bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effects of Aphid (Homoptera) Abundance and Surrounding Vegetation on the Encounter Rate of Coccinellidae (Coleoptera), Chrysopidae (Neuroptera), and Nabidae (Hemiptera) in Alfalfa
Authors: Kriz James C. , Danielson Stephen D. , Brandle James R. , Blankenship Erin E. , Henebry Geoff M.
Published: September 2017

Predaceous insect encounter rate was measured in 21 southeast Nebraska alfalfa fields through weekly sweep net sampling during 2002–03. The most frequently encountered predaceous insect families were Coccinellidae (Coleoptera), Nabidae (Hemiptera), and Chrysopidae (Neuroptera). The study used multiple regression analysis to examine the effect of aphid abundance and the surrounding vegetative patch composition on predaceous insect abundance. In 2002, Hippodamia parenthesis Say was encountered more frequently in fields with lower aphid abundances, and Hippodamia convergens Guerin-Meneville, Coccinella septem-punctata L., and Nabis americoferus Carayon were encountered more frequently in fields with higher aphid abundances. In 2003, Coleomegilla maculata DeGeer was encountered more frequently in fields with higher aphid abundance. The remaining two species of coccinellids and Chryoperla spp. did not exhibit significant correlations with aphid abundance in either year. It was determined that in 2002, H. parenthesis was encountered more frequently in alfalfa surrounded by a higher percentage of unfarmed land, and C. maculata, C. septempunctata, N. americoferus, and Chrysoperla spp. were encountered more frequently in alfalfa surrounded by a higher percentage of farmed land. In 2003, N. americoferus was again encountered more frequently in alfalfa fields surrounded by a higher percentage of farmed land. The remaining three coccinellid species collected did not exhibit significant relationships between vegetative patch composition and encounter rate in either year.
Using Nutrient Solutions to Trap the Almond Moth (Lepidoptera: Pyralidae) in a Peanut Shelling and Storage Facility
Authors: Ni Xinzhi , Holbrook C. Corley
Published: September 2017

The almond moth, Ephestia (Cadra) cautella (Walker) (Lepidoptera: Pyralidae), is an important insect pest in agricultural product processing and storage facilities worldwide, including peanut (Arachis hypogaea L.) shelling and storage facilities. We compared the efficacy of nutrient-based solutions as attractants with commercially-available synthetic pheromone traps in controlling almond moth. The treatments were water, 10% honey, 10% beer, and 10% sucrose solutions, pheromone trap in a 3.8-L container, pheromone trap in an empty 3.8-L container, an empty 3.8-L container, and a suspended pheromone trap. The honey solution and pheromone trap in the container trapped the greatest number of moths among the 8 treatments. The pheromone trap in the container trapped significantly more moths than the suspended pheromone trap. We demonstrated that E. cautella adults preferred a 10% honey solution over water, 10% beer, or 10% sucrose solutions as attractants. Although the 10% honey solution and the pheromone trap in the container trapped the same number of moths, 70.5% of the moths captured by the honey solution were females and only 21.7% of the moths captured by the pheromone trap in the container were females. A diluted (10%) honey solution could be used in effective and economical traps for E. cautella control in storage facilities because it attracts a high percentage of females.
Monitoring Red Imported Fire Ant (Hymenoptera: Formicidae) Foraging Behavior and Impact on Foliage-Dwelling Arthropods on Soybean Produced Under Three Ant Suppression Regimes
Authors: Seagraves Michael P. , McPherson Robert M.
Published: September 2017

The red imported fire ant, Solenopsis invicta Buren, has been reported to contribute to the biological control of key arthropod pests in soybean, Glycine max (L.) Merrill, and other crops. Solenopsis invicta also has been implicated as a major disrupter of biological control and a direct crop pest associated with reduced yields. In 2000 and 2001, fire ant foraging, survival of sentinel lepidopteran eggs and pupae, seasonal abundance of common foliage-dwelling soybean arthropods, and crop yield were assessed under three different fire ant suppression treatments at two test sites in Tift Co., GA. The treatments included an untreated control, hydramethylnon ant bait, and hydramethylnon bait in combination with the broad spectrum insecticide chlorpyriphos. Fire ant foraging was reduced in the chemically-treated plots in comparison to the control, based on fire ant numbers on hot dog baits after a 1-h field exposure in the early morning. Survival of soybean looper, Pseudoplusia includens Walker, eggs in 2000 and corn earworm, Helicoverpa zea Boddie, eggs in 2001 was lower in the untreated plots after a 24-h field exposure, where S. invicta foraging rates were high. Soybean looper pupal survival was 34 and 88% lower on foliage and the ground, respectively, in the control compared to those with reduced fire ant foraging. The seasonal abundance of foliage-dwelling soybean arthropods was primarily unaffected by the fire ant suppressing treatments. However, in 2001, green cloverworms, Hypena scabra F., and spiders were significantly lower (38.6 and 40.5%, respectively) in the chlorpyriphos plus hydramethylnon bait treatment in comparison to the other treatments. Season-long suppression of fire ants had no effect on soybean yield. The results of this study suggest that S. invicta, at naturally-occurring levels, is an active predator on some common soybean lepidopteran pests.
Influence of Tillage System, Oilseed Species, and Insecticidal Seed Treatment on Flea Beetle (Coleoptera: Chrysomelidae) Damage, Oilseed Production, and Postharvest Residue Cover
Authors: Lenssen Andrew W. , Johnson Gregory D. , Blodgett Sue L. , Goosey Hayes B.
Published: September 2017

The influence of tillage system and imidacloprid seed treatment on flea beetle (Phyllotreta cruciferae (Goeze)) damage, oilseed production, volunteer barley density, and post harvest residue cover was determined for Polish canola (Brassica rapa L.) and yellow mustard (Sinapis alba L.). Field trials were conducted at Moccasin, MT, USA, from 1998 through 2000. Flea beetle damage was assessed on cotyledon and first true leaf stage plants using a numerical damage rating. Flea beetle damage was low in both tillage systems and on both plant species when imidacloprid seed treatment was applied. In the absence of seed treatment, seedlings of both plant species in conventionally tilled plots usually suffered more damage than did seedlings in zero tillage plots. Canola often sustained more damage than yellow mustard. Across tillage system and insecticidal seed treatment, yellow mustard produced significantly greater (P> 0.01) seed yields than canola. Density of volunteer barley was significantly greater (P > 0.01) in conventionally tilled plots. Postharvest residue cover was greater in zero-tillage plots, but all systems easily met USDA, Natural Resource Conservation Service specifications designed to prevent soil erosion.
Toxicity of Spirodiclofen to the Predatory Mite, Amblyseius womersleyi (Acari: Phytoseiidae), and its Prey, Tetranychus urticae (Acari: Tetranychidae)
Authors: Cheon Geum Su , Paik Chae Hoon , Lee Geon Hwi , Kim Sang Soo
Published: September 2017

The relative toxicity of spirodiclofen to the predatory mite, Amblyseius womersleyi Schicha (Acari: Phytoseiidae), and its prey, Tetranychus urticae Koch (Acari: Tetranychidae), was evaluated in laboratory bioassays. Spirodiclofen was much less toxic to A. womersleyi than to T. urticae. Although the survival rate of adult females of A. womersleyi tended to decrease with increasing concentrations of spirodiclofen, 62–96% of the predators survived at concentrations of 22.5–180 ppm. Reproduction of adult female predators was only significantly affected at high concentrations (90 and 180 ppm). Spirodiclofen did not affect the hatch of A. womersleyi eggs at any concentration tested. Survival of immature predators was significantly decreased with increasing spirodiclofen concentration, however, 30–78% of immature predators reached adulthood at 22.5–45 ppm. Adult female predators survived on a diet of spider mites treated with spirodiclofen, and their fecundity was not significantly affected. Moreover, immature predators developed normally on prey treated with spirodiclofen. Spirodiclofen at selective sublethal concentrations (i.e., 22.5–45 ppm) could be of value in adjusting the prey/predator ratio in integrated management of T. urticae.
Effect of Spices upon the Activity of the Gypsy Moth (Lepidoptera: Lymantriidae) Nucleopolyhedrovirus
Authors: Shapiro Martin , Shepard B. Merle , Lopez Rolando
Published: September 2017

The ability of host plants to influence the incidence and severity of diseases in insects has been known for more than 20 yrs and may play a critical role in the efficacy of insect pathogens, including viruses. In this study, we investigated the effects of 35 spices from 15 plant families, on the activity of the gypsy moth nucleo- polyhedrovirus (LdMNPV) infecting the gypsy moth, Lymantria dispar (L.). The activity of LdMNPV was not affected in 29 different virus/spice combinations, whereas six virus/spice combinations (NPV/cayenne, NPV/curry, NPV/dill, NPV/nutmeg, NPV/paprika and NPV/tarragon) enhanced activity of the virus against gypsy moth larvae. These findings indicate that several of these spices may be useful as viral enhancers and should be further investigated to obtain more efficacious formulations for the control of agriculturally important insect pests.
Comparison of Two Fly Traps for the Capture of Horse Flies (Diptera: Tabanidae)
Authors: Watson D. W. , Denning S. S. , Calibeo-Hayes D. I. , Stringham S. M. , Mowrey R. A.
Published: September 2017

A 2-yr study was conducted to examine differences between two commercially available horse fly traps, the Epps® Biting Fly Trap (Farnum Co., Phoenix, AZ) and the Horse Pal® (Newman Enterprises, Omro, WI), placed on three horse farms located in central North Carolina. Traps captured over 8,422 tabanids, representing 4 genera and 19 species. Tabanus quinquevittatus Wiedemann was the most abundant fly collected (2345), followed by the T. lineola F. species complex (2087), T. fulvulus Weidemann (1397) and T. petiolatus Hine (839). Although the Horse Pal captured more flies than the Epps trap, fly capture differences between traps were not significant for the 2000 and 2001 summer seasons (F = 1.39; df = 3, 143; P ≤ 0.249). The Epps trap was most efficacious for early-season (June and July) trapping of T. quinquevittatus and the T. lineola complex in 2000. In contrast, the Horse Pal was more efficacious for these species during the same period in 2001. The Horse Pal was the preferred trap for relative ease in handling.
Field Evaluations of Potential Aggregation Inhibitors for the Southern Pine Beetle, Dendroctonus frontalis (Coleoptera: Curculionidae)
Authors: Sullivan Brian T. , Dalusky Mark J. , Wakarchuk David , Berisford C. Wayne
Published: September 2017

Semiochemicals that inhibit the response of the southern pine beetle, Dendroctonus frontalis Zimmermann, to its aggregation pheromone have been used with varying degrees of success to protect individual trees from attack and to stop infestation growth. However, semiochemical disruptants have not experienced wide use in management of D. frontalis, due in part to the normally prohibitive expense associated with treatments using verbenone and 4-allylanisole, the two EPA-registered semiochemicals for this species. Therefore, we conducted some initial trap-based screenings of candidate compounds with the aim of discovering alternative inhibitory semiochemicals for use in management of D. frontalis. In separate experiments in Mississippi and Georgia, baits containing either 2-phenylethanol or myrtenol significantly reduced attraction of one or both sexes of D. frontalis to traps baited with a standard attractant (i.e., the D. frontalis aggregation pheromone frontalin and the host monoterpene alpha-pinene). In combination, the two compounds caused a 92% decrease in total beetle response to the standard attractant, although this reduction was not significantly greater than that produced by 2-phenylethanol alone. In one test, a blend of nonhost volatiles (1-hexanol, cis-3-hexen-1-ol, hexanal, and nonanal) significantly reduced attraction of male D. frontalis, but these observations were not duplicated in a second test. Another combination of candidate inhibitors (the nonhost blend plus guaiacol and benzaldehyde) also significantly inhibited response of male beetles. At the specific doses used in our tests, we failed to observe reduction in D. frontalis attraction by the following compounds presented singly: benzaldehyde, guaiacol, 3-methylcyclohex-2-en-1-one (3,2-MCH), myrtenal, and verbenone.
Ability of Delphastus catalinae (Coleoptera: Coccinellidae), a Predator of Whiteflies (Homoptera: Aleyrodidae), to Survive Mild Winters
Authors: Simmons Alvin M. , Legaspi Jesusa C.
Published: September 2017

Delphastus catalinae (Horn) (Coleoptera: Coccinellidae) is a predator of whiteflies and is sold by commercial insectaries to help manage Bemisia tabaci (Gennadius). This beetle is tropical in origin, but feral populations in the USA are known to persist in southern California and in central and southern Florida. Field populations of D. catalinae are not known to occur in northern Florida, GA, or South Carolina, and there has not been any report of field releases in these areas. A study was conducted to determine the ability of D. catalinae to survive in regions with mild winters where B. tabaci survives year-round, such as coastal South Carolina and northern Florida. Delphastus catalinae was sampled in field cages from December to April in 2002–2004. Only a few individuals were collected at the end of each winter. In the laboratory, at a constant temperature of 15°C, adult survival was up to 9 months (269 d), whereas survival was up to 16 d at 5°C. Without food, adult longevity was decreased by about 90%. A sample of the population from a laboratory test indicated that old females (at least 242 d) produced viable eggs. Eggs held at 5°C did not hatch, whereas 48% of those held at 15°C hatched. Conversely, 98% of eggs held at 25°C hatched. At 15°C, none of the larvae survived to the pupal stage, whereas at 25°C, 86% of the larvae survived to the adult stage. Winter temperatures near freezing may result in excessive D. catalinae mortality and few or no survivals at the end of the winter. These results help define the impact of long-term low temperatures on the northern geographical limit of D. catalinae and will aid in whitefly management decisions regarding this predator.
Density-Dependent Response of the Pea Aphid (Hemiptera: Aphididae) to Imidacloprid
Authors: Kramarz Paulina E. , Banks John E. , Stark John D.
Published: September 2017

A study was conducted to determine the influence of initial population density on the effects of pesticides on pea aphid, Acyrthosiphon pisum (Harris), populations. Three initial starting densities of pea aphids (147, 295 and 590 aphids per m2) were exposed to no pesticide or imidacloprid at rates of 1 or 5 g ai/ha on broad bean plants, Vicia faba L., in a greenhouse. Ten days later, population size was assessed. In general, higher initial aphid population density resulted in a higher final population density for all imidacloprid concentrations. However, population growth rates for populations started with the highest density (590 aphids per m2) were significantly lower than those with initial densities of 147 and 295 aphids per m2. This was due to a relative reduction in population number. Populations begun with 147 aphids per m2 were 50% lower after exposure to the highest concentration of imidacloprid, whereas the populations begun with 295 and 590 aphids per m2 were 42 and 25% of the starting population size, respectively. Therefore, the pesticide actually had a greater impact on the population started with the highest density. This can be explained by a synergistic effect of the pesticide and crowding. The lower growth rate observed in the population started with the highest density was probably due to crowding, whereby aphids approached the carrying capacity and were stressed. Even though these populations were reduced, final density was still sufficiently high to limit resources. These results indicate that the response of organisms to stress is influenced by population density at the start of a stressful event, such as a pesticide exposure. Therefore, different experimental designs may result in different outcomes and starting population densities must be carefully considered when designing population-level toxicological experiments.
Moisture Effects on Development and Survival of the Plum Curculio (Coleoptera: Curculionidae)
Authors: Chen H. , Scherm H.
Published: September 2017

Laboratory-reared larvae of Conotrachelus nenuphar Herbst were exposed to three soil moisture treatments in pots containing a mix of soil and vermiculite, whereby pots were either watered daily (wet treatment) or watered to saturation when matric potential reached threshold values of −160 and −800 kPa for the intermediate and dry treatments, respectively. Adult emergence began at approximately the same time in the 3 treatments, but peak emergence (occurring ~1 month after the start of the experiment and within 2 wks of the beginning of emergence) was much more pronounced in the intermediate moisture treatment than in the wet and dry ones. In addition, cumulative emergence in the intermediate moisture treatment (corresponding to >40% of the initial number of larvae used in the experiment) was higher than in the wet (~30%) and dry (~20%) treatments. Approx. 25% of the adults that emerged from the dry treatment were underdeveloped and/or malformed. In a separate set of experiments, the effect of air humidity on survival of laboratory-reared plum curculio adults was investigated. Survival analysis revealed a significant (P< 0.0001) effect of vapor pressure deficit on adult longevity. As vapor pressure deficit decreased from ~2.8 to 0.009 kPa, median life expectancy increased from 1.1 to 9.0 d for insects without food supply and from 7.0 to 30.5 d for insects feeding on apples. Longevity correlated with cumulative water loss from the insects, which was lowest in a saturated atmosphere and greatest for insects exposed to a vapor pressure deficit of ~2.8 kPa. Cuticular permeability of C. nenuphar to water was calculated as 185.8 μg cm−2 kPa−1.
Diel Patterns of Pheromone Production in the Boll Weevil (Coleoptera: Curculionidae)
Authors: Spurgeon D. W. , Suh C. P.-C.
Published: September 2017

Detailed knowledge of boll weevil, Anthonomus grandis Boheman, chemical ecology on cotton, Gossypium hirsutum L., is needed to improve pheromone trapping methods. Recent studies using headspace collections have indicated that most pheromone is not in the feces as previously assumed. We used headspace collections to examine the diel patterns of boll weevil pheromone production and to determine whether the timing of food replacement influenced those patterns. Pheromone production of individual 9- and 11-d-old weevils was estimated during 4 daily periods (0730–1130, 1130–1530, 1530–1930, and 1930–0730 h) under temperatures of 27 ± 2°C and with a 13:11 (L:D) h photoperiod that began at 0700 h. Weevils fed daily at 0730 h produced more pheromone (2.83 ± 0.25 μg h−1) than weevils fed at 1530 h (1.95 ± 0.25 μg h−1), and 11-d-old weevils produced more pheromone (2.62 ± 0.22 μg h−1) than 9-d-old weevils (2.16 ± 0.23 μg h−1). Furthermore, weevils fed at 0730 h exhibited a clear diel pattern of pheromone production with maximal and minimal production occurring between 1130–1530 h and 1930–0730 h, respectively. Weevils fed at 1530 h exhibited a similar periodicity, but the pattern was less distinct. Pheromone composition of weevils fed at 0730 h was relatively consistent among daily periods and the ratio of the 4 components was approximately 45:42:3:10 (I:II:III:IV). However, pheromone composition varied significantly among daily periods for weevils fed at 1530 h. Our results demonstrate a diel periodicity in pheromone production by the boll weevil, and illustrate the need for careful control of weevil diets in such studies.
Life History of Oriental Beetle and Other Scarabs, and Occurrence of Tiphia vernalis in Ohio Nurseries
Authors: Reding Michael , Klein Michael
Published: September 2017

The oriental beetle, Anomala orientalis Waterhouse, is a serious pest of nursery crops in northern Ohio and a number of other states because the larvae damage plant roots. In 3 ornamental tree nurseries (field production) in Ohio, the composition of scarab larvae, their life histories, and parasitism rates were examined. Four exotic scarabs, Asiatic garden beetle (Maladera castanea Arrow), European chafer (Rhizotrogus majalis Razoumowsky), Japanese beetle (Popillia japonica Newman), and oriental beetle, were found in this study. The oriental beetle and European chafer were the most common species found. Up to 60% of the oriental beetle population required 2 yrs to complete development, which is much higher than the commonly reported 15% or less in northeastern states. Tiphia vernalis Rohwer, an external parasite of oriental beetle and Japanese beetle larvae, was found in all nurseries surveyed. As much as 31% and 60% of the sampled oriental beetle and Japanese beetle populations, respectively, were parasitized, depending on date and nursery.
Synonymy of Ephuta tentativa Schuster and E. pauxilla Bradley (Hymenoptera: Mutillidae)
Authors: Pitts James P. , Manley Donald G.
Published: September 2017

The collection of a male of Ephuta pauxilla Bradley and a female of E. tentativa Schuster taken in copula has provided evidence that these forms are conspecific. Ephuta tentativa is a junior synonym of E. pauxilla. Furthermore, subsequent collections and comparison of type specimens and numerous other specimens have shown Ephuta pauxilla texanella Schuster to be a junior synonym of Ephuta pauxilla as well. A complete synonymy for E. pauxilla is provided.
Bioclimatic Model of the Spined Soldier Bug (Heteroptera: Pentatomidae) Using CLIMEX: Testing Model Predictions at Two Spatial Scales
Authors: Legaspi Jesusa Crisostomo , Legaspi Benjamin C.
Published: September 2017

A bioclimatic model of the polyphagous predator, Podisus maculiventris (Say) (Heteroptera: Pentatomidae), was developed using CLIMEX software (Hearne Scientific Software, Melbourne, Australia). Calibration distribution was fitted using known distribution records for the United States and Canada, after which the model was used to generate a potential distribution map for the entire world. As expected, potential distribution maps agreed with known distribution records for North America. However, apparent mismatches were found for distributions in Europe, South America, midAfrica, and Southeast Asia. Using historical weather data, CLIMEX “growth indices” (measures of climate suitability for insect development) were compared against multiyear pheromone trap counts in the northern (Indiana) and southern (Florida) United States. Growth index curves did not appear to match pheromone trap data in either location when examined separately by year, location and insect sex. However, a weak relationship was found between trap counts and growth index when data were pooled across years, locations and sex.
Seasonal Abundance of Stink Bugs (Heteroptera: Pentatomidae) and Other Polyphagous Species in a Multi-Crop Environment in South Arkansas
Authors: Smith John F. , Luttrell Randall G. , Greene Jeremy K.
Published: September 2017

A 3-yr study was conducted to determine seasonal abundance of major pentatomid, noctuid, and mirid pests in a multicrop environment in south Arkansas. Replicated field plots (~0.1 ha) containing cotton, Gossypium hirsutum (L.), genetically engineered to express the Cry 1Ac toxin of Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt), nonBt cotton, Bt corn, Zea mays (L.), genetically engineered to express the Cry 1Ab toxin of B. thuringiensis, nonBt corn, maturity group (MG) III, IV, V, and VI soybean, Glycine max (L.) Merrill, and grain sorghum, Sorghum bicolor (L.) Moench, were planted each year. Crop preferences of 3 stink bug species [southern green stink bug, Nezara viridula (L.), green stink bug, Acrosternum hilare (Say), and brown stink bug, Euschistus servus (Say)] were recorded and observations also were made on the relative abundance of corn earworm, Helicoverpa zea (Boddie), tobacco budworm, Heliothis virescens (F.), and tarnished plant bug, Lygus lineolaris (Palisot de Beavois). Significantly higher densities of stink bugs were present in MG IV soybean than in all other crops in July and August during all 3 yrs of study. Densities of heliothines were significantly greater in grain sorghum and corn than in other crops during July. Tarnished plant bugs were most commonly observed in cotton. Preferences of these polyphagous pests for different crops at specific stages of phenological development appear to be predictable aspects of insect behavior that may be exploited in trap crops or other landscape management systems.
Effects of Prescribed Fire and Fire Surrogates on Saproxylic Coleoptera in the Southern Appalachians of North Carolina
Authors: Campbell Joshua W. , Hanula James L. , Waldrop Thomas A.
Published: September 2017

We examined the effects of forest management practices (prescribed burning, mechanical, and prescribed burn plus mechanical) on saproxylic forest Coleoptera in the southern Appalachian Mountains of North Carolina. During the 2-yr study, we captured 37,191 Coleoptera with baited multiple-funnel traps and pipe traps, comprising 20 families and 122 species that were used for our analysis. Saproxylic beetle numbers increased greatly from the first year to the second year on all treatments. Species richness and total abundance of Coleoptera were not significantly affected by the treatments, but several families (e.g., Elateridae, Cleridae, Trogositidae, Scolytidae) were significantly more abundant on treated plots. Abundances of many species, including various species of Scolytidae were significantly affected by the treatments. However, these scolytids (Hylastes salebrosus Eichoff, Ips grandicollis Eichoff, Xyloborinus saxeseni Ratzburg, Xyleborus sp., Xyleborus atratus Eichoff) did not respond in the same way to the treatments. Likewise, other Coleoptera such as Pityophagus sp. (Nitidulidae), Hylobius pales Herbst (Curculionidae), and Xylotrechus sagittatus Germar (Cerambycidae) also varied in their responses to the treatments. Species richness was not significantly different for the spring 2003 trapping seasons, but the fall 2003 sample had a higher number of species on mechanical shrub removal only and mechanical shrub removal plus prescribed burning plots compared with controls. Linear regression analysis suggests that increased dead wood caused by hot fires on mechanical plus burn and burn only treatments resulted in increases among various Coleoptera families and species. We saw no evidence that the treatments negatively impacted saproylic species and in most cases they benefited from the disturbances.
Rearing Cactoblastis cactorum (Lepidoptera: Pyralidae) on Artificial Diet and Opuntia Cladodes
Authors: Marti Orville G. , Myers Ronald E. , Carpenter James E.
Published: September 2017

The cactus moth, Cactoblastis cactorum Berg, is an invasive species that threatens economically and ecologically important native cacti in Mexico and the U.S. Southwest. The insect presently occurs along the coastal U.S. from Charleston, SC, to Dauphin Island, south of Mobile, AL, and in the interior of Florida. Current control and eradication tactics include manual destruction of infested cactus and the Sterile Insect Technique (SIT), which involves the release of irradiated cactus moths to mate with wild moths and produce sterile offspring. The ability to rear the cactus moths in the laboratory has been crucial in research and development of survey and control techniques. Procedures for rearing the cactus moth in the laboratory on cactus cladodes and artificial diet are described and provide a foundation for the further development of mass-rearing protocols.
Reproductive Development of Female Plum Curculio (Coleoptera: Curculionidae) in the Mid-Atlantic: Presence of Multivoltine Populations
Authors: Leskey Tracy C.
Published: September 2017

The plum curculio, Conotrachelus nenuphar (Herbst), is a key pest of pome and stone fruit throughout eastern and central North America. There are two strains of plum curculio, the univoltine ‘northern’ strain and the multivoltine ‘southern’ strain. Voltinism associated with populations located in the mid-Atlantic region has been unclear from historic records, with recent studies suggesting multivoltine populations. In studies conducted in West Virginia, female plum curculios obtained from emergence and screen traps and from samples of host tree canopies strongly indicate the presence of at least some multivoltine populations, based on an ovarian development bioassay. Two periods of active oogenesis were detected. The first occurred in early spring between late April and early May and represented overwintered females reaching sexual maturity. A second period of oogenesis was detected beginning in late June and continuing through early August. Based on degree day accumulations and known developmental rates of plum curculio, the mid-Atlantic is comprised, at least in part, of multivoltine populations. Fruit growers, therefore, must consider that plum curculio can pose a threat to tree fruit throughout the active growing season.
Insect Pests and Yield Potential of Vegetable Soybean (Edamame) Produced in Georgia
Authors: McPherson R. M. , Johnson W. C. , Fonsah E. G. , Roberts P. M.
Published: September 2017

A series of replicated field experiments was conducted with vegetable soybean (edamame), Glycine max (L.) Merrill, to assess the impacts of cultivars, planting dates, and insecticidal controls on insect pest abundance, crop damage and yield potential. The velvetbean caterpillar, Anticarsia gemmatalis Hübner, was the most common lepidopteran defoliator in this study, causing heavy defoliation in some years when left untreated. Other lepidopterans observed included the soybean looper, Pseudoplusia includens (Walker), and the green cloverworm, Hypena scabra (F.). Stink bugs, primarily the southern green stink bug, Nezara viridula (L.), also caused seed damage in some cultivars when left untreated. Stink bug damage exceeded expectations on edamame seeds when exposed to moderate stink bug densities (≤3 bugs per 25 sweeps). Other arthropods that were commonly observed included threecornered alfalfa hoppers, Spissistilus festinus (Say), grasshoppers, Melanoplus spp., and the potato leafhopper, Empoasca fabae (Harris). Arthropod infestations on edamame were similar to reported pest problems on conventional soybeans being produced for oil and meal. Midseason applications of the insecticides diflubenzuron plus l-cyhalothrin reduced insect pest populations, percentage of arthropod-induced defoliation and percentage of seeds damaged by stink bugs, but had little effect on edamame yields. Most defoliation and seed damage occurred during R5 development when seeds were approaching full size, thus only minimal yield reductions were noted. However, seed quality of the untreated vegetable soybeans would be unacceptable for the consumer. Total fresh green yields ranged from 2343–11,895 kg ha−1, depending on year, cultivar and planting date, whereas fresh green seed yields ranged from 1208–6,119 kg ha−1. Early-maturing edamame cultivars planted in April had fewer insect pests and less damage than the cultivars planted later. Avoidance of insect pests is an important production consideration for insect management, especially critical in an organic production system. The fresh green seed yields produced during this study demonstrate that this emerging alternative crop has the potential for economic success in the southern region, assuming that the arthropod pests are effectively managed to maintain acceptable edamame quality and yield.
Damage to Soybean by Acrosternum hilare (Say) (Heteroptera: Pentatomidae)
Authors: Young S. Y. , Greene J. K. , Lorenz G. M.
Published: September 2017

A series of field-cage experiments were conducted in 2002 and 2003 in southeast Arkansas to measure the impact of feeding by green stink bug, Acrosternum hilare (Say), on soybean yield and seed damage. Stink bugs were collected from local soybean fields and released in 1.8 × 1.8 × 1.8 m walk-in screen cages at densities of 0, 3, 9, and 18 bugs per row-m on maturity group (MG) IV and MG V soybean at different stages of crop phenological development. Damaged seed at harvest was significantly related to caged density of A. hilare in most of the cage experiments. Yield loss was associated with density of caged bugs in 7 of 11 different experiments and ranged from 13.4–60.5 kg/ha (0.2–0.9 bu/a) lost per bug per row-m. MG IV and MG V soybean were similarly impacted by density of A. hilare when exposed at the same stage of crop development. Feeding by small and large nymphs at early (R2–R3) and mid (R5–R6) reproductive stages resulted in significant yield loss. Feeding damage was apparent on late reproductive stage soybean (R7–R8), but no measurable impact on yield was observed. This suggested that thresholds could be raised or control efforts could be terminated for stink bugs infesting R7–R8 stage soybean. Damage due to feeding by stink bugs is related to various factors, but crop phenology, density of bugs, and length of infestation time are consistent and predictable influences that are interrelated, and all should be considered in determining the need to control field populations.
Population Dynamics of the California Red Scale, Aonidiella aurantii Maskell, and Its Parasitoid, Aphytis melinus (Howard), in Grapefruit Orchards in Turkey
Authors: Oztemiz Sevcan , Yarpuzlu Ferda , Karacaoglu Mehmet
Published: September 2017

The purpose of this study was to define the population dynamics of the California red scale, Aonidiella aurantii Maskell (Heteroptera: Homoptera: Diaspididae), and its parasitoid, Aphytis melinus (Howard) (Hymenoptera: Aphelinidae), released to control the scale in grapefruit orchards in Turkey. Results revealed that A. aurantii exhibited 3 generations in the spring, summer, and autumn each year for 2004 and 2005. The highest population density of second-stage larvae occurred on leaves at densities of 18 and 46 individuals per 4 cm2 with the lowest density occurring on stems at levels of 7 and 8 individuals per cm2 in grapefruit in both years. Parasitoid populations increased in the summer and into autumn. Parasitation rate was increased by releasing A. melinus adults in the orchards. In 2004 and 2005, respectively, the highest parasitization rate occurred on infested leaves with 60.8% and 40.8%, followed by infested fruits at 25% and 54.5%, on infested shoots with 36.4% and 19.3%, and on infested stems with 8.33% and 15.4%. Second-stage and unmated females of red scale were most dense during the spring, summer and autumn each year, thus, appearing to be the best time for release of parasitoids. These results suggest that in releasing A. melinus in grapefruit orchards in Turkey, 50% of the parasitoids should be released in early spring, 25% in summer, and 25% in autumn.
Growth Responses of Seedling Canola to Simulated Versus Phyllotreta cruciferae (Coleoptera: Chrysomelidae) Feeding Injury to Seedling Canola
Authors: Antwi F. B. , Olson D. L. , DeVuyst E. A.
Published: September 2017

Greenhouse studies were conducted in 2003 and 2004 to quantify and compare plant growth and yield of canola in response to simulated and crucifer flea beetle, Phyllotreta cruciferae (Goeze), feeding injury. Seedlings of 2 canola varieties, 357 RR a hybrid and Raider RR an open pollinated, were subjected to simulated and actual crucifer flea beetle feeding injury. Canola growth responses were determined for growth rate, seed yield and percent oil of seed at 10, 30, 50 and 70% injury levels. In both years, differences in canola growth rate responses were significant between the injury types and ranged from 2.6–14.9% across injury levels. Differences in growth responses for yield (i.e., seed yield and percent oil content) were significant between simulated and insect injury and ranged from 3.1–33.5% in 2003, and 1.3–67.9% in 2004 across injury levels. Both canola varieties generally showed a greater response in growth rate and yield parameters in response to simulated than crucifer flea beetle feeding injury. Simulated feeding injury tested in this study did not adequately mimic actual P. cruciferae feeding injury. Therefore, until an appropriate technique is found, mechanical injury cannot be relied on to substitute for P. cruciferae feeding injury.
Age-Specific Mortality of Helicoverpa zea and Heliothis virescens (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae) Larvae on Flower Buds of Transgenic Cotton Expressing Vip3A and VipCot™ Insecticidal Proteins
Authors: Bommireddy P. L. , Leonard B. R.
Published: September 2017

The age-specific mortality of bollworm, Helicoverpa zea (Boddie), and tobacco budworm, Heliothis virescens (F.), larvae was quantified on flower buds (squares) of transgenic Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) cotton expressing Vip3A and VipCot™ (Vip3A + CrylAb) proteins. Cumulative mortality levels for both species and all larval ages (2 d, 4 d, 6 d, and 8-d-old) were significantly higher on squares of the Vip3A and VipCot cotton lines compared with that for the nonBt Coker 312 cotton. In general, H. zea and H. virescens larvae demonstrated significantly lower survival on VipCot squares compared with larvae that were offered Vip3A squares. The final cumulative mortality levels of H. zea larvae occurred more rapidly than that observed for H. virescens larvae on Vip3A squares. On Vip3A squares, the rates of peak mortality were similar among H. zea age-classes. Heliothis virescens in 4, 6 and 8-d-old age-classes survived longer than 2-d-old larvae on Vip3A squares. However, on VipCot squares, 8-d-old larvae of both species survived longer compared with other age-classes. Regardless of age-class, no larvae of either species were capable of completing pupation on squares from the VipCot cotton line. The combination of two insecticidal proteins expressed in the VipCot cotton line improved heliothine efficacy levels above that of the single protein in the Vip3A line and should exceed the requirements of the cotton industry for registration and regulation of transgenic Bt cottons. This level of VipCot toxicity to both target species supports continued development of the technology to provide another useful transgenic tool with considerable IPM and IRM value.
Microstructure of Female Reproductive System of Phenacoccus fraxinus Tang (Hemiptera: Coccoidea: Pseudococcidae)
Authors: Fu Xiaohong , Xie Yingping , Zhang Xiaomin , Liu Weimin
Published: September 2017

The structure of the female reproductive system of the mealybug, Phenacoccus fraxinus Tang (Hemiptera: Coccoidea: Pseudococcidae), was studied using standard histological examination of serial sections of tissues embedded in paraffin and by scanning electron microscopy. Our studies revealed that the ovary of P. fraxinus has paired lateral oviducts comprised of numerous short ovarioles. Each ovariole consists of 1 trophic chamber, 1 egg chamber and 1 pedicel which connect to the bottom of the egg chamber. Three nurse cells were observed in the trophic chamber, whereas yolk, lipid droplets and an oocyte were seen in the egg chamber. Follicular cells were arranged along the wall of the egg chamber and extended to form the pedicel. Many tracheae and tracheoles of various thicknesses were observed innervating the clusters of ovaries.
Efficacy of Insecticides Against Acrosternum hilare and Euschistus servus (Hemiptera: Pentatomidae) in Virginia and North Carolina
Authors: Kamminga Katherine L. , Herbert D. Ames , Kuhar Thomas P. , Malone Sean , Koppel Amanda
Published: September 2017

Laboratory bioassays and field trials were conducted to evaluate the efficacy of selected organophosphate, pyrethroid, and neonicotinoid insecticides, as well as a chitin inhibitor, novaluron, against 2 common stink bug pests in Virginia, the green stink bug, Acrosternum hilare (Say), and the brown stink bug, Euschistus servus (Say). Green bean dip bioassays revealed differences in insecticide susceptibility between the 2 species. Acrosternum hilare adults were highly susceptible to all pyrethroids tested, the organophosphates except acephate, and the neonicotinoids except acetamiprid. Acrosternum hilare nymphs were also susceptible to all pyrethroids tested. In general, the neonicotinoids, dinotefuran and clothianidin, were toxic to A. hilare, whereas thiamethoxam and acetamiprid were toxic to E. servus. In field trials in soybean, the neonicotinoids, dinotefuran, imidacloprid, and thiamethoxam were efficacious at controlling stink bugs and, in general, performed comparably to the organophosphates and pyrethroids. These results indicate that neonicotinoid insecticides offer an alternative to growers for managing stink bugs that may fit with integrated pest management programs where conservation of natural enemies is a consideration.
Pest Insects and Natural Enemies in Transitional Organic Cotton in Georgia
Authors: Tillman Glynn , Lamb Marshall , Mullinix Benjamin
Published: September 2017

This research was conducted in experimental plots in Georgia from 2004 through 2006 and assessed the prospects for transitioning to a totally organic management system for cotton. The seasonal abundance of insect pests and their natural enemies over the 3-yr transitional period are reported herein. The heliothines, Heliothis virescens (F.) and Helicoverpa zea (Boddie), and stink bugs, mainly Nezara viridula (L.), Euschistus servus (Say), and Euschistus quadrator (Rolston), were the 2 groups of insect pests found on cotton. Heliothine larvae were observed each year of the study but, in general, infestations of heliothines were higher in 2004 than in the other 2 yrs. Stink bugs were observed in relatively high numbers, and the percent of cotton bolls damaged by these pests was high only during year 2 of the study. Over the 3-yr period, the red imported fire ant, Solenopsis invicta Buren, various spiders, including Oxyopes scalaris Hentz and Peucetia viridans (Hentz), the big-eyed bug, Geocoris punctipes (Say), and the pirate bug, Orius insidiosus (Say), were the most abundant predators of the heliothines and stink bugs. The endoparasitoid Toxoneuron nigriceps Viereck and an ascovirus also contributed to larval mortality of H. virescens. The endoparasitoid Trichopoda pennipes (F.) parasitized adults of N. viridula.
Laboratory Mortality and Mycosis of Adult Curculio caryae (Coleoptera: Curculionidae) Following Application of Metarhizium anisopliae in the Laboratory or Field
Authors: Shapiro-llan David I. , Cottrell Ted E. , Gardner Wayne A. , Leland Jarrod , Behle Robert W.
Published: September 2017

The pecan weevil, Curculio caryae (Horn), is a key pest of pecans. The entomopathogenic fungi Beauveria bassiana (Balsamo) Vuillemin and Metarhizium anisopliae (Metschnikoff) Sorokin are pathogenic to C. caryae. One approach to suppressing this pest may be to apply entomopathogenic fungi to adult C. caryae when they are emerging from the soil. However, thus far, laboratory screening of fungal isolates has been focused mostly on virulence to larval C. caryae, and published field trials on adult control have focused on application of B. bassiana. Our objective was to determine the potential of M. anisopliae to control emerging C. caryae adults. First, a laboratory test was conducted to compare 4 B. bassiana strains (Bb GA2, BbLA3, BbMS1, and GHA) and 3 M. anisopliae strains (F52, MaLA4, and MaLA7) for virulence to C. caryae adults. Virulence of the M. anisopliae strains was equal or greater than B. bassiana strains. Subsequently, a commercially available M. anisopliae strain (F52) was tested under field conditions when applied as a narrow fiber band that was impregnated with fungus and wrapped around the tree trunk, and/or when applied directly to the soil. In 2005, we applied M. anisopliae as trunk bands with or without additional application to the soil in the same plots. In 2006, we applied trunk bands or soil applications in separate plots. For 15 d posttreatment, weevils were trapped and transported to the laboratory to record mortality and mycosis. In 2005, weevil emergence was extremely low and statistical analysis was only feasible 3d posttreatment (at which time no treatment differences were detected), and 15 d posttreatment, at which time higher mortality and mycosis was observed in both the trunk band application and the trunk band + ground treatment compared with a nontreated control (and no difference between the two fungal treatments was detected). In 2006 overall average C. caryae mycosis was higher in trunk band and ground treatment compared with an untreated control, whereas average total mortality (from the fungus or other causes) was not different among treatments except at 8 d post treatment (in which only the band treatment was significantly greater than the control). It must be noted that our evaluation of efficacy was only an estimation of potential insect control (as opposed to actual field suppression of C. caryae) because our analysis was based on C. caryae mortality following transport to controlled environmental conditions. Nonetheless, our research indicates that trunk band or ground applications of M. anisopliae may have potential to cause significant infection in C. caryae populations.
Replacement Names for Some Preoccupied Chalcidoid Genera (Hymenoptera: Chalcidoidea)
Authors: Darilmaz Mustafa C. , Özdikmen Hüseyin
Published: September 2017

Eight junior homonyms that were described by hymenopterologist Z. Bouček were found among the hymenopteran genus group names. Thus, the following replacement names are proposed as follows: In Pteromalidae: Pteromalinae; Neobabina nom. nov. for Babina Bouček, 1993 (nec Thompson, 1912), Austrobriania nom. nov. for Briania Bouček, 1988 (nec Chasen & Kloss, 1930), Noyesiella nom. nov. for Duartea Bouček, 1993 (nec Mendes, 1959), and Neocairnsia nom. nov. for Cairnsia Bouček, 1988 (nec Blackburn, 1895); in Pteromalidae: Ormocerinae; Boucekocerna nom. nov. for Cerna Bouček, 1988 (nec Klimaszewski, 1974) and Neoedgaria nom. nov. for Edgaria Bouček, 1988 (nec Klimaszewski, 1974); in Pteromalidae: Miscogasterinae; Neosusteraia nom. nov. for Susteraia Bouček, 1972 (nec Bechyné, 1950), and; in Agaonidae: Sycoryctinae; Hymenotenka nom. nov. for Tenka Bouček, 1988 (nec Barrande, 1881). Accordingly, new combinations are herein proposed for the species currently included in these genus group names, respectively: Neobabina gracilis (Bouček, 1993) comb. nov. from Babina gracilis Bouček, 1993; Austrobriania kukensis (Bouček, 1988) comb. nov. from Briania kukensis Bouček, 1988; Noyesiella daphne (Girault, 1917) comb. nov. from Duartea daphne (Girault, 1917); Neocairnsia stylifera (Bouček, 1988) comb. nov. from Cairnsia stylifera Bouček, 1988; Boucekocerna kohouti (Bouček, 1988) comb. nov. from Cerna kohouti Bouček, 1988; Neoedgaria blackburni (Girault, 1928) comb. nov. from Edgaria blackburni (Girault, 1928); Neosusteraia acerina (Bouček, 1972) comb. nov. from Susteraia acerina (Bouček, 1972) and Hymenotenka percaudata (Bouček, 1988) comb. nov. from Tenka percaudata Bouček, 1988.