidade de 12,8 dias. Foram observadas cópulas no laboratório que duraram no mínimo oito minutos e no máximo 1 hora e 13 minutos.

Some species of Scarabaeidae present an important function in the decomposition and recycle of organic material and because there is little information on this group of insects, the objective of the present study was to evaluate the biological aspects of Pelidnota fulva Blanchard, 1850. Determination of the period of occurrence was performed by capture of adults with a light trap and in laminated areas of the experimental farm belonging to the Universidade Estadual de Mato Grosso do Sul, Brazil, from January 2008 to December 2009. After mating and obtaining of the eggs biological studies were initiated, in which the insects were maintained in an acclimatized chamber at 26 + 1 ºC with photophate for 12 hours. Adult occurrence was short in the field, being captured in October and November of 2008 and September and October of 2009. Eggs were obtained in the laboratory which possessed average dimensions of 2.5 × 1.9 mm, and after a few days the same dimensions averages 3.4 × 3.3 mm. The embryonic period lasted 15.1 days; the first, second and third instar larvae periods lasted 22.4, 36.9 and 209.7 days, respectively; and the pupa phase lasted 20.7 days. Average duration of the egg to adult cycle was 309.3 days, characterizing the species as univoltine. Adults possess longevity of 12.8 days. Mating was observed in the laboratory which presented minimal and maximal durations of 8 minutes and 1 hour and 13 minutes.

Biologia de Dichomeris famulata Meyrick, 1914 (Lepidoptera: Gelechiidae) em milho / Biology of Dichomeris famulata Meyrick, 1914 (Lepidoptera: Gelechiidae) in maize

Dichomeris famulata Meyrick, 1914 (Lepidoptera: Gelechiidae) é uma nova praga da espiga de milho no Brasil, sendo seu estudo importante em áreas de produção de sementes porque os grãos atacados pelas lagartas não germinam. O objetivo deste trabalho foi estudar a sua biologia em condições de laboratório (25±2°C, UR de 65±10 por cento e fotofase de 14 horas). O ciclo biológico (ovo-adulto) foi de 35,2 dias. O período de incubação foi de 4,1 dias. A duração média da fase larval foi de 21,1 dias, sendo observados cinco ínstares larvais. A fase pupal durou 8,4 dias e o peso de pupa de machos e fêmeas foi de 12,4 e 11,3mg, respectivamente. As fêmeas colocaram, em média, 118 ovos, apresentando um período de pré-oviposição de 10,7 dias e de oviposição de 14,0 dias. A longevidade média de machos e fêmeas foi de 37,02 e 44,16 dias, respectivamente, e a razão sexual de 0,48. As lagartas danificam os estilo-estigmas e os grãos em estado leitoso por meio de pequenos orifícios de entrada, prejudicando o endosperma e principalmente a região do embrião, inutilizando-os para sementes. Os resultados obtidos neste trabalho fornecem subsídios para o estabelecimento de estratégias de manejo do inseto, especialmente em áreas de produção de sementes.

The caterpillar Dichomeris famulata Meyrick, 1914 (Lepidoptera: Gelechiidae) is a new pest of corn ear in Brazil, and its study is important in seed fields. The aim of this was to study the biology of this pest under laboratory conditions (25±2°C, 65±10 percent of RH and 14-hours of photophase). The biological cycle (egg-adult) was of 35.2 days. The incubation period was of 4.1 days. The average larval development time was of 21.1 days, and 5 instars were observed. The pupal period was of 8.4 days and the pupae weight was of 12.4 and 11.3 mg for males and females, respectively. The females laid an average of 118 eggs with a pre-oviposition period of 10.7 days and an oviposition time of 14.0 days. The mean longevity of males and females was of 37.02 and 44.16 days, respectively, and sex ratio was of 0.48. The caterpillars damage the silks and grains at the milk stage through little entry orifices, damaging the endosperm and, more importantly, the embryo, reducing the seed germination. These results can support the establishment of strategies to manage this new corn ear pest, especially in seed fields.

In vitro and in vivo effects of Enterococcus faecalis CECT7121 on Toxocara canis

The aim of the present paper was to evaluate the larvicidal effect of Enterococcus faecalis CECT7121 (Ef7121) on the Toxocara canis cycle both in vitro and in vivo. For the in vitro experiments, T. canis larvae were incubated with the supernatants of Ef7121 (EI) and mutant Ef7121 (EIm), in a pre-culture of Ef7121 (EII) and in a fresh culture with Ef7121 (EIII) and the Ef7121 mutant strain (EIIIm). The viability of the larvae was calculated after a 48 h incubation. A significant reduction of the viability of T. canis larvae was observed in EI, EII and EIII. A decrease of this inhibitory effect was observed in EIm and EIIIm (p = 0.008). In the in vivo experiments, mice were orally inoculated with three doses of Ef7121. To study the probiotic persistence in the intestine, the animals were sacrificed every four days and their intestines were dissected. The initial average bacterial levels were 9.7 x 10(4) for Ef7121 (colony forming units/g). At the end of the assay the levels were 1.46 x 10(4). No bacterial translocation was detected in mesenteric lymphatic nodules and spleen. Ef7121 interference with the biological cycle was evaluated in mice challenged with T. canis. The interference was significant when the mice were challenged with probiotic and T. canis simultaneously (p = 0.001), but it was not significant when the challenge was performed 15 days after administration of the bacterial inoculum (p = 0.06). In conclusion, Ef7121 possessed in vitro and in vivo larvicidal activity.

Avaliação de diferentes dietas merídicas sobre a emergência de adultos de Ctenocephalides felis felis (Siphonaptera : Pulicidae) / Evaluation of different meridic diets upon adult emergence of Ctenocephalides felis felis (Siphonaptera: Pulicidae)

O objetivo do presente trabalho foi avaliar a influência de dietas merídicas compostas por sangue de diferentes espécies animais sobre a emergência de adultos da pulga Ctenocephalides felis felis. Foram utilizadas seis dietas artificiais contendo areia e sangue desidratado de cão, boi, coelho e galinha, acrescidas ou não com farelo de trigo. Foram realizadas seis repetições contendo dez ovos de C. f. felis para cada dieta. Após 25 dias de incubação, os ovos foram quantificados e avaliados quanto à emergência de adultos. O número de pulgas emergidas para dietas com sangue de boi, cão, coelho e galinha, com areia e farelo de trigo, foi de aproximadamente oito pulgas. Para as dietas contendo apenas sangue de boi ou de cão e areia, essa emergência foi de aproximadamente uma pulga para ambas. Conclui-se que a origem do sangue empregado na elaboração da dieta não interfere significativamente no percentual de emergência de adultos de C. f. felis. Portanto, pode-se optar pela espécie animal disponível para o preparo da dieta artificial, aliada à suplementação com farelo de trigo, para suprir uma eventual perda nutricional decorrente da desidratação do sangue.

The objective of the present study was to evaluate the influence of meridic diets composed by blood from different animal species upon the adult emergence of Ctenocephalides felis felis fleas. Six artificial diets containing dried blood of cattle (standard), dogs, rabbit and chicken, combined with sand or sand/wheat bran were prepared. For each diet six samples containing ten C. f. felis eggs were evaluated. After 25 days of incubation, samples were assessed for adult emergence. The number of emerge fleas for diets composed by bovine, canine, rabbit and chicken combined with sand/wheat bran was aproximally eight fleas. Diets composed by bovine and canine combined with sand, this emergence was aproximally one flea, for both. It can be concluded that the blood origin do not alter significantly C. f. felis adult emergence rate. Therefore, blood from any available animal species can be used for artificial diet formulation, combined with wheat bran in order to supply any nutritional losses occurred during blood dehydration.

Aspectos biológicos de Leucothyreus dorsalis Blanchard (Coleoptera, Scarabaeidae, Rutelinae) / Biological aspects of Leucothyreus dorsalis Blanchard (Coleoptera, Scarabaeidae, Rutelinae)

No Brasil existe uma escassez de informações sobre a bioecologia da maioria das espécies de Scarabaeidae. O objetivo do presente trabalho foi estudar os aspectos biológicos de Leucothyreus dorsalis Blanchard, 1850 em laboratório e a campo. A dinâmica populacional dos adultos foi avaliada de janeiro de 2006 a dezembro de 2007, com uso de armadilha luminosa. Adultos coletados em campo foram mantidos em recipientes de plástico contendo solo e mudas de Brachiaria decumbens Stapf, para obtenção de ovos e dar início aos estudos. Todos os estágios de desenvolvimento foram acompanhados e adultos e imaturos foram mensurados para obtenção de dados biométricos. Foram coletados 3.607 adultos e os picos populacionais de coleta ocorreram em novembro de 2006 e outubro de 2007, com média de 145 e 241 indivíduos coletados, respectivamente. O período embrionário durou em média 15,5 dias, o primeiro instar 32,4 dias, o segundo 38,9 dias, o terceiro 52,7 dias, a fase de pré-pupa 130,7 dias, a fase pupal 23,5 dias e a longevidade 18 dias. O ciclo biológico completou-se em 273,5 dias, o que caracteriza a espécie como univoltina. Verificou-se que do primeiro ao terceiro instar houve um aumento de 4,5 vezes no comprimento e de 3,5 vezes na largura das larvas. Observou-se um aumento de 53,1 vezes no peso larval do primeiro para o terceiro instar. As pupas das fêmeas foram significativamente maiores e mais pesadas que a dos machos. As fêmeas adultas foram maiores que os adultos machos, porém, apresentaram peso semelhante.

In Brazil there is a shortage of information on bioecology of most species of Scarabaeidae. The aim of this work was to study the biological aspects of Leucothyreus dorsalis Blanchard, 1850 in laboratory and field. The population dynamics of adults was evaluated from January, 2006, to December, 2007, with the use of light traps. Adults collected in the field were kept in plastic recipients containing soil and seedlings of Brachiaria decumbens Stapf, to obtain eggs and start the studies. All developmental stages were monitored and adults and immatures measured to get biometric data. 3,607 adults were collected and the population peaks occurred in November, 2006 and October, 2007, with averages of 145 e 241 individuals collected, respectively. The embryonic period took in the average 15.5 days, the 1st instar 32.4 days, the 2nd instar 38.9 days, the 3rd instar 52.7 days, the pre-pupa 130.7 days, the pupa 23.5 days and the longevity of adults 18 days. The biological cycle was completed in 273.5 days, characterizing the specie as univoltine. From the first to the third instar it was observed an increasing of 4.5 times in the extension and 3.5 times in the width of the larvae. There was an increase of 53.1 times in the larval weight from the first to the third instar. The female pupae were significantly larger and heavier than the male ones. The adult females are larger than the adult males, however, they have similar weight.

Protocolo de cria de Musca domestica en laboratorio / Breeding protocol for Musca domestica in the laboratory

Presentamos un método de cría de Musca domestica en condiciones de laboratorio, a una temperatura de 32ºC, humedad relativa de 70 a 80 % y fotoperiodo de 12 horas de luz, el ciclo biológico de M. domestica dura aproximadamente 9 días. La dieta para moscas adultas consiste en 80 gr de azúcar comercial, 250 mL de leche pasteurizada y agua filtrada. El medio de cultivo para larvas se elabora con tiras de papel de servilletas humedecidas con una solución de leche y levadura, éstas se colocan por capas de 5 centímetros en el interior de un frasco de vidrio hasta llenar 1/3 del volumen del mismo. Posteriormente se depositan aproximadamente 250 huevos, encima de los cuales se coloca la última capa seca de tiras papel. Transcurridos cinco días se procede a sacar las pupas del medio de cría. Estas se colocan en el interior de una jaula limpia y cuatro días después emergen los adultos.

We present a method of growing Musca domestica under laboratory conditions. At a temperature of 32 ºC, relative humidity of 70 to 80% and photo period of 12 hours of light, the life cycle of M. domestica lasts about 9 days. The diet for the adult fly consists of 80 grams of commercial sugar, 250 mL of pasteurized milk and filtered water. The culture medium for larvae was made with strips of paper napkins moistened with a solution of milk and yeast that were placed in layers to 5 cm deep in a glass bottle filled 1/3 full. About 250 larvae eggs were placed on the top layer and then a last layer of dry strips of paper was added. After five days the pupae were removed from the rearing flask. These were placed into a clean cage and four days later the adults emerged.

Exigências térmicas e estimativa do número de gerações da broca-do-fruto Annona (Cerconota anonella) / Thermal requirements and estimate of the Annona fruit borer (Cerconota anonella) generations number

Cerconota anonella é a principal praga das Annonaceae em toda região Neotropical. Os prejuízos causados pela lagarta, podem reduzir de 60 a 100 por cento da produção de frutos. Os objetivos deste trabalho foram estudar a biologia da broca-do-fruto Cerconota anonella em diferentes temperaturas, determinar suas exigências térmicas e estimar o número de gerações para os municípios produtores do estado de São Paulo. Para determinar a duração, viabilidade e exigências térmicas criaram-se insetos em frutos de pinha, em diferentes temperaturas (18, 21, 25, 28, 30 e 32°C), umidade relativa 90,0±5,0 por cento e fotoperíodo de 14 horas. A duração das fases de desenvolvimento e do ciclo biológico (ovo-adulto) foi afetada pela temperatura, tendo sido maior nas temperaturas mais baixas; a viabilidade foi maior na faixa térmica de 21 a 30°C. O limiar térmico inferior de desenvolvimento (Tb) e a constante térmica (K) para as fases de ovo, lagarta, pupa e ciclo de vida foram de 10,20°C e 83,33GD; 11,72°C e de 249,71GD; 8,69°C e 161,33GD; 11,05°C e 478,14GD, respectivamente. Com base nas normais climáticas, o número de gerações anuais de C. anonella variou de 9 a 10 e de 7 a 8 se considerar apenas a época de frutificação. Esses resultados demonstram o alto potencial de infestação desta praga no campo.

Cerconota anonella is the most important pest of the Annonaceae in the Neotropical region. Larval damage can result in 60 to 100 percent losses in fruit production. The objectives of this research were to study the biology of the Annona fruit borer C. anonella in different temperatures, to determine their thermal requirements and estimate the number of generations to the cities producers of Sao Paulo state. To determine the duration, viability and thermal requirements insects were reared in sugar apple, at different temperatures (18, 21, 25, 28, 30 and 32°C), relative humidity and 90.0±5.0 photoperiod of 14 hours. The duration of the stages development and the biological cycle (egg-adult) were affected by temperature and were higher in lower temperatures; the viability was higher in the temperature range from 21 to 30°C. The lowest temperature threshold development (Tb) and thermal constant (K) for the egg, caterpillar, pupal and life cycle were 10.20°C and 83.33 GD; 11.72°C and 249.71 GD, 8,69°C and 161.33 GD; 11.05°C e 478.14 GD, respectively. Based on normal climatic l, the number of annual generations of C. anonella ranged from 9 to 10 and from 7 to 8 if it was considered the only fruiting time . These results demonstrate the high potential of this pest in the field.