Insects

15 pages, 3778 KiB

Open AccessFeature PaperArticle

Long-Range Effects of Wing Physical Damage and Distortion on Eyespot Color Patterns in the Hindwing of the Blue Pansy Butterfly Junonia orithya

by Joji M. Otaki

Insects 2018, 9(4), 195; https://doi.org/10.3390/insects9040195 - 19 Dec 2018

Cited by 5 | Viewed by 3734

Abstract

Butterfly eyespot color patterns have been studied using several different approaches, including applications of physical damage to the forewing. Here, damage and distortion experiments were performed, focusing on the hindwing eyespots of the blue pansy butterfly Junonia orithya. Physical puncture damage with [...] Read more.

Butterfly eyespot color patterns have been studied using several different approaches, including applications of physical damage to the forewing. Here, damage and distortion experiments were performed, focusing on the hindwing eyespots of the blue pansy butterfly Junonia orithya. Physical puncture damage with a needle at the center of the eyespot reduced the eyespot size. Damage at the eyespot outer rings not only deformed the entire eyespot, but also diminished the eyespot core disk size, despite the distance from the damage site to the core disk. When damage was inflicted near the eyespot, the eyespot was drawn toward the damage site. The induction of an ectopic eyespot-like structure and its fusion with the innate eyespots were observed when damage was inflicted in the background area. When a small stainless ball was placed in close proximity to the eyespot using the forewing-lift method, the eyespot deformed toward the ball. Taken together, physical damage and distortion elicited long-range inhibitory, drawing (attracting), and inducing effects, suggesting that the innate and induced morphogenic signals travel long distances and interact with each other. These results are consistent with the distortion hypothesis, positing that physical distortions of wing tissue contribute to color pattern determination in butterfly wings. Full article

► Show Figures

Graphical abstract

7 pages, 198 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Rhyzobius lophanthae Behavior is Influenced by Cycad Plant Age, Providing Odor Samples in a Y-tube Olfactometer

by Thomas E. Marler and Paris N. Marler

Insects 2018, 9(4), 194; https://doi.org/10.3390/insects9040194 - 18 Dec 2018

Cited by 5 | Viewed by 2764

Abstract

The scale predator Rhyzobius lophanthae Blaisdell was introduced to Guam and Rota to control invasive Aulacaspis yasumatsui Takagi armored scale infestations on the native Cycas micronesica K.D. Hill populations. The predator demonstrated a clear preference for A. yasumatsui infesting adult plants, resulting in [...] Read more.

The scale predator Rhyzobius lophanthae Blaisdell was introduced to Guam and Rota to control invasive Aulacaspis yasumatsui Takagi armored scale infestations on the native Cycas micronesica K.D. Hill populations. The predator demonstrated a clear preference for A. yasumatsui infesting adult plants, resulting in 100% seedling mortality due to the lack of a biocontrol of the scale on seedlings. A Y-tube olfactometer was employed to determine if scale-infested seedling leaves were less attractive to R. lophanthae than scale-infested mature tree leaves. Five paired combinations of seedling versus mature tree leaves were used. The R. lophanthae adults navigated toward scale-infested and un-infested leaves of adults and seedlings when paired with an empty chamber. However, a clear preference for adult leaves occurred when paired with seedling leaves. The results were unambiguous in charcoal-filtered air, intermediate in unfiltered air from an open laboratory, and most ambiguous when conducted with unfiltered in-situ air. The number of predators that did not make a choice was greatest for in-situ air and least for charcoal-filtered air. These results indicated that the substrate used in olfactometry influenced the results, and interpretations of charcoal-filtered air assays should be made with caution. Volatile chemical cues are involved in R. lophanthae preferring A. yasumatsui located on C. micronesica adults when infested adult and seedling leaves are present. Full article

8 pages, 653 KiB

Open AccessBrief Report

Larval Exposure to the Bacterial Insecticide Bti Enhances Dengue Virus Susceptibility of Adult Aedes aegypti Mosquitoes

by Isabelle Moltini-Conclois, Renaud Stalinski, Guillaume Tetreau, Laurence Després and Louis Lambrechts

Insects 2018, 9(4), 193; https://doi.org/10.3390/insects9040193 - 14 Dec 2018

Cited by 22 | Viewed by 4000

Abstract

Understanding the interactions between pathogens sharing the same host can be complicated for holometabolous animals when larval and adult stages are exposed to distinct pathogens. In medically important insect vectors, the effect of pathogen exposure at the larval stage may influence susceptibility to [...] Read more.

Understanding the interactions between pathogens sharing the same host can be complicated for holometabolous animals when larval and adult stages are exposed to distinct pathogens. In medically important insect vectors, the effect of pathogen exposure at the larval stage may influence susceptibility to human pathogens at the adult stage. We addressed this hypothesis in the mosquito Aedes aegypti, a major vector of arthropod-borne viruses (arboviruses), such as the dengue virus (DENV) and the chikungunya virus (CHIKV). We experimentally assessed the consequences of sub-lethal exposure to the bacterial pathogen Bacillus thuringiensis subsp. israelensis (Bti), during larval development, on arbovirus susceptibility at the adult stage in three Ae. aegypti strains that differ in their genetic resistance to Bti. We found that larval exposure to Bti significantly increased DENV susceptibility, but not CHIKV susceptibility, in the Bti-resistant strains. However, there was no major difference in the baseline arbovirus susceptibility between the Bti-resistant strains and their Bti-susceptible parental strain. Although the generality of our results remains to be tested with additional arbovirus strains, this study supports the idea that the outcome of an infection by a pathogen depends on other pathogens sharing the same host even when they do not affect the same life stage of the host. Our findings may also have implications for Bti as a mosquito biocontrol agent, indicating that the sub-optimal Bti efficacy may have counter-productive effects by increasing vector competence, at least for some combinations of arbovirus and mosquito strains. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Mosquito – Arbovirus Interactions in Honor of Professor Walter J. Tabachnick)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

15 pages, 2296 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Minor Components Play an Important Role in Interspecific Recognition of Insects: A Basis to Pheromone Based Electronic Monitoring Tools for Rice Pests

by Qing-Hua Chen, Feng Zhu, Zhihua Tian, Wan-Min Zhang, Rong Guo, Wancai Liu, Lieming Pan and Yongjun Du

Insects 2018, 9(4), 192; https://doi.org/10.3390/insects9040192 - 12 Dec 2018

Cited by 17 | Viewed by 3412

Abstract

Several lepidopteran species share the same pheromone blend consisting of (Z)-11-hexadecenal (Z11-16:Ald) and (Z)-9-hexadecenal (Z9-16:Ald) at different ratios and active doses. In rice pest Chilo suppressalis, (Z)-11-hexadecenol, (Z11-16:OH) and octadecanal (18:Ald) were identified as minor components in the pheromone gland of female [...] Read more.

Several lepidopteran species share the same pheromone blend consisting of (Z)-11-hexadecenal (Z11-16:Ald) and (Z)-9-hexadecenal (Z9-16:Ald) at different ratios and active doses. In rice pest Chilo suppressalis, (Z)-11-hexadecenol, (Z11-16:OH) and octadecanal (18:Ald) were identified as minor components in the pheromone gland of female moths, and these components were previously not considered as part of the sex pheromone of C. suppressalis. Z11-16:Ald, Z9-16:Ald and (Z)-13-octadecenal (Z13-18:Ald) frequently trapped other lepidopteran species, such as rice pests Scirpophaga incertulas and Mythimna separate, corn and vegetable pests Helicoverpa armigera in the field, suggesting a lack of specificity in the pheromone blend. Our data showed that the minor component Z11-16:OH did not have a synergistic effect on the attractiveness of the blend to C. suppressalis; however, pheromone mixtures containing Z11-16:OH failed in trapping male H. armigera moths. We confirmed the identity and specificity of the C. suppressalis sex pheromone and demonstrated that Z11-16:OH plays a key role in the reproductive isolation of C. suppressalis, M. separata, and H. armigera moths, and a similar role of Z9-18:Ald in that of S. incertulas and C. suppressalis. This phenomenon could be more widely applicable to interspecific interactions in the pheromone communication between insects, which is crucial to developing the electronic automatic counting device for automatically monitoring the pest population by pheromone trapping based on its species specificity. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Insect Monitoring and Trapping in Agricultural Systems)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

12 pages, 5470 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Cryptic Diversity in Colombian Edible Leaf-Cutting Ants (Hymenoptera: Formicidae)

by Pepijn W. Kooij, Bryn M. Dentinger, David A. Donoso, Jonathan Z. Shik and Ester Gaya

Insects 2018, 9(4), 191; https://doi.org/10.3390/insects9040191 - 12 Dec 2018

Cited by 4 | Viewed by 4182

Abstract

Leaf-cutting ants are often considered agricultural pests, but they can also benefit local people and serve important roles in ecosystems. Throughout their distribution, winged reproductive queens of leaf-cutting ants in the genus Atta Fabricius, 1804 are consumed as a protein-rich food source and [...] Read more.

Leaf-cutting ants are often considered agricultural pests, but they can also benefit local people and serve important roles in ecosystems. Throughout their distribution, winged reproductive queens of leaf-cutting ants in the genus Atta Fabricius, 1804 are consumed as a protein-rich food source and sometimes used for medical purposes. Little is known, however, about the species identity of collected ants and the accuracy of identification when ants are sold, ambiguities that may impact the conservation status of Atta species as well as the nutritional value that they provide to consumers. Here, 21 samples of fried ants bought in San Gil, Colombia, were identified to species level using Cytochrome Oxidase I (COI) barcoding sequences. DNA was extracted from these fried samples using standard Chelex extraction methods, followed by phylogenetic analyses with an additional 52 new sequences from wild ant colonies collected in Panama and 251 publicly available sequences. Most analysed samples corresponded to Atta laevigata (Smith, 1858), even though one sample was identified as Atta colombica Guérin-Méneville, 1844 and another one formed a distinct branch on its own, more closely related to Atta texana (Buckley, 1860) and Atta mexicana (Smith, 1858). Analyses further confirm paraphyly within Atta sexdens (Linnaeus, 1758) and A. laevigata clades. Further research is needed to assess the nutritional value of the different species. Full article

► Show Figures

Figure 1

16 pages, 696 KiB

Open AccessReview

Vesicular Stomatitis Virus Transmission: A Comparison of Incriminated Vectors

by Paula Rozo-Lopez, Barbara S. Drolet and Berlin Londoño-Renteria

Insects 2018, 9(4), 190; https://doi.org/10.3390/insects9040190 - 11 Dec 2018

Cited by 47 | Viewed by 10332

Abstract

Vesicular stomatitis (VS) is a viral disease of veterinary importance, enzootic in tropical and subtropical regions of the Americas. In the U.S., VS produces devastating economic losses, particularly in the southwestern states where the outbreaks display an occurrence pattern of 10-year intervals. To [...] Read more.

Vesicular stomatitis (VS) is a viral disease of veterinary importance, enzootic in tropical and subtropical regions of the Americas. In the U.S., VS produces devastating economic losses, particularly in the southwestern states where the outbreaks display an occurrence pattern of 10-year intervals. To date, the mechanisms of the geographic spread and maintenance cycles during epizootics remain unclear. This is due, in part, to the fact that VS epidemiology has a complex of variables to consider, including a broad range of vertebrate hosts, multiple routes of transmission, and an extensive diversity of suspected vector species acting as both mechanical and biological vectors. Infection and viral progression within vector species are highly influenced by virus serotype, as well as environmental factors, including temperature and seasonality; however, the mechanisms of viral transmission, including non-conventional pathways, are yet to be fully studied. Here, we review VS epidemiology and transmission mechanisms, with comparisons of transmission evidence for the four most incriminated hematophagous dipteran taxa: Aedes mosquitoes, Lutzomyia sand flies, Simulium black flies, and Culicoides biting midges. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Mosquito – Arbovirus Interactions in Honor of Professor Walter J. Tabachnick)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

17 pages, 2319 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Determinants of Termite Assemblages’ Characteristics within Natural Habitats of a Sudano-Guinean Savanna (Comoe National Park, Côte d’Ivoire)

by N’golo Abdoulaye Koné, Kolotchèlèma Simon Silué, Souleymane Konaté and Karl Eduard Linsenmair

Insects 2018, 9(4), 189; https://doi.org/10.3390/insects9040189 - 10 Dec 2018

Cited by 4 | Viewed by 3298

Abstract

Termites are one of the major components of tropical ecosystems. However, the ecological and biological variables determining the structure of their communities within natural habitats are less documented in general and especially in the Comoe National Park, a Sudano-Guinean savanna zone located in [...] Read more.

Termites are one of the major components of tropical ecosystems. However, the ecological and biological variables determining the structure of their communities within natural habitats are less documented in general and especially in the Comoe National Park, a Sudano-Guinean savanna zone located in the north-eastern part of Côte d’Ivoire (West Africa). Using a standardized method of belt transects, the structure of termite’s communities was estimated within habitats differing in the structure of their vegetation, soil characteristics, and the disturbance level caused by annual occurrences of bushfires. The effect of a set of environmental variables (habitat type, occurrence of annual bushfire, woody plant density, woody plant species richness, and soil physicochemical parameters) was tested on the habitat-specific recorded termite species. Sixty species of termites belonging to 19 genera, seven subfamilies and two families, namely Rhinotermitidae (Coptotermitinae and Rhinotermitinae) and Termitidae (Apicotermitinae, Cubitermitinae, Macrotermitinae, Nasutitermitinae, and Termitinae) were sampled. These species were assigned to the four feeding groups of termites: fungus growers (18 species), wood feeders (17 species), soil feeders (19 species) and the grass feeders (6 species). The highest diversity of termites was encountered in forest habitats, with 37 and 34, respectively, for the gallery forest and the forest island. Among savanna habitats, the woodland savanna was identified as the most diversified habitat with 32 recorded species, followed by the tree savanna (28 species) and the grassy savanna (17 species). The distribution of termite species and their respective feedings groups was determined by the habitat type and a set of environmental variables such as Woody Plant Diversity (WPD), Woody plant Families Diversity (WPFD), and Organic Carbon (OC). The annual Fire Occurrence (FO) was found to indirectly impact the characteristics of termite assemblages within natural habitats via their respective Herbaceous Species Richness (HSR) and Woody Plant Species Richness (WPSR). In summary, the spatial heterogeneity of the Comoe National Park, modeled by the uncontrolled annual bushfire, offers a diversified natural habitat with an important variety of termite-habitat-specific species, probably due to the food preference of these organisms and its relatively good conservation status. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Ecology of Termites)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

14 pages, 2189 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Hibernation Leads to Altered Gut Communities in Bumblebee Queens (Bombus terrestris)

by Lien Bosmans, María I. Pozo, Christel Verreth, Sam Crauwels, Felix Wäckers, Hans Jacquemyn and Bart Lievens

Insects 2018, 9(4), 188; https://doi.org/10.3390/insects9040188 - 07 Dec 2018

Cited by 16 | Viewed by 3735

Abstract

Many reptiles, amphibians, mammals, and insects practice some form of hibernation during which their metabolic rate is drastically reduced. This allows them to conserve energy and survive the harsh winter conditions with little or no food. While it can be expected that a [...] Read more.

Many reptiles, amphibians, mammals, and insects practice some form of hibernation during which their metabolic rate is drastically reduced. This allows them to conserve energy and survive the harsh winter conditions with little or no food. While it can be expected that a reduction in host metabolism has a substantial influence on the gut microbial community, little is known about the effects of hibernation on the composition of the microbial gut community, especially for insects. In this study, we assessed and compared the bacterial gut community composition within the midgut and ileum of indoor-reared queens of Bombus terrestris before and after an artificial hibernation period of 16 weeks. Deep sequencing of 16S ribosomal RNA gene amplicons and clustering of sequence reads into operational taxonomic units (OTUs) at a similarity threshold of 97% revealed several bacterial taxa that are known to be strongly associated with corbiculate bees. Bacterial community composition after hibernation compared to before hibernation was characterized by higher OTU richness and evenness, with decreased levels of the core bacteria Gilliamella (Proteobacteria, Orbaceae) and Snodgrassella (Proteobacteria, Neisseriaceae), and increased relative abundance of non-core bacteria, including several psychrophilic and psychrotrophic taxa. Full article

► Show Figures

Figure 1

15 pages, 774 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Evaluation of a Push-Pull System for the Management of Frankliniella Species (Thysanoptera: Thripidae) in Tomato

by Kara Tyler-Julian, Joe Funderburk, Mrittunjai Srivastava, Steve Olson and Scott Adkins

Insects 2018, 9(4), 187; https://doi.org/10.3390/insects9040187 - 07 Dec 2018

Cited by 10 | Viewed by 3070

Abstract

A push-pull strategy for reducing populations of the thrips Frankliniella occidentalis (Pergande), F. bispinosa (Morgan) and F. tritici (Fitch) in tomato was evaluated. Push components consisted of ultraviolet (UV)-reflective mulch and foliar applications of kaolin and the pull component consisted of the companion [...] Read more.

A push-pull strategy for reducing populations of the thrips Frankliniella occidentalis (Pergande), F. bispinosa (Morgan) and F. tritici (Fitch) in tomato was evaluated. Push components consisted of ultraviolet (UV)-reflective mulch and foliar applications of kaolin and the pull component consisted of the companion plant Bidens alba (L.). Replicated field experiments were conducted in 2011 and 2012. Adult and larval thrips were reduced by UV-reflective mulch during early and mid-flowering of tomato. Spray applications of kaolin were effective in reducing adult and larval thrips during early, mid- and late-flowering. The pull effects of the B. alba companion plants were additive and sometimes interactive with the push effects of UV-reflective mulch and kaolin in reducing the adult males of each thrips species and the females of F. bispinosa. The strategy was not effective in reducing the adult females of F. tritici and F. occidentalis. In addition to attracting the Frankliniella species adults, the companion plants were hosts for the thrips predator Orius insidiosus (Say). The companion plants combined with UV-reflective mulch and kaolin proved effective as a push-pull system for suppressing flower thrips, including F. occidentalis which is a serious pest of tomato worldwide. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Invasive Insect Species Modelling and Control)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

10 pages, 883 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Comparisons of Citizen Science Data-Gathering Approaches to Evaluate Urban Butterfly Diversity

by Kathleen L. Prudic, Jeffrey C. Oliver, Brian V. Brown and Elizabeth C. Long

Insects 2018, 9(4), 186; https://doi.org/10.3390/insects9040186 - 06 Dec 2018

Cited by 26 | Viewed by 7955

Abstract

By 2030, ten percent of earth’s landmass will be occupied by cities. Urban environments can be home to many plants and animals, but surveying and estimating biodiversity in these spaces is complicated by a heterogeneous built environment where access and landscaping are highly [...] Read more.

By 2030, ten percent of earth’s landmass will be occupied by cities. Urban environments can be home to many plants and animals, but surveying and estimating biodiversity in these spaces is complicated by a heterogeneous built environment where access and landscaping are highly variable due to human activity. Citizen science approaches may be the best way to assess urban biodiversity, but little is known about their relative effectiveness and efficiency. Here, we compare three techniques for acquiring data on butterfly (Lepidoptera: Rhopalocera) species richness: trained volunteer Pollard walks, Malaise trapping with expert identification, and crowd-sourced iNaturalist observations. A total of 30 butterfly species were observed; 27 (90%) were recorded by Pollard walk observers, 18 (60%) were found in Malaise traps, and 22 (73%) were reported by iNaturalist observers. Pollard walks reported the highest butterfly species richness, followed by iNaturalist and then Malaise traps during the four-month time period. Pollard walks also had significantly higher species diversity than Malaise traps. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Butterfly Ecology and Conservation)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

20 pages, 1284 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Differential Gene Expression in Red Imported Fire Ant (Solenopsis invicta) (Hymenoptera: Formicidae) Larval and Pupal Stages

by Margaret L. Allen, Joshua H. Rhoades, Michael E. Sparks and Michael J. Grodowitz

Insects 2018, 9(4), 185; https://doi.org/10.3390/insects9040185 - 05 Dec 2018

Cited by 11 | Viewed by 5009

Abstract

Solenopsis invicta Buren is an invasive ant species that has been introduced to multiple continents. One such area, the southern United States, has a history of multiple control projects using chemical pesticides over varying ranges, often resulting in non-target effects across trophic levels. [...] Read more.

Solenopsis invicta Buren is an invasive ant species that has been introduced to multiple continents. One such area, the southern United States, has a history of multiple control projects using chemical pesticides over varying ranges, often resulting in non-target effects across trophic levels. With the advent of next generation sequencing and RNAi technology, novel investigations and new control methods are possible. A robust genome-guided transcriptome assembly was used to investigate gene expression differences between S. invicta larvae and pupae. These life stages differ in many physiological processes; of special importance is the vital role of S. invicta larvae as the colonies’ “communal gut”. Differentially expressed transcripts were identified related to many important physiological processes, including digestion, development, cell regulation and hormone signaling. This dataset provides essential developmental knowledge that reveals the dramatic changes in gene expression associated with social insect life stage roles, and can be leveraged using RNAi to develop effective control methods. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Urban Pest Management from the 2018 NCUE)

► Show Figures

Graphical abstract

49 pages, 8138 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Synopsis of Cis Latreille (Coleoptera: Ciidae) from southern Africa

by Igor Souza-Gonçalves, Artur Orsetti and Cristiano Lopes-Andrade

Insects 2018, 9(4), 184; https://doi.org/10.3390/insects9040184 - 05 Dec 2018

Cited by 8 | Viewed by 4045

Abstract

A synopsis of the Cis Latreille, 1796 from southern Africa is provided, with the description of 10 new species: Cis bicaesariatus sp. n., Cis foveocephalus sp. n., Cis grobbelaarae sp. n., Cis lacinipennis sp. n., Cis makrosoma sp. n. [...] Read more.

A synopsis of the Cis Latreille, 1796 from southern Africa is provided, with the description of 10 new species: Cis bicaesariatus sp. n., Cis foveocephalus sp. n., Cis grobbelaarae sp. n., Cis lacinipennis sp. n., Cis makrosoma sp. n., Cis mpumalangaensis sp. n., Cis parvisetosus sp. n., Cis tessariplacus sp. n., Cis umlalaziensis sp. n. and Cis westerncapensis sp. n. The introduced species Cis fuscipes Mellié, 1849 is recorded for the first time from the Republic of South Africa. New geographic records are provided for the following species: Cis neserorum Souza-Gonçalves & Lopes-Andrade, 2017; Cis regius Orsetti & Lopes-Andrade, 2016 and Cis stalsi Souza-Gonçalves & Lopes-Andrade, 2017. Most southern African Cis are placed in available or newly proposed species-groups and a provisional identification key is provided. Full article

► Show Figures

Figure 1

8 pages, 868 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Effect of Different Light Spectrum in Helicoverpa armigera Larvae during HearNPV Induced Tree-Top Disease

by Mandira Katuwal Bhattarai, Upendra Raj Bhattarai, Ji-nian Feng and Dun Wang

Insects 2018, 9(4), 183; https://doi.org/10.3390/insects9040183 - 04 Dec 2018

Cited by 4 | Viewed by 4065

Abstract

Lepidopteran larvae upon infection by baculovirus show positive photo-tactic movement during tree-top disease. In light of many insects exploiting specific spectral information for the different behavioral decision, each spectral wavelength of light is an individual parsimonious candidate for such behavior stimulation. Here, we [...] Read more.

Lepidopteran larvae upon infection by baculovirus show positive photo-tactic movement during tree-top disease. In light of many insects exploiting specific spectral information for the different behavioral decision, each spectral wavelength of light is an individual parsimonious candidate for such behavior stimulation. Here, we investigated the responses of third instar Helicoverpa armigera larvae infected by Helicoverpa armigera nucleopolyhedrovirus (HearNPV) to white (broad-spectrum), blue (450–490 nm), UVA (320–400 nm), and UVB (290–320 nm) lights for the tree-top disease. Our findings suggest that tree-top phenomenon is induced only when the light is applied from above. Blue, white and UVA lights from above induced tree-top disease, causing infected larvae to die in an elevated position compared to those larvae living in the complete dark. In contrast, UVB from above did not induce tree-top disease. Blue light exerted the maximum photo-tactic response, significantly (p < 0.01) higher than white light. The magnitude of the response decreased with decreasing wavelength to UVA, and no response at UVB. Our results suggested that the spectral wavelength of the light has a significant effect on the induction of the tree-top disease in H. armigera third instar larvae infected with HearNPV. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Insect Immunity and Pathology)

► Show Figures

Graphical abstract

11 pages, 1928 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

First Record of an Invasive Fruit Fly Belonging to Bactrocera dorsalis Complex (Diptera: Tephritidae) in Europe

by Francesco Nugnes, Elia Russo, Gennaro Viggiani and Umberto Bernardo

Insects 2018, 9(4), 182; https://doi.org/10.3390/insects9040182 - 03 Dec 2018

Cited by 63 | Viewed by 12452

Abstract

Emerging pests are increasingly threatening fruit orchard health across the Mediterranean area. Tephritidae, representing serious threats for Europe, are numerous, and the fruit flies Bactrocera zonata and those belonging to Bactrocera dorsalis complex are among the most alarming species. These species are highly [...] Read more.

Emerging pests are increasingly threatening fruit orchard health across the Mediterranean area. Tephritidae, representing serious threats for Europe, are numerous, and the fruit flies Bactrocera zonata and those belonging to Bactrocera dorsalis complex are among the most alarming species. These species are highly polyphagous and B. zonata has already spread to some Mediterranean countries. Due to these ongoing threats, in the Campania Region (southern Italy), a survey with traps and infested fruits analysis was performed with the aim of detecting the presence of species of Bactrocera dorsalis complex. In two mixed fruit-trees fields, some adults belonging to a species of Bactrocera were captured in traps baited with the highly attractive male lure (methyl eugenol). They were distinguished from similar-looking Bactrocera spp. by morphological and molecular comparative analyses. Considering the existing morphological keys, specimens were tentatively identified as B. dorsalis but molecular characterization with COI split them into two clades. Some specimens were grouped with B. dorsalis similar to B. kandiensis and B. kandiensis and others in a clade including B. dorsalis and B. invadens (syn. B. dorsalis). ITS1 sequences instead confirmed morphological identification. The integrative approach allowed identifying all the specimens collected as belonging to the B. dorsalis complex. This finding represents the first field interception in Europe of a member of one of the most dangerous groups of fruit flies. Full article

► Show Figures

Graphical abstract

15 pages, 2432 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Spatial Distribution of Forensically Significant Blow Flies in Subfamily Luciliinae (Diptera: Calliphoridae), Chiang Mai Province, Northern Thailand: Observations and Modeling Using GIS

by Tunwadee Klong-klaew, Ratchadawan Ngoen-klan, Kittikhun Moophayak, Kom Sukontason, Kim N. Irvine, Jeffery K. Tomberlin, Hiromu Kurahashi, Theeraphap Chareonviriyaphap, Pradya Somboon and Kabkaew L. Sukontason

Insects 2018, 9(4), 181; https://doi.org/10.3390/insects9040181 - 03 Dec 2018

Cited by 4 | Viewed by 4232

Abstract

Blow flies of the subfamily Luciliinae (Diptera: Calliphoridae) are one of the main forensically important subfamilies globally. In addition to being used to estimate the minimum post-mortem interval (PMI_min), assuming colonization occurred after death, blow fly specimens found infesting a human [...] Read more.

Blow flies of the subfamily Luciliinae (Diptera: Calliphoridae) are one of the main forensically important subfamilies globally. In addition to being used to estimate the minimum post-mortem interval (PMI_min), assuming colonization occurred after death, blow fly specimens found infesting a human corpse are used to determine if the corpse was relocated or if the individual ingested narcotics prior to death. The presence of these blow flies in a given area is strongly influenced by abiotic and biotic factors, such as temperature, elevation, and habitat. Having this information, along with geographical distributions and the characteristics of preferred habitats, is necessary to better understand the biology of this group. This study aimed to characterize the spatial distribution of Luciliinae throughout 18 sampling sites within six ecozones (disturbed mixed deciduous forest, mixed deciduous forest, mixed orchard, paddy field, lowland village, and city/town) in central Chiang Mai Province, northern Thailand over one year (May 2009–May 2010). The purpose of the study was to elucidate the relationship of blow fly species composition with environmental abiotic factors (e.g., temperature, relative humidity, light intensity), and to predict the distribution of the common species within this subfamily using GIS. Adult collections were performed biweekly, baited with one-day-old beef offal. A total of 2331 Luciliinae flies trapped, comprising eight species, of which the four predominant species were Hemipyrellia ligurriens (Wiedemann) (n = 1428; 61.3%), Lucilia porphyrina (Walker) (n = 381; 16.3%), Hemipyrellia pulchra (Wiedemann) (n = 293; 12.6%), and Lucilia papuensis Macquart (n = 129; 5.5%). Population density across species varied seasonally, peaking in August 2009 coinciding with the rainy season. Predicting population composition was based on a model developed with ArcGIS 9.2, which utilized environmental variables (temperature, relative humidity, and light intensity) in conjunction with abundance data. Models indicated H. ligurriens had the most widespread geographic distribution, while H. pulchra was predicted to occur largely in mixed orchards and lowland villages. Lucilia porphyrina and L. papuensis were less widespread, restricted mainly to mixed deciduous forest. This model, along with knowledge of forensic information, may be useful under certain investigations where the corpse may have been relocated. Full article

► Show Figures

Figure 1

11 pages, 994 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Interactions between Two Biological Control Agents on Lygodium microphyllum

by Ian Jones and Ellen C. Lake

Insects 2018, 9(4), 180; https://doi.org/10.3390/insects9040180 - 02 Dec 2018

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 2437

Abstract

Lygodium microphyllum (Lygodiaceae) is an invasive climbing fern in peninsular Florida. Two classical biological control agents are currently being released against L. microphyllum: a leaf galling mite, Floracarus perrepae (Acariformes: Eriophyidae), and a moth, Neomusotima conspurcatalis (Lepidoptera: Crambidae). Little is known about [...] Read more.

Lygodium microphyllum (Lygodiaceae) is an invasive climbing fern in peninsular Florida. Two classical biological control agents are currently being released against L. microphyllum: a leaf galling mite, Floracarus perrepae (Acariformes: Eriophyidae), and a moth, Neomusotima conspurcatalis (Lepidoptera: Crambidae). Little is known about how the two species interact in the field; thus we conducted oviposition choice tests to determine the effects of F. perrepae presence on oviposition behavior in N. conspurcatalis. Further, we conducted feeding trials with N. conspurcatalis larvae to establish the effects of gall presence on larval survival and rate of development, and determine whether N. conspurcatalis larvae would directly consume F. perrepae galls. Neomusotima conspurcatalis laid significantly more eggs on mite galled (52.66 ± 6.211) versus ungalled (34.40 ± 5.587) L. microphyllum foliage. Feeding trials revealed higher mortality in N. conspurcatalis larvae raised on galled (60%) versus ungalled (36%) L. microphyllum material. In gall feeding trials, N. conspurcatalis larvae consumed or damaged 13.52% of galls, and the rate of direct gall feeding increased over time as leaf resources were depleted. Our results suggest that, where N. conspurcatalis and F. perrepae co-occur, competitive interactions could be more frequent than previously anticipated; however, we do not expect these antagonistic interactions to affect the establishment of either agent. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Insect Population Dynamics: Theory & Practice)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

16 pages, 1896 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Larval Food Limitation in a Speyeria Butterfly (Nymphalidae): How Many Butterflies Can Be Supported?

by Ryan I. Hill, Cassidi E. Rush and John Mayberry

Insects 2018, 9(4), 179; https://doi.org/10.3390/insects9040179 - 02 Dec 2018

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 3117

Abstract

For herbivorous insects the importance of larval food plants is obvious, yet the role of host abundance and density in conservation are relatively understudied. Populations of Speyeria butterflies across North America have declined and Speyeria adiaste is an imperiled species endemic to the [...] Read more.

For herbivorous insects the importance of larval food plants is obvious, yet the role of host abundance and density in conservation are relatively understudied. Populations of Speyeria butterflies across North America have declined and Speyeria adiaste is an imperiled species endemic to the southern California Coast Ranges. In this paper, we study the link between the food plant Viola purpurea quercetorum and abundance of its herbivore Speyeria adiaste clemencei to better understand the butterfly’s decline and aid in restoration of this and other Speyeria species. To assess the degree to which the larval food plant limits adult abundance of S. a. clemencei in 2013, we compared adult population counts to population size predicted from a Monte Carlo simulation using data for number of V. pur. quercetorum plants, number of leaves per plant, and leaf area per plant, with lab estimates of leaf area consumed to reach pupal stage on the non-native host V. papilionacea. Results indicated an average estimate of 765 pupae (median = 478), with 77% of the distribution being <1000 pupae. However, this was heavily dependent on plant distribution, and accounting for the number of transect segments with sufficient host to support a pupa predicted 371 pupae. The adult population empirical estimate was 227 individuals (95% CI is 146 to 392), which lies near the first quartile of the simulated distribution. These results indicate that the amount of host available to larvae was more closely linked to adult abundance than the amount of host present, especially when considering assumptions of the analyses. The data also indicate that robust populations require host density well in excess of what is eaten by larvae, in combination with appropriate spacing, to mitigate factors such as competition, starvation from leaving host patches, or unrelated to food plant, such as mortality from drought, predators, parasites, or disease. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Butterfly Ecology and Conservation)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

12 pages, 538 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Evaluation of Fruit Bagging as a Pest Management Option for Direct Pests of Apple

by Daniel L. Frank

Insects 2018, 9(4), 178; https://doi.org/10.3390/insects9040178 - 01 Dec 2018

Cited by 20 | Viewed by 4190

Abstract

Bagging fruit with plastic, paper, and two-layer commercial bags was evaluated for control of insect pests and diseases in an experimental apple orchard planted with ‘Red Delicious’ trees. Results from fruit damage evaluations at harvest showed that bagging significantly reduced fruit damage from [...] Read more.

Bagging fruit with plastic, paper, and two-layer commercial bags was evaluated for control of insect pests and diseases in an experimental apple orchard planted with ‘Red Delicious’ trees. Results from fruit damage evaluations at harvest showed that bagging significantly reduced fruit damage from direct apple pests compared with non-bagged control plots, and generally provided similar levels of fruit protection when compared with a conventional pesticide spray program. Of the three bagging materials evaluated, plastic bags provided numerically higher levels of fruit protection from insect pests, and two-layer commercial bags provided numerically higher levels of fruit protection from fruit diseases. Fruit quality as measured by percentage Brix was higher in non-bagged control plots than all other treatment plots. Fruit quality as measured by fruit diameter was not significantly different among treatments. Plastic and two-layer commercial bags generally required less time to secure around apple fruit than paper bags. The proportion of bags that remained on fruit until harvest ranged from 0.54–0.71 (commercial bags), 0.64–0.82 (plastic bags), and 0.32–0.60 (paper bags), depending on the year. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Pest Control in Fruit Trees)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

12 pages, 1767 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Sequential Infection of Aedes aegypti Mosquitoes with Chikungunya Virus and Zika Virus Enhances Early Zika Virus Transmission

by Tereza Magalhaes, Alexis Robison, Michael C. Young, William C. Black, Brian D. Foy, Gregory D. Ebel and Claudia Rückert

Insects 2018, 9(4), 177; https://doi.org/10.3390/insects9040177 - 01 Dec 2018

Cited by 30 | Viewed by 5505

Abstract

In urban settings, chikungunya, Zika, and dengue viruses are transmitted by Aedes aegypti mosquitoes. Since these viruses co-circulate in several regions, coinfection in humans and vectors may occur, and human coinfections have been frequently reported. Yet, little is known about the molecular aspects [...] Read more.

In urban settings, chikungunya, Zika, and dengue viruses are transmitted by Aedes aegypti mosquitoes. Since these viruses co-circulate in several regions, coinfection in humans and vectors may occur, and human coinfections have been frequently reported. Yet, little is known about the molecular aspects of virus interactions within hosts and how they contribute to arbovirus transmission dynamics. We have previously shown that Aedes aegypti exposed to chikungunya and Zika viruses in the same blood meal can become coinfected and transmit both viruses simultaneously. However, mosquitoes may also become coinfected by multiple, sequential feeds on single infected hosts. Therefore, we tested whether sequential infection with chikungunya and Zika viruses impacts mosquito vector competence. We exposed Ae. aegypti mosquitoes first to one virus and 7 days later to the other virus and compared infection, dissemination, and transmission rates between sequentially and single infected groups. We found that coinfection rates were high after sequential exposure and that mosquitoes were able to co-transmit both viruses. Surprisingly, chikungunya virus coinfection enhanced Zika virus transmission 7 days after the second blood meal. Our data demonstrate heterologous arbovirus synergism within mosquitoes, by unknown mechanisms, leading to enhancement of transmission under certain conditions. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Mosquito – Arbovirus Interactions in Honor of Professor Walter J. Tabachnick)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

11 pages, 1766 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Breakfast Canyon Discovered in Honeybee Hive Weight Curves

by Niels Holst and William G. Meikle

Insects 2018, 9(4), 176; https://doi.org/10.3390/insects9040176 - 01 Dec 2018

Cited by 14 | Viewed by 4143

Abstract

Electronic devices to sense, store, and transmit data are undergoing rapid development, offering an ever-expanding toolbox for inventive minds. In apiculture, both researchers and practitioners have welcomed the opportunity to equip beehives with a variety of sensors to monitor hive weight, temperature, forager [...] Read more.

Electronic devices to sense, store, and transmit data are undergoing rapid development, offering an ever-expanding toolbox for inventive minds. In apiculture, both researchers and practitioners have welcomed the opportunity to equip beehives with a variety of sensors to monitor hive weight, temperature, forager traffic and more, resulting in huge amounts of accumulated data. The problem remains how to distil biological meaning out of these data. In this paper, we address the analysis of beehive weight monitored at a 15-min resolution over several months. Inspired by an overlooked, classic study on such weight curves we derive algorithms and statistical procedures to allow biological interpretation of the data. Our primary finding was that an early morning dip in the weight curve (‘Breakfast Canyon’) could be extracted from the data to provide information on bee colony performance in terms of foraging effort. We include the data sets used in this study, together with R scripts that will allow other researchers to replicate or refine our method. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Insect Monitoring and Trapping in Agricultural Systems)

► Show Figures

Graphical abstract

18 pages, 2629 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Distribution and Relative Abundance of Insect Vectors of Xylella fastidiosa in Olive Groves of the Iberian Peninsula

by Marina Morente, Daniele Cornara, María Plaza, José Manuel Durán, Carmen Capiscol, Raquel Trillo, Manuel Ruiz, Carmen Ruz, Susana Sanjuan, Jose Alberto Pereira, Aranzazu Moreno and Alberto Fereres

Insects 2018, 9(4), 175; https://doi.org/10.3390/insects9040175 - 01 Dec 2018

Cited by 78 | Viewed by 6293

Abstract

The phytosanitary emergency caused by the spread of Xylella fastidiosa in the Mediterranean has raised demands for a better understanding of the ecology of its presumed and candidate insect vectors. Here, we present the results of a two-year survey carried out in olive [...] Read more.

The phytosanitary emergency caused by the spread of Xylella fastidiosa in the Mediterranean has raised demands for a better understanding of the ecology of its presumed and candidate insect vectors. Here, we present the results of a two-year survey carried out in olive groves across southern, eastern and Central Spain and northeastern Portugal. Several sampling methods were tested and compared to select the most appropriate to estimate population levels of potential vectors of X. fastidiosa. The spittlebugs Philaenus spumarius and Neophilaenus campestris (Hemiptera: Aphrophoridae) were the main species associated with olive groves. Both species were widely present on herbaceous ground vegetation within the olive groves; P. spumarius mainly associated with Asteraceae and N. campestris with Poaceae. Due to the patchy distribution of spittlebugs within the olive groves, sweep nets were the most effective and least time-consuming sampling method for the estimation of population size both in the ground cover and tree canopies. Trends in population density showed that spittlebugs can be abundant on ground vegetation but very rare on olive canopies. Spittlebugs disperse in late spring to non-cultivated hosts that act as natural reservoirs. In late fall, adults return to the olive groves for oviposition. However, olive trees may act as transient hosts for spittlebugs and high population densities of these insect vectors should be avoided in areas where X. fastidiosa is present. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Insect Monitoring and Trapping in Agricultural Systems)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

13 pages, 4017 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Drifting Phenologies Cause Reduced Seasonality of Butterflies in Response to Increasing Temperatures

by Zachariah J. Gezon, Rebekah J. Lindborg, Anne Savage and Jaret C. Daniels

Insects 2018, 9(4), 174; https://doi.org/10.3390/insects9040174 - 30 Nov 2018

Cited by 8 | Viewed by 3812

Abstract

Climate change has caused many ecological changes around the world. Altered phenology is among the most commonly observed effects of climate change, and the list of species interactions affected by altered phenology is growing. Although many studies on altered phenology focus on single [...] Read more.

Climate change has caused many ecological changes around the world. Altered phenology is among the most commonly observed effects of climate change, and the list of species interactions affected by altered phenology is growing. Although many studies on altered phenology focus on single species or on pairwise species interactions, most ecological communities are comprised of numerous, ecologically similar species within trophic groups. Using a 12-year butterfly monitoring citizen science data set, we aimed to assess the degree to which butterfly communities may be changing over time. Specifically, we wanted to assess the degree to which phenological sensitivities to temperature could affect temporal overlap among species within communities, independent of changes in abundance, species richness, and evenness. We found that warming winter temperatures may be associated with some butterfly species making use of the coldest months of the year to fly as adults, thus changing temporal co-occurrence with other butterfly species. Our results suggest that changing temperatures could cause immediate restructuring of communities without requiring changes in overall abundance or diversity. Such changes could have fitness consequences for individuals within trophic levels by altering competition for resources, as well as indirect effects mediated by species interactions across trophic levels. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Butterfly Ecology and Conservation)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

21 pages, 783 KiB

Open AccessReview

The Ecological Significance and Implications of Transovarial Transmission among the Vector-Borne Bunyaviruses: A Review

by Nicholas A. Bergren and Rebekah C. Kading

Insects 2018, 9(4), 173; https://doi.org/10.3390/insects9040173 - 27 Nov 2018

Cited by 21 | Viewed by 7565

Abstract

Transovarial transmission (TOT) is a widespread and efficient process through which pathogens can be passed between generations of arthropod vectors. Many species within the order Bunyavirales utilize TOT as a means of persisting within the environment when classical horizontal transmission is not possible [...] Read more.

Transovarial transmission (TOT) is a widespread and efficient process through which pathogens can be passed between generations of arthropod vectors. Many species within the order Bunyavirales utilize TOT as a means of persisting within the environment when classical horizontal transmission is not possible due to ecological constraints. The purpose of this review is to summarize previous findings regarding the ecological significance of TOT among viruses in the order Bunyavirales and identify the gaps in knowledge regarding this important mechanism of arboviral maintenance. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Mosquito – Arbovirus Interactions in Honor of Professor Walter J. Tabachnick)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

18 pages, 2230 KiB

Open AccessReview

The Past, Present, and Future of the Hemlock Woolly Adelgid (Adelges tsugae) and Its Ecological Interactions with Eastern Hemlock (Tsuga canadensis) Forests

by Aaron M. Ellison, David A. Orwig, Matthew C. Fitzpatrick and Evan L. Preisser

Insects 2018, 9(4), 172; https://doi.org/10.3390/insects9040172 - 23 Nov 2018

Cited by 31 | Viewed by 7888

Abstract

The nonnative hemlock woolly adelgid is steadily killing eastern hemlock trees in many parts of eastern North America. We summarize impacts of the adelgid on these forest foundation species; review previous models and analyses of adelgid spread dynamics; and examine how previous forecasts [...] Read more.

The nonnative hemlock woolly adelgid is steadily killing eastern hemlock trees in many parts of eastern North America. We summarize impacts of the adelgid on these forest foundation species; review previous models and analyses of adelgid spread dynamics; and examine how previous forecasts of adelgid spread and ecosystem dynamics compare with current conditions. The adelgid has reset successional sequences, homogenized biological diversity at landscape scales, altered hydrological dynamics, and changed forest stands from carbon sinks into carbon sources. A new model better predicts spread of the adelgid in the south and west of the range of hemlock, but still under-predicts its spread in the north and east. Whether these underpredictions result from inadequately modeling accelerating climate change or accounting for people inadvertently moving the adelgid into new locales needs further study. Ecosystem models of adelgid-driven hemlock dynamics have consistently forecast that forest carbon stocks will be little affected by the shift from hemlock to early-successional mixed hardwood stands, but these forecasts have assumed that the intermediate stages will remain carbon sinks. New forecasting models of adelgid-driven hemlock decline should account for observed abrupt changes in carbon flux and ongoing and accelerating human-driven land-use and climatic changes. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Ecology and Management of Forest Insects in a Changing World)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

13 pages, 906 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Use of an Argentine Ant, Linepithema humile, Semiochemical to Deliver an Acute Toxicant

by Benjamin M. Gochnour, Daniel R. Suiter, Jerry W. Davis and Qingguo Huang

Insects 2018, 9(4), 171; https://doi.org/10.3390/insects9040171 - 23 Nov 2018

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 3784

Abstract

The Argentine ant, Linepithema humile, is an invasive nuisance, agricultural, and ecological pest from South America. In the United States, its primary distribution is in California and the Southeast. The structural pest control industry responds to property owner complaints when this ant’s [...] Read more.

The Argentine ant, Linepithema humile, is an invasive nuisance, agricultural, and ecological pest from South America. In the United States, its primary distribution is in California and the Southeast. The structural pest control industry responds to property owner complaints when this ant’s populations become problematic and a persistent nuisance. Actions taken to control Argentine ants in the urban and suburban environment are typically complaint-driven, and often involve the application of insecticide sprays applied to the outdoor environment by professional pest managers. In California, and elsewhere, spray treatments of various residual insecticides by property owners and pest management professionals has resulted in significant runoff and in subsequent surface water contamination. As a result, an immediate need exists to develop alternative methods of ant control targeted at reducing environmental contamination. The purpose of this study was to investigate the potential for the development of an alternative method of toxicant delivery focused on the Argentine ant’s behavior modifying cuticular chemistry. In short, methanol and hexane washes of Argentine ant pupae applied to paper dummies were handled significantly more by worker ants than the paper dummies that did not contain the solvent extracts. Additionally, paper wicks soaked in a methylene chloride wash from Argentine ant cadavers, air dried, and then treated with fipronil, were removed by worker ants and placed on a midden pile at the same rate (≈86% to 99% removal at 1 h) as untreated and fipronil-treated ant cadavers. The paper wicks that did not contain the methylene chloride extract were ignored by the worker ants. After three days, the mortality of the ants exposed to the fipronil-treated wicks or the ant cadavers were dose-related. In conclusion, our study suggests that there is potential for the use of ant semiochemicals for the delivery of acute toxicants. Full article

► Show Figures

Graphical abstract

27 pages, 1927 KiB

Open AccessReview

A Review of Sampling and Monitoring Methods for Beneficial Arthropods in Agroecosystems

by Kenneth W. McCravy

Insects 2018, 9(4), 170; https://doi.org/10.3390/insects9040170 - 23 Nov 2018

Cited by 81 | Viewed by 22918

Abstract

Beneficial arthropods provide many important ecosystem services. In agroecosystems, pollination and control of crop pests provide benefits worth billions of dollars annually. Effective sampling and monitoring of these beneficial arthropods is essential for ensuring their short- and long-term viability and effectiveness. There are [...] Read more.

Beneficial arthropods provide many important ecosystem services. In agroecosystems, pollination and control of crop pests provide benefits worth billions of dollars annually. Effective sampling and monitoring of these beneficial arthropods is essential for ensuring their short- and long-term viability and effectiveness. There are numerous methods available for sampling beneficial arthropods in a variety of habitats, and these methods can vary in efficiency and effectiveness. In this paper I review active and passive sampling methods for non-Apis bees and arthropod natural enemies of agricultural pests, including methods for sampling flying insects, arthropods on vegetation and in soil and litter environments, and estimation of predation and parasitism rates. Sample sizes, lethal sampling, and the potential usefulness of bycatch are also discussed. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Insect Monitoring and Trapping in Agricultural Systems)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

30 pages, 2714 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Field and Laboratory Studies on the Ecology, Reproduction, and Adult Diapause of the Asian Comma Butterfly, Polygonia c-aureum L. (Lepidoptera: Nymphalidae)

by Satoshi Hiroyoshi and Gadi V. P. Reddy

Insects 2018, 9(4), 169; https://doi.org/10.3390/insects9040169 - 22 Nov 2018

Cited by 9 | Viewed by 3467

Abstract

Adult diapause and reproduction of a nymphalid butterfly, Polygonia c-aureum L., were investigated in field and laboratory examinations. Laboratory studies showed that old virgin male butterflies of non-diapausing generations had heavy accessory glands and simplex, which were suppressed in diapausing generations. The number [...] Read more.

Adult diapause and reproduction of a nymphalid butterfly, Polygonia c-aureum L., were investigated in field and laboratory examinations. Laboratory studies showed that old virgin male butterflies of non-diapausing generations had heavy accessory glands and simplex, which were suppressed in diapausing generations. The number of eupyrene sperm bundles in the duplex increased with adult age, whereas testis size decreased with age. Field examinations indicated that reproductive development of both sexes of diapausing generations in autumn was suppressed, and developed in spring. We attempted to estimate the physiological age of wild-caught males, as adult male age can be estimated from the testis size. We also attempted to determine whether or not wild male butterflies had mated from the development of the accessory glands and simplex, as well as the number of eupyrene sperm bundles in the duplex, by comparing unmated males with mated males. Field examinations suggest that almost all females in a population of non-diapausing generations mated and showed a tendency toward polyandry, while in the diapausing generation, in spring, monoandry rather than polyandry predominated. This suggests a different mating strategy between non-diapausing and diapausing generations. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Butterfly Ecology and Conservation)

► Show Figures

Graphical abstract

22 pages, 5208 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Redescriptions, Lectotype Designations, New Synonyms and New Geographic Records for the “Tiger” Species of Mycotretus Lacordaire, 1842 (Coleoptera: Erotylidae: Tritomini)

by Italo S. C. Pecci-Maddalena and Cristiano Lopes-Andrade

Insects 2018, 9(4), 168; https://doi.org/10.3390/insects9040168 - 22 Nov 2018

Cited by 7 | Viewed by 4247

Abstract

The Neotropical Mycotretus Lacordaire, 1842 is one of the largest and most widespread genera of the Erotylidae, encompassing more than 200 described species. Among the species with a similar body coloration, there is a “group” of six valid species—called here the “tiger” Mycotretus [...] Read more.

The Neotropical Mycotretus Lacordaire, 1842 is one of the largest and most widespread genera of the Erotylidae, encompassing more than 200 described species. Among the species with a similar body coloration, there is a “group” of six valid species—called here the “tiger” Mycotretus—that possess several pronotal and elytral black spots, as follows: M. tigrinus (Olivier, 1792); M. multimaculatus Taschenberg, 1870; M. centralis Arrow, 1909; M. tigrinoides Mader, 1942; M. tigripennis Mader, 1942; and M. prioteloides Mader, 1942. Different from any other Mycotretus with spots, the spots of the “tiger” Mycotretus are numerous and are not bilaterally symmetrical in pattern. Here, new geographical records, diagnoses and redescriptions are provided for M. tigrinus, M. centralis, M. tigrinoides, M. tigripennis and M. prioteloides, including the first descriptions of their male and female terminalia. Lectotypes are designated for M. multimaculatus, M. centralis, and M. leopardus. Mycotretus multimaculatus and M. tigrinus pardalis Crotch, 1876 are proposed as new junior synonyms of M. tigrinus. Additionally, the authorship of the name M. leopardus is attributed to Crotch, 1876, because he was the first author to provide a description for that taxon, and the synonymy of M. leopardus and M. conspersus (Germar, 1824) with M. tigrinus (Olivier, 1792) is confirmed. Full article

► Show Figures

Figure 1

17 pages, 1886 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Climatic Niche Model for Overwintering Monarch Butterflies in a Topographically Complex Region of California

by Ashley Fisher, Kiana Saniee, Charis Van der Heide, Jessica Griffiths, Daniel Meade and Francis Villablanca

Insects 2018, 9(4), 167; https://doi.org/10.3390/insects9040167 - 20 Nov 2018

Cited by 12 | Viewed by 4733

Abstract

We use climatic conditions that are associated with known monarch butterfly overwintering groves in California to build a Maxent model, and focus on the fine scale probability of overwintering grove occurrence in a topographically complex region of the state (Santa Barbara County). Grove [...] Read more.

We use climatic conditions that are associated with known monarch butterfly overwintering groves in California to build a Maxent model, and focus on the fine scale probability of overwintering grove occurrence in a topographically complex region of the state (Santa Barbara County). Grove locations are known from recent and historical surveys and a long-term citizen science database. The climatic niche model performs well, predicting that overwintering habitat is most likely to occur along the coast and at low elevations, as shown by empirical data. We then use climatic variables in conjunction with climate change scenarios to model the future location of overwintering habitat, and find a substantial shift in the predicted distribution. Under a plausible scenario, the probability of occurrence of overwintering habitat directly reflects elevation, with coastal regions having a reduced probability relative to today, and higher elevation sites increasing in probability. Under a more extreme scenario, high probability sites are only located along ridgelines and in mountaintop regions of the county. This predicted shift in distribution is likely to have management implications, as sites that currently lack monarchs may become critical to conservation in the future. Our results suggest that estimating the size of the western overwintering population in the future will be problematic, unless annual counts compensate for a shift in the distribution and a potential change in the number and location of occupied sites. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Butterfly Ecology and Conservation)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

14 pages, 1613 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Not Led by the Nose: Volatiles from Undamaged Eucalyptus Hosts Do Not Influence Psyllid Orientation

by Kevin Farnier, Noel W. Davies and Martin J. Steinbauer

Insects 2018, 9(4), 166; https://doi.org/10.3390/insects9040166 - 17 Nov 2018

Cited by 11 | Viewed by 4190

Abstract

Psyllids (Hemiptera: Psylloidea) are small sucking insects with high host plant specificity. Despite the primitive olfactory system of psyllids, some species have been suggested to rely on host plant volatiles (HPVs) for seasonal migration between summer deciduous hosts and winter coniferous hosts. Similarly, [...] Read more.

Psyllids (Hemiptera: Psylloidea) are small sucking insects with high host plant specificity. Despite the primitive olfactory system of psyllids, some species have been suggested to rely on host plant volatiles (HPVs) for seasonal migration between summer deciduous hosts and winter coniferous hosts. Similarly, enhanced attraction of psyllid vectors has been observed as a result of the manipulation of host odors by plant pathogens. As yet, there are no studies of olfaction in psyllids that utilize evergreen eucalypt hosts. We investigated the behavioral responses of adults of four Eucalyptus-feeding psyllids—Ctenarytaina eucalypti, C. bipartita, Anoeconeossa bundoorensis and Glycaspis brimblecombei—to their respective HPVs in Y-tube olfactometer bioassays. We also used existing physiological data for C. eucalypti to investigate potential olfactory tuning that may modulate the preference for morphologically juvenile leaves over morphologically adult leaves. Although adult C. eucalypti were consistently repelled by HPVs from damaged host leaves, none of the species exhibited positive chemotaxis to HPVs from undamaged leaves. Surprisingly, G. brimblecombei was repelled by HPVs from undamaged host leaves. Our findings provide little support for a significant role of olfaction in host location by Eucalyptus-feeding psyllids. We propose a number of ecological hypotheses to explain these unexpected findings. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Chemical Ecology)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

Journal Menu

Journal Browser

Insects, Volume 9, Issue 4 (December 2018) – 73 articles

Further Information

Guidelines

MDPI Initiatives

Follow MDPI