Journal Description
Insects
Insects
is an international, peer-reviewed, open access journal on entomology published monthly online by MDPI.
- Open Access— free for readers, with article processing charges (APC) paid by authors or their institutions.
- High Visibility: indexed within Scopus, SCIE (Web of Science), PubMed, PMC, PubAg, and other databases.
- Journal Rank: JCR - Q1 (Entomology) / CiteScore - Q1 (Insect Science)
- Rapid Publication: manuscripts are peer-reviewed and a first decision is provided to authors approximately 17 days after submission; acceptance to publication is undertaken in 2.9 days (median values for papers published in this journal in the second half of 2023).
- Recognition of Reviewers: reviewers who provide timely, thorough peer-review reports receive vouchers entitling them to a discount on the APC of their next publication in any MDPI journal, in appreciation of the work done.
Impact Factor:
3.0 (2022);
5-Year Impact Factor:
3.1 (2022)
Latest Articles
Non-Consumptive Effects of Harmonia axyridis on the Reproduction and Metabolism of Spodoptera frugiperda
Insects 2024, 15(6), 395; https://doi.org/10.3390/insects15060395 - 28 May 2024
Abstract
An increasing body of research has underscored the significant impact of non-consumptive effects on the dynamics of prey pests, encompassing growth, development, reproduction, and metabolism across various vertebrate and invertebrate taxa, rivaling the influence of consumption effects. In our investigation, we delved into
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An increasing body of research has underscored the significant impact of non-consumptive effects on the dynamics of prey pests, encompassing growth, development, reproduction, and metabolism across various vertebrate and invertebrate taxa, rivaling the influence of consumption effects. In our investigation, we delved into the non-consumptive effects exerted by the natural predatory enemy Harmonia axyridis on the reproductive capacity and metabolism of Spodoptera frugiperda adults. Our findings revealed a substantial decrease in the reproductive ability of S. frugiperda adults when exposed to the non-consumptive effects of H. axyridis. Concurrently, we observed an elevation in hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) content and the activities of antioxidant enzymes such as superoxide dismutases (SODs), catalases (CATs), and peroxidases (PODs). Furthermore, notable alterations were detected in energy metabolism, characterized by heightened triglyceride levels and diminished glycogen and trehalose concentrations. These outcomes underscored the adaptive response of the pest aimed at mitigating non-consumptive adverse effects by augmenting antioxidant enzyme activity to counteract oxidative stress and minimize cellular damage. Nonetheless, this defensive mechanism entails a significant expenditure of energy resources, resulting in shifts in energy utilization. Elevated triglyceride levels and reduced glycogen and trehalose concentrations diminish available resources for reproductive processes, such as egg laying, ultimately culminating in decreased fecundity. This study contributes novel insights into the non-consumptive effects observed in insects, while also furnishing valuable insights into the mechanisms underlying insect stress responses.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Genetics and Evolution of Ladybird Beetles in Biological Control)
Open AccessCommunication
Identification and Characterization of Three Novel Solemo-like Viruses in the White-Backed Planthopper, Sogatella furcifera
by
Jing-Na Yuan, Zhuang-Xin Ye, Meng-Nan Chen, Peng-Peng Ren, Chao Ning, Zong-Tao Sun, Jian-Ping Chen, Chuan-Xi Zhang, Jun-Min Li and Qianzhuo Mao
Insects 2024, 15(6), 394; https://doi.org/10.3390/insects15060394 - 28 May 2024
Abstract
Agricultural insects play a crucial role in transmitting plant viruses and host a considerable number of insect-specific viruses (ISVs). Among these insects, the white-backed planthoppers (WBPH; Sogatella furcifera, Hemiptera: Delphacidae) are noteworthy rice pests and are responsible for disseminating the southern rice
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Agricultural insects play a crucial role in transmitting plant viruses and host a considerable number of insect-specific viruses (ISVs). Among these insects, the white-backed planthoppers (WBPH; Sogatella furcifera, Hemiptera: Delphacidae) are noteworthy rice pests and are responsible for disseminating the southern rice black-streaked dwarf virus (SRBSDV), a significant rice virus. In this study, we analyzed WBPH transcriptome data from public sources and identified three novel viruses. These newly discovered viruses belong to the plant-associated viral family Solemoviridae and were tentatively named Sogatella furcifera solemo-like virus 1-3 (SFSolV1-3). Among them, SFSolV1 exhibited a prevalent existence in different laboratory populations, and its complete genome sequence was obtained using rapid amplification of cDNA ends (RACE) approaches. To investigate the antiviral RNA interference (RNAi) response in WBPH, we conducted an analysis of virus-derived small interfering RNAs (vsiRNAs). The vsiRNAs of SFSolV1 and -2 exhibited typical patterns associated with the host’s siRNA-mediated antiviral immunity, with a preference for 21- and 22-nt vsiRNAs derived equally from both the sense and antisense genomic strands. Furthermore, we examined SFSolV1 infection and distribution in WBPH, revealing a significantly higher viral load of SFSolV1 in nymphs’ hemolymph compared to other tissues. Additionally, in adult insects, SFSolV1 exhibited higher abundance in male adults than in female adults.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Insect Physiology, Reproduction and Development)
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Open AccessArticle
Dengue Virus Serotype 1 Effects on Mosquito Survival Differ among Geographically Distinct Aedes aegypti Populations
by
Milan S. G. Keirsebelik, Mariana R. David, Márcio Galvão Pavan, Dinair Couto-Lima, Miriam Palomino, Rafi Ur Rahman, Ary A. Hoffmann, Ana C. Bahia, Guy Caljon and Rafael Maciel-de-Freitas
Insects 2024, 15(6), 393; https://doi.org/10.3390/insects15060393 - 28 May 2024
Abstract
The mosquito Aedes aegypti is distributed worldwide and is recognized as the primary vector for dengue in numerous countries. To investigate whether the fitness cost of a single DENV-1 isolate varies among populations, we selected four Ae. aegypti populations from distinct localities: Australia
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The mosquito Aedes aegypti is distributed worldwide and is recognized as the primary vector for dengue in numerous countries. To investigate whether the fitness cost of a single DENV-1 isolate varies among populations, we selected four Ae. aegypti populations from distinct localities: Australia (AUS), Brazil (BRA), Pakistan (PAK), and Peru (PER). Utilizing simple methodologies, we concurrently assessed survival rates and fecundity. Overall, DENV-1 infection led to a significant decrease in mosquito survival rates, with the exception of the PER population. Furthermore, infected Ae. aegypti from PAK, the population with the lowest infection rate among those tested, exhibited a noteworthy reduction in egg laying. These findings collectively suggest that local mosquito-virus adaptations may influence dengue transmission in endemic settings.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Insect Vectors of Human and Zoonotic Diseases)
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Open AccessArticle
Functional Morphology of Leg Mechanosensory Organs in Early Postembryonic Development in the Stick Insect (Sipyloidea chlorotica)
by
Johannes Strauß
Insects 2024, 15(6), 392; https://doi.org/10.3390/insects15060392 - 28 May 2024
Abstract
The subgenual organ complex of stick insects has a unique neuroanatomical organisation with two elaborate chordotonal organs, the subgenual organ and the distal organ. These organs are present in all leg pairs and are already developed in newly hatched stick insects. The present
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The subgenual organ complex of stick insects has a unique neuroanatomical organisation with two elaborate chordotonal organs, the subgenual organ and the distal organ. These organs are present in all leg pairs and are already developed in newly hatched stick insects. The present study analyses for the first time the morphology of sensory organs in the subgenual organ complex for a membrane connecting the two sensory organs in newly hatched insects (Sipyloidea chlorotica (Audinet-Serville 1838)). The stick insect legs were analysed following hatching by axonal tracing and light microscopy. The subgenual organ complex in first juvenile instars shows the sensory organs and a thin membrane connecting the sensory organs resembling the morphology of adult animals. Rarely was this membrane not detected, where it is assumed as not developed during embryogenesis. The connection appears to influence the shape of the subgenual organ, with one end extending towards the distal organ as under tension. These findings are discussed for the following functional implications: (1) the physiological responses of the subgenual organ complex to mechanical stimuli after hatching, (2) the influence of the membrane on the displacement of the sensory organs, and (3) the connection between the subgenual organ and distal organ as a possible functional coupling.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Collection Insect Sensory Biology)
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Open AccessArticle
A Combinatorial Single-Molecule Real-Time and Illumina Sequencing Analysis of Postembryonic Gene Expression in the Asian Citrus Psyllid Diaphorina citri
by
Qin Zhang, Can Zhang, Hong Zhong, Qing He, Zhao-Ying Xia, Yu Hu, Yu-Xin Liao, Long Yi, Zhan-Jun Lu and Hai-Zhong Yu
Insects 2024, 15(6), 391; https://doi.org/10.3390/insects15060391 - 28 May 2024
Abstract
Huanglongbing (HLB) is a systemic plant disease caused by ‘Candidatus Liberibacter asiaticus (CLas)’ and transmitted by Diaphorina citri. D. citri acquires the CLas bacteria in the nymph stage and transmits it in the adult stage, indicating that molting
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Huanglongbing (HLB) is a systemic plant disease caused by ‘Candidatus Liberibacter asiaticus (CLas)’ and transmitted by Diaphorina citri. D. citri acquires the CLas bacteria in the nymph stage and transmits it in the adult stage, indicating that molting from the nymph to adult stages is crucial for HLB transmission. However, the available D. citri reference genomes are incomplete, and gene function studies have been limited to date. In the current research, PacBio single-molecule real-time (SMRT) and Illumina sequencing were performed to investigate the transcriptome of D. citri nymphs and adults. In total, 10,641 full-length, non-redundant transcripts (FLNRTs), 594 alternative splicing (AS) events, 4522 simple sequence repeats (SSRs), 1086 long-coding RNAs (lncRNAs), 281 transcription factors (TFs), and 4459 APA sites were identified. Furthermore, 3746 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) between nymphs and adults were identified, among which 30 DEGs involved in the Hippo signaling pathway were found. Reverse transcription–quantitative PCR (RT-qPCR) further validated the expression levels of 12 DEGs and showed a positive correlation with transcriptome data. Finally, the spatiotemporal expression pattern of genes involved in the Hippo signaling pathway exhibited high expression in the D. citri testis, ovary, and egg. Silencing of the D. citri transcriptional co-activator (DcYki) gene significantly increased D. citri mortality and decreased the cumulative molting. Our results provide useful information and a reliable data resource for gene function research of D. citri.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Insect Molecular Biology and Genomics)
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Open AccessArticle
Amitraz Resistance in French Varroa Mite Populations—More Complex than a Single-Nucleotide Polymorphism
by
Ulrike Marsky, Bénédicte Rognon, Alexandre Douablin, Alain Viry, Miguel Angel Rodríguez Ramos and Abderrahim Hammaidi
Insects 2024, 15(6), 390; https://doi.org/10.3390/insects15060390 - 27 May 2024
Abstract
Resistance against amitraz in Varroa mite populations has become a subject of interest in recent years due to the increasing reports of the reduced field efficacy of amitraz treatments, especially from some beekeepers in France and the United States. The loss of amitraz
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Resistance against amitraz in Varroa mite populations has become a subject of interest in recent years due to the increasing reports of the reduced field efficacy of amitraz treatments, especially from some beekeepers in France and the United States. The loss of amitraz as a reliable tool to effectively reduce Varroa mite infestation in the field could severely worsen the position of beekeepers in the fight to keep Varroa infestation rates in their colonies at low levels. In this publication, we present data from French apiaries, collected in the years 2020 and 2021. These data include the field efficacy of an authorized amitraz-based Varroa treatment (Apivar® ,Véto-pharma, France) and the results of laboratory sensitivity assays of Varroa mites exposed to the reference LC90 concentration of amitraz. In addition, a total of 240 Varroa mites from Eastern, Central, and Southern regions in France that were previously classified as either “sensitive” or “resistant” to amitraz in a laboratory sensitivity assay were genotyped. The genetic analyses of mite samples are focused on the β-adrenergic-like octopamine receptor, which is considered as the main target site for amitraz in Varroa mites. Special attention was paid to a single-nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) at position 260 of the ORβ-2R-L gene that was previously associated to amitraz resistance in French Varroa mites, Varroa. Our findings confirm that amitraz resistance occurs in patches or “islands of resistance”, with a less severe reduction in treatment efficacy compared to pyrethroid resistance or coumaphos resistance in Varroa mites. The results of our genetic analyses of Varroa mites call into question the hypothesis of the SNP at position 260 of the ORβ-2R-L gene being directly responsible for amitraz resistance development.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Insect Pest and Vector Management)
Open AccessArticle
Characteristics and Comparative Analysis of Mitochondrial Genomes of the Aphid Genus Hyalopterus Koch (Hemiptera: Aphididae: Aphidinae)
by
Xiaolu Zhang, Cailing Li, Liyun Jiang, Gexia Qiao and Jing Chen
Insects 2024, 15(6), 389; https://doi.org/10.3390/insects15060389 - 27 May 2024
Abstract
Using Illumina sequencing technology, we generated complete mitochondrial genomes (mitogenomes) of three constituent species of the aphid genus Hyalopterus Koch, Hyalopterus amygdali (Blanchard), Hyalopterus arundiniformis Ghulamullah, and Hyalopterus pruni (Geoffroy). The sizes of the Hyalopterus mitogenomes range from 15,306 to 15,410 bp, primarily
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Using Illumina sequencing technology, we generated complete mitochondrial genomes (mitogenomes) of three constituent species of the aphid genus Hyalopterus Koch, Hyalopterus amygdali (Blanchard), Hyalopterus arundiniformis Ghulamullah, and Hyalopterus pruni (Geoffroy). The sizes of the Hyalopterus mitogenomes range from 15,306 to 15,410 bp, primarily due to variations in the length of non-coding regions. The Hyalopterus mitogenomes consist of 37 coding genes arranged in the order of the ancestral insect mitogenome, a control region, and a repeat region between trnE and trnF. According to the COI-based analysis, one previously reported mitogenome of H. pruni should be assigned to H. arundiniformis. The gene order, nucleotide composition, and codon usage in the Hyalopterus mitogenomes are highly conserved and similar to those of other species of Aphidinae. The tandem repeat units differ in nucleotide composition, length, and copy number across three Hyalopterus species. Within the widespread Eurasian species H. arundiniformis, variation in repeat units among different geographic populations is observed, indicating that the repeat region may provide valuable insights for studying the intraspecific diversification of aphids. Phylogenetic analyses based on 28 complete mitogenomes of Aphidinae supported the monophyly of Aphidinae, Aphidini, Macrosiphini, and two subtribes of Aphidini. Hyalopterus was monophyletic. H. amygdali and H. pruni formed a sister group, while H. arundiniformis was placed basally. Characterization of the mitogenomes of Hyalopterus provides valuable resources for further comparative studies and for advancing our understanding of the aphid mitogenome architecture.
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(This article belongs to the Section Insect Molecular Biology and Genomics)
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Open AccessArticle
Transcriptomic Profiling of Bean Aphid Megoura crassicauda upon Exposure to the Aphid-Obligate Entomopathogen Conidiobolus obscurus (Entomophthoromycotina) and Screening of CytCo-Binding Aphid Proteins through a Pull-Down Assay
by
Jiaqin Zhu, Yaqi Fu, Lvhao Zhang, Tian Yang and Xiang Zhou
Insects 2024, 15(6), 388; https://doi.org/10.3390/insects15060388 - 27 May 2024
Abstract
Prolonged periods of host-lethal infection by entomopathogenic fungi pose challenges to the development of biological control agents. The obligate entomopathogen C. obscurus, however, rapidly kills aphid hosts, warranting investigation. This study investigated the interaction between C. obscurus and a bean aphid Megoura
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Prolonged periods of host-lethal infection by entomopathogenic fungi pose challenges to the development of biological control agents. The obligate entomopathogen C. obscurus, however, rapidly kills aphid hosts, warranting investigation. This study investigated the interaction between C. obscurus and a bean aphid Megoura crassicauda during the incubation period of infection, using transcriptome analysis to map host gene expression profiles. Results indicate C. obscurus-inoculated aphid activation of the wound healing immune responses, alongside suppression of the key molecules involved in Toll signaling, melanization, and metabolism. Furthermore, neuromotor system-related genes were upregulated, paralleling the intoxication observed in a nematode pest treated with C. obscurus-derived CytCo protein. To deepen interaction insights, a His-tag pull-down assay coupled with mass spectrometry analysis was conducted using CytCo as a bait to screen for potential aphid protein interactors. The proteins were identified based on the assembled transcriptome, and eleven transmembrane proteins were predicted to bind to CytCo. Notably, a protein of putatively calcium-transporting ATPase stood out with the highest confidence. This suggests that CytCo plays a vital role in C. obscurus killing aphid hosts, implicating calcium imbalance. In conclusion, C. obscurus effectively inhibits aphid immunity and exhibits neurotoxic potential, expediting the infection process. This finding facilitates our understanding of the complex host–pathogen interactions and opens new avenues for exploring biological pest management strategies in agroforestry.
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(This article belongs to the Section Insect Behavior and Pathology)
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Open AccessArticle
Age and Density of Mated Females Affect Dispersal Strategies in Spider Mite Tetranychus ludeni Zacher
by
Peng Zhou, Xiong Z. He, Chen Chen and Qiao Wang
Insects 2024, 15(6), 387; https://doi.org/10.3390/insects15060387 - 27 May 2024
Abstract
The dispersal strategies of a species can affect its invasion success. Investigations into the dispersal strategies of invasive species in relation to different factors help improve our understanding of invasion mechanisms and provide knowledge for population management and invasion evaluation. Tetranychus ludeni Zacher
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The dispersal strategies of a species can affect its invasion success. Investigations into the dispersal strategies of invasive species in relation to different factors help improve our understanding of invasion mechanisms and provide knowledge for population management and invasion evaluation. Tetranychus ludeni Zacher (Acari: Tetranychidae) is an invasive species which is native to Europe but is now cosmopolitan. Here, we examined the effects of age and density on dispersal in mated females. Our results show that older females that are capable of producing more eggs within 24 h were more likely to disperse and moved longer distances than younger ones with fewer eggs. Older females spread most of their eggs out of their natal habitats and over longer distances, which reduced competition and increased offspring fitness. Females exhibited significantly increased dispersal probability and distances with an increase in population density to avoid crowding. The synchronization of dispersal and reproduction, along with the positive density-dependent dispersal strategy, may facilitate the habitat colonization and invasion speed of T. ludeni.
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(This article belongs to the Section Other Arthropods and General Topics)
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Open AccessArticle
Ethyl Formate Fumigation for Controlling Two Major Aphid Pests, Aphis spiraecola and Aphis gossypii, on Passion Fruit, from Cultivation to Post-Harvest Storage
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Jeong Oh Yang, Dongbin Kim, Young Su Lee, Ki-Jeong Hong, Byung-Ho Lee and Min-Goo Park
Insects 2024, 15(6), 386; https://doi.org/10.3390/insects15060386 - 26 May 2024
Abstract
Tropical and subtropical crops are being increasingly cultivated in South Korea, leading to an increase in damage by exotic insect pests. Consequently, ethyl formate (EF) is currently being considered for quarantine and pre-shipment fumigation. In this study, we evaluated the effectiveness of EF
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Tropical and subtropical crops are being increasingly cultivated in South Korea, leading to an increase in damage by exotic insect pests. Consequently, ethyl formate (EF) is currently being considered for quarantine and pre-shipment fumigation. In this study, we evaluated the effectiveness of EF fumigation for controlling Aphis spiraecola Patch and Aphis gossypii Glover, two representative quarantine pests on passion fruit (“Pink Bourbon”) during greenhouse cultivation and post-harvest storage. The efficacy of EF against both aphids in terms of the lethal concentration causing 50% mortality (LCt50%) and LCt99% was 1.36–2.61 g h/m3 and 3.73–7.55 g h/m3 under greenhouse conditions (23 °C), and 1.37–2.02 g h/m3 and 3.80–14.59 g h/m3 post-harvest (5 °C), respectively. EF at 4 g/m3 for 4 h resulted in 100% mortality of A. spiraecola, which was more resistant to EF, without causing phytotoxic damage to the trees in a 340 m3 greenhouse. Post-harvest fruit fumigation at 10 g/m3 for 4 h in a mid-size (0.8 m3) fumigation chamber resulted in complete disinfection. Moreover, the EF level decreased below the EF threshold within 10 min after natural ventilation in the greenhouse. Therefore, our results suggest EF fumigation as an effective method for controlling A. spiraecola and A. gossypii.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Insect Pest and Vector Management)
Open AccessArticle
Evidence of Incomplete Feeding Behaviors among South Carolina Tick Populations
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Kayla E. Bramlett, Laura E. Witt, Madeleine M. Meyer, Kia Zellars, Kyndall C. Dye-Braumuller and Melissa S. Nolan
Insects 2024, 15(6), 385; https://doi.org/10.3390/insects15060385 - 26 May 2024
Abstract
Dynamic environmental conditions, such as climate change and host availability, have greatly influenced the expansion of medically relevant tick vectors into new regions throughout the southeastern United States of America. As tick populations migrate into new areas, it has been suggested they can
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Dynamic environmental conditions, such as climate change and host availability, have greatly influenced the expansion of medically relevant tick vectors into new regions throughout the southeastern United States of America. As tick populations migrate into new areas, it has been suggested they can exhibit a phenomenon known as incomplete feeding. With this phenomenon, tick vectors feed on more than one host at each life stage, thus increasing the likelihood of pathogen transmission. Although this behavior is not well understood, it presents an important threat to human health. Here we present evidence of incomplete feeding behaviors in multiple tick species in South Carolina. Engorged, blood-fed female ticks were collected from feral dogs at animal shelters across South Carolina in 2022. All ticks were tested for human blood meals using rapid stain identification blood tests. Approximately one third (33.78%) of all ticks tested positive for a human blood meal, with various patterns seen across species, geographic location, and collection month. The results of this pilot study follow the current national trend of increasing rates of tick-borne disease incidence in the southeastern United States of America and warrant further investigation into the relationship between seasonality, geographic distribution, species, and incomplete feeding among tick populations in South Carolina.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Topic Ticks and Tick-Borne Pathogens)
Open AccessArticle
Topical Toxicity and Repellency Profiles of 17 Essential Oil Components against Insecticide-Resistant and Susceptible Strains of Adult Musca domestica (Diptera: Muscidae)
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Yuexun Tian, Jerome A. Hogsette, Edmund J. Norris and Xing Ping Hu
Insects 2024, 15(6), 384; https://doi.org/10.3390/insects15060384 - 24 May 2024
Abstract
The house fly is a significant pest in agriculture and human health that is increasingly difficult to manage due to multiple limitations including resistance development. To explore alternative pesticides, the topical toxicity and repellency profiles of 17 essential oil components (EOCs) were evaluated
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The house fly is a significant pest in agriculture and human health that is increasingly difficult to manage due to multiple limitations including resistance development. To explore alternative pesticides, the topical toxicity and repellency profiles of 17 essential oil components (EOCs) were evaluated against a resistant and a susceptible strain of house fly, Musca domestica L., using topical application and Y-tube olfactometers, respectively. Six of the most toxic EOCs based on the LD50 were further investigated against a susceptible strain of house fly. Thymol, (+)-pulegone, eugenol, and carvacrol were always the top four most toxic chemicals tested against the resistant house fly strain. Little to no resistance was observed to the top six EOCs based on the comparison of the results between resistant and susceptible house fly strains. P-Cymene, citronellic acid, R-(+)-limonene, linalool, γ-terpinene, estragole, and eugenol were repellent to adult house flies at certain concentrations while (-)-carvone and thymol were attractive to adult house flies. This screening of a wide variety of individual EOCs provides a stronger foundation of information for further research. This should encourage further investigation into the topical toxicity and repellency in field studies, which will provide more insight into the performance of biopesticides for house fly management and potential commercialization.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Chemical Toxicology and Insecticide Resistance on Insect Pests)
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Description of a New Species and New Records of Naucoridae (Hemiptera: Heteroptera: Nepomorpha) from Eastern Brazil
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Rafael Jordão, Juliana da Costa Santos, Julianna Freires Barbosa and Felipe Ferraz Figueiredo Moreira
Insects 2024, 15(6), 383; https://doi.org/10.3390/insects15060383 - 23 May 2024
Abstract
The aquatic bug family Naucoridae (Hemiptera: Heteroptera: Nepomorpha) is currently represented in Brazil by 68 species. Although the diversity of the family has been the target of several recent studies, large areas of the country are still unexplored and several species that have
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The aquatic bug family Naucoridae (Hemiptera: Heteroptera: Nepomorpha) is currently represented in Brazil by 68 species. Although the diversity of the family has been the target of several recent studies, large areas of the country are still unexplored and several species that have been deposited in entomological collections are waiting for a formal description. Aiming to fill these knowledge gaps, a series of expeditions were carried out in six states of eastern Brazil between 2018 and 2023: Alagoas, Bahia, Ceará, Espírito Santo, Pernambuco, and Sergipe. The fieldwork targeted protected areas, but surrounding regions were also explored. The material obtained, in addition to specimens previously deposited in a national entomological collection, revealed the existence of Australambrysus margaritifer Jordão, Santos and Moreira, a new species herein described, and new records for other 11 species and two subspecies belonging to the genera Carvalhoiella De Carlo, 1963, Limnocoris Stål, 1876, Maculambrysus Reynoso-Velasco and Sites 2021, and Pelocoris Stål, 1876.
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(This article belongs to the Section Insect Systematics, Phylogeny and Evolution)
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Open AccessArticle
Thought to Be Extinct, but Still Alive Today: The Miocene Genus Primascena Klimaszewsi, 1997 (Hemiptera: Psyllidae) in the Light of Two Extant Species from Brazil
by
Daniel Burckhardt and Dalva L. Queiroz
Insects 2024, 15(6), 382; https://doi.org/10.3390/insects15060382 - 23 May 2024
Abstract
Fossils can document the morphological diversification through time and date lineages, providing relevant characters are preserved. Primascena Klimaszewsi, 1997 was erected for P. subita Klimaszewsi, 1997 on the basis of a single, partly damaged male from Dominican amber. Originally assigned to Rhinocolidae: Paurocephalinae,
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Fossils can document the morphological diversification through time and date lineages, providing relevant characters are preserved. Primascena Klimaszewsi, 1997 was erected for P. subita Klimaszewsi, 1997 on the basis of a single, partly damaged male from Dominican amber. Originally assigned to Rhinocolidae: Paurocephalinae, the genus was subsequently transferred to Psyllidae: Aphalaroidinae. Recently, two undescribed species resembling the fossil species were discovered in Brazil (Mato Grosso do Sul), allowing a detailed morphological study of adults and immatures. Based on the morphological study, a revised diagnosis of the genus is provided, including the previously unknown female and fifth instar immatures. Primascena subita is redescribed and P. empsycha n. spec. and P. ruprechtiae n. spec. are formally described and illustrated. An identification key is provided for the species of Primascena. A cladistic morphological analysis supports the placement of the two new species in Primascena, and of this genus in the Aphalaroidinae. It is sister to all but Aphalaroida, though with little support. The two Brazilian species develop on Ruprechtia spp. (Polygonaceae: Eriogonoideae), an unusual psyllid host. Immatures of P. ruprechtiae are free-living on the lower leaf face and do not induce galls.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Phylogeny and Morphological Evolution of Hemiptera)
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Differential Antioxidant Enzyme Gene Expression and Functional Analysis of Pyridaben-Susceptible and -Resistant Strains of Tetranychus truncatus (Acari: Tetranychidae) under High Temperature Stress
by
Liwen Song, Cailan Yu, Wenliang Li, Lei Liu, Qinzhe Sun, Huan Liu and Senshan Wang
Insects 2024, 15(6), 381; https://doi.org/10.3390/insects15060381 - 23 May 2024
Abstract
Tetranychus truncatus (Acari: Tetranychidae) has caused serious economic losses on some crops (soybean, corn, and cotton) in China, and has developed resistance to most acaricides. Our laboratory study found that T. truncatus was resistant to pyridaben and also adapted to high temperature (34–40
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Tetranychus truncatus (Acari: Tetranychidae) has caused serious economic losses on some crops (soybean, corn, and cotton) in China, and has developed resistance to most acaricides. Our laboratory study found that T. truncatus was resistant to pyridaben and also adapted to high temperature (34–40 °C). High temperature stress may cause arthropods to produce a large amount of reactive oxygen species (ROS), causing oxidative damage. Antioxidant enzymes, as the main antioxidants, can reduce the damage caused by excessive ROS in arthropods. In order to study the adaptation mechanism of the pyridaben-resistant strain of T. truncatus to high temperature and the role of antioxidant enzyme genes under high temperature stress, four antioxidant enzyme genes, TtSOD, TtPOD3, TtPOD4, and TtGSTs2, were screened according to the transcriptome sequencing data of pyridaben-susceptible and -resistant strains in T. truncatus. Firstly, the phylogeny and structure analyses of these four genes were carried out. Then, real-time quantitative PCR (RT-qPCR) technology was used to analyze the gene expression patterns of antioxidant enzymes in two strains of T. truncatus at three different high temperature ranges (34 °C, 38 °C, and 42 °C). The results showed that the expression levels of four antioxidant enzyme genes of two strains of T. truncatus were induced by high temperature stress, and the expression levels of antioxidant enzyme genes were significantly different in each development state. The gene expression of antioxidant enzyme genes in resistant strains at the adult stage was significantly higher than that in susceptible strains. After the TtSOD and TtPOD4 genes of adult mites of the resistant strain were silenced by RNA interference (RNAi) technology, the mortality rate of mites with TtPOD4 gene silencing reached 41.11% after 96 h at 34 °C, which was significantly higher than that of the control and TtSOD gene silencing. It has been confirmed that the TtPOD4 gene plays a key role in the adaptation of pyridaben-resistant strain of T. truncatus to high temperature. It lays a theoretical foundation for revealing the thermal adaptation mechanism of T. truncatus.
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(This article belongs to the Section Other Arthropods and General Topics)
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Armoured Lepidopteran Caterpillars Preserved in Non-Fossil Resins and What They Tell Us about the Fossil Preservation of Caterpillars
by
Joshua Gauweiler, André P. Amaral, Carolin Haug and Joachim T. Haug
Insects 2024, 15(6), 380; https://doi.org/10.3390/insects15060380 - 22 May 2024
Abstract
Resin is a plastic-like product of trees. Older occurrences of such resin are referred to as amber and are considered fossil resin. Younger resins are termed copals. Even younger ones have been dubbed defaunation resins. Non-fossil resins remain in a terminological limbo, often
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Resin is a plastic-like product of trees. Older occurrences of such resin are referred to as amber and are considered fossil resin. Younger resins are termed copals. Even younger ones have been dubbed defaunation resins. Non-fossil resins remain in a terminological limbo, often referred to as “sub-fossils”. We report two lepidopteran caterpillars preserved in non-fossil resin: one from Madagascar, one from Brazil. Prominent hairs (=setae) and spines (=spine-like setae) of the specimens make it likely that they represent larvae of Erebidae (e.g., tussock moths and others). So far, most known caterpillars preserved in resins are either “naked” or bear protective cases; only few are armoured with spines or hairs. In particular, long-haired caterpillars such as the ones reported here are so far almost absent. Only one specimen with comparable setae has been reported from 15-million-year-old Dominican amber, but no significant details of this specimen are accessible. We briefly also review the record of caterpillars known from the Holocene, recognising that it is very sparse. The new specimens demonstrate that very hairy caterpillars can readily be preserved in resins in fine detail. Furthermore, the specimens increase the known size range of caterpillars preserved in resins, with one measuring more than 12 mm.
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(This article belongs to the Section Insect Systematics, Phylogeny and Evolution)
Open AccessArticle
Sulfuryl Fluoride Fumigation as a Quarantine Treatment for the Control of Reticulitermes speratus Kolbe (Blattodea: Rhinotermitidae) in Wood
by
So-Yeon Kim, Na-Ra Choi and Min-Goo Park
Insects 2024, 15(6), 379; https://doi.org/10.3390/insects15060379 - 22 May 2024
Abstract
High-risk termites in wood imported to the Republic of Korea are currently treated with methyl bromide (MB), which has ozone-depleting properties and is highly toxic. This study evaluated the effectiveness of sulfuryl fluoride (SF) as a quarantine treatment against Reticulitermes speratus Kolbe (Blattodea:
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High-risk termites in wood imported to the Republic of Korea are currently treated with methyl bromide (MB), which has ozone-depleting properties and is highly toxic. This study evaluated the effectiveness of sulfuryl fluoride (SF) as a quarantine treatment against Reticulitermes speratus Kolbe (Blattodea: Rhinotermitidae) in wood, along with its wood sorption and penetration capacity. The LCt50 and LCt99 values for SF were 30.87 and 42.53 mg h/L at 23 °C and 151.62 and 401.9 mg h/L at 5 °C, respectively. The SF Ct values did not significantly differ between dry and wet wood at loading ratios of 10%, 30%, and 50% at both 5 °C and 23 °C (p > 0.05). In a closed wooden cube, the LCt50 and LCt99 for SF for R. speratus were 31.59 and 53.34 mg h/L, respectively, indicating an excellent wood penetration ability. SF caused 100% termite mortality with a 90% loading ratio in the scale-up trials (500 L). The SF concentration during ventilation decreased below the threshold limit value (TLV) of 5 ppm within 30 min, confirming that the working conditions were safe. This study provides a basis for the use of SF as an alternative to MB for the treatment of termites in wood.
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(This article belongs to the Section Insect Pest and Vector Management)
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Seasonal Dynamics and Damage of Halyomorpha halys in Italian Vineyards
by
Davide Scaccini, Diego Fornasiero, Paola Tirello, Simone Vincenzi, Massimo Cecchetto, Ilirjan Allgjata, Carlo Duso and Alberto Pozzebon
Insects 2024, 15(6), 378; https://doi.org/10.3390/insects15060378 - 22 May 2024
Abstract
The brown marmorated stink bug, Halyomorpha halys (Stål) (Hemiptera: Pentatomidae), is an invasive polyphagous pest often observed in vineyards. In Europe, a gap needs to be filled in the knowledge on H. halys seasonal dynamics and damage on grapes. With this study, we
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The brown marmorated stink bug, Halyomorpha halys (Stål) (Hemiptera: Pentatomidae), is an invasive polyphagous pest often observed in vineyards. In Europe, a gap needs to be filled in the knowledge on H. halys seasonal dynamics and damage on grapes. With this study, we described the seasonal dynamics of H. halys and its distribution in multi-cultivar vineyards, and we evaluated the damage on grape clusters induced by different pest densities. In vineyards, the seasonal occurrence of H. halys varied across time and grape cultivars, and the pest was more abundant on Cabernet Franc, Merlot and, to a lesser extent, Pinot gris. Moreover, higher densities of H. halys were found on red berry cultivars than on white ones, and on cultivars ripening late in the season. An edge effect was also detected in pest distribution within vineyards, with more stink bugs observed in the borders. In the study on pest infestation density, H. halys caused damage on berries, showing differences in susceptibility among different cultivars and with regard to the time of infestation (i.e., plant phenological stages). Halyomorpha halys infestation induced an increase in Botrytis cinerea and sour rot incidence, which probably represents the main issue related to the impact of brown marmorated stink bug on grapevine.
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(This article belongs to the Section Insect Pest and Vector Management)
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Microbiota Analysis of Ejaculated Honey Bee Drone Semen and the Effect of Semen Collection Method on Bacterial Loads
by
Jesús Yániz, Marion Toquet, Pilar Santolaria, Miguel Angel Silvestre, Raquel Toledo-Perona and Ángel Gómez-Martín
Insects 2024, 15(6), 377; https://doi.org/10.3390/insects15060377 - 22 May 2024
Abstract
Artificial insemination in queen honey bees is the only tool that provides complete control over mating for research and breeding purposes, making it essential in genetic improvement and conservation programs in this species. The aims of this study were to characterize drone semen
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Artificial insemination in queen honey bees is the only tool that provides complete control over mating for research and breeding purposes, making it essential in genetic improvement and conservation programs in this species. The aims of this study were to characterize drone semen bacterial loads by culture-dependent and independent methods and to describe their variation depending on the method of semen collection, the colony and the apiary. In the first experiment, the bacterial loads of semen collected from the seminal vesicles or from ejaculates was studied using culture-dependent methods. The collection method had a significant influence on the overall bacterial count in semen. Out of the 42 semen samples analyzed, 26 (61.9%) tested positive for bacterial isolation. This encompassed the entirety of samples obtained from the seminal vesicles (21 of 21), whereas only 23.8% of those derived from ejaculates (5 out of 21) showed bacterial isolation. In the second experiment, next-generation sequencing techniques were used to describe the microbiome of ejaculated drone semen for the first time. The most abundant phyla were Proteobacteria, Firmicutes, Bacteroidota and Actinobacteriota, while the most abundant genera were Lactobacillus, Staphylococcus, Prevotella, Alloprevotella and Streptococcus. The results showed that the apiary had a significant effect on the community structure composition and abundance of the seminal microbiota, and significative differences in abundance were observed for the genera Sphingomonas, Methylobacterium-Methylorubrum, Bifidobacterium and Alloprevotella. Significant differences were also observed in the richness of the microbiota between apiaries and colonies.
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(This article belongs to the Section Insect Physiology, Reproduction and Development)
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High Rates of Honey Bee Colony Losses and Regional Variability in Ethiopia Based on the Standardised COLOSS 2023 Survey
by
Teweldemedhn Gebretinsae Hailu, Alem Tadesse Atsbeha, Kibebew Wakjira and Alison Gray
Insects 2024, 15(6), 376; https://doi.org/10.3390/insects15060376 - 22 May 2024
Abstract
The COLOSS research association has been assessing honey bee colony losses, associated risk factors and management, focusing on Western countries but with a progressive international expansion. Here, we report the first survey on the loss rates of colonies in 2022/2023 in Ethiopia using
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The COLOSS research association has been assessing honey bee colony losses, associated risk factors and management, focusing on Western countries but with a progressive international expansion. Here, we report the first survey on the loss rates of colonies in 2022/2023 in Ethiopia using COLOSS monitoring survey tools. A face-to-face interview questionnaire survey was conducted on 64 beekeepers selected from Oromia and Tigray regions. This covered 1713 honey bee colonies distributed in 68 apiaries. The percentages of colonies lost were significantly different between Oromia (24.1%) and Tigray (66.4%) regions. Colony losses were attributed as unsolvable queen problems (8% in Oromia; 10% in Tigray), natural disaster (32%; 82%), and empty hives or dead colonies (60%; 8%). The loss rate was significantly affected by queen replacement (p < 0.0001), use of natural comb (p < 0.0001), feed supplementation (p < 0.0001), region (p < 0.0001), varroa treatment (p < 0.0001), colony splitting (p < 0.01), and merging (p < 0.01). Beekeepers in Oromia managed more colonies and implemented improved practices compared to those in Tigray. However, all beekeepers in Oromia detected at least some bees with signs of deformed wing virus, compared to 76% of beekeepers in Tigray. In conclusion, the colony loss rate was significantly different between Oromia and Tigray regions due to differences in natural disasters, management, environment and health factors.
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(This article belongs to the Collection Impact of Environmental Factors and Management Practices on Bee Health)
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