The rice stalk stink bug, Tibraca limbativentris Stål (Hemiptera: Pentatomidae), is a major pest of rice crops throughout Latin America. We investigated the occurrence of diapause in T. limbativentris, as well as the role of West Indian foxtail, Andropogon bicornis L.(Poaceae), in its seasonal abundance and mortality. This plant grows spontaneously in grasslands from Mexico to Argentina, including at the edges of rice fields in southern Brazil. Tussocks of A. bicornis were collected in Eldorado do Sul, State of Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil throughout one yr and examined to sample rice stalk stink bugs. We collected in 2,355 T. limbativentris adults from 208 tussocks, totalling 2,205 live and 150 dead individuals. Live insects were dissected to determine the reproductive stage and to assess the presence of the fat body. We describe the occurrence of imaginai diapause and the use of A. bicornis as a shelter for this rice pest. Overwintering lasted 7 mo; arrival at the refuge occurred in early autumn (late Mar); the permanence period began in Jun, and extended to the end of Sep. From Oct the population decreased gradually until total departure from the tussocks in Jan. Thus, here we highlight the role of A. bicornis as an hibernation site for T. limbativentris in southern Brazil.

Caryocar brasiliense Camb. (Malpighiales: Caryocaraceae) trees have a wide distribution in the cerrado. This plant is protected by federal laws and is left in deforested areas of the cerrado. This situation increases the damage to leaves, flowers, and fruits from chewing insects. We studied the effect of habitat complexity and plant architecture on the diversity and abundance of the Lepidoptera, Coleoptera, and Hymenoptera herbivores and their predators on trees of C. brasiliense in cerrado, pasture, and on the Campus of the Federal University of Minas Gerais. We observed 13 rare, 2 common, and 1 constant species of herbivores insects; and 3 rare, 8 common, and 1 constant species of predators on trees. Higher diversities and number of species of herbivores insects and their predators were observed in pasture than in the cerrado and on the campus of the Federal University of Minas Gerais. Herbivorous insects were most abundant in pasture and least abundant on the university campus. Predators were most abundant in pasture and least abundant in the cerrado. Ants, spiders, and predatory bugs are important in the reduction of the defoliators and leaf miners insects. The percentages of defoliation and populations of defoliators and ants were higher on C. brasiliense trees with wider crowns. We found a positive correlation of soil aluminum concentration with percent defoliation and numbers of lepidopteran leaf miners. On the other hand, increased soil pH was correlated with reduction in percent defoliation and numbers of lepidopteran leaf miners.

Three new bee species, Andrena (Melandrena) nitidemula sp. nov., Andrena (Truncandrena) urfanella sp. nov. and Andrena (Poecilandrena) efeana sp. nov. from Turkey are described. Important diagnostic characters are illustrated.

Chinese Yamatentomon is revised and Yamatentomon guoi sp. nov. is described from northeastern China. The new species is characterized by the extremely long sensillum b on foretarsus, short and slender A1 setae on tergites I–VII, presence of P3a on tergites IV–VII, 5 pairs of A-setae on tergite VII, and pore arrangement on tergites IV–VI. The new species is similar to Y. kunnepchupi Imadaté, 1964, but can be distinguished by the length of sensilla b and e on foretarsus, and chaetotaxy of tergites IV and V. DNA barcodes for the new species are provided to give a reference for identification in the future. In addition, Yamatentomon yamato (Imadaté & Yosii, 1956) was redescribed based on the specimens from type locality. An updated key to the world species of the genus was also provided.

An infestation of Homoeocerus variabilis Dallas (Hemiptera: Coreidae) on khejri, Prosopis cineraria, was first noticed in 2010 at the Experimental Farm of Central Institute for Arid Horticulture and other fields of Bikaner district, Rajasthan, India. The maximum incidence was observed in December (66.7%) and minimum in June (16.7%). The number of this bug ranged between 27.3 and 222.9 adults per plant. This species is characterized by an ochraceous body with a broad red basal fascia on the pronotum between the humeral angles, small pale scutellum, antennae 4-segmented, the basal part of second and third segment is pale yellow, third segment flattened at the tip and fourth segment is the shortest. The mean body lengths of the male and female adult vary and were recorded as 12.2 mm and 15.5 mm, respectively.

The knockdown and toxic effects of insecticides of different chemical groups and modes of action registered for citrus in Brazil were investigated for effective control of Bucephalogonia xanthophis, a sharpshooter vector of Xylella fastidiosa in citrus. The active ingredients dimethoate (1.2 mL/1.2L), imidacloprid (0.24 mL/1.2L) and lambda-cyhalothrin (0.24 mL/1.2L), as well as a control (water), were sprayed onto branches of potted citrus nursery trees to evaluate the effect of residual contact. The insects were confined on sprayed branches by using sleeve cages, in groups of 10 per branch (5 branches/treatment). Lambdacyhalothrin showed a knockdown effect on B. xanthophis (>70% mortality within 2 h of exposure), and the residues were effective for approximately one wk. Imidacloprid, lambdacyhalothrin and dimethoate suppressed the vector populations for up to 3 wk after application, when the insects were exposed to sprayed plants for at least 24 h. In another experiment, 2 neonicotinoid insecticides (thiamethoxam and imidacloprid) were applied by soil drench to potted nursery trees, in order to study their systemic effect, i.e., mortality by ingestion on sharpshooter adults. Thiamethoxam and imidacloprid effectively controlled the vectors at all concentrations tested, when the insects were exposed to treated plants for 24 h (>80% mortality) or 48 h (near 100% mortality). The knockdown effect of thiamethoxam and lambda-cyhalothrin might be particularly important to prevent vector transmission of X. fastidiosa in citrus groves.

Caryocar brasiliense Camb. (Malpighiales: Caryocaraceae) trees have a wide distribution in the cerrado. This plant is protected by federal laws and is untouched in deforested areas of the cerrado. Under these circumstances, the damage to leaves, flowers, and fruits from sucking hemipterans has increased. We studied populations of sucking insects and their predators on C. brasiliense trees in the cerrado during each season for 3 successive years. The numbers of sucking insect individuals on C. brasiliense trees were similar among the seasons of the year. However, the highest number of species and greatest diversity occurred in winter. Predators were most abundant in spring and winter, with highest diversity and number of species in winter. We observed 7 rare, 2 common, and 1 constant species of sucking insects; and 4 rare, 8 common, and 1 constant species of predators on C. brasiliense trees. The greatest numbers of various sucking insect species were observed by seasons as follows: Aconophora sp. (Membracidae) on fruits and Frequenamia sp. (Cicadellidae) on leaves in the winter; Aphis gossypii (Glover) (Aphididae) and Mahanarva sp. (Cercopidae) in the spring; and Dikrella sp. (Hemiptera: Cicadellidae) on the leaves in the summer and autumn. For predators, Crematogaster sp. (Hymenoptera: Formicidae) had the lowest abundance on the leaves in the summer, and highest abundance in the flowers in the winter and spring, while in spring it was most abundant on the fruits, and in the autumn Trybonia sp. (Thysanoptera: Phlaeothripidae) on the leaves was the most abundant. Higher number of ants Crematogaster sp. was observed in Caryocar brasiliense trees that presented large numbers of Dikrella sp.. Higher numbers of predators Trybonia sp., Chrysoperla sp. (Neuroptera: Chrysopidae), and total of predator thrips were associated with decreasing numbers of Dikrella sp., A. gossypii, and total of sucking insects respectively. The increase in the numbers of individuals and species of predators were correlated with the reduction of these same ecological parameters of the sucking insects. We argue that this differential temporal distribution of sucking insects and their predators was influenced for phenology of plant and weather.

A new species of Gelechiidae, Sinoe capsana sp. nov., is reported from southern Florida, USA. All specimens were recently caught in pheromone traps near tomato fields during an early detection survey for the tomato leafminer, Tuta absoluta (Meyrick), a pest native to South America that does not occur in North America. Sinoe capsana sp. nov. is described and imagos and male genitalia are illustrated.

A new species of leafhopper, Arboridia sinensis sp. nov., belonging to the subgenus Arboridia Zachvatkin, 1946 s. str. and closely related to Arboridia (Arboridia) gaurii Thapa, 1989, A. cerna Dworakowska, 1977, and A. soror Dworakowska, 1977, is described from Yunnan, China. It differs from A. gaurii in the body coloration and aedeagus shape, and from A. cerna and A. soror also in the shape of its pygofer process. In Yunnan, China the new species lives on Zanthoxylum bungeanum Maximowicz (Rutaceae).

Plum curculio, Conotrachelus nenuphar Herbst (Coleoptera: Curculionidae), is a key pest of peaches in the southeastern United States. Part of its life cycle, specifically, the pre-pupal, pupal and pre-adult stages are spent in the soil. Experiments were conducted in 2 peach orchards to evaluate the effects of some common orchard weed management practices on the development of the soil dwelling life stages of plum curculio. Four common orchard weed management practices (treatments) were evaluated in plots (3 m × 3 m) located under peach tree canopies: centipede grass, Eremochloa ophiuroides (Munro) understory (soil covered with centipede grass); weed free understory (bare soil, weeds removed with herbicide sprays); weedy (natural weeds) understory; and pine bark understory (soil covered with pine bark). Fewer numbers of adult plum curculio emerged from the centipede grass understory plots compared with weed free, weedy or pine bark treated understories. Similar results were obtained in the greenhouse: fewer adults emerged from centipede grass than bare soil in spring 2009. Possible reasons for the lower emergence of plum curculio in centipede grass plots are proposed.

The immatures of Polybia paulista Ihering were described using light and scanning electron microscopy and the results are compared with previous descriptions within the same or related wasps. This study is based on 2 whole nests collected in the municipality of Rio Claro, Sao Paulo, in Brazil. We have detected the existence of 5 larval instars. The main morphological alterations over development occur in the relative size of structures, yet certain structures appear with subsequent instars and become more evident later in development: increasing density in the number of body spines and papillae; the appearance of body setae in fifth-instar larvae; opening of spiracles upon second-instar larvae; 2 body shapes in fifth-instar larvae; the appearance of a lateral tooth on the mandibles of fourth instar; presence of spines on the maxillae of fifth-instar larvae; altered shape of galea and palps upon third-instar larvae from a cluster of sensilla to a conical elevation; and the appearance of spines on postmentum upon fourth-instar larvae. This way, the present study presents a detailed description of the immatures of P. paulista, and we hope the presented information can be useful to morphological, taxonomic, and phylogenetic studies.

Neosilba perezi (Romero & Ruppel) is known as the cassava shoot fly or shoot fly, because, unlike other species of its genus, its larvae feed exclusively on shoots of cassava (Manihot esculenta Crantz). These larvae kill the affected cassava shoots. Natural parasitism by a braconid, Phaenocarpa neosilba Arouca & Penteado-Dias, 2006, on shoot fly larvae was studied at 3 locations in the southwestern region of the state of São Paulo, Brazil. Larvae-infested shoots of cassava were collected at 3 distinct locations where cassava crops were grown. The shoots were kept in plastic boxes for pupation and emergence of adult flies and the parasitoid. The percentage of parasitism was separately correlated with temperature, rainfall, and age of the cassava plants. The average percent parasitism was 24.36%. A negative correlation between temperature and percent parasitism was observed at 1 location. At all 3 study areas percent parasitism of N. perezi showed a negative correlation with plant age. Therefore, given the high percent parasitism observed at the 3 locations, natural biological control may be an important factor in the population dynamics of N. perezi.

The behavior of most destructive pest of cabbage, Pieris brassicae and that of its potential parasitoid, Hyposoter ebeninus, were studied under the influence of 4 common Brassica host plantspecies, cabbage, broccoli, cauliflower and knol-kohl. These host plant species were found to have considerable influence on egg distribution and leaf surface preference for oviposition and pupation. The number of egg masses was highest on knol-khol; however, the number of eggs per mass was highest on cabbage. Similarly, larval incidence was also highest on cabbage throughout the season, indicating that cabbage is the most preferred host. Natural parasitism on P. brassicae larvae by Hyposoter ebeninus was higher on knol-khol and cabbage. The weight of the third instar parasitized caterpillars was the highest on cabbage, suggesting that cabbage is the most favorable of these 4 hosts of P. brassicae for mass rearing of H. ebeninus. The development time of H. ebeninus was also shortest for cabbagereared larvae. Also the cocoon weight of the parasitoid was significantly higher when its host larvae were reared on cabbage. Overall from this study it can be concluded that, of the host plants evaluated, cabbage was preferred for oviposition by P. brassicae and its parasitoid. In addition, cabbage was found to be the best host plant for producing excellent quality H. ebeninus parasitoids.

At regional scales, leafcutter ant nest distribution is regulated by environmental factors such as vegetation, predators, soil and climate. This study investigated the effect of micro-climate on Atta sexdens (L.) nest distribution. It was carried out on a farm located on the Colombian Amazon River shore, where an extension of secondary forest was felled. Prior to felling, we located 20 A. sexdens nests and monitored them over the course of one year. Ten of the nests became exposed to the sun as a result of tree felling, and ten nests, located in neighboring unlogged forest, remained unaffected. Within six weeks, five of the exposed nests had moved to the cover of nearby vegetation patches and the remaining five nests had died. The ten unexposed nests remained active at the same location. In comparison with relocated nests, exposed nests experienced significantly higher air and soil temp, and lower soil moisture. The results of this study suggest that changes in micro-climate may trigger nest relocation and therefore play an important role in local A. sexdens nest distribution.

Ornamental flowers, shrubs and trees are economically important commodities in the US and around the globe. In this study we evaluated the potential of entomopathogenic nematodes to control two important ornamental pests: 1) Corythucha ciliata (Say) (Hemiptera: Tingidae), a native lace bug that attacks the foliage of sycamore trees, and 2) the recently described exotic pest, Stethobaris nemesis (Coleoptera: Curculionidae), a weevil that attacks amaryllis leaves and bulbs. In the laboratory, the virulence of six entomopathogenic nematode strains (comprising five species) was evaluated on sycamore leaf discs for potential to control C. ciliata, and four nematode species were evaluated for control of S. nemesis. Heterorhabditis indica (HOM1) exhibited higher virulence to C. ciliata than H. bacteriophora (Baine and Oswego strains), H. georgiana (Kesha), and Steinernema riobrave (355); S. carpocapsae (All) virulence was not statistically separated from the other nematodes with the exception of H. bacteriophora (Oswego) (which exhibited the lowest virulence). Additionally, among the six nematodes tested, H. indica (HOM1) produced the highest level of infective juveniles in C. ciliata. Steinernema carpocapsae (All) exhibited the highest virulence to control S. nemesis (in well-plates containing soil), yet both S. carpocapsae (All) and S. feltiae (SN) exhibited high virulence after only 1d post-treatment. The other nematodes tested for S. nemesis suppression, H. bacteriophora (Hb) and H. indica (HOM1), also showed high levels of virulence particularly at 3 d post-treatment. Our results indicate that several entomopathogenic nematodes offer potential for control of C. ciliata and S. nemesis and thus additional research, e.g., field studies, is warranted.

Newly molted last (5th) instar of the desert locust, Schistocerca gregaria (Forsk.), was treated through fresh plant food with 2 concentrations: high (1000.0 ppm) or low (62.5 ppm) of 3 IGRs: pyriproxyfen, tebufenozide, and lufenuron. Carbohydrate content was determined in the hemolymph and in the fat body of the early-aged, mid-aged, and late-aged 5th instar, as well as of 1- and 4-d old adult females. Pyriproxyfen prevented the nymphs to gain normal carbohydrate content in the hemolymph. In contrast, tebufenozide induced the nymphs to gain more carbohydrates. Lufenuron caused hemolymph carbohydrate content to decrease slightly in the early-aged nymphs but increased it in older nymphs. All three IGRs significantly affected the hemolymph carbohydrate content of nymphs of all ages. Pyriproxyfen drastically reduced the carbohydrate content of the hemolymph of 1-day old adults, but at the low concentration caused it to increase in the 4-day old adults. Tebufenozide induced adults to attain excess carbohydrates in the hemolymph at the low concentration level only. Lufenuron at both concentrations promoted increases of this metabolite in adults regardless of their age. Pyriproxyfen treatments of nymphs resulted in reduced carbohydrate content in the fat body of 1-d old adults, whereas tebufenozide and lufenuron at both concentrations induced increases in the carbohydrate content in fat bodies of 1- and 4-day old adults. The data from this study suggest that pyriproxyfen, tebufenozide and lufenuron alter the metabolism and storage of carbohydrate in nymphs and adults of the desert locust S. gregaria. Because carbohydrate is for all biological processes in nymphs and adults, these IGRs have considerable promise for use in the control of this destructive pest.

Cyrtoxipha gundlachi and Orocharis gryllodes are two common, well-studied Florida crickets whose scientific names are in doubt. We determine that C. gundlachi Saussure (1874) may retain its name and designate a neotype to stabilize that interpretation. We find that Cyrtoxipha orientalis Desutter-Grandcolas (2003) is a valid species rather than a junior synonym of Cyrtoxipha gundlachi sensu Otte & Perez-Gelabert (2009) and that the Jamaican species C. clarki Otte & Perez-Gelabert (2009) is a close relative of C. gundlachi. Finally, we determine that the Florida species formerly known as O. gryllodes (Pallas 1772) is now Antillicharis oriobates Otte & Perez-Gelabert (2009).

The invasive cactus borer Cactoblastis cactorum (Berg) (Lepidoptera: Pyralidae) now cooccurs with a species of borer native to North America, Melitara prodenialis Walker (Lepidoptera: Pyralidae), in the southeastern United States. Because C. cactorum damages native species of pricklypear (Opuntia) often through population outbreaks, it is necessary to distinguish this species from the native cactus borer that has reduced impact on pricklypear populations. Cactoblastis cactorum and M. prodenialis eggs are laid one on top of another to form eggsticks that resemble cactus spines. Both moth species utilize the same host plant species in the Opuntia genus, and during larval life stages it is easy to distinguish the two species. Determining species identification based on eggs alone, however, has been difficult. Yet, it is impractical to wait for eggs to hatch and larvae to develop to determine species identification for research or monitoring purposes. Several objective, quantitative differences were found between the two species that can be used in laboratory identification to train research assistants or invasive management personnel for the field. Based on the data, we provide a dichotomous key to distinguish the eggsticks of these two species.

Rachiplusia nu (Guenée) and Chrysodeixis (= Pseudoplusia) includens (Walker) (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae) are 2 economically important species in soybean in northern Argentina. Life cycle, reproductive and population parameters of R. nu and C. includens reared on artificial diet were determined under controlled environmental conditions. Fecundity increased from d 2 to 3 with values of 67.6 eggs per female for R. nu and 75.7 eggs for C. includens. An average of 79.9% (R. nu) and 74.4% (C. includens) of individuals reached the larval stage and 71.1% (R. nu) and 71.4% (C. includens) of individuals reached the adult stage. The life expectancy (ex) curve showed 4 and 3 periods of mortality. The survivorship curves of the 2 species resembled the theoretical type I. Life table analysis determined that R. nu and C. includens have the potential to quickly increase their populations under controlled rearing conditions. These results provide important information that will be used to improve artificial rearing procedures contributing with biological studies towards to develop management programs of both species.

Sulfur is an essential element in plants and animals. I measured amounts of sulfur in 4 families of spiders and 22 families of insects collected from created riparian habitat next to the Colorado River in western Arizona. Relation between sulfur mass and body dry-mass, S µg = 7.2 (body mg), in spiders and insects combined was not allometric. Sulfur concentration, as a mean percentage of body dry-mass, was higher in spiders (1.4%) than in insects (0.65%). Coleoptera contained the lowest sulfur concentration (0.35%) among orders. Sulfur contents also varied among arthropod families but not genera. Similar concentrations of sulfur were measured in insect herbivores (0.64%) and predators (0.73%). Taurine, an amino acid-like compound found in spider venom and silk, likely increased sulfur contents in spiders. Variation in sulfur content among riparian spiders and insects, resulting from concentrations of compounds including taurine, the amino acids methionine and cysteine, and their metabolites, may influence foraging by insectivorous birds.

To evaluate the damage and epidemiologic features of immediate allergic reactions to Solenopsis invicta stings in mainland China, a literature survey, and an internet search were done to obtain data; which were statistically analyzed. This pest became established in mainland China in 2004. We found that the most important reason for the high frequency of stings of people by the red imported fire ant is the pest's wide and rapidly expanding distribution in 4 provinces of southern mainland China. More than 1/3 of people in ant-infested areas have suffered stings, and people of both sex and of all age groups are highly likely to be stung. All people who have been stung experience itchiness, and almost all experience flare and wheal, while nearly 10% experience fever, some experience dizziness, generalized urticaria or other systemic reactions including anaphylactic shock, which can cause death. Scratching of the itchy areas predisposes the sufferers to secondary infections. The data demonstrate that the allergic reactions to red imported fire ant stings are a serious public health problem, which should be addressed by government and the public.

Costus spicatus (Jacq.) Sw. and Costus spiralis (Jacq.) Roscoe var. spiralis (Costaceae) are economically important plants due to their pharmacological and medicinal properties and ornamental value. These plants are natives from the Brazilian Atlantic Rainforest and are fed upon by Agaraea minuta Schaus, 1892 (Lepidoptera: Arctiidae). This study describes the damage done by A. minuta on C. spicatus and C. spiralis and the biological and ecological aspects of parasitism of A. minuta by Diolcogaster sp. (Hymenoptera: Braconidae). Twenty stems of C. spicatus and C. spiralis with 100 last-instar caterpillars of A. minuta, were collected per plant in each of 2 years. The stem heights (F, P > 0.05), leaf lengths (F, P > 0.05), leaf widths (F, P > 0.05) and the number of leaves per stem (F, P > 0.05) of both plant species; number of pupae obtained from caterpillars of A. minuta (F, P > 0.05), adult emergence of this defoliator (F, P > 0.05) and of Diolcogaster sp. (F, P > 0.05) were similar during the 2 study periods. Agaraea minuta fed on C. spicatus and C. spiralis, and Diolcogaster sp. was shown to be a parasitoid suppressor of populations of this defoliator.

Tambinia bambusana sp. nov. (Hemiptera: Fulgoromorpha: Tropiduchidae: Tambiniini), a new species feeding on Dendrocalamus latiflorus Munro (Poaceae: Bambusoideae), is described and illustrated from Guizhou and Guangxi, China. This represents the first record of the members of genus Tambinia Stål feeding on bamboo. A key to all 25 species of Tambinia is given.

Igerna Kirkaldy is reported for the first time from China. The new species I. tenuicaula Li, Dai & Li sp. nov. is described and illustrated from Yunnan province of southern China.

The red palm weevil (RPW), Rhynchophorus ferrugineus (Olivier), recently found in Curaçao and Aruba, has become an economically significant palm tree pest in many tropical and subtropical regions. By the time a palm infested with RPW displays visible damage, larvae have destroyed much of the trunk internal structure, typically resulting in tree mortality. Acoustic technology may enable pest managers to detect and treat early RPW infestations before tree mortality, and to reduce unwanted importation and/or exportation of infested palms. Experiments were conducted in Aruba to determine the detectability of sounds produced by early instars in open, urban environments and in enclosures with ca. 10 dB acoustical shielding. To distinguish RPW signals from background noise, recordings first were analyzed to identify larval sound impulse bursts, trains of 7–199 impulses, 3–30-ms in duration, where impulses within the train were separated by less than 0.25 s. For a burst to be considered a larval sound, it was specified that a majority of its impulses must have spectra that match mean spectra (profiles) of known larval sound impulses more closely than profiles of background noise or known nontargeted sound sources. Based on these analyses, RPW larval bursts were detected in > 80% of palm fronds inoculated with neonates the previous day. There were no significant differences between burst rates in enclosed and open environments, but the shielding provided by the enclosure enabled detection of early instars from greater distances. Thus, there is potential to use acoustic technology to detect early RPW infestation in either minimally shielded or open environments. In addition, because late-instar impulses ranged to higher amplitude and had greater diversity of spectral features than with early instars, it may be possible to identify late-instar infestations based on the amplitudes and the diversity of sound features detected.

The objective of the present study was to assess the effect of different times of exposure to the host on parasitoid emergence rate, parasitoid progeny sex ratio, and on host mortality, as a step toward the development of an efficient mass-rearing system for the braconid Diachasmimorpha longicaudata (Ashmead) on larvae of the VIENNA 8 Temperature Sensitive Lethal Ceratitis capitata (Wiedemann) strain. The role of host-rearing substrate cues in stimulating the host-searching behavior of parasitoid females was also evaluated. Three exposure times (40, 60, and 120 min) were tested. One hundred 7 d-old host larvae were exposed to 25 female parasitoids per treatment. Larvae mixed with wheat-based rearing medium and larvae without medium were used in each test. A second set of treatments with the same method described above was conducted using late third-instars of the C. capitata wild-type strain. These experiments were carried out to assess the quality of the larvae of VIENNA 8 strain in producing D. longicaudata adults by comparing them with the larvae of the wild-type strain. Results indicated that the use of larvae of VIENNA 8 strain on their rearing diet at 40 min exposure time significantly increased overall parasitoid offspring production and decreased the host mortality level. Nevertheless, parasitoid emergence recorded from VIENNA 8 strain was notably lower than that recorded from the wild-type strain. Low parasitoid emergence levels and the prevalence of male-biased progeny recorded in all assays are obstacles to development of a parasitoid mass-rearing system using larvae of VIENNA 8 strain as host. Additional studies focusing on host exposure to parasitoids are needed to verify the effect of host larval quality on the production of D. longicaudata.

Social wasp colonies can be transferred to agroecosystems in order to control pest populations. Some failures of such transfers are common because wasps may abandon the nest immediately after the colony's transfer. Knowing the nesting habits of wasps in agroecosystems could improve the success of colony transfer during wasp management. Thus, we recorded social wasp nests in a eucalyptus plantation in Minas Gerais State, Brazil. In monthly samplings in a eucalyptus plantation throughout the year, colonies of social wasps were recorded, including Apoica pallens (Fabricius, 1804), Mischocyttarus drewseni (Saussure, 1857), Polistes simillimus (Zikán, 1951), Polybia ignobilis (Haliday, 1836), Polybia occidentalis (Olivier, 1791), Polybia platycephala (Richards, 1951), Polybia sericea (Olivier, 1791) and Protopolybia exigua (Saussure 1854) (Hymenoptera: Vespidae). Each wasp species was found in nests attached to a eucalyptus tree, 0–3 m high above the ground, or on the grass or directly on the ground. This information could be used to improve wasp management to agroecosystems.

Xyleborus glabratus (Coleoptera: Curculionidae: Scolytinae) is a non-native pest that transmits the causal pathogen of laurel wilt disease to plants belonging to the Lauraceae. To improve the current monitoring and survey techniques of X. glabratus, various trapping and flight behavior studies were conducted in natural areas with host species in Alachua County, Florida. Daylight flight rhythm studied at Austin Cary Memorial Forest twice in Sep 2010 using sticky traps baited with manuka lures showed that X. glabratus flies mostly between 1600 and 1800 h daylight saving time. Flight height of the beetle was determined in a trapping study using ladder-like traps. The largest number of beetles was trapped at heights of 35–100 cm above the ground. Seasonality of X. glabratus was studied in Florida from Mar 2010–Dec 2011. Three peaks of trap catches occurred during Apr 2010, Oct 2010 and Mar 2011. To find the optimal Lindgren funnel trap design for X. glabratus, a study was conducted using 4, 8, 12 and 16 funnels per trap. Funnel traps with 8, 12, 16 funnels per trap captured similar numbers of X. glabratus, but significantly more than with 4 funnels per trap. The effect of aging of manuka lures was studied at 2 different sites in Alachua County, Florida. New manuka lures trapped significantly more X. glabratus than lures aged 2, 4 and 6 wk. Trap color, whether black, white, blue, yellow, red or transparent, had no significant influence on the number of X. glabratus trapped.

The objective of this study was to elucidate population fluctuations of spider and ant species in forest fragments and adjacent soybean and corn crops under no-tillage and conventional tillage systems, and their correlations with meteorological factors. From Nov 2004 to Apr 2007 sampling of these arthropods at Guaíra, Sao Paulo state was done biweekly during the cropping season and monthly during the periods between crops. To obtain samples at each experimental site, pitfall traps were distributed in 2 transects of 200 m of which 100 m was in the crop, and 100 m was in the forest fragment. Temperature and rainfall were found to have major impacts on fluctuations in population densities of ants of the genus, Pheidole, in soybean and corn crops both grown with conventional tillage and no tillage systems.

Ataenius suineata sp. nov. is described based on 3 specimens from Acahuizotla, Guerrero, Mexico. Distinctive characteristics for this species are illustrated. A revised partial key to the Mexican species of “Ataenius aequalis-platensis” group is provided. This species may be considered endemic to Mexico.

Encarsia formosa Gahan (Hymenoptera: Aphelinidae) is an aphelinid endoparasitoid of the greenhouse whitefly, Trialeurodes vaporariorum (Westwood) (Hemiptera: Aleyrodidae). Encarsia lycopersici (De Santis) is a parasitoid of the same host, but it is not known if both parasitoids occupy the same niche. In this study, the duration of development of the parasitoids, and the ability of both species to parasitize the 4 preimaginal instars of T. vaporariorum were determined. Results indicate that both E. formosa and E. lycopersici can parasitize all preimaginal instars of T. vaporariorum, and thus effectively occupy the same parasitoid niches, and they are part of the same parasitoid guild. However, variations in parasitism of the different preimaginal instars were observed. Encarsia lycopersici showed a higher parasitism rate on the first instar than on the third and fourth instars of T. vaporariorum. In contrast to E. formosa, which exhibited a lower parasitism rate on the first instar than on the fourth instar. In addition, E. lycopersici showed higher parasitism rate than E. formosa on the first instar of this host. This suggests that E. lycopersici may have a competitive advantage in exploiting the host, as it is the first to occupy it.

Opiine braconid parasitoids of tephritid pests have augmentative biological control potential, but there are no synthetic attractants to monitor their survival and dispersal following release. Adults feed on fruit juices and these could be sources of attractive compounds. While orange juice (Citrus sinensis L.) is nutritious, guava juice (Psidium guajava L.) is toxic. The behavioral responses to the two juices and the juices' volatiles were examined in two species ancestrally sympatric with guava (Doryctobracon areolatus [Szepligeti] and Utetes anastrephae [Viereck]) and a species exotic to guava's neotropical region of origin (Diachasmimorpha longicaudata [Ashmead]). It was predicted that males of the sympatric species, with an evolutionary opportunity to recognize and avoid guava, would neither feed on nor respond to guava volatiles. Females of the sympatric species were predicted to avoid feeding upon guava while responding to volatiles in the context of searching for oviposition sites. Males and females of the exotic species were predicted to feed upon and respond to both guava and orange. Orange was universally fed upon and its volatiles were found to be attractive. None of the males, including the exotic species', occupied guava feeding-stations in no-choice situations, but male U. anastrephae responded to guava volatiles. Against expectations, female D. areolatus occupied guava feeding stations. In general, responses to orange were stronger and more universal than those to guava. The preference differences the various species showed between guava and orange are a step forward in identifying the chemical basis of fruit-attractiveness. They provide 1) further evidence that not all uninfested fruit are equally attractive and 2) a relatively attractive and easily obtainable standard, orange, with which to compare the attractiveness of other fruit in the future.

Seven low risk pesticides including 1.2% azadirachtin (Azadirachta indica), extracts from Morinda citrifolia, petroleum oil 97%, Beauveria bassiana strain GHA, mixed essential oils (rosemary oil: 0.25%, peppermint oil: 0.25%, thyme oil: 0.25%, clove oil: 0.25% and other ingredients: 99.00%), spinosad and malathion, were evaluated against adults of the sweetpotato weevil, Cylas formicarius (Fabricius) (Coleoptera: Brentidae) to determine potential insecticidal, repellent and feeding deterrence effects. Among the pesticides tested, A. indica and spinosad showed high insecticidal, repellent and feeding deterrence activity against C. formicarius. Spinosad, A. indica and malathion showed significantly higher insecticidal activity against C. formicarius. Similarly, these pesticides showed high repellency activity against adults, particularly 3–4 h after the treatment. The lowest food consumption was observed with the A. indica (0.8 g/adult/192 h), and the highest (9.9 g/adult/192 h) was with the petroleum oil spray. The other tested pesticides showed comparable activities. The chemicals we tested—particularly neem and spinosad—are therefore promising candidates as ecofriendly chemicals that could potentially replace broad-spectrum synthetic neurotoxins for control of C. formicarius.

Associational susceptibility has been predicted to arise when a target plant's neighbor is more palatable to an herbivore than the target plant itself, resulting in attraction and spill-over of the herbivore onto the target plant. This prediction was tested on two hosts of the invasive pyralid moth Cactoblastis cactorum Berg. A combination of observational surveys and experimental plantings were used to test for differences in herbivore damage and plant size on isolated Opuntia humifusa (Raf.) Raf. plants, O. humifusa paired with O. stricta (Haw.) Haw., and O. humifusa in conspecific pairs. Based on general patterns of associational effects and specific C. cactorum behavior, it was predicted that O. humifusa would have higher levels of C. cactorum damage when growing near O. stricta, as compared with isolated plants or those growing near conspecifics. However, little support for associational resistance or susceptibility was found. Surveys revealed that isolated O. humifusa plants had on average more cladodes than isolated O. stricta plants or paired plants. Additionally, O. humifusa paired with O. stricta had more C. cactorum larvae and old damage than pairs of O. humifusa, but did not have more than isolated O. humifusa plants. Plants from the site used for the experimental plantings had little to no C. cactorum damage, regardless of plant neighbors, and revealed no associational effects for native herbivores. The occurrence of associational susceptibility driven by a spillover mechanism may require a higher herbivore density and a sparser distribution of the herbivore's preferred host than was present at the sites use here.

TWO new species, Hilara metinaktasi Çiftçi, Hasbenli and Özgül sp. nov. and Hilara barlasi Çiftçi, Hasbenli and Özgül sp. nov., of the Hilara maura-species group are described from Turkey. Both sexes of the new species are described, genitalia and forelegs are illustrated. The relationships between the new species and related species are compared, and the systematic positions of the new species within the complexes of the H. maura-group are discussed. An updated key to species of Hilara of Turkey is given.

Numerous cases of associations of encyrtid wasps with ants have already been reported. In the majority of these cases, however, wasps are associated only indirectly with ants (interference associations) through primary parasitism of the trophobionts (Coccoidea), which are exploited and protected by ants. Suspected direct parasitism cases are unusual and no direct attack of encyrtids on ants has ever been demonstrated. Here we provide both a revised list of all known cases of associations between encyrtid wasps and ants, and a report of the first record of a true primary encyrtid parasitoid of ants. Of two colonies of the arboreal ponerine ant, Pachycondyla goeldii (Forel), examined from French Guiana, one had 3 pupae parasitized by males and females of a gregarious, minute encyrtid wasp species, identified as Blanchardiscus pollux Noyes, and 2 other cocoons presented evidence of pararasitism. This first host record for the genus Blanchardiscus, which has always been placed near other genera that parasitize scale-insects, supports a hypothesis of a shift from a myrmecophilous host to an ant host. Our findings increase to 9 the number of parasitoid wasp families known to attack ants as primary hosts. A closer examination of other arboreal ants, particularly those involved in ant-garden building and nest weaving, will certainly yield new ant-parasitoid associations.

Natural products are usually used as a food source for the culture of terrestrial molluscs. Better uniformity, and perhaps economy, could be introduced to the culture of molluscs by using synthetic diets. I assessed acceptance by various terrestrial molluscs of several insect diets developed for culture of caterpillars, and suitability for mollusc growth. Diet selection (preference) studies were conducted with 2 species of snails (Cuban brown snail, Zachrysia provisoria; Asian tramp snail, Bradybaena similaris) and 4 species of slugs (meadow slug, Deroceras laeve; grey fieldslug, Deroceras reticulatum; dusky arion, Arion subfuscus; Carolina mantleslug, Philomycus carolinianus). The molluscs differed in their preference for insect diets, though tobacco hornworm diet and a bean-based diet often used for cutworms usually were not preferred, whereas gypsy moth, diamondback moth, and spruce budworm diets tended to be more preferred. Short-term (7-wk) developmental (weight gain) studies were conducted using Z. provisoria, A. subfuscus, P. carolinianus and Florida leatherleaf, Leidyula floridana. These same diets demonstrated great differences in suitability for mollusc growth, and although one or more diets were suitable for most species, L. floridana performed poorly. Relative preference displayed by the molluscs for insect diets generally corresponded to performance on those diets. Long-term developmental studies were conducted for growth of Z. provisoria on gypsy moth, spruce budworm, and diamondback moth diets, and compared to development on a natural diet, Romaine lettuce. Snail weight gain followed a typical logistic growth curve over the course of the developmental period. Survival of Z. provisoria was high on all diets, and eggs were produced by snails developing on all diets. Zachrysia provisoria fed diamondback moth diet produced significantly heavier snails than those fed gypsy moth and spruce budworm diets, and weights equivalent to snails fed lettuce. This study demonstrates that some synthetic insect diets are suitable for growth of some terrestrial molluscs, but that preference and suitability vary among species.

About 55 species of Trialeurodes have been described with only a few viruliferous species like T. vaporariorum and T. abutilonea, which are able to transmit Criniviruses (Clostero-viridae) and T. ricini, which is able to transmit Begomovirus spp. (Geminiviridae). Quick and accurate identification of whitefly vectors in the early life stages is important from the point of view of understanding the epidemiology of crinivirus associated plant diseases, and in their management and quarantine. Morphological identification is further strengthened by DNA barcoding. In this regard, we examined genetic differences in mitochondrial cytochrome oxidase-I (COI) gene and the internal transcribe spacers (ITS) sequences of ribosomal DNA among various populations of T. vaporariorum collected from different geographic locations in the state of Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, and Andhra Pradesh in India. Our studies are the first to analyze the genetic variation of T. vaporariorum populations in India, which showed no appreciable differences. This clearly indicated that there are no cryptic species or biotypes in T. vaporariorum in India in contrast to the studies of B. tabaci in which there is evidence for many biotypes. The phylogenetic analyses comprised of 4 Trialeurodes species showed 2 clades. Clade I is comprised of T. vaporariorum and T. abutilonea which are genetically close. Clade II consists of the remaining 2 species, viz., T. lauri and T. ricini. Also the current study provided evidence of the suggested emergence of biotypes T. ricini.

All 6 species of the genus Tambinia Stål, 1859 in China are reviewed, including 1 new species, T. sinuata sp. nov. from Yunnan Province. Morphological descriptions, illustrations, molecular characteristics of the mitochondrial COI gene and an identification key for Chinese Tambinia species are provided. Pairwise distances, calculated by the Kimura-2-parameter model among the Tambinia species examined, ranged from 0.0306 to 0.1072. Type specimens are deposited in the Entomological Museum, Northwest A & F University, Yangling, Shaanxi Province, China (NWAFU).

Moth species trapped using the sex pheromone of Stenoma catenifer (LaSalle) as a lure, were registered at 2 commercial avocado orchards (one consisting of “Hass” and other of “Criollo”) and in wild “Criollo” avocado trees in southern Mexico. Traps were maintained for 1 mo in two seasons (dry and wet) on avocado trees under these 3 production conditions, changing the baits each season. Weekly observations registered no moths in the traps placed in the commercial “Hass” avocado orchard, in contrast to the other 2 sites, where Stenoma catenifer and Antaeotricha nictitans males were captured. Stenoma catenifer adults were always observed at the commercial “Criollo” orchard and wild “Criollo” avocado trees during the dry season (fructification period), but never in the wet season (non fruiting period). Under wild conditions A. nictitans was captured during both dry and wet seasons; however, it was never captured during the dry season at the commercial “Criollo” orchard. Populations of both moth species were similar -S. catenifer: 0.3 (wild trees) to 0.7 (orchard); and A. nictitans: 0.6 (wild trees) moth/trap/wk- during the dry season, and no differences were observed per species at each locality. The total number of captures per site during the fruiting season decreased significantly -0.9 (1st wk) to 0.2(4th wk) moth/trap/wk- during the observation period. S. catenifer was found infesting dropped fruit in the commercial “Criollo” orchard and at the wild site, whereas A. nictitans larvae were not detected infesting fruit. Captured S. catenifer males were always associated with the presence of avocado fruit in the field. The host of A. nictitans remains unknown.

Embolemidae (Hymenoptera: Chrysidoidea) are parasitoids of Hemiptera Auchenorrhyncha. The genus Embolemus Westwood, 1833 is present in all zoogeographical regions and 32 species have been described. Embolemus sensitivus sp. nov. is described from the following localities of China: Naban River National Nature Reserve (Yunnan), Mt. Lushan (Taiwan), Mt. Wuyishan (Fujian), Mt. Qinliangfeng and Mt. Wuyanling (Zhejiang).

Translation provided by the authors.

Harlequin bug, Murgantia histrionica (Hahn), is a pest of cole crops in the USA. Laboratory toxicity assays revealed that the neonicotinoid insecticides imidacloprid, thiamethoxam, dinotefuran, and clothianidin are toxic to harlequin bug nymphs; LC₅₀ = 0.57, 0.52, 0.39, and 0.39 ppm, respectively. Field experiments were conducted to evaluate the efficacy of these insecticides over time when applied as a one-time soil drench. Each of the 4 neonicotinoids provided significant control of harlequin bug for at least 14 d after application.

The leek moth, Acrolepiopsis assectella (Zeller), is a newly introduced micro-lepidopteran pest in North America that attacks Allium crops, including onion, leek, and garlic. Eggs are laid on leaves and emerging larvae may cause extensive damage by mining leaves, feeding on leaf surfaces and feeding directly on bulbs. Little is known about existing natural enemies for this pest in North America, but classical biological control introductions are underway in Canada. However, other management options are needed because the threat to the onion production industry in New York State and the Great Lakes Region is imminent. Laboratory studies showed that lambda cyhalothrin (Warrior® II), spinetoram (Radiant® SC), methomyl (Lannate® LV), chlorantraniliprole (Coragen®), and spinosad (Entrust®) significantly increased larval mortality, compared to the control, at 2, 4, and 8 days after treatment, while Bacillus thuringiensis and azadirachtin insecticides did not. These results are explained in part by the behavior of the insect.

Cactoblastis cactorum (Berg) (Lepidoptera: Pyralidae), an oligophagous Opuntia spp. herbivore from South America, has been used successfully as a biological control agent for several invasive Opuntia species around the world. However, its unintentional arrival in Florida raised serious concern over its possible effect on native Opuntia biodiversity and Opuntia-based industries. Development of control tactics to mitigate the threat of this invasive pest to North America relied upon a constant supply of all life stages of this insect species. Therefore, 3 strains of C. cactorum were established in a laboratory insectary and trials were initiated to optimize rearing methods using an artificial diet. Because monophagous or oligophagous lepidopterans may be sensitive to the balance of nutrients and/or the presence of specific feeding cues and because different strains of an oligophagous lepidopteran may respond differently to various meridic diets, we compared the development and survival of 3 strains of C. cactorum on several meridic diets without host plant materials. Although C. cactorum is an oligophage within the genus Opuntia, it accepted and developed on several diets containing non-host plant ingredients, yeast, and fish meal. The source and balance of non-host nutrients significantly affected all reproductive parameters of C. cactorum. The best performance of C. cactorum was on diets that contained white kidney beans, brewer's yeast, wheat germ and/or soybeans.

Vitronura setaebarbulata sp. nov. and V. quartadecima sp. nov. are described from Shanghai, China. V. setaebarbulata sp. nov. is characterized by its heavy barbulate macrosetae, very granulated tubercles, dorsointernal tubercles on head coalescent and very close each other, mandible with three big teeth, apical one with denticules and maxilla with one of the 2 lamellae trifurcated. V. quartadecima sp. nov. is characterized by having 14 tubercles on head, well isolated each other, smooth body setae and mandible with three big teeth, apical one with denticules. The COI barcode sequences were sequenced for four individuals of V. setaebarbulata sp. nov. and twelve individuals of V. quartadecima sp. nov. respectively. No genetic divergence between individuals of same species was found, and the divergence of nucleotides between the two new species is 18.54%. An updated key to world species of Vitronura is also provided.

Aphis intybi Koch is recorded for the first time in North and South America. Measurements for the identification of this species in comparison with Aphis craccivora Koch are given. Aphis cytisorum Hartig is recorded for the third time in Argentina. Data on morphological variation, geographical distribution, and host plants of these species in Argentina are provided. Their morphological identification is supported by comparison of DNA sequences of the mitochondrial cytochrome oxidase subunit 1 (DNA barcode) and subunit 2.

The cactus moth, Cactoblastis cactorum (Berg), is native to South America. Since its unintentional arrival to the United States in 1989 and to Mexican islands in 2006, it has become a serious threat to the diversity of both wild and cultivated species of Opuntia Mill, in North America. The native ecological host range of C. cactorum has not been directly ascertained and host acceptance is unclear. Taxonomic nomenclature of Opuntia spp. has been confusing, contradictory, and rapidly changing, leading to inaccurate conclusions about host plant use by C. cactorum in its native South American range. This study was conducted to better understand the biology and ecology of C. cactorum in Argentina by evaluating, under laboratory conditions, the insects’ performance (survivorship, development time, potential fecundity) on 8 Opuntia spp. occurring in Argentina. Feeding trials were conducted on 5 Opuntia spp. native to Argentina and 3 Opuntia spp. native to Mexico. Cactoblastis cactorum larvae failed to feed on 2 native Opuntia spp., and had their greatest performance on the North American O. ficus-indica (L). Mill, and O. robusta H. L. Wendl. ex Pfeiff., and the South American O. arechavaletae Speg. Because the insects for the experiments were originally collected on O. ficus-indica, a reciprocal cross feeding experiment with insects collected on O. megapotamica Arechav. was also conducted to test for a potential host plant-mediated local adaptation effect. Some evidence for host plant adaptation was detected in populations collected on the South American host, O. megapotamica. Local adaptation, as documented here, could have consequences for the invasion process of C. cactorum in North America.

Invasive insects present an ongoing challenge to the safety of U.S. agriculture. A current threat to the U.S. cotton industry is Oxycarenus hyalinipennis (Costa), commonly known as the cotton seed bug. Populations are found throughout most of the world except for North America, and the southeastern U.S. is believed to provide a favorable environment for its establishment. A major component in efforts to control the spread of invasive pests is the rapid and accurate identification of intercepted specimens. Unfortunately, O. hyalinipennis belongs to an incompletely characterized taxon where the assignment of species identity by simple morphological keys is often problematic. In this study, we assessed the potential of DNA barcoding to facilitate the identification of the cotton seed bug in field-collected specimens.

Stink bugs (Hemiptera: Pentatomidae) are important insect pests of crops. Stink bug feeding reduces yields, lowers crop quality, induces delayed maturity, and wounds tissues allowing for pathogen entry. Historically, effective adult and nymph control of stink bugs has been with insecticides. However, little insecticide efficacy against stink bug eggs is known. The objective of this study was to determine how foliar insecticides currently recommend for southern green stink bug, Nezara viridula (L.), control in soybean impact pre-emergence nymphal mortality using an egg dip bioassay. Eight formulate insecticides were tested. Differences in nymphal stink bug pre-emergence mortality were recorded. The lowest instances of stink bug emergence (and highest mortality) were observed in egg masses treated with bifenthrin (78.7%) followed by beta-cyfluthrin acephate (42.5%) and acephate (40.9%). The highest emergence (and lowest mortality) occurred in egg masses treated with spinosad (10.4%). Results indicate that insecticides used to control stink bug nymphs and adults can impact nymphal pre-emergence mortality and control southern green stink bugs before emergence.

Embolemidae (Hymenoptera: Chrysidoidea) are parasitoids of Hemiptera Auchenorrhyncha. The genus Ampulicomorpha Ashmead, 1893, is present in all zoogeographical regions and 20 species have been described. Ampulicomorpha sinensis sp. nov. is described from the Nanling National Nature Reserve (Guangdong, China).

Translation provided by the authors.