bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Ecology ofGlossina morsitans, Westw., and two possible Methods for its Destruction.—Part II
Authors: Nash T. A. M.
Published: July 2009

A small belt ofGlossina morsitanshas been studied for four and a half consecutive years.

The community has been observed during the period of its prosperity when the population increased and attempted to colonise unsuitable country ; the outward spread of the fly was checked by insuperable natural barriers, and a period intervened when the fly advance had come to a standstill ; the tsetse were observed in their attempt to breed and establish themselves in an area that could only temporarily suffice their needs.

This optimum period was brought to a sudden close by the advent of unfavourable climatic conditions. The effort made by the community to establish a habitat in an unsuitable type of bush was frustrated by the almost complete extermination of its population. The country which had been colonised by the tsetse was depopulated, and once more was limited to a small population that had survived in the true and permanent habitats. A long period followed in which the tsetse were seen to make a slow but steady recovery. The investigation closes with recovery assured, but the community still too depleted in numbers to attempt further expansion for a considerable time.

Throughout this rise and fall in the fortunes of the fly community, the size of the tsetse population has been seen to fluctuate seasonally with the annual variations in the climate.
The Influence of Temperature and Humidity on the Pupation ofXenopsylla cheopis
Authors: Mellanby Kenneth
Published: July 2009

1. The conditions of temperature and humidity under whichXenopsylla cheopisis able to complete its metamorphosis are described.

2. The larvae and pre-pupae are easily killed by drying, but the pupae are not. The cocoon does not protect the larva from drying.

3. Development is much quicker at high than at low temperatures.

4. The rate of loss of water from the larva appears to be proportional to the saturation deficiency of the air, at any rate at 18°C., 22°C. and 29°C.—when the time which elapses between spinning the cocoon and the formation of the pupa is taken into account.

The writer is indebted to Dr. P. A. Buxton for reading and criticising the manuscript.
Some Ecological Factors involved in the Dispersal of Mosquitos in Queensland
Authors: Hamlyn-Harris R.
Published: July 2009

(1) Aèdes vigilax migrates for long distances and together with Mucidus alternans disperses over considerable areas under favourable physiological conditions.

(2) Migrations are only undertaken when suitable winds make dispersal possible ; north-westerly winds distribute, under suitable atmospheric conditions, untold numbers of A. vigilax all along our foreshores.

(3) In summer the appearance in large numbers of both A. vigilax and Mucidus alternans heralds the approach of a storm.

(4) The presence of mosquitos found in wide areas in Queensland apparently devoid of water may be explained : (a) By the existence of breeding facilities in tree-cavities and similar breeding-places not visible to a casual observer ; (b) by the prevalence of suitable carrying winds by which mosquitos are blown for short or long distances from their native breeding-places ; (c) by extreme localisation of mosquitos breeding in small quantities of water mostly inaccessible to the casual observer.
Observations on some Diptera and Myiasis in Kenya Colony
Authors: Lewis E. Aneurin
Published: July 2009

The study of Dipterous insects in Kenya Colony has been restricted, to a large extent, to the Culicidae and their relation to malaria, and to the Tabanidae and the genus Glossina in connection with trypanosomiasis, the non-bloodsucking Diptera having received but little consideration.

“ Blowflies ” or “ maggot-flies ” are by no means uncommon in the Colony, and evidences of myiasis in its various forms are numerous. Symes & Roberts (1932) cite instances of the larvae of Sarcophaga haemorrhoidalis and of Lucilia sericata in the exposed brain substance of a woman ; and of Chrysomyia bezziana in an ulcer on the foot. Cordylobia anthropophaga, parasitic in the skin of man and other animals, is common, and Auchmeromyia luteola (in reality a blood-sucker in its larval stage) is distributed from the coast to the southern boundary of Abyssinia. The “ sheep nasal fly ” is extremely abundant, and many other larvae of Oestrus species have been recorded from game in the Colony.

Wounds, ulcers and sores in natives and in animals are often infested with maggots. I have seen, on several occasions, maggots in the ears, and in sores under the eyes, of native children, and in leg-wounds of native labourers. Still more frequently have I observed maggots in wounds of animals ; they occur at the bases of distorted, and in the scars of broken, horns, in the lesions caused by tick-bites, in injured eyes, and in the soiled fleece of sheep. Animals on the point of death are often attended by myriads of sarcophagous flies, the vast numbers of Chrysomyia marginalis in particular presenting an extraordinary sight.
The Bionomics and Control of Dysdercus (Hemiptera) in the Sudan
Authors: Whitfield F. G. Sarel
Published: July 2009

One of the most important pests of rain-grown cotton in the Sudan is the genus Dysdercus (Pyrrhocoridae) of the Hemiptera Heteroptera. Upon the introduction of cotton into the southern provinces of the Sudan, these insects appeared in great numbers, and in certain districts threatened to render impossible the growing of the crop. In 1926 work was started on the bionomics and control of the cotton-stainers by Cowland & Ruttledge, who were working respectively in the Nuba Mountains and the Fung provinces. Later the crop in the Nuba Mountains proving to be the more important of the two, the study of these insects was confined to that region. Mr. Ruttledge followed Mr. Cowland as entomologist in the Nuba Mountains, and the writer followed Mr. Ruttledge in 1928. The results of the preliminary investigations of Cowland & Ruttledge formed a valuable base from which the writer continued the work.
The Immunity of Apple Stocks from Attacks of Woolly Aphis (Eriosoma lanigerum, Hausmann). Part II. The Causes of the Relative Resistance of the Stocks
Authors: Staniland L. N.
Published: July 2009

1. A short account of gall formation is given.

2. The stylets of Eriosoma lanigerum penetrate to within three or four cells of the cambium. Penetration is mainly intracellular, but the stylets cannot pass through the masses of sclerenchyma.

3. When a mass of sclerenchyma is encountered the stylets bend round it; if they cannot bend round it, they are usually withdrawn.

4. So far as can be seen at present, immunity cannot be explained by mechanical considerations.

5. There is strong evidence for supposing that resistance above ground is directly proportional to the percentage of sclerenchyma round the circumference of the stem.

6. The above statement must be qualified, if necessary, by a consideration of the extent to which the masses of sclerenchyma are broken up, i.e. the number of spaces that are available for the penetration of the stylets.

7. The middle lamella can be dissolved by the saliva of the Aphid; so that the check formed by a mass of sclerenchyma can eventually be overcome.

8. Variations in the character of the sclerenchyma and its position are shown to be of possible importance. There would also seem to be some connexion between the size of the Aphid and the size of the openings between the masses of sclerenchyma.

9. The relations of the stylets and stylet track to the cells of the stock are briefly summarised.
Factors influencing the Control of Cotton-Stainers (Dysdercus spp.)
Authors: Withycombe C. L.
Published: July 2009

Cotton-stainers, Dysdercus spp., are most important factors affecting the growing of cotton in the West Indies and elsewhere, on account of the fact that they convey certain bacteria and the spores of various internal boll fungi which cause staining and rotting of the cotton lint.
Report on an Investigation into the Epidemiology of Sleeping sickness in Central Kavirondo, Kenya Colony
Authors: Carpenter G. D. Hale
Published: July 2009

The epidemic of sleeping sickness in Central Kavirondo was introduced about 1903 from Usoga across a chain of islands, and finally from Mageta Island to the coast of Kadimu close by. Mageta was evacuated, and subsequent return of the population brought back the disease, leading to a second evacuation, second return, and renewal of the disease about 1920–21, leading to final evacuation two years ago.

Glossina palpalis occurs plentifully along the 100 miles of coast examined, between the Sio River and the mouth of the Kavirondo Gulf, except just south of Sio, and in the neighbourhoood of the mouths of the Yala and Nzoia Rivers. Ample evidence was obtained that non-mammalian blood is much preferred to that of the hippopotamus, which was the only source of mammalian blood, except man and cattle at some localities.
The Breeding of Anopheles mauritianus in Palestine
Authors: Saliternik Z.
Published: July 2009

A description is given of the detection of an active breeding place of A. mauritianus in the Kurdani River, near Acre. This species was first reported by Barraud in 1920 as breeding in the swamps of the Kishon and Auja. Since that time neither Buxton nor the other workers in Palestine have been able to find this species. It is conceivable that the reason for the failure is due to the fact that the larvae closely resemble those of A. hyrcanus and that like it, the adult is a swamp feeder and not a house visitor.
The Biological Control of the Weed Clidemia hirta, D. Don., in Fiji
Authors: Simmonds Hubert W.
Published: July 2009

The plant Clidemia hirta belongs to the natural order Melostomaceae. It is of shrubby growth, with a hard tough stem and produces quantities of dark purple berries, filled with minute seeds. These berries are much relished by certain birds, which feed upon them and distribute the seeds. The leaves are covered with fine hairs and the plant is not eaten by stock.

The plant is a native of the West Indies, Central America and the Northern portion of South America. It is supposed to have been introduced into Fiji from British Guiana at some time prior to 1890. That this was the origin of the plant is supported by slight differences observed by the writer in the foliage of the Trinidad, Panama and British Guiana forms of the plant, the Fijian one closely resembling those of the last named country.

In Fiji the plant was first observed along the fences of paddocks in the Waimanu Valley, whence it spread with great rapidity, quickly becoming a weed of major importance. By 1919, when the writer arrived in the country, thousands of acres were covered with it to the exclusion of almost all other growth. On good soil it formed a stand five or six feet high, through which the cattle were only able to keep open narrow paths. Not only did it rapidly occupy the open grass lands, particularly the rich dairying and fattening country, but it thrived almost equally well under the shade of coconut and rubber plantations, leading to loss of many fallen nuts and entailing greatly increased weeding costs.
A simple Method of collecting Thrips and other Insects from Blossom
Authors: Evans J. W.
Published: July 2009

During the course of an investigation having as its object the control of Thrips imaginis, Bagnall, a pest of deciduous fruit blossom in Australia, it has been found necessary to make numerous counts of the number of these insects found infesting various flowers. These counts are made for two purposes, the principal one being the determination of the effect of attempted control measures. In addition, counts are taken every day throughout the year for the purpose of following the seasonal fluctuations of the numbers present in the field.

At the beginning of the investigation, flowers were picked, placed in closed cardboard cylinders and taken into the laboratory. Each blossom was then examined separately for thrips, the insects being captured by means of a moistened camel-hair brush, with which they were transferred to a small dish of 70 per cent. alcohol. This method was slow and not particularly dependable, as on hot days when the thrips were active, as soon as a flower was placed on the laboratory bench, numbers of insects would leave it and make off in all directions, even taking to flight.

As a result of the unsatisfactory nature of the procedure described above, an apparatus has now been devised which is saving both in time and patience, and gives reliable results (fig. 1). It consists of a glass cylinder 5 inches in diameter and 10 inches high. The top is closed with a close-fitting lid.
The Bionomics of Otiorrhynchus cribricollis, Gyll
Authors: Andrewartha H. G.
Published: July 2009

(1) The history of Otiorrhynchus cribricollis in Australia is traced and records of its distribution in other countries are cited.

(2) Methods used in the experiments are described.

(3) The incubation period of the egg was found to vary between 14 and 37 days. The average was 22·3 days.

(4) The habits of the larva are described. Dyar's Law was applied to determine the number of instars, which was found to be 10.

(5) The normal duration of larval life is from May to October or a period of about 5 months.

(6) About 10 per cent. of the larvae aestivate through one summer. These have a larval life of about 17 months.

(7) Normal life of the adult is from November to April, about 5 months, but some (about 11 per cent.) hibernate through one winter and thus live 17 months.

(8) The adults feed in two seasonal periods separated by an interval of about 6 weeks, during which time they are inactive.

(9) The adults have been observed to feed upon 21 different plants, representing 12 different families.

(10) Most of the eggs are laid in the autumn, but a few are laid in the spring.
Preliminary Experiments on the Annual Cycle of the Red Locust (Nomadacris septemfasciata, Serv.)
Authors: Uvarov B. P.
Published: July 2009

Egg-pods of the Red Locust (Nomadacris septemfasciata, Serv.) deposited on the 17th January 1933 at Mazabuka, Northern Rhodesia, were kindly sent by air-mail to the Imperial Institute of Entomology by Mr. W. Allan. On their arrival 14 days later, the eggs were found to be perfectly healthy, apart from some having been damaged by pressure. Entire egg-pods, with the surrounding soil, were placed in wet sand in flower-pots and put in a glass cage. The temperature in the cage was kept at 100°F. during the day and 80°F. during the night, but that of the sand was probably somewhat lower. Hoppers began to hatch on the 2nd of March and were kept at the same temperatures, with a humidity as near the saturation point as could be maintained. The first adult appeared on 8th April, and the majority of hoppers became adult by the 18th of April, six and a half weeks after hatching. Owing mainly to cannibalistic habits of the hoppers, only about 40 adults were obtained.

It was obviously impossible to plan any serious experiments with such a small number of locusts available, without risking the loss of the entire stock, and it was decided to use them for a preliminary experimental test of the conditions necessary for the sexual maturation. This particular problem is of great practical importance and no data bearing on it were available.
The Biology and Control of Asterolecanium coffeae, Newst., the Fringed Scale of Coffee, in Kenya Colony
Authors: James H. C.
Published: July 2009

(1) Asterolecanium coffeae occurs in all the British East African Dependencies and has been the cause of much loss in certain low-lying coffee areas of Kenya. On the crop-bearing parts of the coffee tree (Coffea arabica) it inflicts injuries of an irreparable nature, and a heavy infestation is extremely difficult to eradicate.

(2) A. coffeae is oviparous, and after deposition the eggs pass through a period of incubation within the “ test ” of the mother. The fecundity of the female is low compared with that of the common Lecaniine scales and mealybugs which infest coffee in Kenya. The average number of eggs produced by a single female is about 50. The male is extremely rare and fertilisation of the female must be a very infrequent occurrence.

(3) The duration of development of the female from egg to egg varies between 60 and 70 days. The duration of the first stadium varies from 7 to 12 days, and that of the second stadium from 18 to 25 days. The pre-oviposition period is 28 days.

(4) The various stages of the female scale are described.

(5) Only one primary parasite of A. coffeae was obtained, namely, Metaphycus lounsburyi, How., and it is frequently abundant towards the close of the dry season, but its effectiveness is nearly always considerably reduced, by the high prevalence of a secondary parasite, Perissopterus busckii, How. A Coccinellid, Chilocorus angolensis, Crotch, preys upon the mobile first instar forms.

(6) A. coffeae is not a honeydew secreting Coccid and is entirely ignored by ants.
Remarks on a Small Collection of Coccidae from Northern Australia
Authors: Green E. Ernest
Published: July 2009

The material under consideration was collected by Mr. G. F. Hill, Government Entomologist, at, or in the neighbourhood of, Port Darwin, in the Northern Territory of Australia. It consists principally of cosmopolitan species, two only being peculiar to the country.
Two New Species of Wood-boring Moths from West Africa
Authors: Hampson George F.
Published: July 2009

♂. Head and thorax white; antennae black; palpi and sides of head black-brown; prothorax and sides of metathorax with tufts of long black hair slightly glossed with metallic blue, the patagia with black spots near base and black tips; pectus, legs and abdomen black-brown, the last with the dilated anal segment whitish, the rest of abdomen with tufts of long black hair on dorsum and at sides slightly glossed with metallic blue. Forewing grey, the base suffused with black-brown, the rest of wing with numerous black-brown spots which tend to become bars on terminal half below the cell and vein 4. Hindwing black-brown, with traces of deeper black-brown spots on terminal half.
Some Ceylon Coccidae
Authors: Rutherford A.
Published: July 2009

All the species of scale-insects described in this paper were found at Peradeniya, Ceylon.
Development of larvae of the whitefringed weevil,Graphognathus leucoloma(Coleoptera: Curculionidae), in northern Queensland
Authors: Gough N. , Brown J.D.
Published: July 2009

Growth of larvae of the whitefringed weevil,Graphognathus leucoloma(Boheman), was studied in the laboratory and on various crops in pots in a shadehouse at Kairi, on the Atherton Tableland in north Queensland. In the laboratory at 25.5 ± 1°C there were 11 instars for which head capsule widths and weights were recorded. The first instar weighed 0.14 mg. This was a non-feeding stage capable of prolonged survival, and after 10 weeks in soil without food 60% survived. When provided with carrot (Daucus carota) larvae grew to 2 or 3 mg after 6 to 7 weeks, then increased rapidly in weight reaching 140 mg after 120 days. At 25.5°C the average time from first instar to adult was 311 days, due in part to a long prepupal period. Larval growth was measured on the roots of peanut (Arachis hypogaea) plants in pots in summer and winter. Under summer conditions (mean soil temperature 23.3°C) larvae reached 140 mg in about 120 days, similar to that in the laboratory on carrot. These fully grown larvae remained in the pots over the mild winter without pupating. Larvae developing in autumn/winter grew more slowly, but the fully grown larvae were then exposed to high spring (early summer) temperatures and soon pupated, the average time from first instar to adult being 273 days. The indications are that temperatures above 25°C quickly precondition mature larvae from Tolga for pupation, thus explaining the broad timing of adult emergence in the field in north Queensland. On different plants common near Tolga, larvae grew most quickly on peanuts and on the pasture legumes dolichos (Lablab purpureus) and stylosanthes (Stylosanthes guianensis). Survival on maize equalled that on peanuts (46.5% in sterilized soil) but growth was less. Larval survival and growth on the grass crowsfoot (Eleusine indica), and (surprisingly) on the pasture legume glycine (Neonotonia wightii) was very poor.
Biochemical characterization of chlorphoxim resistance in adults and larvae of the Simulium damnosum complex (Diptera: Simuliidae)
Authors: Hemingway J. , Callaghan A. , Kurtak D.C.
Published: July 2009

Chlorphoxim resistance is found in forest strains of Simulium sanctipauli Vajime & Dunbar, in some areas of the Onchocerciasis Control Programme in West Africa. There is an increase in esterase activity in both adults and larvae in the resistant compared to the susceptible strain with the general esterase substrate 1-naphthyl acetate. This appears to be associated with the temephos and chlorphoxim resistance which are found in the same resistant strain. It is possible that one or more esterases are qualitatively and/or quantitatively changed in the resistant strain compared to the susceptible. Preliminary studies indicated that esteratic hydrolysis and oxidative cleavage were both involved in chlorphoxim metabolism in S. damnosum Theobald sensu latu. There was evidence of an increase in detoxication by both these routes in the resistant compared to the susceptible strain of the cytospecies S. sanctipauli. The increase in oxidative detoxication seen in the resistant strain was associated with a slight, but non-significant increase in cytochrome P450 as measured by the sodium dithionite reduced carbon monoxide difference spectra.
A study of the parasitoid complex of the European fir budworm, Choristoneura murinana (Lepidoptera: Tortricidae), and its relevance for biological control of related hosts
Authors: Mills N.J. , Kenis M.
Published: July 2009

The parasitoid complex and apparent parasitism of Choristoneura murinana Hübner were investigated in relation to the relative abundance of budworm larvae at several sites in Europe. A single outbreak population was sampled, while other sites supported varying but much lower host population abundance. Sampling at Sion in Switzerland from 1984–89, indicated that the species richness of the parasitoid complex was correlated with relative host abundance and in general more polyphagous parasitoids were represented in sites with greater budworm abundance. Of the specialized parasitoids, Apanteles murinanae Čapek & Zwölfer (Hymenoptera: Braconidae) was dominant in less abundant host populations and both Cephaloglypta murinanae (Bauer) and Dirophanes maculicornis (Stephens) (Hymenoptera: Ichneumonidae) were supported only at greater budworm abundance. These findings are discussed in relation to the use of Choristoneura murinana parasitoids in the biological control of native Choristoneura spp. pests in other continents.
Factors affecting invasion of Varroa jacobsoni (Acari: Varroidae) into honeybee, Apis mellifera (Hymenoptera: Apidae), brood cells
Authors: Boot Willem J. , Sisselaar David J.A. , Calis Johan N.M. , Beetsma Joop
Published: July 2009

To study the rate of invasion into brood cells, a group of varroa mites, Varroa jacobsoni Oudemans, was introduced into honeybee colonies, Apis mellifera Linnaeus. For each experiment one or two otherwise comparable colonies was treated, and the effect on the rate of invasion was assessed. The results showed that the rate of invasion increases with the number of available brood cells, and decreases with the size of the honeybee population. This is expected when the rate of invasion is limited because the bees have to carry the mites close to a brood cell for invasion to occur, and only alimited number of honeybees can come close enough to a brood cell simultaneously. In addition, the rate of invasion decreased when young brood was present. This counterintuitive result may arise because the mites prefer young honeybees, young honeybees are likely to stay in the brood nest area, and young honeybees in the brood nest are divided over areas with brood cells that are suitable for invasion and over areas with brood cells that are unsuitable for invasion by mites. Hence, an increase in the amount of young brood, which is not yet suitable for invasion by mites, may decrease the invasion rate. Differences in the period during which brood cells suitable for mite invasion were available to the mites, appeared not to affect the rate of invasion.
A molecular diagnostic for endosulfan insecticide resistance in the coffee berry borer Hypothenemus hampei (Coleoptera: Scolytidae)
Authors: ffrench-Constant R.H. , Steichen J.C. , Brun L.O.
Published: July 2009

The coffee berry borer Hypothenemus hampei (Ferrari) has recently evolved high levels of resistance to endosulfan and other cyclodiene-type insecticides in New Caledonia. During population outbreaks this has contributed to levels of infestation of coffee berries reaching up to 90%. Using degenerate primers in the polymerase chain reaction (PCR) we have amplified a section of the cyclodiene resistance gene Rdl from H. hampei. This gene codes for a γ-aminobutyric acid (GABA) gated chloride ion channel. Here we report that resistant strains of H. hampei carry exactly the same single amino acid replacement (alanine to serine) as that found in resistant Drosophila melanogaster (Meigen) (Diptera: Drosophilidae). A molecular diagnostic based upon PCR-mediated amplification of specific alleles (PASA) is described. This technique is capable of detecting resistance or susceptibility in adults, larvae or eggs but not in susceptible females carrying resistant sperm. Its potential use in field monitoring is discussed.
Migrating moths collected in tower-mounted light traps in northern New South Wales, Australia: influence of local and synoptic weather
Authors: Gregg P.C. , Fitt G.P. , Coombs M. , Henderson G.S.
Published: July 2009

Catches of moths in tower-mounted light traps in northern New South Wales were analysed in relation to local and synoptic weather. Catches were correlated with windspeed, relative humidity and possibly rainfall. No correlations were obtained with temperature or moon phase. Catches were more likely to occur when winds were from the east, and were associated with wind shifts. There was a significant association with the passage of depressions or troughs, but not cold fronts. The traps were considered to be poor indicators of migration associated with fronts, because these were accompanied by high winds in which trap efficiency was reduced. Stepwise multiple regressions using temperature, relative humidity, rainfall and windspeed accounted for only about 25% of the variance, much lower than in comparable studies with ground level light traps. These results are thought to indicate that the trap catches were reflecting long-distance migration, which was usually associated with disturbed weather. Back tracking with upper wind data was used to define probable sources of moths. In the spring and early summer, these sources were predominantly to the north and west of the traps, in semi-arid pastoral and subhumid cropping zones. In the late summer and autumn they were predominantly to the south and east, in the humid pastoral and forest zone. These results are discussed in relation to the migratory strategies of several important agricultural pest species.
Determination of the role of elevated B2 esterase in insecticide resistance in Culex quinquefasciatus (Diptera: Culicidae) from studies on the purified enzyme
Authors: Jayawardena K.G.I. , Karunaratne S.H.P.P. , Ketterman A.J. , Hemingway J.
Published: July 2009

A method for the purification of elevated esterase B2 from the Sri Lankan Pel RR strain of Culex quinquefasciatus (Say) has been developed, using sequential column chromatography. The pure enzyme is stable, with no decrease in specific activity after several months, if stored in the presence of 25 mM dithiothreitol and 50% glycerol at –20°C. The enzyme has a pl of 5 and an estimated molecular weight for the monomeric enzyme of 63 kD from SDS-PAGE. In all Culex strains with elevated B2, another esterase (A2) is always co-elevated. The strains with these esterases are resistant to a broad range of organophosphorus insecticides. The previous purification and characterization of A2 from Pel RR indicated that the role of this enzyme was primarily to sequester rather than metabolize organophosphates. Purified B2, rapidly binds malaoxon, the activated form of malathion, but not malathion itself. The turnover rate of bound malaoxon is slow, suggesting that the role of this esterase in malathion resistance is also sequestration. The similar bimolecular rate constants for both A2 and B2 with malaoxon suggest both esterases are important in resistance, which may explain the almost complete linkage disequilibrium that the elevated forms of these two esterases are maintained in when under pesticide selection pressure.
A morphometric comparison of aphid mummies containing diapausing vs. non-diapausing larvae of Aphidius rhopalosiphi (Hymenoptera: Braconidae, Aphidiinae)
Authors: Krespi Liliane , Dedryver Charles A. , Rabasse Jean Michel , Nénon Jean Pierre
Published: July 2009

The morphology and ultrastructure of aphid mummies formed by diapausing and non-diapausing larvae of Aphidius rhopalosiphi De Stefani Perez, are described. Two types of silk thread were present in both types of cocoons: well-structured rounded threads, and flat threads which form a gum coating. Differences in thecocoon weight were observed depending on parasitoid development. A morphometric characterization of the two groups of mummies is given.
Assessment of the behaviour patterns of the lemon leaf-cutting ant, Atta sexdens rubropilosa (Hymenoptera: Formicidae), to natural sources of allelochemicals
Authors: Sales Fernando J.M.
Published: July 2009

Reactions of the lemon leaf-cutting ant, Atta sexdens rubropilosa Forel, to natural sources of allelochemicals has been investigated at the University of Southampton. A linear hypothesis model in a randomized block design of a factorial experiment was utilized to assess the responses of the ants to the treatment combinations. When workers were offered flowers and leaves of the specified plant species simultaneously with mesocarp and endocarp of orange, they exhibited a consistent preference for the flowers. Flower fragments comprised 93.64% of the experimental material brought to the nest, leaves 6.20%, orange mesocarp 0.04% and orange endocarp 0.12%. Deterrent effects were noticed in leaves of Scilla spp. (Liliaceae) and the ants were chemically stimulated to explore, cut and transport the highly attractive flowers of Mahonia aquifolium (Berberidaceae).
Multiple mating in female mosquitoes—evidence from a field population of Anopheles freeborni (Diptera: Culicidae)
Authors: Yuval B. , Fritz G.N.
Published: July 2009

We determined how frequently multiple mating occurs in a field population of Anopheles freeborni Aitken. We used enzyme electrophoresis to analyse field collected females and their offspring, and determined the parity rates of females mating in swarms. The genotypes of progeny in one of the 36 families examined showed conclusive evidence of two sires. 4·3% (n═93) of females mating in swarms were parous, as opposed to 33·9% of host seeking females (n═103). We conclude that multiple mating in A. freeborni occurs at low frequency in the field, and may be ascribed to incomplete transfer of sperm or male accessory gland substance, rather than to routine renewal of receptivity by females.
The role of the plant in host acceptance by the parasitoid Aphidius rhopalosiphi (Hymenoptera: Braconidae)
Authors: Braimah H. , van Emden H. F.
Published: July 2009

Female Aphidius rhopalosiphi De Stefani Perez reared on Rhopalosiphum padi (Linnaeus) made equal numbers of encounters with another suitable host aphid (Sitobion avenae (Fabricius (both Homoptera: Aphididae))) in arenas where the aphids were on either pieces of wheat leaf or moist filter paper. However, the number of oviposition stabs made in arenas with wheat was far higher than with filter paper, demonstrating the importance of host-plant cues in the acceptance of the aphids by the parasitoid. Diet reared aphids (even if subsequently fed on wheat) appeared to be accepted more readily than totally wheat reared individuals. In another arena experiment, there were more encounters with and more stabs made into both S. avenae and a non-host aphid (Myzus persicae (Sulzer)) on wheat than on Brussels sprouts (a host plant of M. persicae), again showing the over-riding importance of host-plant cues.
Review of the internal classification of the genusAnopheles(Diptera: Culicidae): the foundation for comparative systematics and phylogenetic research
Authors: Harbach Ralph E.
Published: July 2009

This paper presents a thorough review and a complete amalgamation, with some modification, of the internal classification of the genusAnopheles. Both formal and informal taxa are included. The classification is intended to aid researchers and students who are interested in analysing species relationships, making group comparisons and testing phylogenetic hypotheses. The genus includes 458 formally named and provisionally designated species divided among six subgenera. The largest subgenera,Anopheles, CelliaandNyssorhynchus, are further divided into various descending informal groupings down to species level. These groupings include Sections, Series, Groups, Subgroups and Complexes. Other terms applied by some authors to levels of classification represented by these categories have been changed in order to establish a degree of uniformity in the application of informal group names within the genus. A few changes involving groups and species assignments have been made to eliminate duplicity or clarify concepts.
Mite association with the leaf domatia of coffee (Coffea arabica) in north Queensland, Australia
Authors: O'Dowd Dennis J.
Published: July 2009

The primary coffee of commerce,Coffea arabica, has well-developed pit domatia in the primary vein axils on the undersurfaces of the leaves. In plantations near Mareeba and Daintree in far north Queensland, Australia, these morphogenetic structures are commonly occupied by mites. Mites used domatia on over 80% of all leaves examined, and 41% of all domatia had been occupied by mites (15–28% on young leaves and 54–59% on older leaves at Mareeba, and 58% overall at Daintree). At Mareeba, domatia use by mites did not differ among plants or shoots within plants but did vary significantly with leaf position within shoots, a reflection of leaf age. Domatia were important sites for mite reproduction and development; 93% of the eggs and all moulting mites on leaves were in domatia. Seven mite taxa were identified on leaves at Mareeba and nine were present at Daintree. With the exception ofFungitarsonemussp. andBrevipalpus obovatusDonnadieu at Mareeba, all were concentrated in leaf domatia. Almost all mites in domatia were from groups in which arboreal representatives are primarily predatory (e.g., Stigmaeidae, Phytoseiidae, and Bdellidae), fungivorous (e.g., Winterschmidtiidae, Oribatida and Acaridae), or both (Tydeidae and Tarsonemidae). The data suggest that domatia influence the distribution and abundance of predatory and fungivorous mites that have the potential to affect fungal pathogens and some arthropod pests on coffee leaves.
Responses of tsetse flies (Diptera: Glossinidae) to warthog (Phacochoerus aethiopicus Pallas)
Authors: Torr S.J.
Published: July 2009

In Zimbabwe, living and stuffed warthogs (Phacochoerus aethiopicus Pallas) were placed within an incomplete ring of electric nets and observations were made of the numbers of Glossina pallidipes Austen and G. morsitans morsitans Westwood attracted to the hogs, the alighting position and feeding responses of tsetse, and the grooming behaviour of the warthogs. Between 26 and 31% of tsetse landed on the head region of an adult live warthog compared to 8% for a juvenile and 4% for a stuffed warthog. The number of tsetse alighting adjacent to the eye of a stuffed warthog increased 20 times if dark patches were fixed there. The percentage of tsetse alighting on the head region of the adult warthog increased from 25% to 50% as the number of tsetse caught on the ring of nets increased from <100 to > 800. There was a concurrent increase in the rate of skin twitches and ear flicks by the warthog. For an adult warthog, 26% of tsetse leaving the vicinity had fed compared to only 1% for a juvenile. It is suggested that the concentration of tsetse on the head of adult warthogs is a visual response to the dark patch produced by the pre-orbital glands of a mature warthog and to density-dependent changes in the grooming responses of warthogs.
Species of Microgastrinae (Hymenoptera: Braconidae) parasitizing lepidopterous cereal stem borers in Africa
Authors: Walker Annette K.
Published: July 2009

The taxonomy of 10 species of Braconidae (Microgastrinae) which are parasitoids of cereal stem borers in Africa is revised.Dolichogenidea cameroonensis, D. fuscivora, D. oryzaeandD. polaszeki, are described as new,Apanteles proceraeRisbec is synonymized withDolichogenidea aethiopica(Cameron)comb. n., syn. n.A key is given and host associations are listed. A summary table of the species mentioned in the text together with their hosts is also provided.
Seasonal changes in secondary compounds in the phloem sap of cassava in relation to plant genotype and infestation byPhenacoccus manihoti(Homoptera: Pseudococcidae)
Authors: Calatayud P.A. , Tertuliano M. , Le Rü B.
Published: July 2009

A previous study on the population dynamics of the cassava mealybug,Phenacoccus manihoti(Matile-Ferrero), on cassava has shown that populations increase during the dry season. The aim of the present studies was to determine whether these important changes in the pest population observed throughout the seasons in the field in the Congo, could be correlated with seasonal variations in the level of secondary compounds in the phloem, implicated in cassava plant resistance toP. manihoti. Our results showed that cassava was in drought stress conditions during the dry season (foliar area decreased). The combination of infestation and dry stress factors was clearly visible during the dry season. In fact, the decrease in leaf water potential together with infestation byP. manihotiwas clearly observed at the end of the rainy season and during the dry season. The levels of the secondary compounds, rutin (an unfavourable substance toP. manihoti) decreased in the less resistant genotype, and cyanide (a phagostimulant substance) increased in each genotype in the dry season. These results may partially explain the important population changes inP. manihotiduring the seasons.
Resistance of some rose cultivars to the western flower thrips, Frankliniella occidentalis (Thysanoptera: Thripidae)
Authors: Gaum Wilma G. , Giliomee J.H. , Pringle K.L.
Published: July 2009

Some rose cultivars such as City of Belfast are more resistant to the western flower thrips, Frankliniella occidentalis (Pergande) than others. Data from life tables and behavioural studies indicate that the reason for resistance may be physiological-chemical as well as the physical structure and colour of the flower. Some rose odours repelled F. occidentalis.
Field studies on the biology and economic importance of Psalydolytta spp. (Coleoptera: Meloidae: Meloinae) in Mali, West Africa
Authors: Grunshaw J.P. , Mariko S. , Troare I.
Published: July 2009

An account is given detailing some aspects of the biology and economic importance of Psalydolytta pilipes Maklin in pearl millet (Pennisetum glaucum) fields in north-west Mali. Descriptions of the triungulin larval stage, together with drawings of larval development from the first grub stage to the coarctate larval stage, are given for two Psalydolytta species, P. pilipes and P. vestita Dufour. First grub phase larvae were successfully reared through to coarctates from eggs obtained from field captured adult beetles, on egg-pods obtained from a selection of commonly occurring grasshopper species. Yield losses resulting from cage trial experiments showed that whole millet candles can be destroyed during one night's feeding at densities approaching 12 beetles per head.
Stimulation of plant growth and aphid populations by a formulation ingredient of ‘Cymbush’ (cypermethrin)
Authors: Hutt Helen J. , van Emden H.F. , Baker T.
Published: July 2009

Similar increases in the height and aerial fresh weight of cowpeas compared with control plants were obtained when plants were sprayed with either 50 ppm a.i. (active ingredient) of the pyrethroid insecticide ‘Cymbush’® containing cypermethrin, or, the equivalent dilution of a blank formulation without the a.i. With broad beans, similar growth stimulation was obtained with the blank at the same or half dose, but not at a quarter dose. Testing the four formulation components separately showed that only the non-ionic emulsifier caused stimulation. A comparison of the stimulation of plant growth by the blank and the non-ionic emulsifier showed that plant height, shoot fresh weight, leaf fresh weight, leaf dry weight and leaf area were each equally increased by both treatments. The non-ionic emulsifier thus accounted for the entire stimulation caused by blank solution. Populations of Aphis fabae Scopoli (Homoptera: Aphididae) were twice as high on broad bean plants sprayed with the non-ionic emulsifier as on the controls. ‘Cymbush’ (the complete formulation) sprayed at 25 ppm a.i. was shown to increase the intrinsic rate of natural increase of the aphid through a 22% increase in fecundity; aphid development time was not affected. The results do, however, suggest that residual effects of cypermethrin may have partly counteracted the stimulatory effects of the non-ionic emulsifier. Nevertheless, it is possible that outbreaks of aphids and mites following pyrethroid application, and often assumed without evidence to have been due to natural enemy mortality, may at least in part reflect the plant stimulation caused by the non-ionic emulsifier in the formulation.
Bionomics of the Manchurian catalpa shoot borer,Sinomphisa plagialis(Lepidoptera: Pyralidae) in Shandong, China
Authors: Cheng-Jin Qi , De-Wei Li , Bing-Xin Zhang
Published: July 2009

Larvae of the Manchurian catalpa shoot borerSinomphisa plagialis(Wileman) mainly damaged young shoots of Manchurian catalpa (Catalpa bungei) and ovate catalpa (Catalpa ovata). The typical symptom was production of spindle galls on damaged parts of shoots or branches, usually confined to seedlings, vigorously growing shoots, twigs and branches, as well as young trees below 3 m in height. Feeding occurred from early April to late October. In the Jiaodong peninsula, where there were one to two generations in a year, whereas in the mountainous area of central and southern Shandong, there were always two generations. Larvae had five instars. The longevity of adults was 3–11 days; eggs of the summer generation 7–9 days, overwintering generation 4–6 days; larvae of the summer generation 42–48 days; pupae of the summer generation 13–16 days, of the overwintering generation 22–26 days. Most overwintered in the pith as fifth instar larvae.
Determination of mitochondrial DNA haplotypes from sting remnants of the honeybee Apis mellifera (Hymenoptera:Apidae)
Authors: Sheppard W.S. , Arias M.C. , Shimanuki H.
Published: July 2009

Africanized honeybees are presently expanding their geographic range within the USA and are considered undesirable due to their substantial defensive behaviour. Africanized honeybees can be differentiated from honeybees of European ancestry using discriminant analysis of morphological characters, based on a minimum of ten intact specimens per colony. In this paper we report a PCR-based method suitable for the identification of African or European mtDNA from sting remnants, such as typically remain on victims following a stinging incident. We experimentally simulated collection and shipment conditions with dried and alcohol preservation of stings, and also report that the method was suitable for sting remnants stored with a victim sample for over one year in alcohol. The determination of mtDNA haplotypes from stinger remnants must be tempered by the constraints inherent in interpretation of mtDNA haplotype data. Such data do not provide any information regarding the genetic contribution of the paternal lineage. However, in geographic areas where baseline information regarding European haplotype frequencies is known, the detection of a different mtDNA haplotype in stingers from a victim, especially when associated with observations of extreme defensive behaviour, would certainly be suggestive of Africanization.
Distribution and abundance of Prostephanus truncatus (Coleoptera: Bostrichidae) and its predator Teretriosoma nigrescens (Coleoptera: Histeridae) in Mexico
Authors: Tigar B.J. , Osborne P.E. , Key G.E. , Flores-S M.E. , Vazquez-A. M.
Published: July 2009

Catches of Prostephanus truncatus (Horn) and Teretriosoma nigrescens Lewis from 205 pheromone trapping stations in Mexico were compared and related to climate and habitat. Prostephanus truncatus numbers differed between regions and over time with significant interaction between the two. An overall peak in captures occurred between August and November but this was not apparent in Veracruz and Chiapas. Catches of T. nigrescens also differed but effects were less distinct. The peak in P. truncatus catch was related to monthly rainfall and, with a time lag, minimum temperature in the drier, upland regions, but poorly matched in Chiapas and Veracruz. Prostephanus truncatus abundance was predicted from climatic and habitat data during the periods March to 3 July, and 31 July to November. A regression equation derived from temperature, humidity and rainfall, explained 82% of the variance in the P. truncatus catch in the later period. Local habitat made only a small addition to this model. The best correlate of T. nigrescens numbers was the catch of P. truncatus, but it was less abundant relative to P. truncatus as P. truncatus became more numerous and where annual r.h. was above 70%. Predicted abundance of P. truncatus from the regression model is compared with predictions from laboratory studies of reproductive potential under different climatic regimes. While laboratory studies predict high survival in hot, humid areas, the trap data showed higher catches in cooler, more temperate regions. Possible reasons for these differences and implications for the spread of P. truncatus in Africa are discussed.