bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Modelling ancient tides: the Upper Carboniferous epi‐continental seaway of Northwest Europe
Authors: WELLS MARTIN R. , ALLISON PETER A. , HAMPSON GARY J. , PIGGOTT MATTHEW D. , PAIN CHRISTOPHER C.
Published: July 2005

Due to a lack of modern analogues, debate surrounds the importance of tides in ancient epi‐continental seas. However, numerical modelling can provide a quantitative means of investigating palaeo‐tidality without recourse to analogues. Finite element modelling of the European Upper Carboniferous epi‐continental seaway predicts an exceedingly low Lunar tidal range (ca 5 cm in the open water regions of the UK and Southern North Sea). The Imperial College Ocean Model (ICOM) uses finite element methods and an unstructured tetrahedral mesh that is computationally very efficient. The accuracy and sensitivity of ICOM tidal range predictions were tested using bathymetric data from the present‐day Mediterranean Sea. The Mediterranean Sea is micro‐tidal and varies in depth up to 5·4 km with an average depth of 1–2 km. ICOM accurately predicts the tidal range given both a realistic, but smoothed, bathymetry and a straight sided basin with a uniform depth of 1 km. Variation in uniform depth from 100 to 3000 m with and without islands consistently predicts micro‐tidality, demonstrating that the model is robust and the effect of bathymetric uncertainty on model output is relatively small. The extremely low tidal range predicted for the European Upper Carboniferous is thus deemed robust. Putative Upper Carboniferous tidal deposits have been described in the UK and southern North Sea, but are represented by cyclic rhythmites and are limited to palaeo‐estuaries. Calculations based on an embayed coast model show that the tidal range could have been amplified to ca 1 m in estuaries and that this is sufficient to form cyclic rhythmites. Without tidal mixing, the tropical equatorial heat and salinity enhancement would promote stratification in the open water body. The introduction of organic matter probably caused anoxia, biotic mortality and carbon accumulation, as evidenced by numerous black ‘marine‐band’ shales.
Quantification of the dry aeolian deposition of dust on horizontal surfaces: an experimental comparison of theory and measurements
Authors: GOOSSENS DIRK
Published: July 2005

Eight techniques to quantify the deposition of aeolian dust on horizontal surfaces were tested in a wind tunnel. The tests included three theoretical techniques and five measurement techniques. The theoretical techniques investigated were: the gradient technique, the inferential technique without grain‐shape correction, and the inferential technique corrected for grain shape. The measuring techniques included the following surrogate surfaces: a water surface, a glass surface, a metal surface, a vertical array of metal plates, and an inverted frisbee filled with glass marbles. The efficiency of the techniques was investigated for the sediment as a whole (all grain sizes together) as well as for a large number of grain sizes extending from 1 to 104 μm. The surrogate surfaces showed more or less comparable catch efficiencies, although the water surface nearly always caught the highest quantities of dust and the marble‐filled frisbee and the vertical array of metal plates the lowest quantities of dust. The dust fluxes calculated by theoretical methods were markedly different from those obtained by direct measurements. The fluxes calculated by the inferential technique approximated those of the direct measurements only for grain sizes between 30 and 40 μm. For smaller and coarser grains, deviations from the measured fluxes were high. The gradient method, in its turn, provided extremely low calculated fluxes for grains in all size classes investigated. The latter technique was not considered very reliable for the dust used in the tests.
Sediment suspension dynamics and a new criterion for the maintenance of turbulent suspensions
Authors: LEEDER MIKE R. , GRAY THOMAS E. , ALEXANDER JAN
Published: July 2005

The vertical component of the turbulent flow acceleration term, , is used to determine the net positive vertical force that may support a suspended sediment load. A dimensionless criterion, Λ, is proposed for the maintenance of suspension, defined as the ratio of the maximum vertical turbulent stress to immersed weight of the suspended load above a unit bed area. In order that a suspension be maintained:
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where v ′ is instantaneous vertical turbulent velocity, σ and ρ are solid and fluid densities, respectively and m is the suspended load dry mass. The Λ criterion is dynamic, being a ratio of stresses and is analogous in this respect to Shields dimensionless stress criterion, θ, for the initiation of bedload motion. The new criterion is successful in predicting the maintenance of steady‐state suspended sediment transport in open channel shear flow and deposition from non‐uniform particulate density flows of wall jet type.
Bar and dune development during a freshet: Fraser River Estuary, British Columbia, Canada
Authors: VILLARD P. V. , CHURCH M.
Published: July 2005

Bi‐weekly multi‐track sonar surveys collected along a 2‐km reach of the estuarine South Arm of the Fraser River, British Columbia, Canada, during seasonal high flows document the initiation, development and interaction of dune and bar morphologies. Bedforms of several scales developed in well‐delineated fields. Bedforms that appear to fit accepted equilibrium depth‐scaling developed in the main channel during rising discharge when there was little local aggradation. During the rising stage, a bar also formed along the tidal shelf of the channel, migrated downstream and expanded into the main channel. Dunes that formed along the bar crest, a region of rapid deposition, lagged flow conditions and were larger than expected based on depth‐scaling relations. The larger dunes developed simultaneously, although bar growth lagged dune development and was initially partially obscured by the more rapidly developing dune field. It appears that rapid deposition enhances dune development along the channel tidal shelf to dimensions larger than would be expected by simple depth‐scaling rules. Smaller dunes that fit equilibrium depth‐scaling relations re‐established themselves throughout the study area during falling discharge when there was again little or no aggradation. Bed‐material transport rates estimated from the migration rates of the large dunes suggest that, at high flows, the dunes transport the majority of the material found within the bar.
Deep‐water clastic evaporites deposition in the Messinian Adriatic foredeep (northern Apennines, Italy): did the Mediterranean ever dry out?
Authors: MANZI VINICIO , LUGLI STEFANO , LUCCHI FRANCO RICCI , ROVERI MARCO
Published: July 2005

A new genetic facies model for deep‐water clastic evaporites is presented, based on work carried out on the Messinian Gessoso‐solfifera Formation of the northern Apennines during the last 15 years. This model is derived from the most recent siliciclastic turbidite models and describes the downcurrent transformations of a parent flow mainly composed of gypsum clasts. The model allows clearer comprehension of processes controlling the production and deposition of clastic evaporites, representing the most common evaporite facies of the northern Apennines, and the definition of the genetic and stratigraphic relationship with primary shallow‐water evaporites formed and preserved in marginal settings. Due to the severe recrystallization processes usually affecting these deposits, petrographic and geochemical analyses are needed for a more accurate interpretation of the large spectrum of recognized gravity‐driven deposits ranging from debrisflow to low‐density turbidites. Almost all the laminar ‘balatino’ gypsum, previously considered a deep‐water primary deposit, is here reinterpreted as the fine‐grained product of high to low‐density gravity flows. Facies associations permit the framing of the distribution of clastic evaporites into the complex tectonically controlled depositional settings of the Apennine foredeep basin. The Messinian Salinity Crisis occurred during an intense phase of geodynamic reorganization of the Mediterranean area that also produced the fragmentation of the former Miocene Apennine foredeep basin. In this area, primary shallow‐water evaporites equivalent to the Mediterranean Lower Evaporites, apparently only formed in semi‐closed thrust‐top basins like the Vena del Gesso Basin. The subsequent uplift and subaerial exposure of such basins ended the evaporite precipitation and promoted a widespread phase of collapse leading to the resedimentation of the evaporites into deeper basins. Vertical facies sequences of clastic evaporites can be interpreted in terms of the complex interplay between the Messinian tectonic evolution of the Apennine thrust belt and related exhumation–erosional processes. The facies model here proposed could be helpful also for better comprehension of other different depositional and geodynamic contexts; the importance of clastic evaporites deposits has been overlooked in the study of other Mediterranean areas. Based on the Apennine basins experience, it is suggested here that evaporites diffused into the deeper portions of the Mediterranean basin may consist mainly of deep‐water resedimented deposits rather than shallow‐water to supratidal primary evaporites indicative of a complete basin desiccation.
Recycling and chemical weathering in tectonically controlled Mesozoic–Cenozoic basins of New Zealand
Authors: CORCORAN P.L.
Published: July 2005

Sedimentation in molasse basins is controlled by tectonics, however, recycling and chemical weathering play a critical role in the compositional evolution of a sedimentary succession. The Cretaceous to Pliocene molasse deposits of Central Otago, New Zealand are excellent examples of tectonically related deposits that were governed by the effects of chemical weathering and recycling. Preserved in fault‐controlled basins floored by flysch deposits of the Otago Schist, the clastic successions contain ubiquitous unconformities and lithofacies consistent with alluvial, fluvial and lacustrine depositional settings. Textural analysis of Central Otago sandstones establishes a general quartz enrichment and increased mixing of angular and well‐rounded quartz varieties up‐section, consistent with a history of sediment recycling. Rare earth element (REE) patterns, which reflect upper crustal compositions, are similar for the flysch‐type Otago Schist (Permian–Early Cretaceous), a palaeo‐weathering profile, and the overlying molasse deposits. The development of quartz arenites is also consistent with high degrees of chemical weathering, and erosion of the schist basement, which contains numerous quartz veins. Although recycling has occurred, SiO2 and TiO2 do not consistently show a negative correlation over time. This reflects erosion of previously deposited quartz‐rich sediment and the Otago weathering profile, which produced an inverse stratigraphy. CIA values range from 52 for lithic‐rich, coarse‐grained sandstones and polymictic conglomerate matrices, to 93 for coarse‐grained to pebble‐rich quartz arenites. Individual samples were split into finer‐ and coarser‐grained pairs (<2·5φ and 2·5 to −1φ) and were analysed separately. The results show that finer‐grained samples contain higher REE abundances and less SiO2, but the coarser‐grained Miocene–Pliocene samples have higher CIA values than their finer‐grained counterparts. These coarse‐grained deposits are quartz‐rich and plot erratically on tectonic discrimination diagrams, implying that using SiO2‐poor samples is more reliable for geochemical analysis. Overall, the petrographic and geochemical results indicate that the main factors controlling the composition of the Central Otago molasse deposits were source composition, chemical weathering and recycling. Studies of this nature can be conducted in Archaean tectonically controlled molasse basins that are affected by similar allocyclic factors.
Action of carbendazim on the development of Nosema bombycis Naegeli in silkworm Bombyx mori L.
Authors: Jyothi N. B. , Patil C. S. , Dass C. M. S.
Published: July 2005

Abstract:  Carbendazim, a benzimidazole compound is effective in curing pebrine disease in silkworm, Bombyx mori, caused by Nosema bombycis, if treatment is given within 48 h post‐infection or before the parasite establishes itself in the host tissue. Ultrastructural evidence of the action of carbendazim showed an adverse effect of the drug on both merogonic and sporogonic stages of the parasite in the midgut and silk gland of the silkworm. The drug caused elongation, vacuolation and depletion of cytoplasmic contents of the meront, sporont, sporoblast and spore stages of N. bombycis.
The effect of powdery mildew on the number of prey consumed by Typhlodromus pyri (Acari: Phytoseiidae)
Authors: Zemek R.
Published: July 2005

Abstract:  Prey consumption by Typhlodromus pyri Scheuten was studied in the presence and absence of apple powdery mildew, Podosphaera leucotricha (Ell. and Everh.) under constant laboratory conditions. Eggs of Tetranychus urticae Koch were offered to predatory mites as a prey. Seven densities ranging from five to 100 T. urticae eggs per arena were used. Mildew conidia (approximately 0.5 mg) were added to half of the arenas by brushing them from infected apple leaves. A single adult female of T. pyri was introduced onto each arena and number of prey eggs consumed was counted 12 h later when the predator was offered new T. urticae eggs again and the procedure was repeated once. Data showed that predators consumed in both experimental periods nearly all prey in experiments with densities up to 40 eggs per arena and no mildew. However, the number of eggs consumed decreased more than twofold when mildew conidia were supplied, even at high prey densities. Differences in predation rate between treatments with and without mildew were highly significant. The results thus indicate that availability of mildew as an alternative food can reduce prey suppression by T. pyri. Possible implications of these findings in biological control of spider mites by generalist predatory mites are discussed.
Effects of proteinase inhibitors on western corn rootworm life parameters
Authors: Bažok R. , Igrc Barčić J. , Edwards C. R.
Published: July 2005

Abstract:  Plants have developed defensive mechanisms to minimize predation by insect pests. Proteinase inhibitors are an example of plant compounds synthesized as a mechanism for defence. The objective of this study was to determine the impact of trans‐epoxysuccinyl‐l‐leucylamido (4‐guanidino) butane (E‐64), phenylmethylsulfonyl fluoride (PMSF‐serine protenase inhibitor) and Kunitz trypsin inhibitors on the pre‐ovipositional and ovipositional periods, the mean number of eggs laid per female, and the longevity of western corn rootworm (WCR), Diabrotica virgifera virgifera LeConte, adults. This study provides information on the effectiveness of proteinase inhibitors as a host‐plant resistance tool for managing WCR beetles. The study was conducted in 1997, 1998, and 2000. In 1997, E‐64 was added to an artificial diet at the concentrations of 0.05, 0.025 and 0.0125% (w/w), corresponding to 500, 250, and 125 ppm respectively. In 1998, PMSF was added to the artificial diet at the same concentrations. In 2000, Kunitz trypsin inhibitor was added to the artificial diet at concentrations of 0.2, 0.1 and 0.05% (w/w), corresponding to 2000, 1000, and 500 ppm respectively. The mean fecundity of beetles fed the untreated diet was between 67 and 111 eggs per female. The fecundity of beetles fed E‐64 and PMSF at different concentrations, ranged between 162 and 246 eggs per female for E‐64 and 61 and 80.5 eggs per female for PMSF. The fecundity of the beetles fed Kunitz trypsin inhibitor was between 155 and 225 eggs per female. When beetles fed on the diet which consisted of the lowest dosage of Kunitz trypsin inhibitor (500 ppm), fecundity was higher than that on untreated control. The proteinase inhibitors investigated did not show a negative impact on WCR adults. Beetle fecundity, the length of the pre‐ovipositional and ovipositional periods and the longevity of the beetles fed with proteinase inhibitors were not lower than that of the beetles fed only the artificial diet. This study does not support the use of investigated proteinase inhibitors at applied concentrations as effective host‐plant resistance tools for managing WCR beetles.
Control of Plutella xylostella using polymer‐formulated Steinernema carpocapsae and Bacillus thuringiensis in cabbage fields
Authors: Schroer S. , Sulistyanto D. , Ehlers R.‐U.
Published: July 2005

Abstract:  Field trials evaluating the potential of the entomopathogenic nematode Steinernema carpocapsae and the feasibility to combine nematodes with Bacillus thuringiensis for sustainable control of the diamondback moth (DBM) Plutella xylostella were conducted in cabbage cultivated in the province Probolinggo, east Java and Indonesia. A single use of 0.5 million S. carpocapsae m−2 applied with a surfactant‐polymer‐formulation containing 0.3% xanthan and 0.3% Rimulgan® achieved a significant reduction of the insects per plant with >50% control after 7 days. Even 14 days after the application about 45% control was recorded and dead larvae containing nematodes were found. No significant effects were recorded when the formulation was compared with nematodes applied in water or with a surfactant alone. This was attributed to high humidity in the experimental area at the end of the rainy season and a microclimate in the cabbage heads favouring nematode survival. Weekly applications of B. thuringiensis (Turex®) or alternating applications of Turex® and the nematodes achieved >80% control. The application of both biological agents together every second week reached insignificant lower efficacy (70%). Nematodes can be used to substitute ineffective chemical insecticides and alterations with B. thuringiensis can prevent the further development of resistance against the bacterial control agent.
Reproductive performance of four aphidophagous ladybirds on cowpea aphid, Aphis craccivora Koch
Authors: Omkar  , Mishra G. , Srivastava S. , Gupta A. K. , Singh S. K.
Published: July 2005

Abstract:  This study investigated prey consumption, egg production, percent progeny loss, reproductive, pre‐ and post‐reproductive periods, reproductive time ratio, reproductive rate and bioconversion efficiency of four aphidophagous ladybirds, viz. Cheilomenes sexmaculata (Fabricius), Coccinella septempunctata Linnaeus, Coccinella transversalis Fabricius and Propylea dissecta (Mulsant) on Dolichos lablab Linnaeus infested with cowpea aphid, Aphis craccivora Koch. C. sexmaculata had the highest bioconversion efficiency, reproductive rate and reproductive time ratio followed in rank order by P. dissecta, C. transversalis and C. septempunctata. This study indicates that C. sexmaculata has a narrow ecological relationship with A. craccivora. The increased allocation of resources to reproduction as indicated through a high reproductive time ratio and high bioconversion efficiency of C. sexmaculata and P. dissecta suggest that they may be better adapted to compete for this prey with larger species like C. transversalis and C. septempunctata.
Coexistence of two mitochondrial DNA haplotypes in Japanese populations of Hypera postica (Col., Curculionidae)
Authors: Kuwata R. , Tokuda M. , Yamaguchi D. , Yukawa J.
Published: July 2005

Abstract:  In Japan, the alfalfa weevil, Hypera postica, was first recorded in 1982 from Fukuoka and Okinawa Prefectures and has been spreading to many other prefectures. The weevil seriously infests the Chinese milk vetch, Astragalus sinicus, one of the most important honey resources for honeybees in Japan. Direct sequencing of partial mitochondrial DNA and PCR‐RFLP data for alfalfa weevil individuals indicated the coexistence of two haplotypes at various localities in Japan. Molecular phylogenetic analysis for H. postica haplotypes and strains indicated that the two Japanese haplotypes had not derived from a single genetic origin. Based on the results, special comments are made on biological control measures using introduced parasitic waSPS.
The role of beetle and host volatiles in host colonization in the European oak bark beetle, Scolytus intricatus (Ratzeburg) (Col., Scolytidae)
Authors: Hovorka O. , Kindl J. , Kalinová B. , Knížek M. , Vrkočová P. , Koutek B.
Published: July 2005

Abstract:  To understand the role of chemical signals involved in Scolytus intricatus (Ratzeburg) (Col., Scolytidae) host colonization, the attractiveness of intact and beetle colonized host material was investigated in the field and in the laboratory. In the field, chemical signals operating at long range were investigated by means of sticky traps. In the laboratory, close‐range chemical interactions were investigated with an arena olfactometer. Field experiments showed no differences in the attractiveness between infested and non‐infested host material. On the contrary, laboratory experiments revealed higher attractiveness of infested host and beetle‐produced frass in comparison with intact host and mechanically produced sawdust respectively. Laboratory data also disclosed the attractiveness of beetle extracts of both sexes. Our data show that: (1) host kairomones play an important role during host colonization, and that (2) S. intricatus does not use a sex‐specific secondary attractant system. Differences between results of field and laboratory trials are discussed.
Biological parameters ofThripobius semiluteusBouček (Hym., Eulophidae), a larval endoparasitoid ofHeliothrips haemorrhoidalis(Bouché) (Thysan., Thripidae)
Authors: Bernardo U. , Viggiani G. , Sasso R.
Published: July 2005

Abstract: The endoparasitoidThripobius semiluteusBouček was recently introduced to Italy from Israel for the biological control ofHeliothrips haemorrhoidalis(Bouché). In this study, some aspects of the biology ofT. semiluteuswere determined in the laboratory. Developmental time (egg to adult), potential fecundity, realized fecundity, progeny, daily rate of deposition of eggs and several demographic growth parameters were evaluated. Studies of the longevity of fed and starved adults at seven temperatures (3, 10, 15, 20, 23, 25 and 30 ± 1°C) showed that fedT. semiluteuslived longest at 15°C (36.45 days) and shortest at 3°C (1.45 days). Longevity was reduced significantly at higher and lower temperatures than 15°C and when honey was not provided. Development time was measured at six temperatures. Pupae did not complete development at 10°C. The lower theoretical temperature threshold was 9.0°C; the optimum developmental temperature and the upper lethal threshold were 28.0°C and 34.1°C respectively. The most rapid development was found at 30°C, but waSPS suffered significantly higher mortality at this temperature than at other temperatures. Ovigeny index showed thatT. semiluteusis synovigenic, with a mean realized fecundity of 78.8 eggs per female. The mean progeny was 68.2 adults per female on fed adults.
Foraging behaviour of Helicoverpa armigera first instar larvae on crop plants of different developmental stages
Authors: Johnson M.‐L. , Zalucki M. P.
Published: July 2005

Abstract:  Understanding how insect pests forage on their food plants can help optimize management strategies. Helicoverpa armigera (Hübner) (Lep., Noctuidae) is a major polyphagous pest of agricultural crops worldwide. The immature stages feed and forage on crops at all stages of plant development, damaging fruiting and non‐fruiting structures, yet very little is known about the influence of host type or stage on the location and behaviour of larvae. Through semi‐continuous observation, we evaluated the foraging (movement and feeding) behaviours of H. armigera first instar larvae as well as the proportion of time spent at key locations on mungbean [Vigna radiata (L.) Wilczek] and pigeon pea [Cajanus cajan (L.) Millspaugh] of differing developmental stages: seedling‐ and mature (flowering/pod fill)‐stage plants. Both host type and age affected the behaviour of larvae. Larvae spent more time in the upper parts of mature plants than on seedlings and tended to stay at the top of mature plants if they moved there. This difference was greater in pigeon pea than in mungbean. The proportion of time allocated to feeding on different parts of a plant differed with host and age. More feeding occurred in the top of mature pigeon pea plants but did not differ between mature and seedling mungbean plants. The duration of key behaviours did not differ between plant ages in either crop type and was similar between hosts although resting bouts were substantially longer on mungbeans. Thus a polyphagous species such as H. armigera does not forage in equivalent ways on different hosts in the first instar stage.
Predatory effect of Coccinella septempunctata on Thrips tabaci and Trialeurodes vaporariorum
Authors: Deligeorgidis P. N. , Ipsilandis C. G. , Vaiopoulou M. , Kaltsoudas G. , Sidiropoulos G.
Published: July 2005

Abstract:  The predatory effect of adult ladybird Coccinella septempunctata L. on adults of thrips, Thrips tabaci Lindeman, and whiteflies, Trialeurodes vaporariorum (Westwood), was examined in controlled environment chambers, on tomato leaves, in transparent small plastic cages at proportions of 1/(10 + 10), 1/(20 + 20), 1/(30 + 30) and 1/(40 + 40) predator/number of thrips and whiteflies. We conclude that C. septempunctata could be used with success for the biological control of thrips and whiteflies in greenhouse crops, with almost the same effectiveness as for aphids, at predator/prey proportions near 1 : 30. Additionally, it was found a prey preference for T. tabaci in comparison with T. vaporariorum. According to the model used, effective predation is correlated with predator/prey ratio rather than to prey preference.
Development of a sequence‐specific real‐time PCR to the melon thrips Thrips palmi (Thysan., Thripidae)
Authors: Walsh K. , Boonham N. , Barker I. , Collins D. W.
Published: July 2005

Abstract:  In recent years, the polyphagous pest Thrips palmi Karny has become a species of major quarantine concern, often intercepted on plant material in international trade. The ability to rapidly identify the species is a critical factor that will determine the success of any campaign to prevent its establishment in Europe or elsewhere. However, the immature stages cannot currently be identified to the species level with certainty by morphological methods. In this study, random amplified polymorphic DNA analysis was performed to identify putative markers, which were then screened by Southern blot analysis. One marker was sequenced and a real‐time polymerase chain reaction assay developed. The assay was screened against 21 thrips species including 10 other species of the genus Thrips and were found to be specific to T. palmi. The assay is rapid, could be completed in as little as 45 min and can be used to aid the identification of T. palmi.
Effects of two pheromone trap densities against banana weevil, Cosmopolites sordidus, populations and their impact on plant damage in Uganda
Authors: Tinzaara W. , Gold C. S. , Kagezi G. H. , Dicke M. , Van Huis A. , Nankinga C. M. , Tushemereirwe W. , Ragama P. E.
Published: July 2005

Abstract:  An on‐farm study to evaluate the effect of pheromone trap density on the population of the banana weevil, Cosmopolites sordidus (Germar) (Col., Curculionidae) was conducted in Masaka district, Uganda. The pheromone used was Cosmolure+, a commercially available weevil aggregation pheromone. Forty‐two farms were assigned to one of three treatments: 0, 4 and 8 pheromone traps/ha. Pheromone lures were changed monthly at which time the traps were moved to a different location within the stand. Adult weevil population densities were estimated by using mark and recapture methodology at 0, 6, 12, 18 and 21 months, while damage to the banana corm was assessed at 0, 3, 6, 12, 18 and 21 months since the start of the experiment. Pheromone trap captures were generally low: about 10 weevils per trap per month. There were no significant differences in mean catches of C. sordidus per trap per month except for February 2002 when doubling the pheromone trap density decreased weevil catches. Although not significant, decreased efficiency was also the trend in higher trap densities over all the data sets. Doubling the number of traps increased the number of weevils caught per hectare per month from 0.4 to 0.6%. There was no significant difference in plant damage between the pheromone treatments in low‐ compared with high‐trap densities. There were generally no significant differences in weevil populations and plant damage between pheromone‐treated and control farms. Possible reasons for the low‐trap efficacy in this study are discussed.
Post‐damage alkaloid concentration in sweet and bitter lupin varieties and its effect on subsequent herbivory
Authors: del Pilar Vilariño M. , Mareggiani G. , Grass M. Y. , Leicach S. R. , Ravetta D. A.
Published: July 2005

Abstract: While most lupin species possess quinolizidine alkaloids, sweet (low alkaloid) varieties are more palatable but at the same time more susceptible to herbivory. Nevertheless, as they are not totally devoid of alkaloids, it may be possible that their alkaloid levels increase after damage. The aim of this study was to compare inductive responses to herbivory in sweet and bitter varieties ofLupinus albus(L.) andLupinus angustifolius(L.), and to assess if these responses were effective to stop subsequent herbivory. Two experiments were carried out; in the first,Anticarsia gemmatalis(Hübner; Lep., Noctuidae) caterpillars were introduced in field‐growing lupin plants and allowed to feed for 72 h, after which leaves were collected and analysed for alkaloid content and composition. The second experiment was a bioassay, in which leaves collected from experiment 1, from treated and control plants, were offered to another set ofAnticarsiacaterpillars, and consumption was recorded after 24 h. We found that bothL. albusvarieties (sweet and bitter) had an increase in their alkaloid concentration after damage, while none of theL. angustifoliusvarieties had. The sweetL. albusvariety, Rumbo, had a greater inductive response than the bitter variety. When leaves were offered to caterpillars (bioassay), this variety showed the greatest difference between consumption of controls and previously eaten leaves, implying that alkaloid levels reached after damage were effective to deter subsequent herbivores as a result of plants probably overcoming a ‘palatability threshold’.
Adult dispersal of Ostrinia nubilalis Hübner (Lepidoptera: Crambidae) and its implications for resistance management in Bt‐maize
Authors: Qureshi J. A. , Buschman L. L. , Throne J. E. , Ramaswamy S. B.
Published: July 2005

Abstract:  Dispersal of European corn borer, Ostrinia nubilalis Hübner was examined by release and recapture of the dye marked adults and by capture of the feral adults in and around the large 50 ha center pivot irrigated fields of Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) maize. Pheromone and black light traps were used to catch the adults. In 1999, 15 094 marked males and 7993 marked females were released, and in 2001, 13 942 marked males and 9977 marked females were released. In 1999, maximum mean recapture beyond the release point was 1.95 and 1.67% for males and females, but in 2001, the recapture rate was 9.97 and 4.37% for males and females. Few males (3.8%) and females (2.07%) were recaptured in neighbourhood maize fields. An exponential decay function explained recapture of marked adults across the dispersal distance. More than 90% of marked adults were recaptured within 300 m of the release point. Large numbers of feral adults were captured throughout the study fields. Feral adult dispersal could be fitted to a linear model. Virgin females (20% marked and 8% feral) were captured throughout the study fields. The recapture of marked insects suggests that the dispersal was limited. However, capture of feral adults throughout Bt‐maize fields indicate that the actual dispersal may be more extensive than indicated by recapture of marked adults. Potential refuge sources for the feral adults were 587–1387 m from the edge of the study fields. It is not clear if the dispersal recorded in this study is extensive enough to support the current resistance management strategy for corn borers. There appears to be some dispersal of corn borers from the non‐transgenic ‘refuge’ fields into the transgenic fields that allows some genetic mixing of the two populations.
Effects of autumn kaolin treatments on the rosy apple aphid, Dysaphis plantaginea (Pass.) and possible modes of action
Authors: Bürgel K. , Daniel C. , Wyss E.
Published: July 2005

Abstract:  Autumn applications of the repellent processed‐kaolin particle film (Surround® WP) might be an alternative to the insecticides commonly used in spring to control the rosy apple aphid, Dysaphis plantaginea (Pass.) (Hom., Aphididae). To assess the mode of action and the impact of kaolin on autumn forms of D. plantaginea, trials were conducted in field cages and in open‐fields in autumn 2003. Choice and no‐choice experiments in field cages showed that winged aphids landed in significantly lower numbers and gave birth to significantly fewer females on kaolin‐treated branches compared with the untreated control. In a first open‐field trial, single applications at 10 different dates and with two different concentrations of kaolin were conducted after harvest to assess the influence of the kaolin concentration on the autumn forms of D. plantaginea. No differences were found between the different concentrations and spraying dates. In a second open‐field trial, single and multiple applications of kaolin were tested at different dates after harvest. Repeated applications of kaolin significantly reduced females in autumn and fundatrices in spring, whereas single kaolin treatments had no significant effect on D. plantaginea. None of the kaolin treatments reduced aphids below the economic threshold. In conclusion, kaolin showed promising results to control autumn forms of D. plantaginea. However, with a more detailed forecasting model for the autumnal flight of this aphid, treatments could be conducted more precisely and more effectively, especially in years with exceptional climatic conditions, such as in 2003.
Evidence for behavioural resistance by the diamondback moth, Plutella xylostella (L.)
Authors: Sarfraz M. , Dosdall L. M. , Keddie B. A.
Published: July 2005

Abstract:  The diamondback moth (DBM), Plutella xylostella (L.) (Lep., Plutellidae), is an important pest of brassicaceous crops worldwide. It has developed resistance to almost every synthetic insecticide applied in the field and consequently is often difficult to control in crucifer‐growing areas. DBM oviposition behaviour was investigated in greenhouse and growth chamber conditions with seven cruciferous and one non‐cruciferous plant varieties. In free choice tests, females deposited more eggs on the stem near the soil‐stem interface than on leaves. Our findings suggest that DBM is capable of developing behavioural resistance through oviposition site selection to avoid lethal doses of foliar‐applied insecticides in the field.
Short‐term development of ambrosia and bark beetle assemblages following a windstorm in French broadleaved temperate forests
Authors: Bouget C. , Noblecourt T.
Published: July 2005

Abstract:  In most temperate deciduous forests, windstorm is the main source of dead wood. However, the effects of this natural disturbance on ambrosia and bark beetle communities are poorly known. In managed oak‐hornbeam forests storm‐damaged in France in 1999, we sampled ambrosia (and second bark beetles) by ethanol‐baited window‐flight traps in 2001. By comparing uncleared gaps, undisturbed closed‐canopy controls and seedling‐sapling stands, we investigated the short‐term effects of gap formation, gap size and surrounding landscape to provide a snapshot of scolytid response. Contrary to expectations, neither the abundance nor the richness of ambrosia beetle species was significantly higher in gaps than in undisturbed stands. Few responses in abundance at the species level and only a slight difference in assemblage composition were detected between gaps and closed‐canopy controls. Gaps were more dissimilar from seedling‐sapling stands, than from closed‐canopy controls. More scolytid individuals and species were caught in gaps than in seedling‐sapling stands. Mean local and cumulative richness peaked in mid‐size gaps. Only mid‐size gaps differed from closed‐canopy controls in terms of species composition. We identified generalist gap species (Xyleborus saxesenii, X. cryptographus), but also species significantly more abundant in mid‐size gaps (Platypus cylindrus, Xyloterus signatus). The faunistic peculiarity of mid‐size gaps seemed to be partly related to a bias in oak density among gap size classes. Few landscape effects were observed. Only the scolytids on the whole and X. dispar were slightly favoured by an increasing density in fellings at the 78 ha scale. We did not find any correlation between scolytid abundance and the surrounding closed‐forest percentage area. We confirmed that temperate, deciduous, managed stands did not come under threat by ambrosia and bark beetle pests after the 1999 windstorm. Nonetheless, our data stressed the current expansion in Western Europe of two invasive species, X. peregrinus and especially X. germanus, now the predominant scolytid in the three oak forests studied.
Morphometry of the sexual forms of Acromyrmex subterraneus brunneus Forel, 1911 (Hym., Formicidae) in queenright and queenless laboratory colonies
Authors: Camargo R. S. , Forti L. C. , de Andrade A. P. P. , de Matos C. A. O. , Lopes J. F. S.
Published: July 2005

Abstract:  A morphometric study was performed on the sexual forms of Acromyrmex subterraneus brunneus in colonies kept under laboratory conditions. The males studied were obtained from queenright and queenless colonies, i.e. they were produced by either the queen or the workers. Cluster analysis revealed a wide distribution in the size of the sexual forms produced in queenless colonies compared with queenright colonies, and that some of the worker‐produced males were significantly smaller than those produced in queenright colonies. However, we found no indication that the males produced in queenless colonies are unable to mate, as smaller and larger males had identical genitalia that varied only in size, and therefore probably represent an alternative route of reproduction in this species.
Evaluation of the biological control of the pink wax scale Ceroplastes rubens Maskell (Hom., Coccidae) with the introduced parasitoid Anicetus beneficus Ishii & Yasumatsu (Hym., Encyrtidae) in the Central province of Papua New Guinea
Authors: Krull S. M. E. , Basedow T.
Published: July 2005

Abstract:  In order to evaluate the possibility of a classical biological control of the pink wax scale Ceroplastes rubens (Hom., Coccidae) with the parasitoid Anicetus beneficus (Hym., Encyrtidae), endemic parasitoids were collected (2000/2001) in three provinces in Papua New Guinea and parasitization levels were determined. Eight hymenopteran parasitoid species were identified: Aprostocetus sp. (Eulophidae), Coccophagus sp. (Aphelenidae), five Encyrtidae: Cheiloneurus sp., Coccidocnotus sp., Diversinervus sp., Metaphycus sp., Microterys sp. and Moranila sp. (Pteromalidae). Levels of parasitization were low, varying between 1.4 and 2.8%. A. beneficus was imported from Australia and 1100 specimens were released in spring 2002 at two locations with mango infested by C. rubens (Laloki and Tahira) in the Central Province. A. beneficus did establish at both sites. Six months after release, parasitization levels of C. rubens had increased from 2.8 to 5.9% (P  =  0.05) at Laloki and from 1.8 to 22.2% (P  =  0.01) at Tahira, with A. beneficus being the most frequent parasitoid (69% of all parasitoids). Workers of the ant genus Tapinoma (Dolichoderinae) were frequently collected from infested trees at Laloki, but were not present at Tahira. It is assumed that their presence is at least partly responsible for the lower degree of parasitization and number of A. beneficus at this site. The necessity of further studies is stressed.
Evaluation of an entomopathogenic fungus,Paecilomyces fumosoroseus(Wize) Brown and Smith (Deuteromycota: Hyphomycetes) obtained from Formosan subterranean termites (Isop., Rhinotermitidae)
Authors: Meikle W. G. , Mercadier G. , Rosengaus R. B. , Kirk A. A. , Derouané F. , Quimby P. C.
Published: July 2005

Abstract: An isolate ofPaecilomyces fumosoroseuswas obtained fromCoptotermes formosanuscollected in Hong Kong, and a commercially available isolate ofMetarhizium anisopliae, were both tested againstC. formosanusshipped live from China. Survivorship of termites treated with a suspension of 5 × 105M. anisopliaeconidia/ml and kept alone declined more rapidly than for those treated at the same concentration ofP. fumosoroseusconidia. At a 5 × 106conidia/ml concentration, no significant differences in terms of termite survivorship were observed between the two fungal species. However, among termites kept in groups of 10 after treatment, those sprayed withP. fumosoroseusconidia at either 5 × 105or 5 × 106conidia/ml had significantly lower survivorship than those sprayed withM. anisopliaeconidia. All the cadavers of termites treated withP. fumosoroseusand kept alone sporulated and among grouped termites 29% of the cadavers sporulated. By comparison, 53% of the cadavers of termites treated withM. anisopliaeand kept alone sporulated, and only 4% of the cadavers of treated termites kept in groups sporulated.
Prey preference of the predatory mite Neoseiulus womersleyi Schicha is determined by spider mite webs
Authors: Furuichi H. , Yano S. , Takafuji A. , Osakabe M.
Published: July 2005

Abstract:  We experimentally verified a proximate cause for the preference of prey species by the predatory mite Neoseiulus womersleyi, which prefers the eggs of Amphitetranychus viennensis Zacher to those of Tetranychus urticae Koch. To separate the effects of spider mite eggs and spider mite webs on the prey preference of the predatory mite, we manipulated combinations of eggs and webs of the two prey species. The number of eggs consumed by adult female N. womersleyi was compared with respect to two factors: eggs of the same species under webs of the different species and eggs of different species under webs of the same species. The results revealed that the prey preference of N. womersleyi was determined by the webs, and not by the eggs.
Cloning: Eight Years After Dolly
Authors: Campbell KHS , Alberio R , Choi I , Fisher P , Kelly RDW , Lee J‐H , Maalouf W
Published: July 2005

Contents

It is now 8 years since the birth of Dolly, the first animal produced by nuclear transfer using a donor cell population established from an adult animal. During this time, the technique of nuclear transfer has been successfully applied to a range of mammalian species for the production of offspring using a plethora of donor cell types derived from both foetal and adult tissues. In addition, when coupled with genetic manipulation of the donor cells, transgenic offspring have been produced with a range of genetic modifications including gene knockouts and gene knockings. Despite the apparent successes of the technology, the efficiency of development to live offspring has remained low and developmental abnormalities still occur. The objectives of this paper are to review some of the successes and failures of the nuclear transfer procedure since the production of Dolly. In particular, we will review the major steps in the procedure and discuss studies from our laboratory and others which have modified the procedure in ways which may impact on development.
Effects of Endocrine Disrupters on the Oocytes and Embryos of Farm Animals
Authors: Brevini TAL , Cillo F , Antonini S , Gandolfi F
Published: July 2005

Contents

Currently, approximately 60 chemicals have been identified as endocrine disruptors (EDs): exogenous agents that interfere with the synthesis, secretion, transport, metabolism, binding, action, or elimination of natural blood‐borne hormones. Farm animals ingest these substances with food and drinking water. Their stability and lipid solubility has led to increased concern that these substances may compromise the reproductive health of both humans and animals. Oocytes are a permanent cell population established before birth which is exposed to environmental stimuli for a period that, in farm animals, can be as long as several years. Oocyte competence is acquired within the ovary during the developmental stages that precede ovulation and its role is critical during the interval between fertilization and the so‐called maternal to embryonic transition, when the transcriptional activity of the embryonic genome becomes fully functional. Any perturbation of these delicate process is likely to reduce oocyte developmental competence and, therefore, to cause an arrest of embryonic development at any given stage. A critical analysis of the doses and time of exposure is presented together with a description of the effects of different EDs on farm animal oocytes and early embryonic development. Finally some of the mechanisms mediating EDs effects on the oocytes will be described. In particular the role of arylhydrocarbon receptor, maternal mRNA stability and cytoplasmic remodelling during oocyte maturation will be discussed in some details.
An update on Reproductive Technologies with Potential Short‐Term Application in Pig Production
Authors: Martinez EA , Vazquez JM , Roca J , Cuello C , Gil MA , Parrilla I , Vazquez JL
Published: July 2005

Contents

Over the past decade, there has been an increase in the development and/or in the improvement of emerging reproductive technologies in pigs. Among emerging reproductive technologies with potential short‐term application in pig production are: artificial insemination with low number of spermatozoa, cryopreservation of spermatozoa and embryos, sperm sexing, and non‐surgical embryo transfer. The following review will give emphasis to recent advancements in these reproductive technologies that are starting to show possibilities of serious applications under field conditions.
Are Endocrine Disrupting Compounds a Threat to Farm Animal Health, Welfare and Productivity?
Authors: Rhind SM
Published: July 2005

Contents

The sources and characteristics of endocrine disrupting compounds (EDCs) are reviewed and discussed with respect to their potential effects on farm animal health, welfare and productivity. The importance of certain properties of these compounds in relation to the expression of their biological effects is addressed together with potential routes of exposure. It is concluded that little is known of factors affecting the tissue concentrations of EDCs in farm animals, the concentrations that are required to perturb physiological function in these species, the effects of prolonged exposure to low doses, the effect of cocktails of EDCs and other pollutants or the responses of specific organs and physiological systems that are affected by EDCs. Much of the available information pertaining to EDCs is derived from epidemiological studies of wildlife species and from laboratory animal studies and while these studies have significant limitations, they are considered to be valuable indicators of potential effects in farm animal species. The results of such studies, together with the small amounts of data from studies of ruminants, indicate that there may be significant effects of exposure to environmental levels of EDCs on farm animal health, even although effects are not generally apparent in practice, at this time.