Seasonality and bait type driving the diversity of dung beetle (Scarabaeidae: Scarabaeinae) communities in urban remnants of the Atlantic Forest

ABSTRACT Describing dung beetle communities in tropical forest remnants located in disturbed/urbanized and conserved areas can provide information about the functioning of these ecosystems and support conservation plans. This study aimed to verify the effect of seasons and bait type on dung beetle communities in remnants of the Atlantic Forest in order to describe their composition and diversity parameters. The study was carried out during both the rainy and dry seasons in periurban and urban remnants. Eighteen pitfall traps baited with feces, carrion, and injured millipedes were established in each site. A total of 3501 individuals and 23 species were recorded. Urban remnant presented higher abundance of individuals in the dry season. On the other hand, in periurban remnant the higher abundance was verified in the rainy season. The diversity was higher in the rainy season in both sites. In urban remnant, Coprophanaeus ensifer was found to be generalist regarding its choice of bait (feces and carrion). The use of injured millipedes as bait allowed the record of the predatory species Deltochilum alpercata. Among the types of bait used, the injured millipedes proved to be very effective, capturing a greater diversity of dung beetles during the rainy season in both remnants, and allowed the collection of specialized, necrophages, and generalists species. Therefore, we propose the use of mixed-bait sampling designs in inventories and surveys to increase the chances of sampling species with different traits or dietary preferences, which are often rare in collections.

Identification and description of the antennal sensilla of Liogenys suturalis (Coleoptera: Scarabaeidae)

ABSTRACT Species of the scarab beetle genus Liogenys are potential pests to several crops in Brazil. This study aimed to describe the antennal sensilla of Liogenys suturalis (Blanchard, 1851). Adults were collected in a pasture area in Bálsamo, São Paulo state, Brazil, using a light trap. The antennae were dissected and images of the antennal sensilla were obtained using a scanning electron microscope. Sensilla ampulacea (pores), s. auricilica, s. basiconica, s. placodea, and s. trichodea are present in the lamellae. The antenna of females have 4399 sensilla, of which 3671 (83.5%) are s. placodea, 422 (9.5%) s. coeloconica, and 306 (6.9%) s. auricilica. The antennae of males have 4039 sensilla, of which 3117 (77.1%) are s. placodea, 353 (8.7%) s. coeloconica, and 569 (14.1%) s. auricilica. The antennal sensilla of the genus Liogenys have been described for the first time.

Description of the female of Spodochlamys marahuaca Jameson & Ratcliffe, 2011 (Melolonthidae, Rutelinae, Anatistini) and additional records for the Brazilian species of the genus

The previously unknown female of Spodochlamys marahuaca Jameson & Ratcliffe, 2011 is described and illustrated for the first time based on two specimens collected in the region of the Juruá River, Amazonas state, Brazil. The specimens constitute a new record for Brazil. The identification key for species of Spodochlamys is updated, as well as the geographic distribution of the other two Brazilian species, S. caesarea Burmeister and S. iheringi Ohaus. (AU)

Aspects of mating behavior and antennal sensilla in Anomala inconstans Burmeister, 1844 (Coleoptera: Scarabaeidae: Rutelinae) / Aspectos do comportamento de cópula e sensilos antenais em Anomala inconstans Burmeister, 1844 (Coleoptera: Scarabaeidae: Rutelinae)

Abstract: When suitable, adults of Scarabaeidae usually form swarms to find food and breeding sites. The steps of mating behavior can be mediated by chemical communication, and antennal sensilla are released volatiles detection structures, as sexual pheromones. In present work the mating behavior and the antennal sensilla of Anomala inconstans Burmeister, 1844 are described. The study was conducted at the Universidade Estadual de Mato Grosso do Sul, Cassilândia, Brazil from March 2015 to December 2017. Adults were collected through a light trap and taken to the laboratory for studies. Field and laboratory observations provided data for the description of the steps of mating behavior. Adults swarms were registered from September to November 2015 at 05:30 pm to 00:00 am. Females display a calling behavior from 05:25 pm to 08:00 pm, in which they rub their posterior legs against their abdomen, and after a few minutes males are able to locate them. In laboratory, the mating process lasted 20.4 minutes on average, and the possibility of chemical communication between adults was here discussed. The antennae of the species have trichoid, chaetica, placoid types I, II and III, and coeloconic types I and II sensilla. Placoid sensilla are the most abundant and females have more sensilla than males.

Resumo: Em condições adequadas os adultos de Scarabaeidae geralmente realizam revoadas em busca de alimento e áreas de reprodução. As etapas relacionadas ao comportamento de cópula podem ser intermediadas por comunicação química, e os sensilos antenais são as estruturas que detectam os voláteis como os feromônios sexuais. No presente trabalho o comportamento de cópula e os sensilos antenais de Anomala inconstans Burmeister, 1844 são descritos. Os estudos foram conduzidos na Universidade Estadual de Mato Grosso do Sul, Cassilândia, de março de 2015 a dezembro de 2017. Adultos foram coletados com armadilha luminosa e conduzidos para laboratório para estudos. Observações de campo e de laboratório permitiram a descrição das etapas do comportamento de cópula. Os adultos revoaram de setembro a novembro de 2015 das 17:30h as 24:00h. As fêmeas apresentam o comportamento de chamamento das 17:25h as 20:00h, no qual atrita o terceiro par de pernas no abdome e, transcorridos alguns minutos, os machos as localizam. Em laboratório a cópula durou em média 20,4 minutos, sendo verificada a possibilidade de comunicação química entre os adultos. Nas antenas foram encontrados sensilos tricódios, chaéticos, placódios dos tipos I, II e III, e coelocônicos tipo I e II. Os sensilos placódios são os mais abundantes, e as fêmeas possuem mais sensilos do que os machos.

Mating behavior and description of immature stages of Cyclocephala melanocephala (Fabricius, 1775) (Coleoptera: Scarabaeidae: Dynastinae), identification key and remarks on known immatures of Cyclocephalini species

ABSTRACT Mating behavior and description of immature stages of Cyclocephala melanocephala (Fabricius, 1775) (Coleoptera: Scarabaeidae: Dynastinae), identification key and remarks on known immatures of Cyclocephalini species. Some species of Cyclocephala Dejean, 1821 are regarded as rhizophagous crop pests and others as beneficial species. The objective of this work was to report the mating behavior and to describe the immature stages of C. melanocephala. The studies were developed at the Universidade Estadual de Mato Grosso do Sul in Cassilândia, Mato Grosso do Sul state, Brazil. Adults were collected with a light trap from September to December 2014 and 2015 to carry out studies of mating behavior, breeding, and descriptions of immature stages. Copulation lasted 10.4 ± 4.3 min and took place from 19:00 to 24:00 h. Some females refused males for mating and moved away from them. Regarding flight period, adults were collected in larger quantities from 20:00 to 23:00 h. Identification keys to immatures of three genera of Cyclocephalini, including several Cyclocephala species are presented.

A new key for the species of Ateuchus Weber (Coleoptera: Scarabaeidae: Scarabaeinae) occurring in Mexico, with a description of the first North American inquiline species from a rodent burrow (Rodentia: Geomydae) and new distribution records

Abstract The first Ateuchus Weber (Scarabaeinae) species, A. tuza sp. nov., from a rodent burrow from North America is described. Diagnostic characters are presented; photographs of an adult male and illustrations of male genitalia are included. A key for all known Mexican Ateuchus Weber species is provided. Ateuchus hornai (Balthasar) is revalidated. New distribution records from Mexico and Central America are reported.

Description of immatures and mating behavior of Liogenys bidenticeps Moser, 1919 (Coleoptera: Melolonthidae: Melolonthinae)

Abstract Description of immatures and mating behavior of Liogenys bidenticeps Moser, 1919 (Coleoptera: Melolonthidae: Melolonthinae). Some species of Melolonthinae are associated with several species of cropped plants, with larvae consuming roots and, in some cases, are considered as crop pests. In some agricultural regions of Brazil, larvae of L. bidenticeps are found associated with cultivated plants, and little information is available about this taxon. This study, aiming at expanding the knowledge about the morphology and behavior of this species, provides the description of immatures and mating behavior of adults. The studies were conducted at the experimental farm of the Universidade Estadual de Mato Grosso do Sul in Aquidauana, Mato Grosso do Sul state, Brazil, and the adults were collected with light trap and raised in the laboratory. Mating behavior was documented on video both in the field and under laboratory conditions. Descriptions and illustrations of the third instar larva and pupa are presented. Adults have crepuscular flight activity and their copulation lasts an average of 20.25 min, occurring from 19:00 to 22:00 h. On some occasions, females did not accept males for copulation, indicating an active selection of males by females. Field observations demonstrated that adults feed on Brazilian pepper leaves (Schinus terebinthifolius, Anacardiaceae) and cashew flowers (Anacardium occidentale, Anacardiaceae), where male and female meet each other and copulation occurs.

Three new species of Pelidnota MacLeay (Coleoptera, Scarabaeidae, Rutelinae) and new distributional records from northeast Brazil

Abstract Three new species of Pelidnota MacLeay, 1819 are described from Brazil, P. beckeri sp. nov., P. nordestina sp. nov., and P. pernambucana sp. nov. The diagnostic characters of the new species are presented, and they are included in the previously published key to Pelidnota. Illustrations of the male genitalia and photographs of males and females of the new species are also provided. It is reported the first record of the genus for the Brazilian Caatinga (tropical seasonal forest). New records of four species and two subspecies of Pelidnota are presented, all from Bahia state, northeastern Brazil.

The mating behavior of Leucothyreus marginaticollis Blanchard, 1843 (Coleoptera: Scarabaeidae: Rutelinae) / Comportamento de cópula de Leucothyreus marginaticollis Blanchard, 1843 (Coleoptera: Scarabaeidae: Rutelinae)

Abstract In Brazil, there are several species of the genus Leucothyreus Macleay, 1819 occurring throughout the country; however, there are only a few studies describing their biological aspects, times of occurrence, associations of adults and juveniles with native or cropped plants, as well as their mating behavior. Thus, this study aimed to assess the mating behavior of Leucothyreus marginaticollis Blanchard, 1843. The study took place in an experimental area of the State University of Mato Grosso do Sul, in Aquidauana, MS, Brazil. Firstly, we sampled adult insects using light traps, from October to November 2013. Simultaneously, we registered the flight period in the field. Afterward, in the laboratory, males and females were separated and then combined into couples for observations of the mating steps. A large number of the adults mated, which lasted on average 22.71 min and occurred from 7 to 11 pm. After mating, part of the males released the females and the other part remained attached to them, which must have happened as an attempt to inhibit other males from mating with them. Moreover, a few females refused to mate with the established male, reinforcing the fact that the pairing of couples occurs after chemical identification among adults. In the field, the largest amount of adults was collected from 8 to 10 pm. Regarding eating habits, adults feed mostly on acerola leaves and flowers (Malpighia emarginata DC, Malpighiaceae), mastic gum leaves (Myracrodruon urundeuva Allemão, Anacardiaceae), grapes (Vitis vinifera L., Vitaceae), apples (Malus domestica Borkh., Rosaceae), and bananas (Musa sp. L., Musaceae). To the end of the experiment, we could clarify the mating steps of L. marginaticollis in order to assist in further extraction and identification of sexual pheromone.

Resumo No Brasil várias são as espécies de Leucothyreus Macleay, 1819 que ocorrem nas diferentes regiões, entretanto, poucos são os trabalhos que descrevem os aspectos biológicos, épocas de ocorrência, associação de adultos e imaturos com plantas nativas ou cultivadas, e comportamento de cópula. Assim o presente trabalho apresentou como objetivo estudar o comportamento de cópula de Leucothyreus marginaticollis Blanchard, 1843. Os estudos foram conduzidos na fazenda experimental da Universidade Estadual de Mato Grosso do Sul em Aquidauana, MS, sendo realizadas coletas de adultos com armadilha luminosa de outubro a novembro de 2013. Com as coletas foram analisados os horários de voo em campo, e em laboratório machos e fêmeas foram separados, posteriormente foram formados casais e as etapas que envolvem o comportamento de cópula, verificadas. Vários adultos realizaram cópula, a qual durou em média 22,71 minutos e ocorreram das 19 às 23 horas. Após a cópula o macho se soltava da fêmea ou permanecia sobre essa, provavelmente para impedir que outro macho realizasse a cópula. Algumas fêmeas não aceitaram os machos para cópula, indicando que a formação de casais ocorre após o reconhecimento químico entre os adultos. O horário de maior coleta dos adultos em campo foi das 20 às 22 horas. Adultos podem se nutrir de folhas e flores de acerola (Malpighia emarginata DC, Malpighiaceae), folhas de aroeira (Myracrodruon urundeuva Allemão, Anacardiacea), frutos de uva (Vitis vinifera L., Vitaceae), maçã (Malus domestica Borkh., Rosaceae) e banana (Musa sp. L., Musaceae), ampliando-se as informações sobre o hábito alimentar dos adultos. Foram elucidadas as etapas relacionadas ao comportamento de cópula de L. marginaticollis, a qual pode auxiliar nos processos de extração e identificação de feromônio sexual.

Morphology of immature stages and mating behavior in Liogenys fusca (Blanchard) (Coleoptera, Melolonthidae, Melolonthinae)

ABSTRACT Liogenys fusca is a rizophagous insect pest in various crops of economic importance in Brazil. Here we investigated the morphology of immature stages and mating behavior of this species. The redescription of the 3rd instar larvae of L. fusca in this work allows identification and registration of occurrence independently of adults, which occur sporadically in a certain period of the year. Male and female of L. fusca remained confined in the soil during the day and exited between 19:00 and 23:30 h. The copulations occurred between 19:30 and 21:00 h, and were characterized by a typical behavioral sequence. Copulation durations in L. fusca lasted on average 512.23 s. Adults were observed feeding before the copulations on leaves and inflorescences of plant species belonging to the family Anacardiaceae, Myracrodruon urundeuva, Schinus terebinthifolius, Astronium fraxinifolium and Anacardium occidentale.

Biological aspects and mating behavior of Leucothyreus albopilosus (Coleoptera: Scarabaeidae) / Aspectos biológicos y comportamiento de apareamiento de Leucothyreus albopilosus (Coleoptera: Scarabaeidae)

AbstractThe genus Leucothyreus has been linked to some commercial plant crop pests. Eventhough several species have been described for this genus, information about this group is still scarce. This study investigated some biological aspects and mating behavior in Leucothyreus albopilosus. Studies were conducted at the State University of Mato Grosso do Sul, in the municipalities of Aquidauana and Cassilândia, MS, Brazil. For biological studies, adults were collected with light traps from February 2011 to February 2012, and for behavior analyses from September to December 2014. Biological studies were undertaken every three days and included the eggs inspection, and the separation of the newly hatched larvae to observe and describe their developmental stages; to monitor larval growth and differentiate larval instars, we measured the larvae cephalic capsule. Life cycle was determined starting from the newly laid eggs until adult death. For mating behavior studies, adults obtained with light traps were taken to the laboratory. As soon as they started flying in the evening, couples were formed and copulation steps were recorded. in the field, we observed that adults were mostly collected during warmer and wetter periods (from August to March). Our results showed that the embryonic period of L. albopilosus lasted 20.5 days, the 1st, 2nd and 3rd instars lasted 31.0, 33.1 and 85.6 days, respectively. The pupal stage lasted 20 days, and the egg to adult period was completed in 185.5 days; these results suggest that L.albopilosus can be characterized as a univoltine species. Observations of mating behavior in the laboratory showed that, after the sunset, adults projected a small portion of clypeus near the soil surface and flew off seeking a female to mate. The female could accept or reject the male for mating. When the female accepted the male, copulation occurred from 19:00 to 23:00 hours, and lasted 19.45 minutes on average. Sometimes females refused to mate, probably because the male or female were not sexually mature to perform copulation, and there might be a chemical communication between the adults. Adults were observed feeding on ripe bananas (Musa sp., Musaceae) and on mangaba flowers (Hancornia speciosa, Apocynaceae) in the laboratory. With this work we contributed with the description of mating behavior in the genus Leucothyreus and concluded that the biological cycle was completed in less than 200 days. Rev. Biol. Trop. 64 (2): 547-557. Epub 2016 June 01.

ResumenEn el género Leucothyreus se describen varias especies, sin embargo, hay poca información sobre este grupo. El presente trabajo tuvo por objetivo estudiar los aspectos biológicos y el comportamiento de copula de Leucothyreus albopilosus. Los estudios se realizaron en la Universidade Estadual de Mato Grosso do Sul, en los municipios de Aquidauana y Cassilândia, MS, Brasil. Fueron recolectados adultos con trampa de luz desde febrero 2011 hasta febrero 2012 para realizar estudios biológicos y desde septiembre hasta diciembre de 2014 para estudios de comportamiento. Para los estudios biológicos, se inspeccionaron los huevos cada tres días, y cuando las larvas eclosionaban, eran separadas para monitorear su desarrollo. Para supervisar el desarrollo y diferenciar las etapas larvarias fueron medidas las cápsulas cefálicas de las mismas. El ciclo de vida se determinó a partir de la ovoposición hasta la muerte de los adultos. Para realizar los estudios del comportamiento de la cópula, los adultos obtenidos con trampas de luz fueron llevados al laboratorio, y al atardecer cuando iniciaron el vuelo, se formaron parejas, permitiendo observar y registrar los pasos que involucran este comportamiento. En campo, se observó que los adultos fueron recolectados principalmente en los períodos más calientes y húmedos entre los meses de agosto y marzo. El período embrionario de L. albopilosus duró 20.5 días. La primera, segunda y tercera etapa duraron 31.0, 33.1 y 85.6 días, respectivamente. La etapa de pupa duró 20 días y el período desde huevo hasta adulto fue completado en 185.5 días. Estos resultados sugieren que L. albopilosus puede ser caracterizado como una especie univoltina. Con respecto al comportamiento de copula en el laboratorio, al iniciar la noche, los adultos primeramente proyectan una pequeña porción del clípeo próximo a la superficie del suelo, en seguida realizan el vuelo buscando una hembra para iniciar la cópula. La hembra puede aceptar o no al macho para realizar la cópula. Cuando la hembra aceptó al macho para la copula, esta ocurrió desde 19:00 hasta las 23:00 horas durando 19.45 minutos en promedio. Cuando la hembra rechazó al macho para la copula, se debió probablemente a que ella o el no estaban maduros sexualmente, ocurriendo un reconocimiento químico entre ellos. Se observó en el laboratorio que los adultos se alimentaban de plátanos maduros (Musa sp., Musaceae) y flores de mangabeira (Hancornia speciosa, Apocynaceae). En este trabajo se concluye que el ciclo biológico se completa en menos de un año y se describen las primeras etapas del comportamiento de copula del género Leucothyreus.

Biological aspects of Leucothyreus ambrosius Blanchard (Coleoptera, Melolonthidae, Rutelinae)

Biological aspects of Leucothyreus ambrosius Blanchard (Coleoptera, Melolonthidae, Rutelinae). Coleopterans of the family Melolonthidae comprise a large group of species that feed on different food sources, including plant roots, stems, and leaves, in addition to plant materials at different decomposition stages. Several species are found in the genus Leucothyreus, occurring in different regions of Brazil, including the various biomes in the country. Information on the biology of species of the genus Leucothyreus is scarce, therefore, we conducted studies on the biological aspects of Leucothyreus ambrosius Blanchard, 1850. The period of adult occurrence was determined with a light trap installed between a cropped and pasture area in the municipality of Aquidauana, Mato Grosso do Sul State, Brazil. Adults collected in the field were used to form insect pairs and the studies were initiated in the entomology laboratory as the adults began ovipositing. Adults were observed flying in the field from October to December. Eggs were obtained as pairs were formed and a colony was established, the embryonic period lasting 14.6 days on average. The larval period in the 1st instar lasted 21.6 days, in the 2nd instar 19.6 days, and in the 3rd instar, 85.6 days. The head capsule width was 1.48 mm in the 1st instar, 2.44 mm in the 2nd, and 3.83 mm in 3rd larval instar. The pupal stage had an average duration of 35.5 days. The egg to adult period lasted 173.3 days. Morphometric information for the larval and adult stages is presented in this study.

Description of the third larval instar and pupa of Geniates barbatus Kirby (Coleoptera, Scarabaeidae, Rutelinae)

Description of the third larval instar and pupa of Geniates barbatus Kirby (Coleoptera, Scarabaeidae, Rutelinae). The last larval instar and pupa of the Neotropical Geniatini Geniates barbatus Kirby, 1819 are described and illustrated. Biological notes and a key to the third instar larvae of Neotropical Rutelinae are also provided.

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.

Escarabeíneos (Coleoptera: Scarabaeidae: Scarabaeinae) de uma área de campo nativo no bioma Pampa, Rio Grande do Sul, Brasil / Dung beetles (Coleoptera: Scarabaeidae: Scarabaeinae) from native grassland in Pampa biome, Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil

Este trabalho apresenta um levantamento das espécies de Scarabaeinae de uma área de campo nativo no município de Bagé, estado do Rio Grande do Sul, Brasil. As coletas foram realizadas com armadilhas de interceptação de voo e armadilhas de queda iscadas com fezes humanas, banana em decomposição e carne apodrecida, entre os meses de dezembro de 2005 e novembro de 2006. Foram capturados 4.573 indivíduos pertencentes a 14 gêneros e 30 espécies. Onthophagus aff. hirculus Mannerheim, 1829, Canthon podagricus Harold, 1868, Ontherus sulcator (Fabricius, 1775) e Canthidium moestum Harold, 1867 foram as espécies mais abundantes. A maior parte da assembleia capturada é constituída por espécies coprófagas e generalistas preferencialmente necrófagas. Poucas espécies foram estritamente necrófagas e nenhuma foi classificada como saprófaga. As roladoras e as escavadoras foram representadas por números similares de espécies.

This work presents a survey of Scarabaeinae species from a natural grassland area in Bagé, state of Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil. Samplings were carried out with flight intercept traps and pitfall traps baited with human feces, rotten banana and rotten meat, from December 2005 to November 2006. A total of 4,573 individuals, belonging to 14 genera and 30 species were collected. Onthophagus aff. hirculus Mannerheim, 1829, Canthon podagricus Harold, 1868, Ontherus sulcator (Fabricius, 1775) and Canthidium moestum Harold, 1867 were the most abundant species. Most of the captured assemblage is composed by species coprophagous and generalists preferably necrophagous. Few species were strictly necrophagous and none was classified as saprophagous. The rollers and tunnelers were represented by similar numbers of species.

Guia de identificação das espécies de Scarabaeinae (Coleoptera: Scarabaeidae) do município de Santa Maria, Rio Grande do Sul, Brasil / Identification handbook of the Scarabaeinae species (Coleoptera: Scarabaeidae) of the city of Santa Maria, Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil

Apresenta-se um guia de identificação das espécies de Scarabaeinae ocorrentes em Santa Maria, Rio Grande do Sul, arroladas da literatura e capturadas entre maio de 2009 a abril de 2010 em fragmentos florestais. São fornecidas chave dicotômica, caracterização, ilustrações (das espécies coletadas) e informações ecológicas para 35 espécies.

Here is presented a guide to identify the species of Scarabaeinae occurring in Santa Maria, Rio Grande do Sul, compiled from the literature and captured between May 2009 and April 2010 in forest fragments. A dichotomous key, characterization, illustrations (species collected) and ecological information for 35 species are provided.

Bionomic data and larval density of Scarabaeidae (Pleurosticti) in sugarcane in the central region of Mato Grosso do Sul, Brazil

Bionomic data and larval density of Scarabaeidae (Pleurosticti) in sugarcane in the central region of Mato Grosso do Sul, Brazil. Phytophagous larvae of Scarabaeidae cause damage to diverse crops. Information on these pests is scarce; therefore, the objective of this study was to determine biological aspects and larval density of species occurring in an area of sugarcane. The studies were developed in Sidrolândia from April 2009 to March 2010. Scarab beetle larvae were collected in sugarcane roots every fifteen days, taken to the laboratory and reared to obtain the adults and determine biological parameters. A total of 2,656 larvae were collected, being 162 Liogenys fuscus, 120 Cyclocephala verticalis, 37 Cyclocephala forsteri, and 2337 Anomonyx sp. In January, 53.65 larvae m-2 were obtained, and the most abundant species was Anomonyx sp, representing 87.99 percent of the total larvae collected. From November to March, the greatest densities of Anomonyx were observed in the field. The adults of this species occurred from May to September, and egg laying from September to November. Eggs measured 1.1 x 1.7 mm, and incubation period last 15.4 days. First instar larvae were observed mainly in October; second instar larvae from November to April; and third instar from January to July. Pupae were observed from May to August. The most abundant scarab beetle, Anomonyx sp. in roots of sugarcane presents one generation per year in Sidrolândia, MS.

Dados bionômicos e densidade larval de Scarabaeidae (Pleurosticti) em cultura de cana-de-açúcar na região central de Mato Grosso do Sul, Brasil. Larvas fitófagas de Scarabaeidae causam danos em diversas culturas. Entretanto as informações sobre essas pragas são bastante escassas. Assim, o objetivo deste estudo foi determinar aspectos morfológicos, biológicos e densidade larval de escarabeídeos em área de cana-de-açúcar. Os estudos foram desenvolvidos em Sidrolândia, MS, de abril de 2009 a março de 2010. As larvas presentes nas raízes de cana-de-açúcar foram coletadas quinzenalmente, levadas para o laboratório e criadas até a obtenção de adultos e avaliação de parâmetros biológicos. Foram coletadas 2.656 larvas, sendo 162 de Liogenys fuscus, 120 de Cyclocephala verticalis, 37 de Cyclocephala forsteri e 2337 Anomonyx sp. Em janeiro, foram registradas 53,65 larvas m-2, sendo Anomonyx sp. a espécie mais abundante, representando 87,99 por cento do total. De novembro a março, foram observadas as maiores densidades de Anomonyx no campo. Os adultos foram observados de maio a setembro. A postura ocorreu de setembro a novembro. Os ovos mediram 1,1x 1,7 mm, com período de incubação de 15,4 dias. As larvas de primeiro ínstar foram observadas em outubro, as de segundo ínstar de novembro a abril e as de terceiro de janeiro a julho. As pupas ocorreram de maio a agosto. A espécie de Scarabaeidae mais abundante na cana-de-açúcar é Anomonyx sp., que apresenta uma geração por ano.

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.

Diversidade de besouros coprófagos (Coleoptera, Scarabaeidae) coletados com armadilha de interceptação de voo no Pantanal Sul-Mato-Grossense, Brasil / Diversity of coprophagous scarab beetles (Coleoptera, Scarabaeidae) collected with flight intercept trap in the Southern Pantanal, Brazil

Os besouros coprófagos desempenham grande importância ecológica dentro dos ecossistemas, porém, escassos são os estudos de diversidade desses insetos em diferentes biomas. Assim, desenvolveu-se o presente estudo com o objetivo de identificar as espécies de Scarabaeidae coprófagos que ocorrem no Pantanal de Mato Grosso do Sul. O trabalho foi desenvolvido na fazenda Nhumirim (Embrapa Pantanal), sub-região da Nhecolândia, no período de junho de 1992 a maio de 1993. Para a coleta dos insetos foram instaladas mensalmente duas armadilhas luminosas do tipo "janela" (1 × 1 m), por um período consecutivo de dois a quatro dias. As armadilhas foram alocadas em área de campo (pastagem nativa) e de cerradão (vegetação densa), sendo acionadas às 19:00 horas e desligadas às 07:00 horas do dia seguinte, quando os insetos capturados eram retirados e acondicionados em frascos etiquetados contendo álcool 70 por cento. Foram coletados 19587 exemplares de Scarabaeidae, pertencentes a duas subfamílias (Aphodiinae e Scarabaeinae), 11 gêneros e 21 espécies. As espécies encontradas no Pantanal Sul-Mato-Grossense pertencem aos gêneros Ataenius, Aphodius, Ateuchus, Canthidium, Dichotomius, Labarrus, Nialaphodius, Ontherus, Trichillum, Trichiopsammobius e Uroxys. Dentre os Aphodiinae, Ataenius sp.2 (96,17 por cento) foi a mais abundante. Canthidium sp.1 (0,39 por cento), Dichotomius sp. (0,28 por cento) e D. bos (Blanchard, 1843) (0,16 por cento) foram as mais abundantes dentre os Scarabaeinae. Com relação ao comportamento reprodutivo de nidificação, 42,86 por cento das espécies coletadas apresentaram hábito paracoprídeo (escavadores) e 57,14 por cento endocoprídeo (residentes).

Coprophagous scarab beetles play an important ecological role in the ecosystems; however, studies on diversity of such insects are scarce for distinct biomes. The present study aimed to identify the Scarabaeidae coprophagous species which occur in the Pantanal of Mato Grosso do Sul. This study was carried out at the Nhumirim ranch (Embrapa Pantanal), located in the Nhecolândia sub-region of the Pantanal, from June 1992 to May 1993. For insect sampling, two window flight traps (1 × 1 m) were set up monthly during two to four consecutive days. The traps were placed in an open native grassland area (native pasture) and in a cerradão (dense savanna) area, remaining active from 19:00 PM to 07:00 AM, when caught insects were removed and fixed in 70 percent alcohol solution. It was collected 19587 individuals of Scarabaeidae, belonging to two subfamilies (Aphodiinae and Scarabaeinae), 11 genera, and 21 species. Coprophagoues scarab species found in the Southern Pantanal belonged to the genera Ataenius, Aphodius, Ateuchus, Canthidium, Dichotomius, Labarrus, Nialaphodius, Ontherus, Trichillum, Trichiopsammobius and Uroxys. Among the Aphodiinae, Ataenius sp.2 (96.17 percent) was the most abundant specie. On the other hand, Canthidium sp.1 (0.39 percent), Dichotomius sp. (0.28 percent), and D. bos (Blanchard, 1843) (0.16 percent) showed the highest abundance among the Scarabaeinae. Regarding their reproductive nesting behavior, 42.86 percent of the species were paracoprids (tunnelers) while 57.14 percent were endocoprids (dwellers).

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.