bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Ecological Studies on Aphides infesting the Potato Crop
Authors: Davies W. Maldwyn
Published: July 2009

1. Ecological studies on aphides attacking potatoes were commenced in 1928 with a view to elucidating certain problems of entomological interest and also the role of these insects as vectors of disease. The species include, Myzus persicae, Sulz., Macrosiphum gei, Koch, and Myzus pseudosolani, Theo.

2. The present study is confined mainly to the infestation of aphides on potatoes at a selected centre which is described.

3. Solitary apterous viviparous females were in a majority on potatoes during the period of initial infestation in early June. Their presence is explained by (1) the overwintering of aphides on weeds and field plants, (2) the first few alatae depositing single nymphs and then migrating, (3) infection from infested seed.

4. The maximum infestation was reached during mid-July, when 86 per cent. of the leaves were infested and there was an average of 2·8 aphides to a leaf. The infestation was below that of the previous three years. Macrosiphum gei bred up rapidly, at first on the flower-heads, and was the predominant species, its decline in numbers being equally rapid. Myzus persicae increased more slowly and did not reach such numbers, but the maximum was maintained longer and the disappearance of the species was delayed. Myzus pseudosolani was only taken in August and then in small numbers.

5. An estimate of the intensity of the aphis population is attempted, and in the present moderate infestation of 2·8 aphides to a leaf it was of the order of 2,000,000 aphides to an acre of potatoes.

6. A technique was established to ascertain the movement of aphides within the crop. Weekly records on observational leaves revealed that 100 per cent. of the aphides moved their site and at least 84 per cent. of each species moved from leaf to leaf within the weekly period. Daily records during the period of maximum infestation showed that 84 per cent. of Macrosiphum gei and 73 per cent. of Myzus persicae changed site within 24 hours, and of these at least 50 per cent. moved from the leaves upon which they had been observed.

7. It was noted that no attempt was made to maintain large local colonies, for the movement of both adults and nymphs was frequent, and observed colonies soon dispersed. The extended infestation of Myzus persicae is discussed with reference to its establishment on field plants, other than potatoes, during the autumn and winter.
Some Australian Species of Calliphora (Subgenera Neopollenia and Proekon)
Authors: Hardy G. H.
Published: July 2009

While on a recent visit to Victoria and South Australia, I made an attempt to collect long series of Calliphoras belonging to the subgenera Neopollenia and Proekon; a special visit was made for this purpose to Seaford and to Western Port, Victoria, the type localities of C. hilli, Patton, and C. rufipes, Macquart, respectively. The collections made represent at least seven species of Neopollenia and two of Proekon.
Ecological Notes on theSirexWood Wasps and their Parasites
Authors: Hanson H. S.
Published: July 2009

1. The ecological study ofSirexand its parasites was begun in 1927 and continued while making large-scale collections of the parasites for shipment to New Zealand with the ultimate object of the control ofSirex noctilio, a species of woodwasp which has been established in the Dominion for many years.

2. A brief outline of the life-cycle ofSirexand the parasites is given. The difference in the method of attack by the parasites on the host is described, and some points of interest in connection with insect behaviour are discussed.

3. The methods of collection are described and particulars given about the number of parasites collected.

4. The inter-relationship of the host and parasites is discussed. It is shown that a single generation ofSirexcan support three generations ofRhyssaand one generation ofIbalia, and that the effects of parasitism byRhyssaare cumulative. The percentage of parasitism byRhyssacannot, therefore, be calculated on the results of any one year.Rhyssais intrinsically superior toIbaliaand super-parasitism ofIbaliabyRhyssais of very frequent occurrence. It is shown that the figures for parasitism byIbaliaobtained by the dissection ofSirexlarvae collected from a number of logs, over a period including summer months, are liable to be very misleading.
New Species of Braconidae (Hymenoptera)
Authors: Nixon G. E. J.
Published: July 2009

This paper deals with seven Indian species and one African variety belonging to the subfamilies Spathiinae and Doryctinae. Four of the species are important parasites of the cotton stem weevil, Pempheres affinis, Fst., and are described as new in compliance with an urgent request for their names.
Keys to the known Larvae and Adults of West African Anopheline Mosquitoes
Authors: Leeson H. S.
Published: July 2009

These keys and illustrations have been prepared in response to many requests. They concern only those species of Anopheles which have been recorded as occurring in West Africa south of the Sahara Desert as far as the equator. Much of the material has been derived from the recent Monograph by the late Dr. A. M. Evans on the Anophelines of the Ethiopian Region published by the British Museum in 1938. Personal acquaintance with the Anophelines of East and South Africa and examination of the specimens in the collection of the Department of Entomology of the London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine have assisted in the preparation of the keys.
The Results of Shipments of the Predatory Elaterid Beetle Pyrophorus luminosus from Puerto Rico to England
Authors: Bartlett K. A.
Published: July 2009

At the request of Dr. W. R. Thompson, Superintendent, Farnham House Laboratory, The Imperial Institute of Entomology, England, arrangements were made in 1936 to collect and furnish to him larvae of the predacious Elaterid Pyrophorus luminosus, Illiger, indigenous to Puerto Rico. These beetles were for liberation in Mauritius to aid in the control of the white grub, Phytalus smithi, Arrow. Shipments were sent by steamer from Puerto Rico to New York and then to England for repacking and shipment to Mauritius. The Mauritius government appropriated the sum of 85 pounds sterling to defray the expense of collection, packing and shipment.
Problems concerning the Efficiency of Oils as Mosquito Larvicides.—II. The spreading Power of Oils and Methods of increasing it
Authors: Murray David R. P.
Published: July 2009

1. A method is described of using the Adam-Langmuir surface pressure trough for the direct measurement of the spreading power of oils against surface contamination.

2. Pure higher paraffins are non-spreading and pure aromatics have only a small spreading pressure. Commercial grades of oils owe what spreading pressure they have to impurities which are only present in small quantities and can be removed.

3. The spreading power of oil is greatly increased by irradiation of very thin layers of the oil. Even so, only a small fraction undergoes chemical change, the great bulk being recoverable with its original properties.
The Ecology of the Puparium of Glossina in Northern Nigeria
Authors: Nash T. A. M.
Published: July 2009

1. The female tsetse extrudes her larva on soils ranging from fairly heavy clay to coarse sand; the presence or absence of organic matter seems to be immaterial.

2. The soil temperature varies greatly in different breeding-grounds in the dry season, but little in the rains.

3. The soil water content varies greatly in different breeding-grounds in the rains, but little in the dry season.

4. The soil water content in some of the breeding-grounds falls so low in the dry season that there can be no doubt that the atmosphere in these soils is below saturation.

5. Evaporation measured at 5 inches above ground-level varies little from site to site; bigger and important differences occur at greater heights above the ground where the screening effects of thicket become operative.

6. The seasonal changes are so great at Gadau that no one breeding-ground can satisfy the female's requirements throughout the year; instead, different breeding-places are selected for different seasons.

7. The cycle for G. morsitans is as follows: In the rains breeding occurs under palm fronds and logs in the open woodland. In the early dry season breeding continues in the open woodland, but shifts from the palm and log sites to the small thickets; breeding also starts in the more open parts of the forest islands. At the beginning of the very hot weather all the thickets of the open woodland are evacuated, and breeding is confined to the densest parts of the forest islands. In the early rains the movement is reversed: breeding shifts out into the open woodland, and in the heavy rains is confined to the log and palm sites.

This cycle fits in closely with the cycle for the seasonal concentration and dispersal of the adult population (Nash 1937, pp. 85–90).

8. The major wet season breeding-ground of G. tachinoides is unknown, but the cycle is believed to be as follows: In the early dry season breeding shifts from the log, palm, and probably from the unknown site, to the small thickets and forest islands, and becomes maximal in the cold season. Breeding now decreases in all sites, suggesting that none is really suitable—a surmise which is strengthened when tremendous breeding activity starts in the river-bed, as soon as it becomes available at the beginning of the hot season. In the early rains this site is destroyed and breeding is believed to commence in the unknown site, as it certainly does under the logs and palms.
The Ephialtes (Hym. Ichn.) parasitising the Codling Moth
Authors: Perkins J. F.
Published: July 2009

The Ephialtes which have been bred from the codling moth, Cydia pomonella, L., have usually been determined as Ephialtes (Calliephialtes) extensor, Taschenberg 1863. Two species have been confused under this name, and neither of them is E. extensor, which, from the description and from material examined in the Brauns and Thomson collections, is a synonym of Ephialtes punctulata, Ratzeburg (═Pimpla punctulata, Ratz. 1844) (syn. nov.). The type of the latter species has been examined, as have the types of Ephialtes caudata, Ratzeburg 1848, and E. crassiseta, Thomson 1877, which are the two species that were actually bred from the codling moth. These species may be readily distinguished by the relative lengths of the segments of the hind tarsi and also in the female by the form of the ovipositor. The following key distinguishes the three species mentioned above.
Contribution to the Physical Ecology of Tortrix postvittana, Walk. (Lep.)
Authors: Dumbleton L. J.
Published: July 2009

1. The thermal constant and the zero of the velocity curve have been determined for each of the pre-adult stages of Tortrix postvittana, Walk. The experimental methods are described. The thermal constant for the eggs is 153 day degrees C. and the zero of the velocity curve 4·80°C. The corresponding constants for the larvae are 469 day degrees C. and 8·05°C, and for the pupae 182 day degrees C. and 5·93°C.

2. The experimentally determined constants and the mean monthly temperatures have been used to calculate the peak of the flight period of the adult moths at Huonville, Tasmania, during the 1935, 1936 and 1937 seasons. In three cases out of four the calculated dates approximate very closely to the observed dates for the peak of the flight period.

3. The results of observations on the number, duration and head-widths of the larval instars are given. The majority of larvae fed on young apple leaves had four instars. A greater proportion of the larvae fed on mature apple leaves had more than four instars. The length of larval life at 25°C. is significantly longer for both male and female larvae when they are fed on mature leaves. The head width of the final instar of four-instar female larvae is significantly greater than that of the final instar of four-instar male larvae. Food quality has no apparent influence on the head width of the final instar of either male or female larvae.

4. At 25°C. the length of larval life of female larvae is significantly longer than that of male larvae when both are fed on the same food ; the same tendency is exhibited at other temperatures. The separate velocity curves for male and female larvae are not significantly different in slope. The difference between velocity values for male and female larvae at the mean temperature approaches significance.

5. Larval mortality increases rapidly at temperatures above 30°C. and 100 per cent, mortality occurs at 35°C. Starved larvae at low temperatures and high humidities show a tendency for the survival time to increase with the size of the larvae. Final instar larvae under these conditions can survive for two and a half months.
A new Malayan Species of Helopeltis (Rhynchota, Capsidae)
Authors: Miller N. C. E.
Published: July 2009

The new species described herein was found, in the first instance, on cacao (Theobroma cacao, L.) at the Central Experiment Station, Serdang, Selangor, Federated Malay States. Later on, a few specimens were caught on the leaves of annatto (Bixa orellana, L.) plants situated at about two hundred yards from the area planted with cacao.
New injurious Curculionidae from Southern Africa
Authors: Marshall Guy A. K.
Published: July 2009

♂♀. Derm piceous, with very variable grey and brown scales, not forming any definite pattern, usually the brown scales predominating, but sometimes the grey; the scales on the elytra broader and longer than usual, fairly dense but not entirely concealing the derm.
The Gall Midges attacking the Seed-heads of Cocksfoot,Dactylis glomerata, L
Authors: Barnes H. F.
Published: July 2009

An account is given of four gall midges whose larvae damage the seed of cocksfoot, viz.Contarinia dactylidis(H. Lw.),Dasyneura dactylidis, Metcalfe,Sitodiplosis dactylidiswhich is described from England and Ireland in the present paper, andStenodiplosis geniculati, Reuter. The occurrence of predacious midges of the genusLestodiplosisis also noted.

A short section is devoted to characters by which these midges can be distinguished.

Stenodiplosis geniculatiis recorded from one English and two Irish localities on cocksfoot grass for the first time, hitherto it has always been recorded from foxtail. These midges, together with some experimentally bred on cocksfoot from foxtail parents, exhibit the typical characters of this species.

A new variety,Stenodiplosis geniculativar.dactylidis, is described from cocksfoot in New Zealand.

In a discussion of the host-plant specificity of gall midges attacking grass seeds, it is suggested that the present discovery ofS. geniculation cocksfoot in England and Ireland and the occurrence in New Zealand of this new variety exhibiting distinct morphological characters are two steps in the evolution of a new species.

I am indebted to Miss F. M. L. Sheffield for taking the photographs used to illustrate Plate IV. They were taken to show the comparative lengths of the antennal segments and not the chaetotaxy. I am also indebted to Mr. P. S. Milne who took the photographs used to illustrate Plate V.
Further Notes on the Food-plants of Nigerian Insects. V.
Authors: Golding F. D.
Published: July 2009

In 1927, 1931, 1935 and 1937 the writer published four papers on the food-plants of Nigerian insects in this Bulletin (18, pt. 1; 22, pt. 2; 26, pt. 2; and 28, pt. 1). The present paper contains additional data obtained between April 1936 and October 1939.
Notes on some Coccinellidae (Col.) from Islands in the Indian Ocean
Authors: Vesey-Fitzgerald Desmond
Published: July 2009

This species is found on most of the islands of the Seychelles archipelago including the sand cays of the Amirantes group. It is said to have been introduced about sixty years ago to prey on the Coccid pest Icerya seychellarum, which is reported to have been the most serious pest of coconuts in the Colony at that time. The Icerya is the only prey of R. chermesina, and the latter has evidently kept the former in check on coconut but is unable to prevent occasional damage being done to fruit and other trees. The plants most frequently damaged by Icerya are:—Jak fruit, bread fruit, banana, avocado, citrus and forest tree seedlings, notably Eucalyptus, Albizzia and Casuarina. On certain islands where Rodolia is not present Icerya still occasionally damages coconut. Vedalia cardinalis, the famous predator of Icerya purchasi, also feeds on Icerya seychellarum in captivity, but, to date, liberations have failed to establish this species in Seychelles. Hence R. chermesina remains the most effective known predator of I. seychellarum under Seychelles conditions. No parasites are known from R. chermesina in Seychelles, but the black ant, Technomyrmex albipes, which constantly attends Icerya in large numbers, drives away the Coccinellid.
Melittomma insulare, Fairm. (Col. Lymexylonidae), a serious Pest of Coconut in the Seychelles
Authors: Vesey-Fitzgerald Desmond
Published: July 2009

1.Melittomma insulareis a serious pest of coconuts in parts of Seychelles and Madagascar.

2. In Seychelles the insect is only known from a few of the islands, its distributio being dependent on the original distribution of its primitive host-plants which are two species of endemic palms.

3. The eggs are laid under cover in batches and hatch in eleven days. The larvae feed in galleries in the base of the trunk for an indefinite period depending on the sappiness of the wood. Pupation takes place in the enlarged end of a boring. The adult is nocturnal and short-lived.

4. The damage caused depends on the age and situation of the tree which is attacked. Other things being equal trees growing on good soils are damaged least.

5. Several other species of insects are associated withMelittomma, but all are of minor importance.
Insects associated with Cocoa (Theobroma cacao) in Malaya
Authors: Miller N. C. E.
Published: July 2009

The planting of cocoa in Malaya at the present time must be considered to have reached the experimental stage only, and the data obtained so far are insufficient to warrant a recommendation for its adoption either as a plantation or a small-holder's crop.
The Survival of unfedPediculus humanus corporis, De Geer (Anoplura) at different Temperatures
Authors: Leeson H. S.
Published: July 2009

The object of this investigation was to discover the extreme length of life of nymphs and adults ofPediculus humanuscorporis, de Geer, when starved at different temperatures. It is important to know this for practical reasons. Though it is impossible to complete the experiments as originally designed, it is considered that such information as has been accumulated should be recorded.
Biology of the Cotton Stem-Weevil,Pempherulus affinis, Fst., under controlled physical Conditions
Authors: Krishna Ayyar P. N. , Margabandhu V.
Published: July 2009

1. This preliminary paper is an attempt to elucidate the intricate relationship existing betweenPempherulusand its physical environments.

2. A convenient technique adapted for evaluating the effects of major climatic factors, such as humidity and temperature, in the case ofPempherulushas been described.

3. Its occurrence only in the irrigated crops is attributable to its high requirements of moisture.

4. A lengthy exposure is necessary to kill the adults in temperatures of 113° and 106°F. An exposure of 6 hours seems to kill them in 122°F. and 48 hours in 113°F. The upper thermal death-point lies roughly near 122°F.

5. The upper vital temperature limit is seen to lie near 100°F. It is indifferent to variation in humidity above 100°F.

6. Adult life is prolonged as the temperature is lowered (within a range descending from 122°F. to 91 °F.) from a longevity of 6 hours to a period of 98 days, respectively. A maximum longevity of over three months is obtained with oviposition, in a mean humidity of 73 per cent, and 91 °F. A high degree of humidity (such as 60 per cent, and 80 per cent.) is necessary in normal temperatures (such as 93°F.) for obtaining maximum adult longevity.

7. Within vital limits the optimum humidity requirements vary directly with the temperature. In 93°F. the optimum lies between 60 per cent, and 80 per cent. R.H. and in 100°F. between 80 per cent, and 100 per cent. R.H.
Notes on the Biology and immature Stages of Cryptophagus acutangulus, Gyll. (Col., Cryptophagidae)
Authors: Hinton H. E. , Stephens F. L.
Published: July 2009

An account is given of a series of experiments on the feeding habits of Cryptophagus acutangulus, Gyll. It was shown that this species will feed readily on a wide variety of fungi and will only rarely ingest other foods. It thrived when fed exclusively on Penicillium conidia. C. acutangulus is capable of the internal mechanical and external transmission of fungi. Approximately 15 per cent. of the Penicillium conidia germinate after passing through the alimentary canal, and these conidia are so affected that they have an enhanced germination rate. The larvae feed exclusively on the spores and hyphae of fungi.

A complete life-history from egg to adult is given. The larvae and pupae are described for the first time, and a description of the adult is also given.
On the African Species of Phyllotreta (Col., Halticinae)
Authors: Bryant G. E.
Published: July 2009

The genus Phyllotreta has a world-wide range, and contains many serious pests of cultivated crops. Of the 28 described species from Africa, there are few records at present as to their food-plants. The species with yellow longitudinal bands are all very closely related to European species, and could easily be confused with them, but none in the British Museum collection agrees with described European species. G. Grandi has recorded the European species P. memorum, L., from S.W. Africa, and I think it is possible that this is a misidentification. It is almost certain that all the African species will prove to be serious pests.
Studies of insecticide resistance in Myzus persicae (Sulz.) (Hem., Aphididae)
Authors: Sudderuddin K. Ismail
Published: July 2009

Ten insecticides were assayed for toxicity against an unselected and a resistant strain of Myzus persicae (Sulz.). Of the six topically applied insecticides parathion was the most effective, followed by diazoxon, diazinon, aldrin, dichlorvos and p, p′DDT in that order, while the resistance levels were, in descending order, parathion, dichlorvos, diazinon, diazoxon, p, p′DDT and aldrin. Of the four systemic insecticides, pirimicarb was most toxic, followed by dimethoate, phorate and demeton in that order, while resistance ratios were in descending order dimethoate, phorate, demeton and pirimicarb. The organophosphorus resistance spectrum for M. persicae indicated that more than one resistance mechanism is involved, and that resistance acts against diethoxy and dimethoxy compounds.
Light-trap and suction-trap catches of insects in the northern Gezira, Sudan, in the season of southward movement of the Inter-Tropical Front
Authors: Bowden John , Gibbs David G.
Published: July 2009

Catches in light-traps adjoining cotton were obtained at the time of seasonal southward movement of the Inter-Tropical Front (ITF) in October, and during most of the following two months. Taxa studied were mostly Orthoptera and moths, many associated with sorghum, others long-distance migrants. Suction-trap catches at three heights up to 50 ft were obtained for short periods in October and November, and aircraft catches at 250 ft were also available on two days. Suction-trap catches of grass-feeding Homoptera suggest that displacement of these insects was associated with changes in wind direction marking movement of the ITF in October. The exact form of the displacement system in relation to the front cannot be reconstructed from catches at a single place, but it seems likely that proximity of the front at or soon after the time of a brief period of crepuscular activity stimulates insects to take flight and rise to 50 ft or more so that they are displaced. In many taxa, light-trap catches showed a regular pattern of increase, with only slight nightly fluctuations from a logarithmic trend, following full moon. Other increases were superimposed on this pattern at times when the ITF passed north of the trap site, and in some taxa particularly when it was far north. The pattern of change after full moon, shown most clearly in taxa with source populations close to the trap, was related to the moon's influence on the range of trap effectiveness. But various qualitative variations suggest that, in addition, aspects of behaviour or development may have adaptive relationships to the lunar cycle; variations include differences between taxa, particularly in timing of catch changes, and increasing proportion and decreasing maturity of females of certain taxa at the time of the regular increases in catch.
Some observations on Aedes (Aedimorphus) dentatus (Theo.) (Dipt., Culicidae) in Kenya
Authors: Metselaar D. , van Someren E. C. C. , Ouma J. H. , Koskei H. K. , Gemert W.
Published: July 2009

Investigations were carried out on the ecology of Aedes (Aedimorphus) dentatus (Theo.) in the Ngong Forest near Nairobi between 22 June and 10 September 1971. Five 24-h collections on human bait showed that Ae. dentatus is predominantly a daytime biter with a peak of activity around sunset. At the time of its greatest activity none came to bite on the 7- or 10-m platforms. Of 94 blood-meal specimens, 50 were of Bovid origin (cattle), 18 from unidentified Bovids, 13 from unidentified mammals, one from a bird, three from any primate and nine did not react with the antisera used. Resting adults were frequently found underneath leaves of Hypoestes verticillaris, a herb which grows in partly shaded areas in the forest near the forest edge. A few adults came to bite in a house outside the forest not far from the forest edge. Breeding places were not found. The evidence for Ae. dentatus being a vector of yellow fever is inconclusive. The 33 other species of mosquitoes collected are listed.
A low Density of Tsetse Flies associated with a high Incidence of Sleeping Sickness
Authors: Nash T. A. M.
Published: July 2009

In 1935, Dr. Anderson made a sleeping sickness survey of the Kudaru District of Zaria Emirate, Northern Nigeria, where he found a high incidence of the disease. In the extreme case of the small hamlet of Sambo, he recorded a 70 per cent, infection rate among the 43 inhabitants.

The writer followed up this survey with an entomological investigation in the late dry season, and paid particular attention to. this hamlet.
Studies on the feeding patterns of mosquitoes of the genera Ficalbia, Mimomyia and Uranotaenia in the Kisumu area of Kenya
Authors: Boreham P. F. L. , Chandler J. A. , Highton R. B.
Published: July 2009

A total of 167 blood-fed mosquitoes of the genera Ficalbia, Mimomyia and Uranotaenia was collected from the Kisumu area of Kenya using Monks Wood light-traps under the outside eaves of houses, CDC light-traps inside houses and sweep-net catches. Precipitin tests were used to obtain 72 positive identifications of the hosts, 89% of which were amphibia. M. mediolineata (Theo.) and M. splendens Theo. were shown to feed occasionally on man while U. balfouri Theo. and M. hispida (Theo.) were shown to feed on other mammals, including cattle. No identification was effected from a single F. uniformis (Theo.) specimen collected resting in vegetation. The medical importance of these mosquitoes is uncertain but, since there is evidence for several arboviruses in amphibia, further study of these potential vectors should be undertaken.
Moonlight and the biting activity ofCulex (Melanoconion) portesiSenevet & Abonnenc andC. (M.) taeniopusD. & K. (Diptera, Culicidae) in Trinidad forests
Authors: Davies John B.
Published: July 2009

The biting activity ofCulex (Melanoconion) portesiSenevet & Abonnenc andC. (M.) taeniopusD. & K. in a secondary seasonal marsh forest in Trinidad was studied by means of catches by six mouse-baited suction traps, and a single light-trap. The traps were cleared at hourly intervals between 17.00 h and 07.00 h on nights which approximated to the new, first quarter, full and last quarter phases of the moon. The catches were compared with illumination at canopy and ground level which was estimated by selenium photocells whose output was recorded on the continuous chart of a servo-potentiometer. Humidity, rainfall, temperature and cloud cover were also recorded. In the suction traps both species showed peaks of activity at evening and dawn twilight at new moon, although the dawn peak was not very pronounced withC. taeniopus, but this pattern was modified on other nights in a manner which was consistent with moon age. At full moon the evening and dawn peaks were replaced by increased activity during moonrise and the middle of the night. The light-traps failed to show the evening and dawn activity and did not always duplicate the baited traps during darkness. Two hypotheses based on either a permissive range of illumination or an underlying circadian rhythm are discussed; neither fully explains the observed biting activity. Although an association between moonlight and biting activity does exist, an understanding of its nature will require more experimental data.
The biology and control of the pine sawfly, Nesodiprion biremis (Konow) (Hymenoptera, Diprionidae), in northern Thailand
Authors: Beaver R. A. , Laosunthorn Danee
Published: July 2009

Nesodiprion biremis (Konow) is a potential pest of pine nurseries and plantations in northern Thailand, attacking both native and exotic species. The eggs are laid in an aggregated pattern on fairly young or mature needles. There are normally six larval instars in both sexes. The larvae feed almost entirely on mature foliage unless food is short, and show little preference for particular species of pine. They are not markedly gregarious. Larval defence mechanisms are discussed. Cocoons are spun among the bases of living needles close to the stem. The life-cycle takes at least six weeks at 25–30°C, and there are probably 5–6 broadly overlapping generations each year. Egg mortality is normally low, but mortality of first-instar larvae due to inability to initiate a feeding site is high. Two parasites attack the larvae and at least four more species the cocoons. Shortage of food leads to the production of smaller adults with a reduced fecundity. Possible control strategies are discussed.
Termination of copulation and associated behaviour in Culicoides melleus (Coq.) (Diptera, Ceratopogonidae)
Authors: Linley J. R.
Published: July 2009

The nature and age dependence of behaviour of Culicoides melleus (Coq.) during and immediately after separation from copulation has been examined. Differences in the timing of events during separation, and consequent retention of the spermatophore, were ascribed to interplay of three factors: (i) the existence of age-dependent physiological mechanisms in both male and female that ‘time’ the course of copulation, (ii) female kicking behaviour which acts as a stimulus causing the male to release his claspers, and (iii) after clasper release, the separatory kicking performance of the female and simultaneous attempts by the male to free the spermatophore's capsule lodged in his genitalia. Post-separatory behaviour of both male and female was age-dependent, but only that of the male was influenced by the presence of the spermatophore. A retained spermatophore caused abdominal grooming to be initiated significantly more frequently as the first action after separation, and to occupy the insect for a substantially larger proportion of its time for the first two minutes after separation. In insects of both sexes, abdominal grooming was the dominant activity after separation giving way to grooming of other bodily parts and locomotory activity. Both young and old males and old females removed a retained spermatophore usually within 40 s of separation. Only very young females performed poorly in this respect, with spermatophores kept usually for at least several minutes and, in some instances, several hours.
A new species of Singapora Mahmood (Homoptera, Cicadelloidea) attacking Pterocarpus macrocarpus in Thailand
Authors: Ghauri M. S. K.
Published: July 2009

Singapora diversa sp.n. is described from specimens found breeding on Pterocarpus macrocarpus in Thailand, and a key is given to the four known species.
The nymphs of some Ixodid ticks (Acarina) from the eastern Cape Province of South Africa
Authors: Arthur Don R.
Published: July 2009

Descriptions are given of the nymphs of five species of ticks from the eastern Cape Province of South Africa, namely Amblyomma marmoreum Koch, A. nuttalli Dönitz, Hyalomma marginatum rufipes Koch, Rhipicephalus evertsi Neumann and Ixodes pilosus Koch. Distinguishing characters are illustrated in 32 scanning electron micrographs.
The dispersal and survival of laboratory-bred and native Glossina morsitans morsitans Westw. (Diptera, Glossinidae) in the field
Authors: Dame D. A. , Birkenmeyer D. R. , Nash T. A. M. , Jordan A. M.
Published: July 2009

The performance of native and laboratory-bred Glossina morsitans morsitans Westw. was observed in Kariba, Rhodesia, the original natural habitat of the colonised Langford strain. After two years in captivity, the Langford strain was similar to the native strain in survival, dispersal, and rate of recovery in the field. No differences were detected in laboratory studies of the mating behaviour of the two strains. Native-strain males sterilised in the pupal stage with tepa were similar to untreated males in dispersal, survival, and rate of recovery. Also, both the released laboratory-bred flies and the released native strain flies compared favourably with the native population.
The dispersion of brood galleries of Xyleborus fornicatus Eichh. (Coleoptera, Scolytidae) in tea plants
Authors: Sivapalan P.
Published: July 2009

The dispersion and density of brood galleries of the wood-boring ambrosia beetle, Xyleborus fornicatus Eichh., in the tea plant depends on the type of branch (primary, secondary and tertiary) and not on the total available length of branch nor on branch thickness. Within the different branch types, branch lengths and the numbers of galleries contained in them are directly related. Significantly more galleries are formed in the primary branches than in the secondaries, which themselves carry more than the tertiaries. For precise estimation of Xyleborus population density, a stratified sampling system, representing the different branch classes, will be required.
The crazy ant (Anoplolepis longipes (Jerd.) (Hymenoptera, Formicidae)) in Seychelles, and its chemical control
Authors: Lewis T. , Cherrett J. M. , Haines I. , Haines Jennifer B. , Mathias P. L.
Published: July 2009

The distribution and spread, interrelationship with other animals, and economic importance (mainly domestic) of Anoplolepis longipes (Jerd.) in Mahé, Seychelles, after its accidental introduction about 13 years ago, are described. Temporary control measures based on solid and liquid baits formulated largely from local materials were devised. Baits containing aldrin at 2·5% a.i. and applied at 10 kg (solid) and 20 kg (liquid)/ha decreased the abundance of foragers for about 50 days after treatment. Other insecticides tested were less effective. Bendiocarb (0·04% a.i.) sprayed onto walls of houses and buildings provided protection for about a week outdoors, and for up to two months indoors. There are good prospects for the eventual decline and stability of populations of this ant on Mahé.
The effect of plant density on populations of the cabbage root fly (Erioischia brassicae (Bch.)) and the cabbage stem weevil (Ceutorhynchus quadridens (Panz.)) on cauliflowers
Authors: Finch S. , Skinner G.
Published: July 2009

To study the effects of plant density on populations of the cabbage root fly (Erioischia brassicae (Bch.) ) and the cabbage stem weevil (Ceutorhynchus quadridens (Panz.)), cauliflowers were planted in 24 concentric circles to achieve spacings of 10–90 cm at 22 plant densities (1·5–83/m2). Some plants were treated with a root drench of chlorfenvinphos. Each week female cabbage root flies laid approximately three times as many eggs per individual plant at the lowest than at the highest plant densities tested. This was equivalent to approximately 350 and 5000 eggs/m2, respectively. The numbers of cabbage root fly pupae produced ranged from 11/m2 at the lowest to 210/m2 at the highest plant density. In the absence of an insecticide, increasing the plant density considerably increased the absolute population of the pest without affecting cauliflower yield. Approximately seven times as many flies were produced per unit area of untreated mini-cauliflowers as from an equivalent area of plants growing at a conventional density. When chlorfenvinphos was not applied, damage by the cabbage stem weevil occurred in 30% and 70% of the plants grown at the lowest and highest densities, respectively.
Mating behaviour and fecundity of the red bollworm Diparopsis castanea Hmps. (Lepidoptera Noctuidae)
Authors: Marks R. J.
Published: July 2009

Experiments in Malawi showed that the (log) number of males of Diparopsis castanea Hmps. attracted to sex pheromone traps was linearly related to the (log) number of virgin females used as attractant. Virgins remained sexually attractive for up to 31 days but were maximally attractive three nights following emergence; 97·7% of light-trapped females were mated, a small proportion having mated four times. Numbers of matings were directly correlated with temperature at 22.00 h, but relative humidity had little effect. Mean fecundity of mated females was 152 ± 10·3 eggs, multiple mating influencing egg fertility rather than total oviposition. Potential fecundity was linearly related to body weight on emergence. Peak oviposition of unfertilised eggs by virgins occurred at about nine nights following emergence. Of emerging females 2% were barren. Only 1·4% of females mated twice in one night when confined outdoors with males, and there was no difference in the abilities of newly emerged males or males up to four days old to mate with newly emerged females or females up to four days old. Although outdoors males mated on average 0·8 times per night throughout their life, and were capable of mating twice per night, mating propensity of males under laboratory conditions was much lower. Males responded to female sex pheromone throughout the calling period of the female, individuals completing up to 143 orientations during a night without the occurrence of lasting physiological habituation to the pheromone. The importance of this in any control programme aimed at disrupting pheromone communication between the sexes is discussed.
The identity of the greenhouse thrips Heliothrips haemorrhoidalis (Bouché) (Thysanoptera) and the taxonomic significance of spanandric males
Authors: Mound L. A.
Published: July 2009

The males of Heliothrips haemorrhoidalis (Bouché) are very rare and the species is thelytokous. Mutation of genes controlling male characteristics will therefore not be subject to selection, and so structural variation in these males is of no taxonomic significance. It is concluded that haemorrhoidalis and ceylonicus Schmutz represent one species in which the females vary in size, sculpture and colour throughout the tropics.
Blood feeding of Culicoides (Diptera, Ceratopogonidae) in Kenya in relation to the epidemiology of bluetongue and ephemeral fever
Authors: Walker A. R. , Boreham P. F. L.
Published: July 2009

Engorged Culicoides specimens were collected in light-traps from 16 sites in Kenya. The precipitin test was used to identify the blood-meal source of 682 specimens of 21 species over a period of five years. Culicoides pallidipennis C, I. & M. and C. schultzei (End.) were shown to feed mainly on cattle and to a lesser extent on sheep, and thus could be involved in the transmission of bluetongue virus. C. cornutus De Meillon, C. milnei Aust. and C. zuluensis De Meillon are probably not common enough as feeders on cattle and sheep to play more than an incidental role as vectors of bluetongue. C. schultzei is probably also important in the transmission of ephemeral fever. No groups of vertebrates other than Bovidae were implicated as virus reservoirs.
Direct ingestion of plant sap from cut leaves by the leaf-cutting antsAtta cephalotes(L.) andacromyrmex octospinosus(reich) (Formicidae, Attini)
Authors: Littledyke M. , Cherrett J. M.
Published: July 2009

Ingestion of radiolabelled plant juices from cut surfaces of leaves during foraging and during substrate preparation for the fungus garden was demonstrated for laboratory colonies of the leaf-cutting antsAtta cephalotes(L.) andAcromyrmex octospinosus(Reich). Using P32isotope, up to one-third of the radioactivity in the leaves was taken in directly by the colony as a whole, but this was much less when C14was used. Additional plant material was taken in by the ants via the fungus garden. Large numbers of ants spend time in investigating cut surfaces of leaves and also in cutting and crimping leaves. Ingestion of plant material during these processes could play an important nutritional role in the colony and this may explain why many ants return from foraging apparently unladen. Large ants obtained most of their plant juice intake during foraging and the medium and small ants took much of theirs during substrate preparation. Inhibitory chemicals did not affect cutting but they reduced drinking and also reduced the intake of P32from leaves during substrate preparation. The ants also ingested different amounts of P32from leaves of different acceptability. It is suggested that leaf-cutting ants use fungus culture as a means of ‘sidestepping’ plant inhibitors. Nutrients are ingested directly from leaves when these are palatable, and the less palatable components are made available to the ants via the fungus.
Female sex pheromone release and the timing of male flight in the red bollworm Diparopsis castanea Hmps. (Lepidoptera, Noctuidae), measured by pheromone traps
Authors: Marks R. J.
Published: July 2009

The female sex pheromone gland of Diparopsis castanea Hmps. consists of modified intersegmental tissue between the eighth and ninth abdominal segments. Glands contain an average of 12·73 ×10–3 μg of pheromone consisting of 80·4±2·0% trans-9, 11-dodecadien-l-yl acetate (range 72·7–86·7%) and 19·6±2·0% 11-dodecen-l-yl acetate (range 13·3–27·3%). Although no significant correlation exists between female body weight and pheromone content of the gland, the duration of sex pheromone release over the lifespan of a female is positively correlated with its weight on emergence. Six behavioural steps may be recognised in the precopulatory behaviour of females but the frequency and duration of sex pheromone release is strongly influenced by both temperature and light intensity. At 25°C females typically ‘call’ on two or more occasions for 41–50% of the night, calling commencing earlier at cool (13·4°C) temperatures than at moderate (19·4°C) or warm (25·0°C) temperatures. Calling by mated females increases considerably from four to five nights after mating but is typically of shorter duration than for virgins. The dispersal flight of Diparopsis males in cotton crops commences almost immediately after sunset and before the end of dusk, with peak male catches in sex pheromone traps occurring earlier in the cooler months of May and June (20.00–22.00 h) than in November (02.00–04.00 h). The Diparopsis synthetic sex pheromone, dicastalure, traps a greater proportion of males and females both earlier and later in the night than virgin females and this ‘timing advantage’ may be important in a pheromone control programme based on disruption of communication between the sexes.
Observations on the biology of some tropical rain forest Scolytidae (Coleo-ptera) from Fiji: I. Subfamilies—Hylesininae, Ipinae (excluding xyleborini)
Authors: Roberts Hywel
Published: July 2009

The biology of seventeen common species of rain forest bark beetles was studied during a six month visit to Fiji in 1973. Geographical and altitude ranges, and host plants are given; breeding galleries and brood composition are described in detail, and the significance of competitors, associates, and parasites is noted. The biology of an Ozodendron sp. is described for the first time, and of Cryphalomorphus sp. for the first time outside Africa. Most Fijian bark beetles show strong host preferences, and some of the most common endemics, such as Cryphalomorphus grosse-punctatus Browne, Hypocryphalus laticollis Browne and Ozodendron fijianus (Schedl) are apparently host specific. Among dominant trees of the rain forest only Myrtaceae and conifers (Dacrydium, Podocarpus), which are thin barked, are apparently free of bark beetles. Of note among biological features is the habit, not previously recorded for tropical bark beetles, of packing the egg galleries with frass after egg-laying has finished. Five species are potential pests of pines—Cryphalus variolosus Schedl, Cyrtogenius granulifer (Beeson), Ozodendron fijianus (Schedl), Poecilips cyperi (Beeson), P. fijianus Schedl. All were taken in endemic Pinaceae, and some in Pinus plantations as well. Lying within the tropical hurricane belt, living coniferous exotics in Fiji are potentially vulnerable to bark beetle attack when trees are under stress, as often occurs in the dry season.
Male sexual maturation of the tsetse fliesglossina morsitanswestwood andg. austeniNewstead (Dipt., Glossinidae) in relation to blood feeding
Authors: Foster Woodbridge A.
Published: July 2009

The effect of blood feeding on male sexual maturation in the tsetse fliesGlossina morsitansWestwood andG. austeniNewstead was studied by comparing copulation and insemination performance of unfed and fed males during the first five days of adult life. These species differed conspicuously, both in the course of maturation and in the influence of blood feeding on it.G. morsitansmales copulated before they could inseminate, and even fed flies did not all inseminate until day 3; unfed flies showed retarded insemination performance by day 2, before copulation performance declined.G. austenimales were less sexually responsive at first, but they nearly always inseminated when they did copulate, even on day 1. Unfed flies showed less increase in copulation performance by day 4, but no decline. Accessory glands were larger inG. austenithanG. morsitansat emergence, and in unfed flies of both species they ceased to grow after day 3. Both accessory gland size and copulation duration (beyond a minimum duration) were related to insemination success in a general way, though copulation duration was quite variable. Vertebrate blood apparently provides male tsetse with specific nutrients or stimuli which promote sexual performance, in addition to basic energy and water requirements. Feeding probably affects insemination inG. morsitansthrough accessory gland development, allowing more complete spermatophore formation and sperm transfer, but its mode of action onG. austenisexual responsiveness is not evident.
A new species of Anathamna Meyrick (Lepidoptera, Tortricidae) on Toona sureni in Papua New Guinea
Authors: Diakonoff A. , Bradley J. D.
Published: July 2009

A tortricid moth belonging to the subfamily Olethreutinae, reared from larvae feeding in seeds of Toona sureni (Meliaceae) in Papua New Guinea, is described and named Anathamna spermatophaga sp. n. Damage to the shoots was similar to that caused by larvae of the toon shoot and fruit boring pyralid moth Hypsipyla robusta (Moore).
African species of Phlebotomus, subgenus Synphlebotomus Theodor (Diptera, Psychodidae), with special reference to South West Africa
Authors: Lewis D. J. , Ledger J. A.
Published: July 2009

The subgenus Synphlebotomus of Phlebotomus is reviewed, and an illustrated key is given for the six African and two non-African species. The status of P. rossi De Meillon & Lavoipierre, the suspected vector of dermal leishmaniasis among animals in South West Africa, is revised, and it is described and illustrated in detail.