bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Oral application of D-glucoascorbic acid to adult Spodoptera littoralis (Boisduval) (Lepidoptera, Noctuidae) inducing sterility by spermatophore malformation
Authors: Navon A. , Levinson H. Z.
Published: July 2009

D-glucoascorbic acid in 0·05–0·30% aqueous solution fed to adult males of Spodoptera littoralis (Boisd.) caused the production of deformed spermatophores. During mating the spermatophore corpus did not become inflated and permanent copulations were often observed. The inadequate moulding of the spermatophore was caused exclusively by oral uptake of D-glucoascorbic acid in male moths. This ascorbic acid analogue did not affect adult longevity, number of spermatophores or egg fecundity. Moths feeding on an aqueous diet of 0·3 % of this chemical were completely sterile. Bait-stations containing this material might possibly be used to induce sterility in the natural insect population.
Adult behaviour and oviposition of five noctuid and tortricid moth pests and their control in glasshouses
Authors: Burges H. D. , Jarrett P.
Published: July 2009

Adult behaviour and oviposition patterns of Cacoecimorpha pronubana (Hb.), Phlogophora meticulosa (L.), Autographa gamma (L.), Mamestra brassicae (L.) and Lacanobia oleracea (L.) were studied by introducing laboratory reared pupae into glasshouses. Adults emerging from these pupae were located by direct visual searching of chrysanthemum plants and of the greenhouse structures for up to three weeks after emergence.

In small houses (2·9×3·3×2·5 m), 49 adults of C. pronubana emerged. At least 15 stayed inside the house and laid 1 750 eggs. With P. meticulosa, A. gamma and L. oleracea, 262 adults emerged and escaped from the houses without laying eggs inside.

In a large glasshouse (9·8×13·1×5·1 m) with automatic ventilators, 840 adults of P. meticulosa, A. gamma and M. brassicae emerged and many were prevented from escaping when the ventilators were closed during the moths' flight period. Moths were inactive in daytime and most were found on the highest parts of the aluminium framework, mainly on the sides which received most external light overnight. None were found on the glass. Only 27·3% of the P. meticulosa were found on the plants. Moth distributions probably result from moths flying until they reach a barrier, which they then tend to follow, with directional responses to gravity, light, settling site, food plant and oviposition site superimposed in varying degrees on this basic pattern. About 30 470 eggs were laid, more in outer than in inner beds and more in the outer than in the inner rows of a bed. P. meticulosa and A. gamma laid eggs only on plants. M. brassicae laid about 1 854 eggs on the undersides of leaves and 2 972 on glass and framework, mainly in the direction of external light.

All five species can cause serious damage to crops. Initial infestations can be controlled by sprays of chemical insecticides or Bacillus thurin-giensis. Usually a few larvae survive a single spray and, in the absence of further control measures, they may produce a troublesome second generation, although in certain circumstances further control measures may not be required. If biological control of other tomato pests becomes widespread, steps should be taken to prevent L. oleracea again becoming an important pest.
Physiology of tsetse flies (Glossinaspp.) (Diptera: Glossinidae): a review
Authors: Langley P. A.
Published: July 2009

Since no major review of the literature on tsetse physiology has hitherto been undertaken, relevant papers up to the beginning of 1977 are included in the present work. The physiology of Glossina is dealt with under three major headings; reproductive, developmental and nutritional events in the life of this haematophagous and viviparous insect are discussed in relation to general principles of insect physiology gained from the study of other genera. The role of adult maturation and the possible involvement of a sex pheromone in successful mating are considered. The difficulties of studying neuroendocrine function in relation to reproductive physiology in a viviparous insect, where reproductive and developmental events are not always separated chronologically, are emphasised. Nevertheless, the role of the neuroendocrine system in the control of such events as ovarian development, ovulation, parturition, pupariation and metamorphosis is considered, and the contribution that recent work onGlossinahas made to an increased understanding of general principles in this field is discussed. Laboratory observations have demonstrated circadian components of behaviour in Glossina that can influence interpretation of field observations and likewise should influence the design of physiological experiments. Utilisation of nutritional reserves for larval growth and for flight activity has received considerable attention recently. The general pattern seems to be one of rapid mobilisation of blood-meal amino acids and the involvement of a large lipid reserve. The combined haematophagous and viviparous habit ofGlossinahas led to some interesting modifications of basic physiology particularly in regard to flight metabolism, female accessory gland function and Malpighian tubule activity. The relevance of physiological studies to current developments in the field of tsetse control is discussed and the importance of exploiting our knowledge in the quest for novel insecticidal techniques emphasised.
Studies On The biology and systematic position of a new species of ichneumonid parasitising the light brown apple moth, Epiphyas postvittana (Walker) (Lepidoptera: Tortricidae), in Australia
Authors: Danthanarayana W. , Farrugia D. , Gauld I. D.
Published: July 2009

Australoglypta latrobei gen. et sp.n., an ichneumonid parasitic on the larvae of the tortricid Epiphyas postvittana (Wlk.) in Australia, is described and compared with related genera. The mating and oviposition behaviour of the ichneumonid is noted, and its abundance over 13 generations of E. postvittana between 1972 and 1976 was investigated. A delayed inverse (density-dependent) relationship was found to exist between host and parasite. Possible beneficial effects of this parasite are discussed.
The effect of some cowpea varieties on the development and survival of larvae of the seed moth, Cydia ptychora (Meyrick) (Lepidoptera: Tortricidae)
Authors: Perrin R. M.
Published: July 2009

In studies in Nigeria, survival and weight increase of the larvae of Cydia ptychora (Meyr.) were affected by the variety of cowpea (Vigna unguiculata) on which they fed. The weights of fifth-instar larvae immediately prior to pupation and the amount of fresh food ingested were similar on three varieties when loose seeds were fed, but in a more natural situation, larvae appeared to face a manoeuvrability problem in small pods, which resulted in reduced weight gain. Differences in weight due to diet were less pronounced in emerging adults. Larval mortality was greatest on two varieties with large pods and may have been related to the nutritional quality of mature seeds or the presence of toxic chemicals. Some first-instar larvae died during the pod-boring process, particularly in the variety Vita-5. Two known susceptible varieties produced a moderate-to-small degree of mortality and large females. Significantly greater weight was attained when larvae fed for five days on 10-day-old seed followed by 15-day-old seed, or on 15-day-old seed throughout, than on 15-day-old seed followed by dried seed, or on 10-day-old seed throughout. Ovipositing females seemingly select pods of an age that minimises exposure of young larvae to drying or fully dried seed, which is a relatively unsuitable diet.
The night resting sites of Glossina tachinoides Westwood (Diptera: Glossinidae) in northern Nigeria
Authors: Spielberger U. , Barwinek F.
Published: July 2009

The night resting sites of Glossina tachinoides Westw. were observed in riverine forest at Bara, Bauchi State, northern Nigeria. The flies were marked with an ultraviolet-reflecting paint and released at dusk. They were detected with the aid of an ultraviolet lamp. Most of the flies (84·6%) rested on leaves (68·3% on the upper sides) and on small twigs and creepers (11·5%). The resting heights ranged from ground level up to 6·8 m. The average resting height was highest (2·6 m) in the mid-rains at 20.00–24.00 h; however, at 24.00–04.00 h at the same season the mean height was only 1·6 m. Resting height was lowest (1·3 m) in the early rains. Females were found to rest slightly higher than males and, in moonlit periods, both sexes had a tendency to perch higher. The night resting behaviour of G. tachinoides is compared with that of G. palpalis palpalis (R.-D.), which was investigated in an earlier study at the same location. There is much similarity in the behaviour of the two species, but G. tachinoides selects lower resting sites, and a slightly higher proportion of this species is found to rest on leaves as opposed to small twigs
A new genus and species of Erythroneurini (Hemiptera: Cicadelloidea) causing severe damage to flamboyant trees (Delonix regia) in Mauritius and Reunion
Authors: Ghauri M. S. K.
Published: July 2009

Cerneura delonixia gen. et sp. n. is described from specimens collected on flamboyant trees (Delonix regia) in Mauritius and Reunion, where it causes severe damage. Attention is drawn to other leafhoppers causing similar damage to other trees elsewhere in the tropics.
The flight activity of the sheep headfly,Hydrotaea irritans(Fallén) (Diptera:Muscidae)
Authors: Berlyn A. D.
Published: July 2009

The flight activity ofHydrotaea irritans(Fall.) was investigated in western Scotland using an unbaited suction trap, a carbon-dioxide-baited suction trap and a Manitoba trap. Consistently more female flies were caught than males. Trapping experiments showed that carbon dioxide and visual or thermal stimuli influence long-range attraction and short-range orientation in host-seeking flies. The seasonal activity of adults was determined from the geometric means of catches from a suction trap baited with carbon dioxide and a Manitoba trap.H. irritanswas shown to be univoltine. The activity of females was greatest in the middle of July and declined sharply in the first week of August. Male activity reached a peak at the same time as that of the females, then declined until no males were caught after mid-August. Females were most active between 10.00 and 18.00 h B.S.T., with a peak about 13.00 h. There was no variation in sex ratio during the day. Multiple regression equations of climatic and seasonal factors with log catches of flies were very similar for the two types of trap. Radiant temperature, illumination, wind speed and date were shown to influence activity of females and, with the exception of illumination, male activity also. Seasonal activity curves calculated from the regression equations were plotted for both sexes in the two traps.
Biting rhythms of some Pakistan mosquitoes (Diptera: Culicidae)
Authors: Reisen W. K. , Aslamkhan M.
Published: July 2009

A total of 18 873 mosquitoes comprising 18 species in 4 genera was collected during a series of 12 monthly all-night collections on bovid baits near the village of Sattoki, Punjab Province, Pakistan. Anopheles pulcherrimus Theo. and usually An. Culicifacies Giles and An. Stephensi List. had unimodal biting rhythms. Mansonia uniformis (Theo.), An. Annularis Wulp and An. Nigerrimus Giles had essentially unimodal rhythms, with most feeding occurring early in the evening but with occasional very slight morning increases.Aedes caspius (Pall.), Culex pseudovishnui Colless, C. tritaeniorhynchus Giles and usually An. Subpictus Grassi had distinctly bimodal biting rhythms, with well-defined early evening and predawn peaks. An. culicifacies, An. Stephensi and An. Subpictus occasionally had multimodal rhythms or were arhythmic. Some species exhibited more than one type of biting curve. In species having a distinct bimodal curve, the amplitude of the predawn or dawn increase varied considerably from month to month. The anophelines, especially An. culicifacies, An. Stephensi and An. Subpictus, exhibited a marked seasonal shift in feeding times, with most biting occurring at dusk during the cold period and late at night during the warm period. However, all components of the biting curves for these species were maintained at varying magnitude throughout the year, perhaps suggesting seasonal variations in the relative frequency of more than one behavioural genome. The remaining species exhibited little or no seasonal change in biting rhythms
An energy budget for Glossina (Diptera: Glossinidae)
Authors: Bursell E. , Taylor P.
Published: July 2009

Energy values for Glossina morsitans morsitans Westw. and for the vertebrate blood which constitutes its food were determined. On this basis, energy budgets for the hunger cycle were drawn up over a range of temperatures. The results indicate that daily flight duration for females is limited to a few minutes, while for males it averages about 15 min in the hot season and more than twice as long in the cold season.
Characterisation of a laboratory strain of the potato moth,Phthorimaea operculella(Zeller) (Lepidoptera: Gelechiidae)
Authors: Briese D. T.
Published: July 2009

The demographic performance of a laboratory strain ofPhthorimaea operculella(Zell.) was characterised by measurements of seven parameters under standard breeding conditions at six constant temperatures. The parameters were fertility, larval survival, sex ratio, weight of females, fecundity, development time and adult life-span. This information provides reference values which would be useful in experiments designed to determine the demographic effects of treatments, to identify strains and genetic populations of the species, and eventually to detect evolutionary changes in the specific properties of forms under study. The results of this investigation could be used in constructing simulation models of the species’ life system.
The effect of nitrogen and carbon dioxide on eggs of Ephestia cautella (Walker) and E. kuehniella Zeller (Lepidoptera: Pyralidae)
Authors: Bell C. H. , Spratt E. C. , Mitchell D. J.
Published: July 2009

Some eggs of Ephestia cautella (Wlk.) and E. kuehniella Zell. hatched after exposure to near 100% atmospheres of nitrogen (N2) or carbon dioxide (CO2) for up to 5 days at 15°C, 3 days at 20°C and 1 day at 25°C. The most tolerant age at the start of treatment at 25°C in E. cautella was 7–24 h after oviposition for CO2 and 7–30 h for N2. Generally, hatch was lower in CO2 than in N2 whatever the exposure, and lower for E. kuehniella than for E. cautella. Considerably more eggs of E. cautella aged 30 and 42 h hatched after exposure to N2 than to CO2, showing a toxic effect of CO2 in the absence of oxygen. Eggs of both species treated with either CO2 or N2 hatched 1–2 days later than controls, regardless of age or percentage survival.
The bionomics of three sympatric Eretmapodites (Diptera: Culicidae) at the Kenya coast
Authors: Lounibos L. P.
Published: July 2009

Among collections from natural microhabitats in coastal forests in Kenya, larvae of Eretmapodites quinquevittatusTheo. and E. silvestris conchobius Edw. were recovered almost exclusively from water-filled snail shells, while those of E. subsimplicipes Edw. were found in tree holes, snail shells, leaf pools, cavities in fungi and most often in fruit husks. E. quinquevittatus oviposited in shells of Achatina fulica set as traps during periods when E. s. conchobius was not abundant, thereby reducing niche overlap of these two species in this microhabitat. The eggs of all three species were moderately drought-resistant. In the laboratory, larvae of E. subsimplicipes preyed upon larvae of Aedes aegypti (L.) but pupated sooner when offered particulate food instead. E. quinquevittatus failed to complete development on a diet consisting only of prey larvae. Mating and oviposition of all three species was achieved in the laboratory, and blood-feeding was not a prerequisite for insemination of E. subsimplicipes.
Modification of the attractiveness of the primary pheromone component of the Egyptian cotton leafworm,Spodoptera littoralis(Boisduval) (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae), by secondary pheromone components and related chemicals
Authors: Campion D. G. , Hunter-Jones P. , McVeigh L. J. , Hall D. R. , Lester R. , Nesbitt B. F.
Published: July 2009

Known components of the female sex pheromone ofSpodoptera littoralis(Boisd.), tetradecyl acetate (I), (Z)-9-tetradecenyl acetate (IIA), (Z,E)-9, 11-tetradecadienyl acetate (III) and (Z,E)-9, 12-tetradecadienyl acetate (IV), and related compounds dispensed from polyethylene vials were used to bait water traps and funnel traps in lucerne fields in Crete. In comparison with the catches of males in traps baited with the primary component (III) alone, catches were increased by the addition of 1–100% of I in relation to the amounts of III, decreased by the addition of 5% or more of IIA and decreased by the addition of more than 5% of IV. The diene III was more attractive than any of the other three geometric isomers, although combining theZ,Zisomer (V) or theE,Eisomer (VI) with III increased catches while the addition of theE,Zisomer (VII) decreased catches. The alcohols VIII and IX corresponding to the acetates III and IIA were not attractive but caused a marked reduction in trap catch when combined with III. The homologue of III (Z,E)-11-methyl–9, 11-tetradecadienyl acetate (X), was unattractive to males but increased trap catches when combined with III. 9-Tetradecynyl acetate (XI) exhibited neither attractant nor inhibitory activity, and similar results were obtained with ethyl cyclohexane carboxylate (XII) and 2-nonynal dimethyl acetal (XIII), compounds which have similar far-infrared spectra to that of diene III. The distributions of males landing on sticky board traps 70 cm in diameter baited with III or mixtures of III with I, IIA or IV showed that a greater percentage of the moths landed at the periphery of the traps baited with certain combinations of III with I and IV than on traps baited with III alone. Collection and analysis of the volatiles emitted by virgin females of different origins indicated that those from Crete produced I and III only, those from Israel produced I, III and IV, while those from Egypt produced I, III, IV and IIA and/or (E)-11-tetradecenyl acetate (IIB). The results are discussed in relation to previous work onS. littoralisand current theories on insect communication, and also in terms of their relevance to the practical field usage of pheromones in control of this pest.
Oviposition preference by the black cowpea moth, Cydia ptychora (Meyrick) (Lepidoptera: Tortricidae), for different varieties of cowpea
Authors: Akingbohungbe A. E. , Agbede T. , Olaifa J. I.
Published: July 2009

In tests in Nigeria with its principal host-plant, cowpea, Cydia ptychora (Meyr.) showed distinct oviposition preferences. Most of the eggs were laid on the sepals (including their remains on pods) in screenhouse tests involving four varieties. There were distinct differences in the number of eggs laid on different varieties in both no-choice tests with four or five varieties and free-choice tests with 17 varieties in the field. Vita-3 was the preferred variety in the laboratory tests and H 13–1 in the larger comparisons in the field. Fewest eggs were deposited on Tvu 2994 in all tests.
Improved estimates of the efficiency of traps for Glossina morsitans morsitans Westwood and G. pallidipes Austen (Diptera: Glossinidae), with a note on the effect of the concentration of accompanying host odour on efficiency
Authors: Hargrove J. W.
Published: July 2009

The efficiencies of five mechanical traps and an electric trap for tsetse flies were measured by estimating the numbers of flies which approached the devices but were not captured by them. With this method, it was possible to discern significant differences in efficiencies even if the means differed by as little as 25%. Three biconical traps had estimated efficiencies of 40–70% for Glossina morsitans morsitans Westw. and 50–80% for G. pallidipes Aust. when used in the presence of the odour of one ox. The efficiency of a small electric net was estimated at 70–75% for all tsetse under this test condition, and a modification of one of the biconical traps had an estimated efficiency of 55–85%. The efficiency of this trap increased by a factor of 1·2–2·2 when used with the odour of six oxen, compared to the efficiency in the absence of host odour. Preliminary results suggested that, when used in the presence of ox odour, the efficiency of this trap for teneral tsetse was at least as high as for mature flies.
Observations on The bionomics ofAnopheles darlingiRoot (Diptera: Culicidae) from Brazil
Authors: Charlwood J. D.
Published: July 2009

The physiological age-structure of populations of the malaria vectorAnopheles darlingiRoot, collected biting man, was determined from collections made from March to June 1979 at the end of the rainy season in the village of Aripuanã, Mato Grosso, Brazil. The number of mosquitoes biting increased during the transition between the wet and dry seasons, but adult survival remained low at all times. Only seven of 1596 females dissected had laid eggs four or more times, and thus the proportion of females that could be potentially infective with malaria sporozoites was 0.4%. The mosquitoes rested in the vicinity of the host for periods of up to 10 min before biting. The results are compared to those obtained during a study onA. darlingion the Manaus-Boa Vista Highway, 1000 km to the north. In this area, peak numbers were collected at the beginning of the rainy season and adult survival was longer than at Aripuanã.
Studies of winds and weather during migrations of Simulium damnosum Theobald (Diptera: Simuliidae), the vector of onchocerciasis in West Africa
Authors: Magor J. I. , Rosenberg L. J.
Published: July 2009

Reports of the presence and absence of biting by Simulium damnosum Theo. in the Volta River Basin in 1962, 1966 and 1975 were used to identify occasions when sites were invaded by parous and nulliparous females. Circumstantial evidence suggests that this insect is a wind-borne migrant, and the weather before and during some of these invasions was examined. Although most invasions studied took place south of the Inter-tropical Convergence Zone, for the first time evidence is presented suggesting that migration also takes place to the north of this zone. Immigrants were captured at the invaded sites only when light winds or calms were present. This cannot, however, be used as proof that S. damnosum migrates and lands only where winds are light or it is calm because host-seeking is inhibited by high winds and the time of arrival, as opposed to capture on a host, is unknown. Until the factors initiating emigration, as well as the height, duration and number of flights in each gonotrophic cycle and the time of immigration are known, the present findings cannot be tested rigorously nor can wind records be used to trace the source of immigrants.
Post-fumigation productivity of Sitophilus oryzae (L.) (Coleoptera: Curculionidae) and Tribolium castaneum (Herbst) (Coleoptera: Tenebrionidae) exposed to acrylonitrile, adjuvants of acrylonitrile, acrylonitrilel-adjuvant mixtures and other modern fumigants
Authors: Rajendran S. , Muthu M.
Published: July 2009

LD50 doses of chloropicrin, ethylene oxide, ethylene dibromide, acrylonitrile plus 8% carbon dioxide, and acrylonitrile plus ethylene dibromide were found to decrease the productivity of adults of Sitophilus oryzae (L.) and Tribolium castaneum (Hbst.). Acrylonitrile, acrylonitrile plus methyl iodide and phosphine caused a reduction in productivity in S. oryzae but not in T. castaneum. Carbon dioxide decreased the productivity of T. castaneum. Carbon tetrachloride, methylene chloride, methyl bromide, methyl iodide, acrylonitrile plus carbon tetrachloride and acrylonitrile plus methylene chloride had little influence on the productivity. The productivity of T. castaneum exposed to trichloroethylene and acrylonitrile plus trichloroethylene was higher than in control batches. After exposure to acrylonitrile, reduced productivity was noted in adults of Callosobruchus chinensis (L.) that had been exposed as adults or pupae, and in T. castaneum but not S. oryzae that had been exposed as pupae.
An effect of host diet on the attraction of tsetse flies (Diptera: Glossinidae) to host odour
Authors: Vale G. A.
Published: July 2009

In Zimbabwe, field studies were made of the extent to which catches of Glossina morsitans morsitans Westw. and G. pallidipes Aust. from stationary visual targets plus ox odour were changed by maintaining the ox on normal, starving or fattening diets. A fattening diet after a week of starvation often produced a several-fold increase in catches in a few days, followed by a declining catch associated with lack of appetite, and a further increase in catch when appetite was restored. Carbon dioxide and acetone emitted by the oxen could not account fully for the level and variations of catches.
Further field trials of pheromone dispensers and traps for males of Prays citri (Millière) (Lepidoptera: Yponomeutidae)
Authors: Sternlicht M. , Goldenberg S. , Nesbitt Brenda F. , Hall D. R.
Published: July 2009

Dispensers made of different materials and loaded with the female sex pheromone, (Z)-7-tetradecenal, were field-tested for attractancy for males of Prays citri (Mill.) in Israel. Hollow fibres of low density polyethylene, low density polyethylene chips and natural rubber septa were better than hollow fibres of polypropylene, hollow fibres of a polypropylene-polyethylene mixture, solid fibres of low density polyethylene and PVC tubes. In other tests, funnels with wall angles of 60° were inferior to those with angles between 70 and 80°; polyester funnels were superior to polystyrene and polypropylene ones, which were better than those of PVC or opalin coated with aluminium foil. Kaolin or talcum powder dusted on the inside walls improved the efficiency of polypropylene funnels. The catches in traps consisting of several plastic funnels or tubes under a roof and with insecticide to prevent escape did not differ significantly from those in the sticky traps. A modified version of a new trap with a renewable sticky floor is described; this and the funnel traps are at present the most useful and practical for catching P. citri males.
Reproductive diapause in the Argentine stem weevil, Listronotus bonariensis, (Kuschel) (Coleoptera: Curculionidae), in New Zealand
Authors: Goldson S. L.
Published: July 2009

To improve the precision of understanding of the phenology of Listronotus bonariensis (Kuschel), samples were collected at regular intervals near Canterbury, New Zealand, and the seasonal changes in their reproductive morphology monitored by regular dissection. It was demonstrated that the adult weevils enter hibernatory reproductive diapause in early March and remain in this state until late July when reproductive activity resumes. Adults emerging in February may enter diapause immediately. The existence of diapause was further supported by its associated cessation of mating, increase in body fat and apparent drop in the haemolymph titre of juvenile hormone. Laboratory experiments indicated that a critical photoperiod induces diapause and an eventual reduction in sensitivity to photoperiod allows reproductive activity to resume.
Insect migration across Bass Strait during spring: a radar study
Authors: Drake V. A. , Helm K. F. , Readshaw J. L. , Reid D. G.
Published: July 2009

An entomological radar was used to observe insect flight activity at a coastal locality in north-western Tasmania during the spring of 1973. Insects were regularly observed to take off at dusk, and local movements from nearby islands were detected on several occasions. Large-scale southward movements of insects across Bass Strait were also observed and were found to be associated with the warm anticyclonic airflows which occur ahead of a cold front. Light-trap catches indicated that the insects were noctuid moths, with Persectania ewingii (Westw.), Heliothis punctiger Wllgr. and Agrotis munda Wlk. dominant. The movements appear to have originated mainly in Victoria and south-eastern South Australia, but it is tentatively suggested that the ultimate source of the moths was in the region stretching westwards from north-western Victoria and south-western New South Wales towards the shores of the Spencer Gulf, South Australia.
Organophosphorus resistance in the sheep blowfly, Lucilia cuprina (Wiedemann) (Diptera: Calliphoridae): a genetic study incorporating synergists
Authors: Hughes P. B.
Published: July 2009

Pre-treatment of females of Lucilia cuprina (Wied.) with the synergist piperonyl butoxide increased the resistance factors of an organophosphorus-resistant strain Q to four organophosphates in comparison to the susceptible strain LS. However, pre-treatment with S,S,S-tributylphosphorothrithioate (TBPT) reduced the resistance factors of Q to three organophosphorus insecticides. As TBPT is an esterase inhibitor, it is suggested that esterases contribute to resistance in the Q strain. Resistance to diazinon in the Q strain is due to a single, partially-dominant gene on chromosome 4. By the use of the backcross and discriminating dose technique, resistance to parathion, fenitrothion, chlorfenvinphos and fenitro-oxon (dimethyl 3-methyl-4-nitrophenyl phosphate) (the latter two were synergised by piperonyl butoxide to obtain a genetically discriminating dose) was also shown to be controlled by a single, partially-dominant gene on chromosome 4. It is concluded that this gene confers resistance to organophosphorus compounds in L. cuprina, probably by providing an esterase with enhanced ability to degrade organophosphates.
A tribal classification of the Tropiduchidae (Homoptera: Fulgoroidea), With the description of a new species on tea in Malaysia
Authors: Fennah R. G.
Published: July 2009

In a revised classification of the Tropiduchidae, which includes a number of species injurious to crops, the family is divided into 15 tribes, of which six (Cixiopsini, Eporini, Isporisini, Neommatissini, Remosini and Turneriolini) are proposed as new, two (Eutropistini and Tangiini) are given new status and seven are redefined. New subtribes (Clardeina, Neotangiina and Duriina) are erected in Eporini, Tangiini and Eutropistini, respectively, and Kazeruniina is given new status in the last. The genera Chiotasa and Habrotasa are transferred to Achilidae, Dolia, Hiracia, Karna, Parahiracia, Siebererella and Gastrinia to Issidae, and Kruegeria to Ricaniidae, and Dichoneura is brought into Tropiduchidae from Delphacidae. Biruga chariclo Fennah is transferred to Athestia to form a new combination, and Tambinia theivora sp. n. is described from material that included examples collected on tea.
Behaviour of alatae ofMyzus persicae(Sulzer) (Hemiptera: Aphididae) on chemically treated surfaces after tethered flight
Authors: Griffiths D. C. , Pickett J. A. , Woodcock Christine
Published: July 2009

Alatae ofMyzus persicae(Sulz.) were made to fly and then released directly onto untreated or chemically treated surfaces where settling behaviour was studied. Most aphids probed host-leaf surfaces even in the presence of vapour of (E)-β-farnesene, the main component of aphid alarm pheromone, or when related behaviour-controlling chemicals were painted on the leaf. Flown aphids attempted to probe most surfaces on which they landed, including glass and green paper. However, they did not probe white filter papers. Sublethal deposits of deltamethrin did not prevent initial probing on plant surfaces but caused uncoordinated leg movements which resulted in aphids falling from the plants.
Studies on the natural predators of Culex pipiens L. and C. torrentium Martini (Diptera: Culicidae) in England
Authors: Onyeka J. O. A.
Published: July 2009

The natural predators of Culex pipiens L. and C. torrentium Mart, in artificial containers and ponds were studied in southern England, using serological techniques. The antisera were from rabbits immunised by injections of saline extracts of the species of Culex into the inguinal lymph nodes and made relatively more specific by absorption. The gut contents or whole individuals of 1098 potential predators were smeared on to filter paper and tested. The most important predators in the ponds were Odonata nymphs while those of artificial containers were larval Dytiscidae. Diptera and Araneae preyed on emerging adults. The length of time a mosquito meal remained detectable in the gut of predators varied from a minimum of 8 h for the newt Triturus vulgaris to 24 h for the zygopteran Ischnura elegans (van der Linden). The results of laboratory tests indicated that the anisopteran Sympetrum striolatum (Charp.) was potentially more important as a biological control agent for larval culicines in ponds than the zygopteran Coenagrion puella (L.).
Preliminary field tests on the use ofMetarhizium anisopliaefor the control ofNasutitermes exitiosus(Hill) (Isoptera: Termitidae)
Authors: Hänel H. , Watson J. A. L.
Published: July 2009

The insect-pathogenic fungusMetarhizium anisopliaecaused heavy mortality in laboratory groups of the Australian termiteNasutitermes exitiosus(Hill) to which infected workers had been added. Conidia ofM. anisopliaestarted an epizootic when introduced into field colonies ofN. exitiosusnear Canberra, irrespective of whether the termites were treated by dusting or spraying in the mound itself, or dusting in nearby feeding sites. In some cases, the disease persisted for at least 15 weeks, and by this time few healthy termites could be found in almost half the treated colonies. Samples of workers taken from treated colonies showed high levels of contamination byMetarhizium, irrespective of the state of the colony, but the factors that inhibited the completion of fungal development in the nest are unknown.
Interrelationship between an entomogenous fungus and two ant-homopteran (Hymenoptera: Formicidae-Hemiptera: Pseudococcidae & Aphididae) mutualisms on guava trees
Authors: Samways M. J.
Published: July 2009

On guava trees at Nelspruit, South Africa, there was a mutualism between the ant Anoplolepis custodiens (F. Sm.) and the mealybug Planococcus citri (Risso), which raised the population levels of both. When ants were excluded from half the trees, their overall population level also dropped by half. Further, they moved their nests to be as near as possible to their main food source, the honeydew of the mealybugs. When deprived of their ant mutualists, the mealybugs were heavily preyed on by coccinellids such as the ant–intolerant Exochomus flavipes (Thnb.) and the ant–tolerant Scymnus spp. Later, the mealybugs were almost totally eliminated by the primary entomogenous fungus Cladosporium sp. near C. oxysporum. The coccinellids, now without food, were forced to abandon the trees. In contrast, in trees where ants were allowed to continue their normal activity, the epizootic among the mealybugs was delayed by 14 days. This limitation by the ants of disease allowed a basal but fragmented mealybug population to survive. As the mealybugs declined, the ants switched to attending the aphid Aphis gossypii Glov. Fifteen days after the epizootic struck the ant–attended mealybug population, it began to devastate the aphid population. With both mealybugs and aphids at a low level, the ant population declined. However, the ant–homopteran mutualisms, although severely hit by the epizootic, nevertheless remained intact.
The demography of the rice weevil, Sitophilus oryzae (L.) (Coleoptera: Curculionidae), submodels of age-specific survivorship and fecundity
Authors: Longstaff B. C. , Evans D. E.
Published: July 2009

Experiments are described in which age-specific survivorship and fecundity of Sitophilus oryzae (L.) were determined over a wide range of environmental conditions (15·0-32·3°C and 11–14 % grain moisture content). The data derived from these experiments, together with some previously published data, were used to develop mathematical submodels for these processes. The models are continuous functions of time, grain moisture content and grain temperature. Rates of increase per week and per generation were calculated for the range of environmental conditions used. The results are discussed in relation to previously published work, and the potential usefulness of the submodels is discussed briefly.
Population sampling for planthoppers, leafhoppers (Hemiptera: Delphacidae & Cicadellidae) and their predators in flooded rice
Authors: Perfect T. J. , Cook A. G. , Ferrer E. R.
Published: July 2009

Studies on the precision levels and efficiencies of available insect suction samplers (D-Vac and FARMCOP) were undertaken in the Philippines to determine the best possible sampling procedure to derive absolute population estimates of delphacids, cicadellids and their predators in flooded rice. The D–Vac suction sampler when used in conjunction with an enclosure placed over the rice hill prior to sampling was found to be the most suitable. The sampling procedure adopted is described in detail, and sampling efficiencies for the D–Vac are given for nymphs and adults of the delphacids and cicadellids and their predators. These values could be used by other workers following the sampling procedures described here on modern rice varieties grown under flooded conditions to achieve absolute population estimates.
The habitat preference of some bovine dung beetles (Coleoptera: Scarabaeidae) in Hluhluwe Game Reserve, South Africa
Authors: Doube Bernard M.
Published: July 2009

The effects of vegetative cover and soil type on the abundance and distribution of 50 species of scarabaeine dung beetle were examined during three successive days in January 1979 in Hluhluwe Game Reserve, South Africa. Pitfall traps baited with bovine dung were set at intervals of 20 m in a transect across a 20–ha patch of grassveld surrounded byAcaciabushveld. One end of the transect was on clay–loam soil and the other on sandy loam. In all, 32 936 specimens were caught, representing 71 species from 22 genera. Thirty–two species were diurnal and 18 were crepuscular or nocturnal. Twenty–six species were more abundant in bushveld than in grassveld, and eight species were more abundant in grassveld than in bushveld. Soil type influenced the relative abundance of 23 species. The degree of habitat specificity varied widely between species. During overcast weather, both bushveld and grassveld species became abundant in the transitional zone between bushveld and grassveld where the light intensity was similar to that in bushveld on a clear day. It is suggested that light intensity is one characteristic by which beetles recognise bushveld and grassveld.
Integration of insect sterility and insecticides for control of Glossina morsitans morsitans Westwood (Diptera: Glossinidae) in Tanzania. III. Test site characteristics and the natural distribution of tsetse flies
Authors: Gates D. B. , Cobb P. E. , Williamson D. L. , Bakuli B. , Dame D. A. , Blaser E.
Published: July 2009

Detailed data from a preselected release site in Tanzania were collected preparatory to testing the insect sterility concept against Glossina morsitans morsitans Westw. The site was at Mkwaja Ranch, a north-eastern coastal cattle-ranching enterprise, in which about 195 km2 was encompassed by a 1-km-wide fly barrier constructed at an average cost of $37/ha. Weekly surveys of flyround transects spaced 1 km apart were conducted over a 14-month period. The estimated male density of G. m. morsitans in the release site was about 630/km2 and for G. pallidipes Aust., 255/km2. The only other species of tsetse found was G. brevipalpis Newst., which was restricted to drainage areas during periods of low rainfall.
Field cage trials with thiotepa-sterilised males of the potato moth, Phthorimaea operculella (Zeller) (Lepidoptera: Gelechiidae)
Authors: Nabi M. N.
Published: July 2009

Males of Phthorimaea operculella (Zell.) less than 24 h old were sterilised with thiotepa by circulatory fumigation in the laboratory and then released in cages in a potato field in New Zealand. Laboratory-reared sterile males, normal males and females were released in different ratios. Sterile males competed successfully in mating to suppress reproduction between laboratory-reared normal males and females. Laboratory-reared sterile males were also released in different numbers into field cages containing the resident population and additional field-collected males and females. The results showed that the sterile males were slightly less competitive than normal ones, but they were effective in suppressing the population in the cages.
Factors affecting resistance to insecticides in house-flies, Musca domestica L. (Diptera: Muscidae). I. Long-term control with bioresmethrin of flies with strong pyrethroid-resistance potential
Authors: Denholm I. , Farnham A. W. , O'dell Kate , Sawicki R. M.
Published: July 2009

The assumption that by minimising contact with pyrethroids, satisfactory control of Musca domestica L. could be retained without eliciting resistance was tested on a pig farm in southern England where permethrin had failed through rapid development of resistance. Flies were satisfactorily controlled in enclosed buildings for 12 months by space spraying bioresmethrin (2 mg a.i./m3) at approximately fortnightly intervals when numbers reached an arbitrary nuisance level. Throughout this period, bioassays revealed no increase in tolerance of pyrethroids, although selection experiments in the laboratory confirmed the strong pyrethroid-resistance potential of the fly population. Thus effective control can be retained in spite of strong resistance potential when non-persistent insecticides are used intermittently. The results are discussed in the light of a published theoretical study of the influence of pesticide persistence on the evolution of resistance.
The nocturnal migration of the Australian plague locust, Chortoicetes terminifera (Walker) (Orthoptera: Acrididae): quantitative radar observations of a series of northward flights
Authors: Drake V. A. , Farrow R. A.
Published: July 2009

Night migrations of insects above the surface boundary layer were studied by direct observations with an entomological radar, and by direct aerial sampling with a kite-borne net, in an area in New South Wales inhabited by large fledging populations of Chortoicetes terminifera (Wlk.). The aerial catches and radar echo-modulation observations suggested that the majority of migrants detected by the radar were locusts, and this conclusion was supported indirectly by light-trap catches and by observations of take–off at dusk. Night flights of locusts began at dusk with a mass take-off and continued on a diminishing scale until about midnight. Displacements were all approximately downwind and to the north, under the influence of a southerly airflow which prevailed throughout the six-day study period. A quantitative radar observation procedure was used to estimate locust aerial densities and migration rates, and to observe the variations of these quantities with height and time; typical and extreme values for all the principal migration quantities are presented. The flight paths of the locusts were estimated from radar observations of target tracks, and probable source areas at distances of up to 200 km to the south were identified; a major overflight which probably originated 150 km away was detected on one occasion. Northward movements of C. terminifera during anticyclonic conditions may help to explain how populations are redistributed in the periods between the long-range southward invasion movements for which this species is well-known.
The effect of a flood irrigation cycle on breeding by the bush fly, Musca vetustissima Walker (Diptera: Muscidae)
Authors: Matthiessen J. N. , Palmer M
Published: July 2009

The effect of a single flood irrigation cycle on the number of adults of Musca vetustissima Wlk. emerging from cattle dung was examined in the field in south-western Australia. Sets of fresh dung pads were exposed to natural oviposition on the day after a flooding and then every three days until the next flooding, 21 days later. The emergence of flies was compared with that from equivalent sets of dung pads in an adjacent unflooded but otherwise similar pasture. The age-stages most susceptible to drowning were post-feeding larvae and pre-emergent puparia. Reduced fly emergence from dung placed in the irrigated pasture one day after the first irrigation was attributed to suppression of oviposition by the wet conditions. Overall, there was a reduction of 57% in the number of flies emerging in the irrigated pasture compared with the unflooded control.
The analysis and standardisation of trap catches of Lucilia cuprina (Wiedemann) (Diptera: Calliphoridae)
Authors: Vogt W. G. , Woodburn T. L. , Morton R , Ellem B. A.
Published: July 2009

Field populations of Lucilia cuprina (Wied.) in New South Wales were sampled for periods of 3 h on numerous occasions between 1975 and 1982 using West Australian blowfly traps. Ambient temperature, wind speed, relative humidity and solar radiation explained 77·4% of the within-day deviance of the catches. Temperature alone accounted for 74·9% of this deviance, indicating that the other variables, although significant, did not greatly affect trap catches. As air temperatures increased, log catch rates increased linearly up to 26°C and then remained constant up to 35°C. Wind speeds above 25 m/s caused a linear decline in log catch rates. Log catch rates increased linearly as solar radiation increased and decreased linearly as relative humidity increased. Changes in catch rates with time of day were explained almost entirely by the four weather variables, i.e. there was no evidence that intrinsic behavioural changes with time of day affected catch rates. The combined effects of the four weather variables accounted for 47·1 % of the between-day variation in trap catches. Trap catches that have been standardised, i.e. adjusted to a ‘ standard’ set of weather conditions, provide relative measures of population size which differ from absolute measures by a constant (unknown) scaling factor.
Acigona infusella (Walker) (Lepidoptera: Pyralidae), an agent for biological control of waterhyacinth (Eichhornia crassipes) in Australia
Authors: Sands D. P. A. , Kassulke R. C.
Published: July 2009

The biology and host specificity of a South American moth, Acigona infusella (Wlk.), were studied in quarantine facilities in Australia. In choice tests on the host specificity of A. infusella, slight feeding by larvae occured on ginger, lettuce, banana, bullrush (Typha orientalis) and water primrose (Ludwigia peploides), but in starvation tests only waterhyacinth (Eichhornia crassipes) and pickerel weed (Pontederia cordata) supported complete development. A decrease in larval mortality and increase in egg-mass size of A. infusella occured when a microsporidian, Vairimorpha sp.; infecting the colony was eliminated, suggesting that these insects may then perform more effectively as biological control agents in Australia than in South America. The damage to waterhyacinth cause bu larvae of A. infusella may complement attack by other biological control agents already established in Australia.