Seed removal by the squirrel Notocitellus adocetus (Rodentia: Sciuridae) in Western México

Introduction: Seed dispersal and seed predation have important impacts on plant diversity and community structure. Rodents participate in both of these types of interactions. Objectives: To evaluate the removal of the seeds of Crescentia alata, Randia capitata, and Zea mays by the squirrel Notocitellus adocetus to determine how it affects these plant species, by dispersing or preying on their seeds. Methods: We studied 14 individuals for C. alata, 24 for R. capitata, and for Z. mays 35 individuals. We observed foraging and used camera traps to determine the part of the fruit (seed and/or pulp) consumed by the squirrels and the amount of fruit or seed consumed. We also placed fine sand traps (FST) to measure the percentage of seed removal. We quantified the fruits produced by the plant species studied and the percentage of damage caused by N. adocetus throughout the plots. Results: Notocitellus adocetus feeds on the seeds and pulp of C. alata and Z. mays. The species with the highest removal rate and the highest percentage of damage was C. alata. Zea mays was the plant species that had the highest percentage of removal from FST, the largest number of fruits, and the lowest percentage of damage. On FST, R. capitata had the lowest seed remotion. Conclusions: Notocitellus adocetus is considered a seed predator; however, due to its behavior and the characteristics of the fruits of C. alata and R. capitata, this rodent could make the seeds available to secondary seed dispersers.

Introducción: La dispersión y depredación de semillas tienen efectos importantes en la diversidad de plantas y estructura de las comunidades. Los roedores participan en estos tipos de interacciones. Objetivos: Evaluar la remoción de semillas de Crescentia alata, Randia capitata y Zea mays por la ardilla Notocitellus adocetus, para determinar su efecto en estas especies de plantas, dispersando o depredando semillas. Métodos: Estudiamos 14 individuos de C. alata, 24 para R. capitata y 35 individuos para Z. mays. Observamos el forrajeo y usamos cámaras trampas para determinar la parte del fruto (semilla y/o pulpa) consumida y la intensidad de consumo por las ardillas. También colocamos trampas de arena fina (FST) para medir el porcentaje de remoción de semillas. Cuantificamos los frutos producidos por las especies estudiadas y el porcentaje de daño ocasionado por N. adocetus, mediante parcelas. Resultados: Notocitellus adocetus se alimenta de las semillas y pulpa de C. alata y Z. mays. La especie que tuvo mayor tasa de remoción y mayor porcentaje de daño fue C. alata. La especie con mayor porcentaje de remoción, mayor número de frutos y menor daño en las FST fue Z. mays. En las trampas de arena fina, R. capitata tuvo la menor remoción de semillas. Conclusiones: Notocitellus adocetus es considerada depredadora de semillas, no obstante, por su comportamiento y las características de los frutos de C. alata y R. capitata, este roedor podría dejar disponibles las semillas a dispersores secundarios de semillas.

Tritrophic relations and spatial distribution of fruit flies (Diptera: Tephritidae) in the Cerrado and Caatinga regions in Piauí, Brazil

ABSTRACT Knowledge about the spatial distribution of fruit flies (Diptera: Tephritidae) and tritrophic interactions (fruit-fruit fly parasitoid) contributes to the monitoring and maintenance of the numerical density at a level lower than economic damage. The purpose of this study was to identify the spatial distribution and associations of fruit flies with their parasitoids and host plants in the municipality of Bom Jesus-PI. The flies were obtained from fruit collection from July 2018 to May 2019. A total of 1,711 individuals were obtained, represented by six species: Anastrepha obliqua (Macquart, 1835), An. fraterculus (Wiedemann, 1830), An. alveata Stone, 1942, An. sororcula Zucchi, 1979, An. zenildae Zucchi, 1979 and Ceratitis capitata (Wiedemann, 1824). Anastrepha obliqua was the species with the widest distribution throughout the ecotone area. Ceratitis capitata is distributed only in the urban perimeter. A tritrophic relationship occurred between four species of parasitoids, Asobara anastrephae (Muesebeck, 1958) or Opius sp. associated with An. obliqua in Spondias mombin or S. tuberosa fruits. Opius sp. has also been associated with An. alveata in Ximenia americana. Pachycrepoideus vindemiae was obtained from C. capitata in Malpighia emarginata, in addition to An. obliqua in Averrhoa carambola. Therefore, fruit flies are associated with native fruit trees (S. tuberosa, S. mombin, S. purpurea, P. acutangulum, Inga laurina, X. americana) and exotic fruits (M. emarginata, A. carambola, P. guajava). Ceratitis capitata was recorded for the first time in the state of Piauí infesting I. laurina (Sw.) Willd. This is the first record of the parasitoid genus Spalangia. in An. obliqua in Piauí and in the semiarid region of Brazil.

Biological activities and phytochemicals of Hyptis capitata grown in East Kalimantan, Indonesia

Hyptis capitata is a plant in the family of Lamiaceae used to prevent wound infection and as an antidotefor food poisoning by the Bentian people, a local tribe in East Kalimantan, Indonesia. Of the plants in theLamiaceae family, the biological activities and phytochemical studies of H. capitata are less reported. Thiswork aims to investigate the phytochemicals and biological activities of H. capitata grown at two locations inEast Kalimantan, Indonesia. Leaves of H. capitata collected from location 1, Samarinda (coded by HSM), andlocation 2, West Kutai areas (coded by HWK), were macerated using ethanol. The biological activities of theplant were evaluated in terms of antimicrobial and antioxidant activity, and cytotoxicity against Artemia salina,while phytochemicals were analyzed by qualitative and quantitative tests. The results showed that leaf extractof H. capitata contains alkaloids, flavonoids, tannins, carbohydrates, and coumarins. HSM possessed higherphenolic and flavonoid content than that of HWK. HWK displayed more antimicrobial activity against thetest microorganisms particularly P. acnes (29%), S. sobrinus (49%), S. aureus (51%), and E. coli (45%). HSMshowed more radical scavenging activity in 1,1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl (IC50 13.69 µg/ml) and superoxide(IC50 65.11 µg/ml) tests. Brine shrimp lethality test showed no toxicity of H. capitata leaf extracts. The resultsdisplayed that H. capitata collected from the two locations showed good antibacterial and antioxidant activities.The results suggested that the biological activities and phytochemicals of H. capitata were affected by theenvironment where the plant was collected. A study into deep analysis of the effect of light intensity, temperature,soil nutrition, and predatory risks to the biological activity and phytochemicals of the plant is required.

Morphological Identification of Cyathula officinalis Kuan. and Cyathula capitata(Wall.) Moq / 中国药学杂志

OBJECTIVE: To identify morphological characteristics of Cyathula officinalis Kuan. and Cyathula capitata(Wall.) Moq.. METHODS: Based on tissue morphology features, C. officinalis Kuan. and Cyathula capitata (Wall.) Moq. were differentiated by using tissue sectioning, optical microscope, scanning electron microscopy and transmission electron microscopy technology. RESULTS: C. officinalis exhibited features, such as main roots, stems composed of four vascular bundles, relative rich trichomes, less green color, however, for C. capitata, hairy roots, stems composed of two vascular bundles and less trichomes were observed. Compared with low altitude condition, high-altitude condition may induce darker green color and formation of yellow spots and osmiophilic granules of leaves for C. capitata. CONCLUSION: It provides a scientific approach to differentiate these two closely related medicinal plants.

Physical and physiological quality of seeds of Campo Grande Stylosanthes coated with different binder materials / Qualidade física e fisiológica de sementes de Stylosanthes Campo Grande revestidas com diferentes materiais cimentantes

ABSTRACT: The binder materials used in seed coating provide adherence of the filler materials onto the seeds. Adequate concentrations of the binder promote good physical characteristics of coating while not impairing seed physiological characteristics. Thus, the objective of this study was to evaluate the type and the concentration of binder materials that allow the best physical and physiological characteristics in coated seeds of Campo Grande Stylosanthes. Seed coating was carried out in a coating pan, using sand as the filling material. The treatments consisted of 2 types of binders mixed in 3 ratios (PVA glue and gum arabic glue, diluted in water, 3:1, 2:1, and 1:1), and uncoated seeds as control. The coated seeds were evaluated for physical and physiological characteristics. The laboratory and greenhouse experiments were arranged in a completely randomized design. Results showed that at the different concentrations used this study, neither the PVA glue nor the gum arabic glue had any effect on the physiological quality of Campo Grande Stylosanthes seeds. However, PVA glue in the ratio of 2:1 provided the greatest surface area, maximum diameter, minimum diameter, and sphericity to coated seeds.

RESUMO: No processo de revestimento, os materiais cimentantes são os responsáveis por conferir a adesão dos materiais de enchimento às sementes. Concentrações adequadas de material cimentante promovem revestimento com boas características físicas e que não prejudiquem as características fisiológicas das sementes. Assim, o objetivo desse trabalho foi verificar o tipo e a concentração de material cimentante que possibilite as melhores características físicas e fisiológicas em sementes revestidas de estilosantes Campo Grande. O revestimento foi realizado em drageadora, utilizando areia como material de enchimento. Os tratamentos foram compostos por 2 tipos de materiais cimentantes em 3 proporções (cola cascorez extra e cola goma arábica, diluídas em água, 3:1, 2:1 e 1:1), além das sementes não revestidas, como controle. Após o revestimento, as sementes foram avaliadas quanto às características físicas e fisiológicas. O delineamento adotado foi inteiramente casualizado em laboratório e em casa de vegetação. Verificou-se que as colas cascorez extra e goma arábica não interferiram na qualidade fisiológica das sementes de estilosantes Campo Grande nas diferentes concentrações utilizadas. Entretanto, a cola cascorez extra na proporção 2:1 proporcionou maior área, diâmetro máximo, diâmetro mínimo e esfericidade nas sementes revestidas.

Genetic structure of Mediterranean fruit fly (Diptera: Tephritidae) populations from Turkey revealed by mitochondrial DNA markers

Ceratitis capitata is one among the most destructive and economically important agricultural pests worldwide. Despite its economic significance, the population structures of this pest have remained relatively unexplored in the eastern Mediterranean basin. Using two mitochondrial markers, the present study aimed to examining the population genetic structure and diversity of C. capitata populations in Turkey, the region that covers a large part of the eastern Mediterranean area. Our results revealed that the Turkish Mediterranean fruit fly populations are characterized by low levels of genetic diversity and limited population differentiation. For comparison purposes, wemerged the sequences identified in the present study with the previously reported sequences from acrossthe world into the data matrix. The haplotype network showed that, unlike the African samples the Mediterranean samples and samples from the new world (America, Pacific region and Australia) did not show any clear pattern of geographical structuring, which indicates that the Mediterranean basin, particularly the eastern Mediterranean region populations, may have played a moreimportant role in the colonization of C. capitata populations to the new world. The results also revealed a close genetic relationship between the Turkish and Iranian populations, suggesting that the Iranian C. capitata populations probably originated from Turkey.

Rearing two fruit flies pests on artificial diet with variable pH / Criação de duas moscas-das-frutas praga em dieta artificial com variação de pH

Abstract Fruit flies (Diptera: Tephritidae) are considered the main fruit pests worldwide. In Brazil, two species are predominant: the South American fruit fly, Anastrepha fraterculus and the Mediterranean fruit fly, Ceratitis capitata. In this study, we evaluated the effect of artificial diets with variable pH in their larval development and adult performance. The experiments were carried out in the laboratory at 25 ± 2 °C, 70 ± 10% RH and 12:12h (L:D) photoperiod. Semisolid diets with pH values of 6.0, 5.0, 4.0, 3.0, 2.0, 1.5, and 1.0, adjusted by adding hydrochloric acid were tested. Results indicated that the diet with pH 6.0 did not support larval development of both species of fruit fly. Diets with greater acidic pH values did not allow egg, larvae or pupae development and adult reproduction of A. fraterculus. For C. capitata , the pH of artificial diet exerts greater influence compared to A. fraterculus on the duration and viability of the larval stage, number of pupae, sex ratio and longevity of males.

Resumo As moscas-das-frutas (Diptera: Tephritidae) são consideradas as principais pragas da fruticultura mundial. No Brasil, duas espécies são predomindantes: a mosca-das-frutas Sul-americana, Anastrepha fraterculus e a mosca-do-Mediterrâneo, Ceratitis capitata. Neste estudo avaliamos o efeito de dietas artificiais com pH variável no seu desenvolvimento larval e performance de adultos. Os experimentos foram realizados em laboratório a 25 ± 2 °C, 70 ± 10% UR e fotoperíodo de 12:12 horas. Foram testadas dietas semi-sólidas com valores de pH de 6,0; 5,0; 4,0; 3,0; 2,0; 1,5 e 1,0, ajustados pela adição de ácido clorídrico. Os resultados indicaram que a dieta com pH 6,0 não suportou o desenvolvimento larval de ambas as espécies de mosca-das-frutas. As dietas com pH ácido não permitiram o desenvolvimento de ovos, larvas ou pupas e a reprodução de adultos de A. fraterculus. Para C. capitata o pH da dieta artificial exerceu maior influência do que para A. fraterculus nos parâmetros de duração e viabilidade do estágio larval, número de pupas, razão sexual e longevidade de machos.

Fast Identification of Cyathula officinalis and Its Adulterant and Doped Adulterant Based on Properties and Foam Test / 中国实验方剂学杂志

Objective: To rapidly identify Cyathula officinalis and its adulterant C. capitata and C. officinalis*C. capitata and doped adulterant. Method: Properties combined with foam test method were used for identifying C.officinalis, its adulterant and doped adulterant. In the aspect of properties,6 aspects including shape,size,texture,color,smell and taste,were observed, smelled and tasted. In the aspect of foam test,the volume of foam produced was used as the determination index to investigate the sample amount,water amount, shaking time,particle size,water temperature,repeatability,adulteration ratio and its stability. Result: In the aspect of properties,C. officinalis and its adulterant showed obvious difference in the shape,size,color,texture,smell and taste,especially the red color and bitter taste of its adulterant. In the aspect of foam test,the optimum parameters were as follows:sample particle (screened with 3 sieves) 0.3 g,a test tube with plug and scale,water 10 mL and airtight,forced shaking up and down for 1 min,settling for 5 min. Such method can be used to identify C. officinalis, its adulterant and doped adulterant. The volume of foams produced by C. officinalis and its adulterant and different ratio of doped adulterant showed no change within 5-30 min,slightly decreases after 9 h; the higher adulteration ratio; the larger volume of foam and better stability. The 8 batches of C. officinalis and 8 batch of adulterants proved that the volume of the foams produced was all less than 2 mL in the C. officinalis,more than 13 mL in the adulterant is,and more than 5 mL in 5% doped adulterant, showing statistical difference. From the properties combined with foam test,5 specific identification elements were obtained for identifying C. officinalis, its adulterant and doped adulterant. Conclusion: Through the 5 specific identification elements,the properties combined with foam test can be used to distinguish the C. officinalis from its adulterant C. officinalis and C. officinalis*C. capitata and doped adulterant,characterized by accuracy,simpleness,short time,low cost and feasibility. It can provide a new method and reference for identifying C.officinalis from its adulterant and doped adulterant.

Oviposition preference and biological performance of Ceratitis capitata in Anacardiaceae, Cactaceae and Vitaceae fruit / Preferência de oviposição e performance biológica de Ceratitis capitata em frutos de Anacardiaceae, Cactaceae e Vitaceae

The objective of this study was to compare the use of fruits of great economic and social importance for the northeast of Brazil by Ceratitis capitata Wied. (Diptera: Tephritidae) for oviposition, larval development, size and longevity of adults. Fruits of mango (Mangifera indica L.), quiabento (Pereskia bahiensis Gürke), forage palm [Opuntia fícus indica (L.) Mill] and grape (Vitis vinifera L.) were used, as well as flies from a hybrid laboratory population. Initially, four treatments (fruits) and six replications were used; the fruits were offered to 10 C. capitata couples, with later (96 hours) egg count. The second was conducted with six treatments and 10 replicates, offering two types of fruits simultaneously, combined two to two, to 10 C. capitata couples. The last bioassay comprised four treatments and six replicates, where 20 g of fruit were offered to 20 first-instar C. capitata larvae. After six days, the larvae were placed in plastic pots containing vermiculite until pupation, quantifying larval and pupal periods, viability and pupal mass, besides longevity and adult size. The data were submitted to ANOVA using the R Core Team software. Ceratitis capitata oviposits and completes its biological cycle in the four hosts studied, exhibiting no preference for oviposition and low biological performance in quiabento fruits. It yielded smaller adults and lower grape survival. Cactaceae palm and quiabento allow the survival of C. capitata in the laboratory, and this knowledge has been reported for the first time, proving that they can act as alternative hosts in the field.(AU)

O objetivo do estudo foi comparar a utilização de frutos de importância econômica e social para o nordeste do Brasil por Ceratitis capitata Wied. (Diptera: Tephritidae) para oviposição, desenvolvimento larval, tamanho e longevidade de adultos. Foram utilizados frutos de manga (Mangifera indica L.), quiabento (Pereskia bahiensis Gürke), palma-forrageira [Opuntia fícus indica (L.) Mill] e uva (Vitis vinifera L.) e moscas procedentes de uma população híbrida de laboratório. Inicialmente, utilizaram-se quatro tratamentos (frutos) e seis repetições, com o oferecimento dos frutos a 10 casais de C. capitata, com posterior (96 horas) contagem de ovos. O segundo teste foi conduzido com seis tratamentos e 10 repetições, oferecendo-se dois tipos de frutos simultaneamente, combinados dois a dois, a 10 casais de C. capitata. O último bioensaio compreendeu quatro tratamentos e seis repetições, sendo oferecidos 20 g de fruto a 20 larvas de primeiro instar de C. capitata. Após seis dias, as larvas foram colocadas em potes plásticos contendo vermiculita até a empupação, quantificando-se: períodos larval e pupal, viabilidade e massa pupal e longevidade e tamanho do adulto. Os dados foram submetidos à análise de variância (ANOVA) pelo Programa R Core Team. Ceratitis capitata oviposita e completa seu ciclo biológico nos quatro hospedeiros estudados, exibindo não preferência para oviposição e baixa performance biológica em frutos de quiabento. Este proporcionou adultos menores e a uva permitiu a menor sobrevivência. As cactáceas palma e quiabento permitem a sobrevivência de C. capitata em laboratório, sendo esse conhecimento relatado pela primeira vez, comprovando que essas espécies podem atuar como hospedeiros alternativos no campo.(AU)

Thymol Rich Thymbra capitata Essential Oil Inhibits Quorum Sensing, Virulence and Biofilm Formation of Beta Lactamase Producing Pseudomonas aeruginosa

Infections with Pseudomonas aeruginosa are difficult to treat not only because it is often associated with multidrug-resistant infections but also it is able to form biofilm. The aim of this study was to evaluate the antibiofilm and anti-Quorum Sensing (QS) activities of Thymbra capitata essential oils (EOs) against Beta Lactamase (BL) producing P. aeruginosa and the reference strain P. aeruginosa 10145. GC/MS analysis showed that thymol (23.25%) is the most dominant compound in T. capitata EOs. The MICs of T. capitata EOs against P. aeruginosa (BL) and P. aeruginosa 10145 were 1.11%. At sub MIC (0.041, 0.014 and 0.0046%), the EOs of T. capitata remarkably inhibited the biofilm formation of both strains tested and complete inhibition of the biofilm formation was reported at 0.041%. The EOs of T. capitata were found to inhibit the swarming motility, aggregation ability and hydrophobic ability of P. aeruginosa (BL) and P. aeruginosa 10145. Interestingly, the EOs of T. capitata reduce the production of three secreted virulence factors that regulated by QS system including pyocyanin, rhamnolipids and LasA protease. The potent antibiofilm and anti-QS activities of T. capitata EOs can propose it as a new antibacterial agent to control pseudomonas infections.

Oviposition of fruit flies (Diptera: Tephritidae) and its relation with the pericarp of citrus fruits / Oviposição de moscas-das-frutas (Diptera: Tephritidae) e sua relação com o pericarpo de frutos cítricos

Abstract Fruit flies (Diptera: Tephritidae) represent a threat to fruit growing worldwide, mainly the citrus culture, however, biological studies show that fruit flies are not perfectly adapted to this host. This study investigated oviposition of Anastrepha fraterculus (Wiedemann, 1830) and Ceratitis capitata (Wiedemann, 1824) and its relation with the pericarp of citrus fruits. We evaluated the relationship between depth of oviposition of A. fraterculus and C. capitata and epicarp thickness of orange [Citrus sinensis (L.) Osbeck)] 'Navelina' and tangerine [C. reticulata (L.)] 'Clemenules' and the influence of fruit mesocarp of tangerine 'Clemenules' on oviposition of these species. The study was conducted under controlled conditions of temperature (25 ± 2 °C), relative humidity (70 ± 10% RH) and photophase (12 h). A. fraterculus and C. capitata laid their eggs in the flavedo region of orange 'Navelina' and between the albedo and flavedo of tangerine 'Clemenules'. When fruits with mesocarp exposed were offered, there was no oviposition by both fruit fly species. The results show that epicarp thickness of citrus fruits did not influence oviposition of A. fraterculus and C. capitata as oviposition did not occur only in the presence of the mesocarp, suggesting that other factors are involved in oviposition of these species.

Resumo As moscas-das-frutas (Diptera: Tephritidae) representam um risco à fruticultura mundial, especialmente na cultura dos citros, entretanto estudos biológicos demonstram que as moscas-das-frutas não estão perfeitamente adaptadas à estes hospedeiros. Este estudo investigou a oviposição de Anastrepha fraterculus (Wiedemann, 1830) e Ceratitis capitata (Wiedemann, 1824) e sua relação com o pericarpo de frutos cítricos. Foi avaliada a relação entre a profundidade de oviposição de A. fraterculus e de C. capitata e a espessura do epicarpo dos frutos de laranjeira [Citrus sinensis (L.) Osbeck)] 'Navelina' e tangerineira [C. reticulata (L.)] 'Clemenules' e a influência do mesocarpo de frutos de tangerineira 'Clemenules' na oviposição destas espécies. O estudo foi conduzido em condições controladas de temperatura (25 ± 2 °C), umidade relativa (70 ± 10%) e fotofase (12 horas). A. fraterculus e C. capitata depositaram ovos no flavedo de frutos de laranjeira 'Navelina' e entre o flavedo e o albedo de frutos de tangerineira 'Clemenules'. Quando oferecido frutos com mesocarpo exposto, não houve oviposição por ambas as espécies de mosca. Os resultados demonstram que a espessura do epicarpo de frutos cítricos não influenciou a oviposição de A. fraterculus e de C. capitata, a qual não ocorreu na presença apenas do mesocarpo, sugerindo que outros fatores estão envolvidos na oviposição por estas espécies.

Comparison of chemical constituents between Cyathula offinalis and adulterant and their admixture by HPLC characteristic chromatogram fingerprint combined with chemometrics / 中国中药杂志

Cyathula capitate is the main adulterant of C.offinalis. According to the literature reported, there are obvious differences in properties, taste and pharmacological activity between C. capitate and C.offinalis. Therefore, C. capitate can only be used as a local conventional medicine and can't be a substitute for C. offinalis. Since the appearance of C.capitata is very similar to the C.offinalis and the content of cyasterone also can reach the limit of the current pharmacopoeia standard, the C.capitata is mostly sold in the form of impersonation oradmixture, which seriously affected the safety of the clinical medication and the development of the genuine crude drugs. In view of this, HPLC characteristic fingerprint was used to reveal the difference of multi-ingredients of C. offinalis, C. capitata and their admixture. According to the HPLC chromatogram of C.offinalis, C. capitata. and their admixture, 65 different components were obtained to set up a peak area data matrix of 26×65, which was applied to perform the characteristic peak difference analysis, similarity analysis, hierarchical clustering analysis HCA and principal component analysis (PCA). Characteristic peak difference analysis showed that the characteristic peaks of C. capitata and their admixture are more and higher respond than those of C. offinalis. The 9 characteristic peaks were used to distinguish C. capitata, 2 of which were used to distinguish C. offinalis mixed with 5% C. capitata. UV spectra of 9 characteristic peaks are mostly similar to the end absorption spectra of saponins, indicating that C. capitata may contain a large amount of saponins. By the reference fingerprint of C.offinalis established, the similarity analysis showed that the similarity degree of C. offinalis are higher than 0.942, while the similarity degree of C. capitata, C.offinalis mixed with 5% C. capitata are less than 0.383 and 0.399. C.offinalis, C. capitata, C.offinalis mixed with 5% C. capitata could be obviously divided into 3 classes by HCA and PCA. These results showed that there are obvious difference in the chemical composition of C. offinalis, C. capitata and their admixture, which could provide evidence for their identification.

Oviposition of fruit flies (Diptera: Tephritidae) and its relation with the pericarp of citrus fruits

Abstract Fruit flies (Diptera: Tephritidae) represent a threat to fruit growing worldwide, mainly the citrus culture, however, biological studies show that fruit flies are not perfectly adapted to this host. This study investigated oviposition of Anastrepha fraterculus (Wiedemann, 1830) and Ceratitis capitata (Wiedemann, 1824) and its relation with the pericarp of citrus fruits. We evaluated the relationship between depth of oviposition of A. fraterculus and C. capitata and epicarp thickness of orange [Citrus sinensis (L.) Osbeck)] Navelina and tangerine [C. reticulata (L.)] Clemenules and the influence of fruit mesocarp of tangerine Clemenules on oviposition of these species. The study was conducted under controlled conditions of temperature (25 ± 2 °C), relative humidity (70 ± 10% RH) and photophase (12 h). A. fraterculus and C. capitata laid their eggs in the flavedo region of orange Navelina and between the albedo and flavedo of tangerine Clemenules. When fruits with mesocarp exposed were offered, there was no oviposition by both fruit fly species. The results show that epicarp thickness of citrus fruits did not influence oviposition of A. fraterculus and C. capitata as oviposition did not occur only in the presence of the mesocarp, suggesting that other factors are involved in oviposition of these species.

Resumo As moscas-das-frutas (Diptera: Tephritidae) representam um risco à fruticultura mundial, especialmente na cultura dos citros, entretanto estudos biológicos demonstram que as moscas-das-frutas não estão perfeitamente adaptadas à estes hospedeiros. Este estudo investigou a oviposição de Anastrepha fraterculus (Wiedemann, 1830) e Ceratitis capitata (Wiedemann, 1824) e sua relação com o pericarpo de frutos cítricos. Foi avaliada a relação entre a profundidade de oviposição de A. fraterculus e de C. capitata e a espessura do epicarpo dos frutos de laranjeira [Citrus sinensis (L.) Osbeck)] Navelina e tangerineira [C. reticulata (L.)] Clemenules e a influência do mesocarpo de frutos de tangerineira Clemenules na oviposição destas espécies. O estudo foi conduzido em condições controladas de temperatura (25 ± 2 °C), umidade relativa (70 ± 10%) e fotofase (12 horas). A. fraterculus e C. capitata depositaram ovos no flavedo de frutos de laranjeira Navelina e entre o flavedo e o albedo de frutos de tangerineira Clemenules. Quando oferecido frutos com mesocarpo exposto, não houve oviposição por ambas as espécies de mosca. Os resultados demonstram que a espessura do epicarpo de frutos cítricos não influenciou a oviposição de A. fraterculus e de C. capitata, a qual não ocorreu na presença apenas do mesocarpo, sugerindo que outros fatores estão envolvidos na oviposição por estas espécies.

Rearing two fruit flies pests on artificial diet with variable pH

Abstract Fruit flies (Diptera: Tephritidae) are considered the main fruit pests worldwide. In Brazil, two species are predominant: the South American fruit fly, Anastrepha fraterculus and the Mediterranean fruit fly, Ceratitis capitata. In this study, we evaluated the effect of artificial diets with variable pH in their larval development and adult performance. The experiments were carried out in the laboratory at 25 ± 2 °C, 70 ± 10% RH and 12:12h (L:D) photoperiod. Semisolid diets with pH values of 6.0, 5.0, 4.0, 3.0, 2.0, 1.5, and 1.0, adjusted by adding hydrochloric acid were tested. Results indicated that the diet with pH 6.0 did not support larval development of both species of fruit fly. Diets with greater acidic pH values did not allow egg, larvae or pupae development and adult reproduction of A. fraterculus. For C. capitata , the pH of artificial diet exerts greater influence compared to A. fraterculus on the duration and viability of the larval stage, number of pupae, sex ratio and longevity of males.

Resumo As moscas-das-frutas (Diptera: Tephritidae) são consideradas as principais pragas da fruticultura mundial. No Brasil, duas espécies são predomindantes: a mosca-das-frutas Sul-americana, Anastrepha fraterculus e a mosca-do-Mediterrâneo, Ceratitis capitata. Neste estudo avaliamos o efeito de dietas artificiais com pH variável no seu desenvolvimento larval e performance de adultos. Os experimentos foram realizados em laboratório a 25 ± 2 °C, 70 ± 10% UR e fotoperíodo de 12:12 horas. Foram testadas dietas semi-sólidas com valores de pH de 6,0; 5,0; 4,0; 3,0; 2,0; 1,5 e 1,0, ajustados pela adição de ácido clorídrico. Os resultados indicaram que a dieta com pH 6,0 não suportou o desenvolvimento larval de ambas as espécies de mosca-das-frutas. As dietas com pH ácido não permitiram o desenvolvimento de ovos, larvas ou pupas e a reprodução de adultos de A. fraterculus. Para C. capitata o pH da dieta artificial exerceu maior influência do que para A. fraterculus nos parâmetros de duração e viabilidade do estágio larval, número de pupas, razão sexual e longevidade de machos.

Sprout density for the production of organic mini-cabbage from mother plant regrowth / Densidade de brotos para a produção de mini-repolho orgânico do rebrota da planta mãe

ABSTRACT: The method of producing organic mini-cabbages from regrowth of mother-plant was initiated at the Unidade de Referência em Agroecologia of the Incaper in 2013, possibly acting as an efficient alternative for the obtainment of cabbages with a more adequate average weight for the desires of the modern consumer. The aim of this study was to define sprout density in the mother plant, which allows better productivity and commercial standards for organic mini-cabbages. The experiment was developed during the period from September to November 2015, using the F1 Shinsei hybrid, in a design with randomized blocks, with five replications. Sprout density was determined following thinning, constituting the following treatments: two, three, four, five and six sprouts per plant. Best management of sprouts was the technique with four sprouts per plant, since it allowed greater productivity (52,997kg ha-1) and a greater number of commercial heads, together with a commercial standard of heads with average weight (414g) and median diameter (8.8cm) adequate for the standards demanded by the consumer.

RESUMO: A técnica de produção de mini-repolhos orgânicos por rebrota da planta-mãe foi iniciada na Unidade de Referência em Agroecologia do Incaper, no ano de 2013, podendo ser uma alternativa eficiente para obtenção de repolhos com peso médio mais apropriado ao desejo do consumidor moderno. O objetivo deste trabalho foi definir a densidade de brotos da planta-mãe, que permita melhor produtividade e padrão comercial de mini-repolhos orgânicos. O experimento foi desenvolvido no período de setembro a novembro de 2015, utilizando-se o híbrido F1 Shinsei, no delineamento de blocos casualizados, com cinco repetições. As densidades de brotos foram estabelecidas após desbastes, constituindo os seguintes tratamentos: dois, três, quatro, cinco e seis brotos por planta. O melhor manejo de rebrotas foi a condução com quatro brotos por planta, pois permitiu maior produtividade (52.997kg ha-1) e maior número de cabeças comerciais, aliados a um padrão comercial de cabeças com peso médio (414g) e diâmetro médio (8,8cm) adequados aos padrões exigidos pelo consumidor.

POLYCHAETES FROM RED MANGROVE (Rhizophora mangle) AND THEIR RELATIONSHIP WITH THE WATER CONDITIONS IN THE GULF OF URABÁ, COLOMBIAN CARIBBEAN / Poliquetos de manglar rojo (Rhizophora mangle) y su relación con las condiciones acuáticas en el golfo de Urabá, Caribe Colombiano

Polychaetes play a significant role in benthic communities' ecology; they dominate the infauna, recycle nutrients from the water column and are commonly used as biological indicators. Along the Gulf of Urabá (Colombian Caribbean), particularly for the zones of the Marirrío Bay and the Rionegro Cove, there are no reports about ecological aspects of polychaete species; only a few taxonomic studies have been conducted. In this research we evaluate the relationship between polychaete species associated with red mangrove roots, Rhizophora mangle, and some physicochemical variables of the water column; also, we made some notes about the spatial distributions of polychaetes species within the two study areas. We found that the environmental variables that best explain polychaetes community segregation are the dissolved oxygen and electrical conductivity; temperature seems to have not a significant effect. In terms of spatial distribution, we found that Alitta succinea, Capitella cf. capitata and Ficopomatus miamiensis occupied the inner, middle and outer zones for both study area and seasons, while Stenoninereis sp. 1 (rainy and dry season) and the exotic polychaete Ficopomatus uschakovi (rainy season) were found just in Rionegro Cove. Finally, the species Nicolea modesta is registered by first time for the Gulf of Urabá, Colombian Caribbean.

Los poliquetos tienen un papel importante en la ecología de las comunidades bénticas, dominan la infauna, reciclan nutrientes de la columna de agua y son comúnmente usados como indicadores biológicos. En el Golfo de Urabá (Caribe Colombiano), específicamente para las zonas de Bahía Marirrío y Ensenada de Rionegro no existen estudios sobre la ecología de los poliquetos, solo se han desarrollado algunos estudos taxonómicos. En esta investigación se evaluó la relación entre algunas variables fisicoquímicas y las especies de poliquetos encontradas. Adicionalmente, se realizaron algunas observaciones sobre las distribución espacial de estas especies en las dos zonas de estudio. Se encontró que las variables que mejor explican las segregación de las especies de poliquetos fueron el oxígeno disuelto y la conductividad eléctrica; la temperatura no tuvo un efecto significativo. En términos de distribución espacial se encontró que las especies Alitta succinea, Capitella cf. capitata y Ficopomatus miamiensis ocuparon las zonas interna, media y externa de las dos áreas de estudio en las dos temporadas de muestreo; mientras que Ficopomatus uschakovi (temporada de lluvia) y Stenoninereis sp. 1 (ambas temporadas) fueron registradas solamente la Ensenada de Rionegro en diferentes temporadas. Finalmente, las especies Nicolea modesta es registrada por primera vez para el Golfo de Urabá.

Invasive infection due to Saprochaete capitata in a young patient with hematological malignancies

We report a case of invasive infection due to Saprochaete capitata in a patient with hematological malignancies after chemotherapy treatment and empiric antifungal therapy with caspofungin. Although severely immunocompromised the patient survived been treated with amphotericin B lipid complex associated with voriconazole.

Desempenho produtivo de cultivares de alface americana na estação seca da Amazônia central / Productivity performance in cultivars of crisphead lettuce in the dry season of central Amazonia

Na Amazônia a base da exploração comercial de olericolas é o reconhecimento de cultivares e/ou variedades que evidenciem melhor adaptabilidade para as condições edafoclimaticas locais, associados aos níveis de produtividade comercial em função do sistema de cultivo adotado. Neste sentido, o trabalho teve o objetivo de avaliar a variabilidade morfológica, qualidade e a produtividade entre cultivares de alface tipo americana, cultivadas a campo, em canteiros na presença e ausência de mulching orgânico, no período de estação seca da Amazônia central, estabelecendo-se um experimento no município de Presidente Figueiredo ­ AM. O delineamento experimental utilizado foi blocos ao acaso em esquema fatorial constituídos por 2 preparos de canteiro x 19 cultivares de alface americana, com quatro repetições. Os componentes avaliados foram; estabilidade morfológica; sanidade das plantas; matéria fresca comercial, diâmetro da cabeça comercial, altura das plantas, numero de folhas, comprimento do caule e estimativa da produtividade comercial Kg ha-1. O teste F (p<0,05) detectou diferenças significativas entre o fator correspondente as cultivares, e na interação apenas para sanidade, matéria fresca comercial, numero de folhas e comprimento do caule. Com exceção da estabilidade morfológica, no agrupamento das medias pelo teste Scott-Knott 5 % detectou-se diferença significativa para todas as características avaliadas entre as cultivares. As cultivares Gloriosa, Havassu, Ironwood, Kaiser e Winslon estabeleceram-se mais estáveis na formação de cabeças com melhores resultados agronômicos sobre as características avaliadas para as condições fitotécnicas e edafoclimaticas presentes neste ensaio.

In Amazon the exploration base commercial of vegetable crops is recognition of cultivars and / or varieties that show better adaptability to local conditions, associated with the levels of productivity commercial depending on the crop system. In this sense, the work aimed to evaluate the morphological stability, quality and productivity among cultivars crisphead lettuce, cultivated in seedbeds in the presence and absence of organic mulching, during the dry season in central Amazonia, stabilizing an experiment in municipality of Presidente Figueiredo - AM. The experimental design was a randomized block design in a factorial design consisting of 2 preparations of seedbeds x 19 cultivars of lettuce, with four replications. The components evaluated were; morphological variability; sanity of plants; the fresh materia commercial; commercial head diameter; plant height; number of leaves; stem length and estimated marketable yield kg ha-1. The F test (p <0.05) revealed significant differences the factor corresponding between cultivars and the interaction only for sanity, fresh commercial mass, leaves number and stem length. With the exception of morphological variation in the grouping of averages by the Scott-Knott test at 5 % significant difference was detected for all traits among cultivars. The cultivars; Gloriosa, Havassu, Ironwood, Kaiser and Winslon establish more stable to form heads with better results on agronomic characteristics evaluated for soil and parameters climatic in conditions gifts in this essay.

Atratividade de proteína hidrolisada de milho em mistura com bórax sobre moscas-das-frutas (Diptera: Tephritidae) em gaiolões de campo / Attractiveness of corn steep liquor plus borax to fruit fly (Diptera: Tephritidae) under field cages

Várias espécies de moscas-das-frutas (Diptera: Tephritidae) são capturadas em armadilhas contendo soluções aquosas preparadas com atrativos alimentares proteicos. Milhocina(r) é um produto hidrolisado de milho que apresenta um pH ácido. A adição de bórax pode aumentar o pH e melhorar a atratividade a tefritídeos adultos. Esta pesquisa objetivou avaliar a atratividade sob diferentes tempos de exposição de Milhocina(r) diluída a 5% (v/v) em mistura com 4, 7 e 10% de bórax, comparando-a com a proteína comercial padrão Bio Anastrepha a 3% (v/v). Vinte casais de Ceratitis capitata com 2 a 3 dias de idade e 20 casais de Anastrepha fraterculus com 1 a 3 dias foram liberados no interior dos gaiolões de 8,0 m3, no início de cada período de exposição (0 - 2, 2 - 4, 4 - 7 e 7 - 10 dias). No centro superior de cada gaiolão foi pendurada uma armadilha McPhail plástica transparente contendo 400 mL de solução atrativa. Ao final de cada período de exposição, os adultos capturados foram retirados, contados e sexados. Maior quantidade de adultos de C. capitata foi capturada no atrativo padrão Bio Anastrepha. Esse produto capturou mais fêmeas e machos de A. fraterculus do que os demais atrativos. Houve maiores capturas de machos e de fêmeas + machos de C. capitata do que de A. fraterculus nos tratamentos com Milhocina(r). Maiores capturas de fêmeas dos tefritídeos testados foram obtidas por Milhocina(r) + bórax 4% e por Bio Anastrepha até 7 dias de exposição dos atrativos. Em geral, no período de 2 - 4 dias de exposição houve um aumento da atratividade das soluções proteicas para fêmeas e machos de C. capitata e A. fraterculus.(AU)

Several species of fruit flies (Diptera: Tephritidae) are captured by traps baited with liquid protein food attractants. Milhocina(r) is a hydrolysate of corn with acidic pH. Addition of borax can increase the pH of the solution and improve the attractive performance for adult tephritids. The objective of this work was to evaluate the attractiveness under several times of exposure of (Milhocina(r)) at 5% (v/v) by adding borax at 4, 7 and 10% in comparison with the standard commercial protein at 3% (v/v) (BioAnastrepha). Twenty pairs of 2 to 3 years old of Ceratitis capitata and 20 pairs of 1 to 3 years old of Anastrepha fraterculus were released inside of field cage (8.0 m3) in the beginning of each exposure period (0 - 2, 2 - 4, 4 - 7 e 7 - 10 days). In the upper surface of each field cage, a transparent plastic McPhail trap was kept with 400 mL of attractive. After each exposure time, the adults captured were counted and sexed. Greater amounts of C. capitataadults were captured in attractive standard Bio Anastrepha. This product captured more females and males of A. fraterculus than other attractants. There were higher catches of male and female + male C. capitata than A. fraterculus in treatments with Milhocina(r). More captures of females tested tephritids catches were obtained by Milhocina(r) + 4% borax and Bio Anastrepha up to 7 days of exposure of the attractants. In general, during the period of 2 - 4 days of exposure, there was an increase in the attractiveness of protein solutions for females and males of C. capitata and A. fraterculus.(AU)

Anti-diarrhoeagenic Properties of Aqueous Extract of Phragmanthera capitata S. Balle in Albino Rats.

Aim: To investigate diarrhoeagenic activities of aqueous extract of Phragmanthera capitata (AEPC) in albino rats. Place and Duration of Study: The study was carried out at the Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Basic Medical Sciences, University of Calabar, Calabar, Nigeria, between October 2013 and January 2014. Methodology: Diarrhoeagenic activities were assessed using three models; enteropooling, gastrointestinal transit and faecal discharge. In each of these models, all rats were overnight fasted with access to drinking water until the start of the experiment. The rats were randomized into 5 groups of 7 rats. Group I (control) received saline (10 ml/kg), Group II (standard) and Groups III-V (test) received AEPC (100, 200, 300 mg/kg respectively) by oral gavage. To assess enteropooling activity, castor oil (1 ml) and magnesium sulfate (10 ml/kg in saline) were used to induce enteropooling in two separate experiments. Group II in both experiments received loperamide (3 mg/kg). Intestinal contents were weighed before and after discharging the contents and recorded. To investigate gastrointestinal transit, 0.25 ml of charcoal meal was administered to the rats with standard group receiving atropine (5 mg/kg i.p.). Distance traveled by charcoal meal was measured and recorded. To assess the rate of faecal discharge, castor oil (1 ml) was used to induce diarrhoea and faeces were collected, weighed and recorded. One way Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) was performed followed by Tukey test as post hoc. Results: The results revealed significant (P =.05) reduction in faecal discharge, weight of intestinal contents and distance traveled by charcoal meal. Conclusion: AEPC possesses anti-secretory, anti-electrolyte permeability and hence anti-diarrhoeagenic properties.