bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Control of tsetse and trypanosomiasis transmission in Uganda by applications of lambda‐cyhalothrin
Authors: OKOTH J. O. , OKETHI V. , OGOLA A.
Published: March 2008

Abstract. The pyrethroid insecticide lambda‐cyhalothrin was evaluated in field trials against Glossina f.fuscipes and sleeping sickness transmission in Iyolwa sub‐county, Tororo District, Uganda. The insecticide was applied selectively to the resting‐sites of tsetse, by bush‐spraying, using 10% wettable powder (10WP) formulation at an application rate of 11.6 g a.i./ha over an area of 28 km2, or by a 2% Electrodyn formulation (2ED) applied at 0.9 g a.i./ha over 30 km2. In a third trial area of 32 km2, 215 pyramidal traps treated with lambda‐cyhalothrin 100 mg/m2 were set.

The best impact was obtained with 10WP lambda‐cyhalothrin which eliminated tsetse within 1–2 months, whereas G.f.fuscipes persisted at very low density in part of the area treated with 2ED lambda‐cyhalothrin. In both treated areas the numbers of human sleeping sickness cases fell to no more than one per month, compared with four to twelve per month previously. The overall rate of cattle trypanosomiasis (T.brucei and T.vivax) was also reduced slightly. Insecticide‐treated traps remained fully effective for at least 6 months under field conditions and catches were reduced 20–90‐fold. These results in the control of tsetse and trypanosomiasis transmission lead us to recommend lambda‐cyhalothrin for tsetse control operations.
Reproductive compatibility and mitochondrial DNA restriction site analysis of New World screwworm, Cochliomyia hominivorax, from North Africa and Central America
Authors: TAYLOR DAVID B. , HAMMACK LESLIE , ROEHRDANZ RICHARD L.
Published: March 2008

Abstract.The reproductive compatibility of New World screwworms,Cochliomyia hominivorax(Coquerel), from North Africa and a strain being mass produced for the Mexican eradication programme was examined to assess the feasibility of using flies from the Mexican screwworm mass production facility for a sterile insect technique eradication programme in North Africa. Males from the production strain mated randomly with females from North Africa and from the production strain when both were present. Neither strain of males discriminated between cuticular extracts of North African and production strain females containing a contact sex pheromone. Interstrain crosses between North African flies and production flies were fertile and produced fertile progeny. Chromosome morphology did not differ significantly between the two strains and homologue pairing was normal in hybrid meiotic and polytene nuclei. Mitochondrial DNA restriction site analyses indicated that the genetic divergence of the North African strain from Mexican and Central American strains was within the range of the diversity observed in Central American, Mexican and Caribbean populations. Test results indicate that New World screwworms from North Africa are reproductively compatible with the strain currently being mass produced in Mexico. Mating barriers should not impede the progress of an eradication programme using the sterile insect technique in North Africa with sterile screwworms from the Mexican mass production facility.
Biochemical key to eight species of adult Egyptian mosquitoes
Authors: FARID HODA A. , GAD ADEL M. , SALEM AHMED M. , KASHEF AHMED H.
Published: March 2008

Abstract.

An electrophoretic key is described, based on enzyme relative mobility, to distinguish eight species of Egyptian mosquito adults.

Using horizontal starch gel electrophoresis, five different enzyme assays unambiguously separated Culex pipiens L., Cx antennatus (Becker), Cx pusillus Macquart, Aedes caspius (Pallas), Culiseta longiareolata (Macquart), Uranotaenia ungukulata Edwards, Anopheles multicolor Cambouliu and An.pharoensis Theobald.

Diagnostic loci between species were: Ak‐2, G6pcL a‐Gpd, Gpi and 6‐Pgd; the probability of correct diagnosis in each case was at least 0.989.
Activity and mating competitiveness of γHCH/dieldrin resistant and susceptible male and virgin female Anopheles gambiae and An.stephensi mosquitoes, with assessment of an insecticide‐rotation strategy
Authors: ROWLAND MARK
Published: March 2008

Abstract. The effects of γHCH/dieldrin resistance genes on flight activity and mating competitiveness were investigated in males from backcrossed strains of Anopheles gambiae Giles and An.stephensi Liston. Activity of males and virgin females of both species, as recorded in an acoustic actograph, occurred mainly at dusk (the E peak). The activity pattern of An.gambiae males was not affected by resistance genes; in mating competition and predator avoidance experiments, however, RR males were less successful than RS males which were less successful than SS males. The activity pattern of An.stephensi differed from An.gambiae in that the E peaks of RR males and females in a gradual dusk regime were out of synchrony with those of SS and RS, the E peaks of RR occurring slightly later. Thus, RR males and females tended to mate assortatively in mate competition experiments. When a sudden dusk regime was substituted for the gradual dusk regime, activity of RR An.stephensi became synchronized with SS and RS activity, but in mating competition experiments RR still tended to mate assortatively. Estimates of male competitiveness, together with previously‐obtained estimates of female fitness, were included in population genetics models. Computer simulations showed that the frequency of resistance in populations of An.gambiae and An.stephensi should decrease in the absence of insecticide at a rate comparable with known field reversions.
Pathogenicity of Spiroplasma taiwanense for larval Aedes aegypti mosquitoes
Authors: HUMPHERY‐SMITH IAN , GRULET ODILE , CHASTEL CLAUDE
Published: March 2008

Abstract. Helical replicative forms, but not the persistent non‐replicative forms, of Spiroplasma taiwanense Abalain‐Colloc et al. (isolated from the mosquito Anopheles sinensis Wiedemann in Taiwan) were shown to reduce significantly the survival of Aedes aegypti (L.) mosquito larvae reared in 10 ml of water with 0.3 ml of S.taiwanense suspensions added on days 0 and 3. The suspensions contained, respectively, helical forms at a concentration of 109 Colour Change Units (CCU)/ml and persistent forms at 106 CCU/ml. It is suggested that S.taiwanense, or toxins produced from it, are potentially useful for use in integrated mosquito control programmes.
Pupal parasitoids (Hymenoptera: Pteromalidae) of muscoid filth flies in Israel
Authors: HAVRON A. , MARGALIT J.
Published: March 2008

Abstract. Pupal parasitoids of muscoid flies were collected monthly on three farms in southern Israel in preparation for an IPM programme for the control of filth‐breeding flies.

50% and 25.5% of viable puparia collected during 1985 and 1986/87, respectively, were parasitized. Three species of Spalangia Latreille and two species of Muscidifurax Girault & Saunders (Hymenoptera: Pteromalidae) accounted for 82.0% and 94.2% of parasitoids recovered in the two seasons.

Variation in the seasonal abundance and distribution of the leading parasite species are discussed in connection with their conservation and possible use for augmentative releases within IPM projects.
Evaluation of the water fern Azolla microphylla for mosquito population management in the rice‐land agro‐ecosystem of south India
Authors: RAJENDRAN R. , REUBEN R.
Published: March 2008

Abstract. The floating water fern Azolla microphylla Kaulfess was evaluated as a biocontrol agent against mosquitoes breeding in rice fields in Tamil Nadu, South India. Anopheles subpictus Grassi, Culex pseudovishnui Colless and Culex tritaeniorhynchus Giles were the predominant species of mosquitoes, with peak densities of late instar larvae and pupae occurring during the second week after transplantation of rice seedlings of short‐term (c. 80 days from transplantation to harvest) or medium‐term (c. 95 days) varieties.

Immature mosquito populations were reduced by mats of Azolla microphylla covering more than 80% of the water surface. However, since 80% coverage by Azolla was achieved only 13–14 days after rice transplantation, its usefulness for mosquito control was limited. Azolla may have a greater potential in an integrated control programme, or in areas where long‐term varieties of rice are predominantly grown.
The biting rate of Triatoma infestans in Argentina
Authors: CATALÁ SILVIA
Published: March 2008

Abstract.

The daily proportion of fed individuals in a population of the reduviid bug Triatoma infestans (Klug), maintained under natural climatic conditions in experimental chicken houses in central Argentina, was estimated from the proportion of bugs retaining colourless urine in the rectum.

From the estimates of feeding frequency throughout a 1 year period, it was shown that temperature has a dominant effect on biting rate, but density‐dependent effects became apparent during the warmest months.

These and other data on the determinants of blood consumption by T.infestans, were incorporated into a detailed hypothesis of density regulation in this species.
Reproductive and developmental biology of the oriental cockroach Blatta orientalis (Dictyoptera)
Authors: SHORT J. E. , EDWARDS J. P.
Published: March 2008

Abstract. At 27oC and 45% r.h. in the laboratory, the oriental cockroach Blatta orientalis (L.) developed to adulthood in seven to nine instars for males (66% had eight instars) and eight to ten instars for females (67% had nine instars) in mixed groups, with up to twelve instars for isolated females. Nymphal development lasted 185 ± 2 days for males, 216 ±4 days for females, with 89% survival to adulthood. Adult longevity was significantly more for males than females in mixed groups. Virgin females lived for 135 ± 6 days compared with 87 ± 9 days for females kept with males. After an initial maturation time of 12.2–13.5 ± 0.4 days for mated and unmated females, oothecae were produced, on average, every 6–7 (range 2–29) days. Ootheca viability was 68% from females kept with males, 32% from females kept apart from males. Numbers of nymphs emerging were 14.1 ±0.26 after 45 days from mated female oothecae 8.2 ± 0.3 after 49 days from unmated females. With sexual reproduction the sex ratio of progeny reaching adulthood was 1.1 males per female (n= 443), whereas unmated females produced only female progeny, which is consistent with partheno‐genetic reproduction.

Drawings of the ventral aspect of the terminalia are given to show features useful for instar determination and for distinguishing between male and female nymphs and adults of B.orientalis.
Distribution of Oriental and German cockroaches, Blatta orientalis and Blattella germanica (Dictyoptera), in the United Kingdom
Authors: ALEXANDER J. BRUCE , NEWTON JOHN , CROWE GRAHAM A.
Published: March 2008

Abstract. Results are presented of a survey carried out by Rentokil Ltd on the distribution of the Oriental cockroach Blatta orientalis L. and the German cockroach Blattella germanica L. in the United Kingdom. The known ranges of both species are increased considerably by the findings of the survey, with several new vice‐county records for Scotland (including the Western Isles), England and Wales. The frequency at which Blatta orientalis was observed in outdoor habitats may indicate that this species sometimes spreads to new areas without human assistance.
Studies on the possible role of cattle nuisance flies, especially Hydrotaea irritans, in the transmission of summer mastitis in Denmark
Authors: MADSEN MOGENS , SØRENSEN GUNNER HØI , NIELSEN SØREN ACHIM
Published: March 2008

Abstract. The summer mastitis pathogens Actinomyces pyogenes, Peptococcus indolicus, Bacteroides melaninogenicus ss. levii, Fuso‐bacterium necrophorum and Streptococcus dysgalactiae were isolated from the polyphagous symbovine dipterans Hydrotaea irritans (Fallen) and Morellia sp. caught around dairy heifers on pasture, but not from the haematophagous species Haematobia irritans (L.), Haematobosca stimulans (Meigen), Culicoides sp. and Simulium sp. Secretions from clinical cases of summer mastitis proved to be sources of summer mastitis bacteria for more than 3 weeks despite antibiotic treatment and teat amputation.

Taking into account the seasonal activity pattern of Hydrotaea irritans and its topographical distribution on grazing cattle, it appears evident that this fly may play a central role in the establishment and maintenance of the bacterial contamination with summer mastitis pathogens on the teats of healthy cattle. In the present study the survival of A.pyogenes and P.indolicus for 7 days in experimentally infected Hydrotaea irritans, as demonstrated by the recovery of these microorganisms from agar plates exposed to live infected flies, is described. However, experimental transmission of summer mastitis from sick to healthy heifers by Hydrotaea irritans proved unsuccessful.
Comparative micromorphology of third instar larvae and the breeding biology of some Afrotropical Sarcophaga (Diptera: Sarcophagidae)
Authors: ASPOAS B. R.
Published: March 2008

Abstract. Four sympatric species of Sarcophaga, viz S.cruentata Meigen, S.exuberans Pandelle, S.nodosa Engel and S. tibialis Macquart, which occur in the Transvaal, South Africa, showed oviparity under optimum laboratory breeding conditions. Details of the life cycle duration under these conditions are discussed. Rearing and colonizing methods were developed. Scanning electron microscopy of third instar larvae provided useful data in distinguishing between the four species. The characters which were examined were the spinulation of the body segments and the rim surrounding the spiracular atrium of the posterior spiracles, the anterior spiracles and the spiracular hairs of the posterior spiracles.
DNA probes to identify members of the Anopheles farauti complex
Authors: BOOTH D. R. , MAHON R. J. , SRIPRAKASH K. S.
Published: March 2008

Abstract. DNA probes have been constructed to distinguish between the members of the Anopheles farauti complex of mosquitoes known as species numbers 1, 2 and 3. Partial genomic libraries of the three known species were exposed to labelled total genomic DNA from each species. Colonies showing differential hybridization were selected for further testing. These probes were found which allow identification of the three known species: probe pAfl (160bp fragment) hybridizes to DNA from An.farauti nos. 1 and 2; probe pAf2 (95 bp fragment) hybridizes to DNA from An.farauti no. 2 only; and probe pAf3 (1.3 kb fragment) hybridizes strongly to DNA from An.farauti no. 3, less to no. 1 and faintly to no. 2. Increasing the stringency of hybridization reduced the cross‐hybridization of probes pAfl and pAf3. Only radio‐actively labelled probes were tested. Males and females and individuals from diverse habitats and localities showed the same species/probe hybridization characteristics. This technique allows faster identification of the sibling species than previous methods, and has the added advantage that it allows air‐dried and alcohol stored specimens to be identified.
The New World screwworm fly in Libya: a review of its introduction and eradication
Authors: LINDQUIST D. A. , ABUSOWA M. , HALL M. J. R.
Published: March 2008

Abstract. The New World screwworm fly, Cochliomyia hominivorax (Coquerel) (Diptera: Calliphoridae), became established in the Old World for the first time during 1988, in the Socialist People's Libyan Arab Jamahiriya. An obligate parasite of mammals in its larval stages, causing wound myiasis, it is one of the most serious insect pests of livestock in the Americas. To avert a major disaster for the livestock industry and wildlife of Africa and southern Europe, the Libyan Government and the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations launched a massive screwworm eradication programme, based on the sterile insect technique, SIT. An initial containment operation involved veterinary teams working in the infested area (25,000km2 around Tripoli), regularly inspecting livestock and, if necessary, treating them with insecticide. Quarantine stations were also set up, to prevent the movement of infested livestock out of the area. Sterile flies from the Mexican‐American Commission for Eradication of Screwworms were first released in December 1990 at the rate of 3.5 million per week. This built up to 40 million per week by May 1991. The release of sterile flies was terminated on 17 October 1991, 6 months after the last detected case of screwworm myiasis in Libya. Intensive surveillance and quarantine activities will, however, continue through 1992. During 1992 the Libyan Government should be able to officially declare the New World screwworm eradicated from Libya, making it one of the most important success stories of pest control.
Biological control of Culicidae with the copepod Mesocyclops aspericornis and larvivorous fish (Poeciliidae) in a village of French Polynesia
Authors: LARDEUX FRÉDÉRIC J. R.
Published: March 2008

Abstract. The copepod Mesocyclops aspericornis Daday and the larvivorous fishes Gambusia affinis (B. & G.) and Poecilia reticulata R. & B., were released into mosquito breeding sites in Tuherahera village, Tikehau atoll, French Polynesia, to control larvae of Aedes aegypti (L.), Ae.polynesiensis Marks, Culex annulirostris Skuse and Cx quinquefasciatus Say. Treatments were completed within a week, in January 1990.

Fish quickly eliminated mosquito larvae from the open breeding sites (ponds, wells). The impact of copepods in water tanks, drums and covered wells was inconsistent, apparently depending on the availability of microfaunal diet for growth of copepod nauplii. As the biting rate of adult Ae.aegypti seemed to be unaffected by the biological control of larvae, this village‐scale experiment was judged to be unsuccessful as a means of vector control.
Identification of members of the Simulium ochraceum species complex in the three onchocerciasis foci in Mexico
Authors: MILLEST A. L.
Published: March 2008

Abstract. Larval collections of Simulium ochraceum Walker (Diptera: Simuliidae) were made in a variety of streams in the three onchocerciasis foci in Mexico and identified by cytotaxonomic criteria, based on the banding pattern of polytene chromosomes in larval salivary gland nucleii. S.ochracrum cytotype A was found in the Soconusco focus, cytotype B in the Oaxaca focus and cytotype C (not previously recorded in Mexico) in the Chamula focus. Attempts to analyse chromosomes of adult specimens were unsuccessful. A preliminary study of the cuticular hydrocarbons of adult specimens by gas liquid chromatography provided evidence that this technique may be suitable for separating the cytotypes.
Efficacy of Esbiothrin mosquito coils at community level in northern Tanzania
Authors: MOSHA F. W. , NJAU R. J. A. , ALFRED J.
Published: March 2008

Abstract. Field trials with mosquito coils containing 0.15% Esbiothrin at Usa River settlement, northern Tanzania, during 1986 achieved a 52% reduction in biting rates of Anopheles arabiensis Patton and a 73% reduction of Culex quinquefusciatus Say mosquitoes. No mosquito biting activity occurred during the coil burning period which started at 20.00 hours daily and lasted for an average of 8.6 h. A sociological survey indicated that the coils were favourably accepted and produced no serious side‐effects.
Biological response of German cockroaches fed diets containing allopurinol
Authors: SUITER DANIEL R. , KOEHLER PHILIP G. , PATTERSON RICHARD S.
Published: March 2008

Abstract. The acceptability of dietary allopurinol to German cockroaches, Blattella germanica (L.), was assessed. In diet choice tests between rat chow with or without 0.1% w/w allopurinol there were no significant differences in nymphal development, feeding duration, visits or consumption. The LT50 of cockroaches fed a choice of diets was 3 weeks greater (7.88) than those fed non‐choice a 0.1% allopurinol diet. Female cockroaches provided a choice of diets aborted a significantly greater percentage of their oothecae (98.6%) than those fed the untreated diet (1.7%). Choice arena tests of 2% allopurinol in rat chow significantly reduced cockroach populations compared with untreated controls. After 6 weeks, populations were reduced by approximately 50%, and 97% after 14 weeks. These results indicate that allopurinol is acceptable to B.germanica as a dietary supplement which could be used in baits for cockroach control.
Development of an attractive target for the sheep blowfly Lucilia sericata
Authors: WALL R. , GREEN C. H. , FRENCH N. , MORGAN K. L.
Published: March 2008

Abstract. Coloured, odour‐baited, sticky targets, designed to catch the sheep blowfly Lucilia sericata Meigen are described and the results of field trials are presented. The number of L.sericata caught by the targets was positively related to target surface area and was dependent on target colour. The performance of the coloured targets is described by a model in which catch is related negatively to reflectivity in the 300–450 nm (ultra‐violet/blue) band of the spectrum and positively to the reflectivity in the 450–580nm (blue‐green‐yellow) band. Of the Lucilia blowflies caught by the targets, 13–16% were L.sericata and 72–75% of the L.sericata were female. The number of L.sericata caught appeared to be positively related to the availability of sheep over a relatively localized area and showed a marked decline following insecticidal dipping of sheep. The further development of targets and the implications of the results for L.sericata control are discussed.
Chemical control of Ornithonyssus sylviarum on caged layer hens
Authors: LEVOT GARRY W.
Published: March 2008

Abstract. Manual application of aqueous solutions of malathion, carbaryl and permethrin controlled northern fowl mite, Ornithonyssus sylviarum Canestrini and Fanzago, on caged layer hens for at least 118 days. Azamethiphos sprayed manually provided acceptable control for a shorter period. Machine application, particularly of azamethiphos, but also malathion, provided lesser control. The addition of surfactant increased the wetting ability of the sprays but interfered with the efficacy of azamethiphos.
Seasonality, biting cycle and parity of the yellow fever vector mosquito Haemagogus janthinomys in Trinidad
Authors: CHADEE DAVE D. , TIKASINGH ELISHA S. , GANESH RAJPAUL
Published: March 2008

Abstract.

Age composition, seasonal abundance and diel patterns of landing activity of the sylvan vector of yellow fever Haemagogus janthinomys Dyar were monitored weekly during 1981‐82 by human collectors on the ground at Point Gourde in Chaguaramas Forest, 16km west of Port of Spain, Trinidad.

Landing collections of Hg.janthinomys showed only diurnal activity, from 06.00 to 18.00 (sunrise to sunset, universal time), with a single peak of activity between 10.00 and 16.00 hours.

Densities of Hg.janthinomys were about 6 times greater during the wet season (May‐November) than during the dry season (December‐April); the annual Williams' mean landing rate on two collectors was 9.3 per day.

Monthly parous rates averaged 59% (range 0–86%) and some females were up to seven‐pars. Retained eggs (range 1–21, mean 7.7/female) were found in the ovaries of 1.3% of landing females, all of which had stage I ovarian follicles for the next gonotrophic cycle. Hence blood‐feeding is not inhibited by egg retention, which might promote transovarial transmission of virus. Implications of these findings are discussed in relation to yellow fever epidemiology.
Evidence for activation of endogenous opioid systems in mice following short exposure to stable flies
Authors: COLWELL D. D. , KAVALIERS M.
Published: March 2008

Abstract. Biting flies influence both physiology and behaviour of domestic and wild animals. This study demonstrates that brief (30min) exposure of male and female mice to stable flies leads to significant increases in nociceptive responses, indicative of the induction of analgesia. The biting fly‐induced analgesia was mediated by endogenous opioid systems as it was blocked by the prototypic opiate antagonist naloxone. Exposure for 30min to the bedding of biting fly‐exposed mice also induced significant opioid mediated analgesic responses in mice. Exposure to either house flies or the bedding of house fly‐exposed mice had no significant effects on nociception. These results indicate that brief exposure to either stable flies, or to olfactory cues associated with mice exposed to stable flies, activates endogenous opioid systems leading to the induction of analgesia and likely other opioid mediated behavioural and physiological stress responses. These results suggest the involvement of endogenous opioid systems in the mediation of the behavioural and physiological consequences of biting fly exposure in domestic and wild animals.
Borrelia burgdorferi infection in Ixodes ricinus from habitats in Denmark
Authors: LANDBO ANNE S. , FLÖNG PER T.
Published: March 2008

Abstract. A total of 2647 ticks of the genus Ixodes was sampled by nagging the vegetation in thirty‐one sites in eastern Jutland, Denmark. All ticks were identified as Ixodes ricinus Linnaeus. A total of 317 ticks (202 nymphs and 115 adults) from three different sites were examined for the spirochaete Borrelia burgdorferi Johnson et al. by indirect fluorescent antibody staining; the frequency of infection varied from 7% to 22%. It is concluded that I.ricinus, known to be the most common tick in Denmark, is the vector largely responsible for the transmission of B.burgdorferi in this country.
Patterns of sandfly distribution in tropical forest: a causal hypothesis
Authors: MEMMOTT JANE
Published: March 2008

Abstract.

In tropical rain forest, phlebotomine sandflies (Diptera: Psychodidae), such as Lutzomyia vespertilionis and L.ylephiletor, have an aggregated distribution on their tree buttress diurnal resting sites, as studied during 1987‐88 at Finca la Selva in the Caribbean lowlands of Costa Rica.

Experimental transfer of flies to trees not used as resting sites indicated that many apparently suitable sites remain unoccupied.

Observations of sandflies on the buttresses revealed that males and females are juxtaposed more frequently than expected by chance alone. Courtship behaviour by three of the four species of sandfly studied was observed on the buttresses.

It is suggested that the use of buttresses as swarming sites for mating behaviour is more likely to account for the observed distribution patterns of sandflies than their use of buttresses simply as diurnal resting sites.
Carbohydrate‐binding specificities of anti‐erythrocyte lectins (haemagglutinins) in Anopheles gambiae gut extracts and haemolymph
Authors: MOHAMED HASSAN A. , INGRAM GEORGE A. , MOLYNEUX DAVID H.
Published: March 2008

Abstract. Lectins that agglutinate red blood cells (RBC) were demonstrated in Anopheles gambiae mosquito haemolymph and gut extracts. No apparent differences in haemagglutinin titres were detected between male and female mosquitoes and overall agglutinin levels were not increased following a bloodmeal.

Titres were highest in the haemolymph and midgut extracts versus human AB, horse, chicken and goat RBCs and in hindgut against human AB, chicken and sheep; foregut extract gave relatively low titres.

Adsorption of haemolymph and gut extracts with selected RBCs coupled with carbohydrate inhibition and the use of enzyme‐treated RBCs revealed the presence of multiple (hetero‐) agglutinins. An.gambiae lectins were specific for (1‐1)‐, (1–4)‐ or (l‐6)‐linked glucose based disaccharides, glucose and its (1–2) or (1–3) linkages with fructose and, to a lesser extent, aminated or N‐acetylated glucose, or galactose and its deoxy derivatives.

This study presents the first report of the occurrence of heterogenous anti‐RBC agglutinins in haemolymph and gut extracts of the mosquito An.gambiae, together with the sugar‐binding specificities of these lectins.
Synergism of chlorpyrifos against the German cockroach, Blattella germanica
Authors: DONG K. , SCOTT J. G.
Published: March 2008

Abstract. Of fifteen compounds tested as synergists for chlorpyrifos against susceptible and resistant strains of Blattella germanica, the German cockroach, eleven were active against the resistant strain but only seven were synergistic against the susceptible strain. Overall, the most effective synergist was S,S,S‐tributyl phosphorotrithioate (DEF) followed by phenyl saligenin cyclic phos‐phonate (PSCP) and two substituted N,7V‐dimethylcarbamates: SK‐102 and SK‐37. The most effective synergist for overcoming chlorpyrifos resistance was SK‐37 which reduced the resistance ratio by 3.2‐fold. Four other synergists which reduced chlorpyrifos resistance, in order of their effectiveness, were: SK‐102 > PSCP > DEF > tridiphane. The potential usefulness of these synergists for German cockroach control is discussed.
Effects of hydroprene on development and reproduction in the Oriental cockroach, Blatta orientalis
Authors: SHORT J. E. , EDWARDS J. P.
Published: March 2008

Abstract. Nymphs of the Oriental cockroach Blatta orientalis were exposed during the penultimate and final instars to vinyl tiles treated with the juvenile hormone analogue hydroprene. Adults moulting from these nymphs exhibited deformities such as twisted wings in both sexes and modified genitalia in females. Females with deformities were unable to produce viable oothecae. B. orientalis confined on tiles treated with hydroprene at rates of 25‐100mg/m2 did not reproduce. The treatment rate of 10mg/m2 reduced fecundity and caused 47–57% of resultant adults to have deformities, but some adults reproduced successfully and population growth was not suppressed.
Phoretic and parasitic mites infesting the New World screwworm fly, Cochliomyia hominivorax, following sterile insect releases in Libya
Authors: McGARRY JOHN W. , GUSBI ABUBAKER M. , BAKER ANNE , HALL MARTIN J. R. , MEGADEMI KALEFA EL
Published: March 2008

Abstract. During the screwworm eradication programme in Libya in 1991, trapped specimens of Cochliomyia hominivorax (Coquerel) were found infested with phoretic mites, Macrocheles muscaedomesticae (Scopoli), or parasitic mites, Trichotromidium muscarum (Riley). The possible sources of infestation and potential effects of mites on screwworm flies are discussed.
Suppression of Aedes aegypti by predatory Toxorhynchites moctezuma in an island habitat
Authors: TIKASINGH ELISHA S. , EUSTACE ANN
Published: March 2008

Abstract. Larval populations of the mosquito Aedes aegypti were suppressed by predatory Toxorhynchites moctezuma mosquito larvae released systematically in a village on Union Island (Saint Vincent and the Grenadines) during March‐December 1988.

Eggs and larvae of Tx.moctezuma were transported from Trinidad and introduced into all semi‐permanent and permanent water‐holding containers in the experimental village at Clifton. The semi‐isolated village of Ashton served as control.

Base‐line Ae.aegypti indices (house, ovitrap, Breteau, cistern/tank, drum/ barrel, small containers) were obtained for the two villages over a 4‐month period prior to the introduction of the predatory Tx.moctezuma mosquito larvae. After sustained releases of predators for 5 months, all indices of Ae.aegypti were lower in the treated village than in the untreated village during the last 3 months of the year.
Laboratory evaluation of Toxorhynchites splendens (Diptera: Culicidae) for predation of Aedes albopictus mosquito larvae
Authors: TOMA T , MIYAGI I.
Published: March 2008

Abstract. Biology of the mosquito Toxorhynchites splendens (Wiedemann) was studied in the laboratory to provide baseline data for using the predatory larvae of this species against those of Aedes albopictus (Skuse) in a biological control programme. The mean incubation time of Tx.splendens eggs was 43.8 h and the time required for newly‐hatched larvae to initiate predation was 2.5 h. Mean numbers of prey larvae consumed and killed by each Tx. splendens larva totalled 389 and 345 respectively. The larval period of Tx.splendens was not significantly different for rearing individually or in groups of nine, with equal prey density, and duration of larval development was proportional to prey density. In mass rearing, larval cannibalism was usually observed during days 1–3 post‐eclosion. The incidence of cannibalism decreased sharply on the fourth day after hatching when some larvae became fourth‐instar. Adult female Tx.splendens usually commenced oviposition on day 4 after emergence. The number of eggs laid daily increased on day 7 and the peak oviposition of 6.3 eggs/female/day occurred on day 11. When oviposition containers were provided only intermittently, gravid females of Tx.splendens scattered most of their eggs on the dry floor of the cage. Viability of eggs laid by females aged 4–14 days was high (60–90%) but decreased to less than 40% as the females aged.
Insecticide resistance gene frequencies in Anopheles sacharovi populations of the Çukurova plain, Adana Province, Turkey
Authors: HEMINGWAY J. , SMALL G. J. , MONRO A. , SAWYER B. V. , ASAP H K
Published: March 2008

In Turkey, the mosquito Anopheles sacharovi has been under field selection pressure sequentially with DDT, dieldrin, malathion and pirimiphos‐methyl over a period of 30 years for the purpose of malaria control. In 1984, the field population of An.sacharovi in the malarious Çukurova plain of Adana Province contained an altered acetylcholinesterase‐based resistance gene giving broad spectrum resistance against organophosphorus and carbamate insecticides. The cross‐resistance spectrum from this mechanism conferred resistance to malathion but not to the organophosphorus insecticide pirimiphos‐methyl. Over the 6 years that pirimiphos‐methyl has been applied for malaria vector control in this area, the frequency of the altered acetylcholinesterase resistance gene has declined, although in 1989 and 1990 it was still present at measurable frequencies in An.sacharovi from Çukurova.

In addition to the acetylcholinesterase resistance mechanism there is evidence of an increased level of glutathione S‐transferase in some of the An.sacharovi populations tested. This is known to be correlated with DDT resistance in other anophelines. In Turkish An.sacharovi, DDT resistance and elevated glutathione S‐transferase occur in the same populations at similar frequencies. The continued prevalence of resistance to DDT and dieldrin, long after the 1971 cessation of DDT spraying for malaria control in Turkey, suggests that the DDT resistance gene has insufficient reduced fitness associated with it to have been lost from the field population during the past two decades. The implications of the slow decline in resistance gene frequencies in this field population are discussed in relation to mathematical models for managing resistance.
Preliminary note on the distribution and ecology of Culicoides imicola in Portugal
Authors: CAPELA R. , SOUSA C. , PENA I. , CAEIRO V.
Published: March 2008

Abstract. Data on Culicoides imicola were obtained during studies carried out during the recent outbreak of African horse sickness in Portugal. The previous most northerly published record of C.imicola in Portugal was 38o40'N (Pégöes). In the present work the geographical distribution of this species is extended to the parallel of 41o17'N. We have also confirmed the continuous presence of adult C.imicola in Southern Portugal (Alentejo and Algarve) throughout the year. In the laboratory we obtained this species from a sample of cattle faeces and from another of soil contaminated with animal excreta. In relation to host association 57.37% of C.imicola were trapped in the vicinity of pigsties. Finally, we collected11,463 Culicoides of which 12.47% were C. imicola.
The relative importance and distribution of Aedes polynesiensis and Ae.aegypti larval habitats in Samoa
Authors: SAMARAWICKREMA W. A. , SONE FOLA , KIMURA E. , SELF L. S. , CUMMINGS R. F. , PAULSON G. S.
Published: March 2008

Abstract. In preparation for a Filariasis Control programme in Samoa, during 1978 monthly larval surveys of the vector mosquito Aedes polynesiensis were carried out in four study villages in the main island of Upolu. A more extensive survey of larval habitat distribution was then made in twenty‐two villages of Upolu and eighteen of Savai'i island, to determine the importance of habitat types according to their abundance, volume of water and whether their productivity was permanent or seasonal. Ae.aegypti larval densities and habitat distribution were also monitored and the occurrence of predatory Toxorhynchites amboinensis larvae in northern Upolu was recorded from forty‐one collections.

Aedes Breteau and container indices fluctuated with the pattern of rainfall in two coastal villages and an inland bush village, but not in a coconut plantation community. The five main Aedes larval habitat types encountered were: 200 litre water‐storage drums, discarded tins and bottles, coconut shells, automobile tyres and treeholes. Aedes immatures occurred perennially in drums and tree holes, but breeding discontinued in tins, bottles and coconut shells during the driest month of July.

For Ae.polynesiensis in Upolu the Breteau and container indices of 104.5 ± SD 80.9 and 35.3 ± 12.4 respectively were significantly higher than those in Savai'i: 33.1 ±25.0 and 24.3 ±20.0 respectively. Likewise for Ae.aegypti the Breteau and container indices of 50.8 ± 32.5 and 23.9 ± 15.6, respectively, were also significantly higher than those in Savai'i: 12.7 ± 17.1 and 9.4 ±13.2 respectively.

Habitat types greater or lesser importance were determined by plotting the percentage of each type of container utilized for Aedes breeding against the percentage of each type amongst all larva‐positive containers. Ae.polynesiensis preferred tree‐holes but not water‐storage drums. Ae.aegypti preferred drums and tyres; mixed populations of larvae of both species were commonest in these two types of habitat. Ae.polynesiensis occurred in every village. Ae.aegypti was encountered in all twenty‐two villages surveyed in Upolu and nine of eighteen villages in Savai'i.

Total larval surveys revealed that drums and tree‐holes contained the highest numbers of Aedes larvae. The study provided criteria for planning a control programme.
Attracting adult New World screwworm, Cochliomyia hominivorax, to odour‐baited targets in the field
Authors: GREEN C. H. , HALL M. J. R. , FERGIANI M. , CHIRICO J. , HUSNI M.
Published: March 2008

Abstract. A field study in Libya investigated aspects of Cochliomyia hominivorax behaviour relevant to the operation of a target‐based control system. Flies were readily caught by electrified targets, but only when baited with the attractant ‘swormlure‐4’. Target size (0.25‐lm2) did not affect catch, but black targets caught twice as many flies as red ones. Omitting the most volatile component of swormlure‐4, dimethyl disulphide, significantly reduced catches of both sexes of C. hominivorax in wind‐orientated traps, but only reduced the capture of females significantly on targets. A new polythene sachet dispenser for odours was tested; four to six such sachets filled with swormlure‐4 less dimethyl disulphide gave an equivalent catch to one of the standard bottle plus wick dispensers using the same attractant, although they dispensed odour at about half the rate.

From direct observations, fewer than 40% of flies contacted the target for more than 10 s on any one visit. From catches on an intermittently‐active electrocuting grid, it was calculated that there is a c. 40% rate of multiple contacts of flies with the target.
Susceptibility of the bedbug, Cimex lectularius, to selected insecticides and various treated surfaces
Authors: FLETCHER M. G. , AXTELL R. C.
Published: March 2008

Abstract. Adult bedbugs, Cimex lectularius, were exposed for 24 h (25oC) to filter paper treated with various dilutions of the technical grade of nine insecticides dissolved in acetone to determine the concentration‐response relationships. The order of toxicity, from most to least based on the LC50's was: dichlorvos, pirimiphos methyl, lambda‐cyhalothrin, bendiocarb, permethrin, malathion, carbaryl, tetrachlorvinphos, and fenvalerate.

The residual toxicities of commercial formulations of six of the chemicals diluted with water and applied to wood, cardboard, cloth and galvanized metal, were determined by exposing adult bedbugs at 3,7 and 12 weeks after treatment. The formulation of bendiocarb (FICAM® 76% W) had little residual activity on all surfaces at 12 weeks after treatment. The formulation of carbaryl (SEVIN® 21.5% L) was toxic to bedbugs on all surfaces at 12 weeks after treatment, but required high concentrations on wood, cardboard, and cloth. The formulation of pirimiphos methyl (ACTELLIC® 57% EC) had no residual activity on any of the surfaces at 12 weeks after treatment. The formulation of tetrachlorovinphos (RABON® 50% W) had residual activity for 12 weeks on all surfaces except metal. The formulation of permethrin (ATROBAN® 11% EC) had residual activity on only metal and wood while the formulation of lambda‐cyhalothrin (KARATE® 13.1% EC) had residual activity 12 weeks on all surfaces.
Ecology of the biting midge Leptoconops albiventris in French Polynesia. I. Biting cycle and influence of climatic factors
Authors: AUSSEL JEAN‐PHILIPPE
Published: March 2008

Abstract. The diurnal biting cycle of Leptoconops albiventris de Meijere (Diptera: Ceratopogonidae) is described from beaches of Nuku‐Hiva, French Polynesia. Biting activity increased during the morning, diminished during the afternoon and was sufficiently intense to constitute a nuisance throughout the whole day. Correspondence Analysis indicated that climatic factors influenced biting activity. Activity was initiated by and positively associated with sunshine, whereas high temperatures, increased wind speed and rainfall were factors limiting activity. Decreased density of females during the dry season and their low capacity for dispersal were considered potentially advantageous with respect to control.
Ecology of the biting midge Leptoconops albiventris in French Polynesia. II. Location of breeding sites and larval microdistribution
Authors: AUSSEL JEAN‐PHILIPPE
Published: March 2008

Abstract. The habitat of the immature stages of Leptoconops albiventris de Meijere (Diptera: Ceratopogonidae) was found to be in beach sand located above the high tide level near creeping vegetation. The immatures were restricted to a narrow strip and most occurred in the upper 6 cm of sand. Within a given breeding site, larvae were aggregated in their distribution. Eggs were layed on the bare sand surface, from which the larvae apparently dispersed to the plant‐covered sand and to deeper strata, before returning to the surface for pupation and emergence. The nature of these breeding sites suggests that it is possible to control L.albiventris populations. Recovery of immature stages from sand samples by a flotation method is described.
Laboratory colonization of Anopheles quadriannulatus from sympatry with other sibling species of the Anopheles gambiae complex in Zimbabwe
Authors: MPOFU S. M. , MASENDU H. T. , KANYIMO K. H. , MTETWA C.
Published: March 2008

Abstract. A laboratory colony of the mosquito Anopheles quadriannulatus was established from a wild population occurring sympatrically with An.arabiensis in Zimbabwe. These sibling species are members of the An.gambiae Giles complex and were distinguished primarily by means of their specific polytene chromosome banding patterns. By using an ox‐baited trap, we sampled selectively for the more zoophilic An.quadriannulatus. It was confirmed that An.quadriannulatus has the diagnostic slow allozyme of aspartate aminotransferase (AAT95/95). In a mixed population under laboratory conditions, An.arabiensis displaced An.quadriannulatus within eight generations, without introgression. Colonization of An.quadriannulatus was facilitated by pooling the progeny from wild‐caught mothers of confirmed identity and by using a specially adapted cage to promote mating.
Seasonal abundance, biting cycle, parity and vector potential of the mosquito Haemagogus equines in Trinidad
Authors: CHADEE DAVE D. , HINGWAN J. O. , PERSAD R. C. , TIKASINGH E. S.
Published: March 2008

Abstract.The mosquitoHaemagogus equinusis a known vector of yellow fever (YF) in central America. Seasonal abundance, daily biting activity and the age composition of adultHg. equinusfemale populations were monitored weekly during 1981–82 by human collectors on the ground at Point Gourde Forest, Chaguaramas, 16 km west of Port of Spain, Trinidad.

2. Landing collections ofHg.equinusshowed diurnal activity from 06.00 to 20.00 hours (suntime), with a single peak between 08.00 and 14.00 hours.

3. Overall, 5.6% ofHg.equinuswere collected during the dry season (December‐April) and 94.4% during the wet season (May‐November).

4. Mean density ofHg.equinusin relation to man ranged from 0.35/man‐day in February to 133/man‐day in July, with averages of 2.8 in the wet season, 36.9 in the dry season and 22/man‐day for the whole year.

5. Monthly parous rates averaged 62.1% (range 0‐88%); 2.8% of females were 2‐pars, another 2.8% were 3‐pars, but no older females ofHg.equinuswere found (sample size 467).

6. These age‐grading data indicate thatHg.equinusfemales have relatively short life expectancy and hence low vector potential, which may help to explain why YF virus has seldom been isolated from this vector species.
Mean life expectancy of Old World screwworm fly, Chrysomya bezziana, inferred from the reproductive age‐structure of native females caught on swormlure‐baited sticky traps
Authors: SPRADBERY J. P. , CSIRO W. G. VOGT
Published: March 2008

Abstract. The reproductive status of native (wild) screwworm fly, Chrysomya bezziana, caught on swormlure‐baited sticky traps in Papua New Guinea is described. A total of 1122 females and 25 males were trapped. Of these females 595 were scored for insemination status and stage of ovarian development (on a scale of 2–10) of which 20% were in suitable condition for assignment to first, second and third ovarian cycles. Of the nulliparous females, only 17% were inseminated at stage 3 of ovarian development, 70% at stage 4, 93‐97% at stages 5 and 6, and all of stages 7–10 (gravids). All parous females were inseminated. More than half of the captured females were parous (58%) and only 7% of the total were gravid. Proportions of females in ovarian cycles 1, 2 and 3 were 41%, 50% and 9% respectively.

Survival of female Ch. bezziana in the laboratory was adequately described by lognormal and Gompertz survival functions, for both of which the mortality rate is an increasing function of reproductive age. Analysis of the reproductive age distribution of native females estimated their mean life‐expectancy at 9 days under the prevailing mean field temperature of 26.5oC. This equates to completion of 1.7 ovarian cycles and an estimated mean lifetime fecundity of 146 female progeny. The survival models, which also allowed responsiveness of females to swormlure‐baited traps (female trappability) to vary according to their stage of ovarian development, indicated significant age‐dependent trapping bias. These findings are compared with similar data for the New World screwworm fly, Cochliomyia hominivorax.
Habitat preferences and carcase colonization by sheep blowflies in the northern North Island of New Zealand
Authors: DYMOCK J. J. , FORGIE S. A.
Published: March 2008

Abstract. In urban Auckland, from September 1991 to May 1992, only six specimens of the Australian sheep blowfly, Lucilia cuprina, were collected in farmed parkland and in garden habitats. The common green blowfly, Lucilia sericata, was the most common calliphorid trapped in these habitats. Neither of the two Lucilia species were found in native bush remnants in urban or rural areas where Calliphora hilli was dominant. Similarly very few L.cuprina (0.3% of the total) were trapped in rural rubbish tips in January and February where the majority of blowflies were again L.sericata. These results are compared with data collected from pastoral habitats, where L.cuprina is the major cause of flystrike. Lucilia cuprina was reared from five out of ninety‐nine carcases found in rural areas. Calliphora stygia and L.sericata were the most common blowflies colonizing carrion and were reared from 59% and 51% of the carcases respectively.