bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Differences in the susceptibility of seeds of selected varieties of cowpea to Bruchidius atrolineatus (Coleoptera: Bruchidae)
Authors: Ofuya T.I. , Credland P.F.
Published: July 2009

The bruchid Bruchidius atrolineatus (Pic) causes significant damage to the stored protein rich seeds of cowpea, Vigna unguiculata, in the West African Sahel. Twenty varieties of cowpea were evaluated for susceptibility to attack by B. atrolineatus in the laboratory. The bruchid showed differential response to the seeds in terms of developmental period, percentage adult emergence, seed weight loss due to feeding by one larva, adult weight at emergence and life-time fecundity of females reared from them. Based on these criteria, IT85F-2205 and IT84S-275-9 were the least susceptible varieties. The development of B. atrolineatus was most significantly delayed in these varieties. The beetle larvae consumed less of their seed material and adults reared from them were smallest and least fecund. The varieties IT87S-1393, IT90K-391 and IT84D-460 also had relatively lower susceptibility to the beetle than others. In a no-choice oviposition experiment, B. atrolineatus females laid equally on all varieties. Percentage egg hatch on the different cowpea varieties did not differ significantly. The results are discussed in relation to previous reports on susceptibility of cowpea and other legumes to bruchids.
A new mind (Heteroptera) pest of cashew in northern Australia
Authors: Stonedahl G.M. , Malipatil M.B. , Houston W.
Published: July 2009

Helopeltis pernicialis, a new species of bryocorine Miridae, is described from northern Australia, where it has become established as a serious pest of cultivated cashews, Anacardium occidentale (Anacardiaceae). Information on the biology and pest status of the bug is provided from studies conducted near Darwin, Northern Territory.
Entomological Research in British West Africa
Authors: Simpson Jas. J.
Published: July 2009

The following report is the fifth and last of a series dealing with entomological research in the British Possessions in West Africa. The other four have appeared in previous issues of this Bulletin, and in them the aims and methods adopted have been stated in considerable detail. This paper deals mainly with the results of personal observations on the geographical distribution of the various blood-sucking insects in the Gold Coast, made during a tour in that country from November 1912 to June 1913; with these are incorporated, wherever possible, records of previous workers in this line, and consequently the report may be taken as a general summary of entomological work accomplished in this Colony.
Sheep-Maggot Flies in Australia
Authors: Froggatt Walter W.
Published: July 2009

The most serious pests that at the present time are threatening the great wool and sheep industry of Australia, are the sheep-maggot flies (blow-flies belonging to the genus Calliphora). Until about ten years ago blown wool on living healthy sheep was unknown, sheep that were worried and torn by dogs were blown, and rams that damaged their heads fighting might have to be dressed and cleaned of maggots, but the bush blow-flies had not until about that date acquired or developed the habit of depositing eggs or living maggots in the soiled or damp fleece of the ordinary station paddock sheep.
Further Notes on the Bionomics of Glossina morsitans in Northern Rhodesia
Authors: Lloyd Ll.
Published: July 2009

Since the cessation of the work of the Luangwa Sleeping Sickness Commission in Northern Rhodesia the investigation into the bionomics of Glossina morsitans has been carried on at Ngoa, in the Mpika Division, on the high ground of the Congo-Zambezi watershed. The work included a study of the influence of various bloods on the breeding capabilities of the fly and further investigation of the breeding habits and haunts of the insect in nature. The following notes embody the results of the work during the eight months from January to August, 1913. The climatic conditions during this period are given in Table 1, the temperatures being those of the laboratory.
New Species of Culicidae in the British Museum, with notes on the Genitalia of some African Culex
Authors: Edwards F. W.
Published: July 2009

In preparing his first synopsis of the African species of Culex (Bull. Ent. Res., ii, pt. 3, Oct. 1911) the writer relied almost entirely upon characters of coloration for the separation of species, and had made no study of the male genital organs; at the same time it was pointed out that the group of species allied to Culex invidiosus required much additional study before their classification could be regarded as satisfactory. It is now possible to give in full the results of further study of the African species of Culex of the pipiens and invidiosus groups. It has been found that, in these groups at least, the species can most readily be separated by means of the male genitalia, and also that one or two names which had previously been sunk as synonyms must in reality stand as good species. In the present contribution figures are given of the male genital organs of eleven species; these, together with the four already illustrated (Bull. Ent. Res., iv, pt. 1, May 1913) comprise all the African Culex with the exception of (1) those with a banded proboscis; (2) those with characteristic leg markings, C. tigripes and C. tipuliformis; (3) C. pruina, which is described below; (4) C. didieri, N.L., and C. pygmaeus, N.L., which the writer is unable to recognise; and (5) those with the pale markings of the abdomen situated towards the apices of the segments. As before, all the figures have been prepared by Mr. A. J. Engel Terzi with very great care and accuracy, and I am much indebted to him for his assistance in this difficult piece of work.
On Three Species of Xenopsylla occurring on Rats in India
Authors: Rothschild N. Charles
Published: July 2009

As it is now generally admitted that one or more of the species of fleas occurring on the common rats, Mus rattus and Mus norvegicus, are concerned in the transmission of plague, the study of these fleas has become a matter of the highest importance in connexion with the prevention of the disease. The first point that demands elucidation at the hands of medical entomologists is the identity of the species that is or are responsible. When this point has been satisfactorily determined, attention can be directed to the detailed study of the bionomics of the obnoxious species, as a preliminary to the adoption of appropriate remedial measures. It will be obvious that a sine qua non to a successful attack on the problem is the ability of the investigator to discriminate the various species that he is likely to meet in his researches, and it is the object of the author of these notes to supply a key to the identification of the species of Xenopsylla that occur on rats in India.
Suggestions for the Limitation and Destruction of Glossina morsitans
Authors: Shircore J.O.
Published: July 2009

Several months' constant traveling in the “proclaimed area” has led the writer to conclude that it contains at least four “primary centres” which harbour tsetse-flies, situated as shown on the map as follows:

No. 1, opposite Rifu, near Patsanjoka Marsh ;

No. 2, W. & S.W. of Kuti Marsh ;

No. 3, at Nyansato near the Chitawa Marsh ; and

No. 4, along and on each side of the Lingadsi River, between Long. 38° 8′ and 34° 13′ E.
Time series analysis of variation in abundance of selected cocoa insects and fitting of simple linear predictive models
Authors: Bigger M
Published: July 2009

A plot of cocoa trees at the Cocoa Research Institute, Tafo, Ghana, was inspected weekly for the presence on each tree of 18 species of insects. The 306 consecutive weekly records of percentage of trees occupied by each species were subjected to time series analysis. Auto-correlation and partial auto-correlation functions were calculated for each series and used to identify simple autoregressive linear models to account for the serial correlation. It was found that all species needed a stabilizing autoregressive parameter of lag 1 and all but four a second autoregressive parameter of lag 2. Seasonal autoregressive parameters at lags 3, 4, 5, 7, 9, or 13 were needed for over half the species, either in addition to the parameter at lag 2 or in place of it. It is postulated that these seasonal parameters mimic generation cycles. Runs of the models using random inputs produced series which were close to the originals in general form. The models could be further refined by adjusting the fixed mean levels assumed by the models to take into account the effects due to the abundance of young extension growth on the trees and atmospheric moisture, as measured by afternoon relative humidity readings. Although the production of extension growth is cyclical it would seem that it does not induce the cyclical behaviour observed in some of the insect series. The peaks in the latter cycles are, however, reinforced when they coincide with peaks in extension growth.
Cytotaxonomic revision of the Simulium sanctipauli subcomplex (Diptera: Simuliidae) in Guinea and the adjacent countries including descriptions of two new species
Authors: Boakye D.A , Post R.J , Mosha F.W , Surtees D.P , Baker R.H.A
Published: July 2009

The Simulium sanctipauli Vajime & Dunbar subcomplex of the West African S. damnosum Theobald complex is cytotaxonomically revised for the western part of the Onchocerciasis Control Programme area. The subcomplex is defined and a chromosomal key provided for the identification of the sibling species and forms recognized. Two sibling species are newly described, S. leonense Boakye, Post & Mosha (Sierra Leone) and S. konkourense Boakye, Post, Mosha & Quilleévéré (Guinea and Sierra Leone). Detailed chromosomal data are provided as warranty for the conclusions about the specific or infraspecific status of the taxa recognized.
The biology of Hindola spp. (Homoptera: Machaerotidae) vectors of Sumatra disease of clove and some related species in Indonesia
Authors: Lomer C.J , Stride A.B , Balfas R
Published: July 2009

The different stages of Hindola striata Maa in Java and H. fulva Baker on clove (Syzygium) in Sumatra were investigated. Data are presented on the duration of egg and nymphal stages and their positions on the plant. Hymenopterous and Dipterous parasites attacking the eggs and nymphs are described. The natural enemy complex of these clove-dwelling insects is contrasted with that of H. viridicans Stål on Melastoma sp. Some observations on adult behaviour and biology are made, particularly as these relate to the spread of Sumatra disease.
Development and fecundity of Sesamia calamistis (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae) and Eldana saccharina (Lepidoptera: Pyralidae)
Authors: Shanower T.G , Schulthess F , Bosque-Perez N
Published: July 2009

The developmental rates and fecundity of two important African maize pests, Sesamia calamistis Hampson and Eldana saccharina Walker, were studied under constant temperatures and with two larval diets. Five temperatures (15°, 20°, 25°, 30° and 35°C) were used to investigate developmental rates and three temperatures (20°, 25° and 30°C) were used in fecundity experiments. Larvae were reared on maize stem cuttings and on artificial diet. The developmental period for S. calamistis on artificial diet required over 700 degree-days (DD); eggs needed 122 DD above a threshold of 9.7°, larvae required 383 DD above 12.2°C and pupae 204 DD above 10.2°C. The developmental period for E. saccharina on artificial diet was 665 DD; eggs required 125 DD above 9.1°C, larvae 400 DD above 10.6°C and pupae 140 DD above 8.8°C. On artificial diet both species developed faster and had higher threshold temperatures for larval development than when reared on maize stem cuttings. Pupal development rates did not differ between artificial diet and maize stem for either species, although developmental thresholds were marginally lower on artificial diet. S. calamistis averaged 250–690 eggs/female although some individuals produced more than 1000 eggs. Adult females lived 5.7 days at 30°C and 10 days at 20°C. E. saccharina females produce more eggs and lived longer than S. calamistis females. Average fecundity for E. saccharina was 470–620 eggs/female, but several individuals produced more than 1200 eggs. Adult females lived 6.6 days at 30°C and 14.6 days at 20°C.
Visual responses of tsetse flies (Diptera: Glossinidae) to odour-baited targets
Authors: Vale G.A
Published: July 2009

Field studies in Zimbabwe showed how targets 1 m tall and 25–400 cm wide, composed of vertical panels of visual material and net and baited with odours of acetone, 1-octen-3-ol, and phenols, could be refined for controlling Glossina morsitans morsitans Westwood and G. pallidipes Austen. Attraction from a distance was not affected by swivelling movement but improved several-fold as the width of visual panels increased from 25 to 200 cm. Blue or blue/black targets were about as effective as black for G. m. morsitans but slightly more effective for G. pallidipes. Fine and coarse net was unattractive at long range but the flies avoided coarse net when close. The percentage of tsetse alighting on visual panels before flying round increased up to several times when the panels were widened, and when non-shiny black replaced blue or shiny black, but the percentage of flies alighting before departure was not much affected expect by panel width, being near 0% at 25 cm and 85% at 2 m. Most tsetse alighted first near the centre of targets, especially where black contrasted with nearby blue. Studies of various fabrics and paints and of restricted deposition of insecticide suggested several disposable targets that could have the costs of materials and insecticide, with efficacy preserved for G. m. morsitans and increased by up to 50% for G. pallidipes.
Effect of the systemic fungicide benomyl on the symbionts and mycetocytes of the bird cherry—oat aphid (Rhopalosiphum padi) (Homoptera: Aphididae) reared on wheat plants
Authors: Akhtar S. , van Emden H.F.
Published: July 2009

Only a few symbionts and mycetocytes in the bird cherry–oat aphidRhopalosiphum padi(Linnaeus) reared for three days were affected on plants treated with 50 ppm benomyl. The symbionts of aphids reared for the same time on plants treated with 100 ppm benomyl, however, were abnormal and at an early stage of degeneration. Mycetocytes contained more residual bodies than normal. The symbionts and mycetocytes of embryonic aphids on such plants were also abnormal. When aphids were reared for 3 days on plants treated with 200 ppm benomyl, the symbionts and mycetocytes were drastically affected. Most of the symbionts were very abnormal and had degenerated. The mycetocytes were full of electron-lucent and electron-dense structures intermixed with abnormal cell organelles. Symbionts and mycetocytes of embryonic aphids were abnormal. In contrast, when the systemic insecticide pirimicarb was used to kill aphids, it did not affect the symbionts and mycetocytes. When aphids were reared for 6 days on plants treated with 50 ppm benomyl, their symbionts and mycetocytes and those of their offspring were also degenerate and abnormal, as were those of Fl generation aphids from mothers reared from birth on plants treated with 50 ppm benomyl. From a consideration of the known mode of action of benomyl on tubulin and the presence of tubulin only in the mycetocyte cells, it is concluded that the degeneration of symbionts in benomyl-treated aphids is a secondary consequence of the degeneration of the aphid mycetocytes.
Effect of defensive behaviour by cattle on the feeding success and nutritional state of the tsetse fly, Glossina pallidipes (Diptera: Glossinidae)
Authors: Baylis M.
Published: July 2009

Two experiments were conducted at Galana Ranch, Kenya, which examined, under natural conditions, the relationships between the number of tsetse flies (Glossina pallidipes Austen) attracted to cattle, the rate at which the cattle made defensive movements, and the feeding success of the tsetse. The most frequent defensive movements were skin ripples and tail swishes, while leg kicks were of intermediate frequency, and head and ear movements were infrequent. In one experiment, the rate of skin ripples, but no other type of defensive movement, was significantly correlated with the number of tsetse attracted to the cattle. The proportion of tsetse that engorged was significantly (P < 0.004) correlated with the rate of leg kicks, more weakly with the rate of head movements (P < 0.07), and uncorrelated with the rates of other types of defensive movement. In the second experiment, the rates of skin ripples, tail swishes and leg kicks were significantly correlated with the number of tsetse attracted to the cattle. The proportion of tsetse that engorged was again significantly correlated to the rate of leg kicks (P < 0.03), more weakly to the rate of head movements (P < 0.04), and unrelated to the rates of other types of defensive movement. In neither experiment was there a significant relationship between the number of tsetse attracted to the cattle and the proportion that engorged, suggesting that any density-dependent feeding success was too weak to be detected. In experiment 1, the relative fat content of the male G. pallidipes that fed decreased as the rate of leg kicks increased, suggesting that when hosts are more active the sub-sample of tsetse that feed, out of those that approach, is both smaller and hungrier. There was no detectable effect of host defensive behaviour on the bloodmeal size of male G. pallidipes.
Spectral sensitivity of the compound eye of the cabbage root fly,Delia radicum(Diptera: Anthomyiidae)
Authors: Brown P.E. , Anderson M.
Published: July 2009

The spectral sensitivity of the compound eye of the cabbage root fly,Delia radicum(Linnaeus), was measured using the electroretinogram (ERG) technique, at fifteen selected wavelengths between 340 nm and 670 nm. The form of the ERG was found to be diphasic in nature. A primary peak of spectral sensitivity in the UV (340–350 nm), and a smaller secondary peak in the blue-green region (460–546 nm) were found, together with a shoulder of sensitivity, representing a ‘pseudo-peak’ as reported for other Diptera, in the red region (630 nm). No significant differences were found between the dorsal and ventral regions of the eye. The peak response in the green region (546 nm) agrees well with existing behavioural data on colour attraction and visual discrimination of host plants by the cabbage root fly.
Egg laying suppression inDrosophila melanogaster(Diptera: Drosophilidae) andDacus (Bactrocera) oleae(Diptera: Tephritidae) by phloroglucinol, a peroxidase inhibitor
Authors: Keramaris K.E. , Margaritis L.H. , Zografou E.N. , Tsiropoulos G.J.
Published: July 2009

Eggshell peroxidase (ESP) is responsible for the hardening process in several Diptera, includingDrosophila melanogasterMeigen andBactrocera oleaeGmelin. Its action can be inhibited by phloroglucinol, a natural phenolic substance, during the formation of the egg-shell. We used phloroglucinol, in the diet of adults ofD. melanogasterandB. oleae, at concentrations of 1 mM, 10 mM, 25 mM, 50 mM, 100 mM and 400 mM to study its effect on egg laying. In both insects, 1 mM had no effect. At concentrations above 10 mM, egg laying ofD. melanogasterwas gradually affected leading to the deposition of empty shells and chorion-less eggs, while inB. oleae, it was gradually suppressed and only amorphous masses were laid. The effect of phloroglucinol at the tested concentrations was reversible. It is concluded that phloroglucinol added at appropriate, non-lethal concentrations, affected egg-laying ofD. melanogasterandB. oleaein different ways, related to differences in the ovipositor diameter relative to egg size. InB. oleae, it is relatively narrow, causing breakage of the phloroglucinol-induced non-elastic egg-shell, since covalent crosslinking of the chorion proteins is prevented. InD. melanogaster, chorion-less eggs and separate chorions are laid, due to egg dechorionation. A possible field application of these results is discussed.
Population biology of the saw-toothed grain beetle, Oryzaephilus surinamensis (Coleoptera: Silvanidae), in an experimental model of a fabric treatment
Authors: Mason P.L.
Published: July 2009

The response of populations of the saw-toothed grain beetle, Oryzaephilus surinamensis (Linnaeus) (7022/1 strain), to insecticide treatments of different extent and standard concentration was studied over 16 weeks (no more than two generations) in experimental bins containing a wheat bulk and 16 kibbled wheat-filled refuges. Populations comprised initially low frequencies of resistant phenotypes, as would occur in natural populations where resistant alleles had newly arisen. The degree of control achieved was related to the extent of treatment. Distribution of adult beetles was greatly influenced by the effects of insecticide treatment superimposed on intrinsic microhabitat preferences. Live beetles were recovered from all bins, although numbers sampled from wheat bulks of treated bins were 1–6% of that of the untreated bin. More live beetles were sampled from wheat bulks than were recovered from all respective refuges, except in one treated bin. Live beetles were more numerous in refuges in corners and in those furthest from refuges on treated walls. Beetles were more likely to die in refuges in coiners and lower down in the bins or in refuges on treated walls adjacent to untreated walls. Although treatments produced heavy mortality, the frequencies of resistant individuals did not increase significantly. This could either be because treatments were equally successful in eliminating homozygous susceptible and heterozygous individuals, or because selection in favour of resistant individuals was too weak to be detectable, especially if there were negative correlations between viability and fecundity. Significant genetic structuring of refuge subpopulations with respect to the resistance phenotypes was noted and appeared to be related to behavioural preferences for microhabitat.
Foraging, nesting and damage caused by Microtermes subhyalinus (Isoptera: Termitidae) in a sugarcane plantation in the Central African Republic
Authors: Mora P. , Rouland C. , Renoux J.
Published: July 2009

The ecology of Microtermes subhyalinus Silvestri in savanna and an adjoining sugarcane plantation in the Central African Republic is described. Other species of termites were associated with savanna and sugarcane but M. subhyalinus was the most prevalent and the only one causing damage to sugarcane. Damage to the crop by M. subhyalinus was assessed throughout the year. Termite attacks were confined initially to the root system just after cutting but as the cane matured and growth ceased, termites tunnelled up into the above-ground stems. Losses accounted for 5–10% of total annual production. The nesting and foraging behaviour of this species altered with the change from natural savanna to sugarcane cultivation. The vertical distribution of M. subhyalinus fungus combs in soil under savanna and sugarcane over different seasons was analysed. There was a linear relationship between monthly rainfall and foraging activity in savanna while in sugarcane no relationship was observed.
Food web dynamics of irrigated rice fields at five elevations in Luzon, Philippines
Authors: Schoenly Kenneth , Cohen Joel E. , Heong K.L. , Litsinger James A. , Aquino G.B. , Barrion Alberto T. , Arida Gertrude
Published: July 2009

The above-water food webs of arthropod communities in irrigated rice fields on Luzon Island, Philippines, were studied over the growing season at five sites (Los Baños, Cabanatuan, Bayombong, Kiangan, Banaue) ranging in elevation from 22 m to 1524 m. Arthropod populations were vacuum-sampled at roughly weekly intervals from the date after seedlings were transplanted to flowering at each site. Site- and time-specific webs were constructed from a 687-taxa cumulative Philippines web and time-series of species present. Taxonomic composition, food web structure, and arthropod phenology were broadly similar across different sites. Arthropod abundance was inversely associated with altitude across the five sites, but numbers of taxa and links and six food web statistics showed no obvious increasing or decreasing trend with altitude. The rise of taxa, links and mean food chain length over the growing season at each site reflected an increase in plant size with age and, at some sites, an orderly accumulation of newly arriving herbivore, predator, parasitoid and omnivore species. At each site, herbivores built up faster than predators and parasitoids, and predators arrived faster than parasitoids; the difference between the latest and earliest sampling dates of first arrivals, averaged over the five sites, was 38, 63 and 73 days for herbivores, predators and parasitoids, respectively. Site-to-site consistencies in food web properties and first arrivals suggest that such patterns may be influenced more by crop age than by geography or altitude. Sampled predator, parasitoid and omnivore taxa potentially encountered only a subset of their lifetime prey and predator species at any particular time in the rice field. Prey lists cumulated over time may underestimate the temporal specificity of predation by potential biological control agents. Research opportunities linking rice food webs and integrated pest management with East Indies biogeography are proposed.
Influence of Dolichoderus thoracicus (Hymenoptera: Formicidae) on cocoa pod damage by Conopomorpha cramerella (Lepidoptera: Gracillariidae) in Malaysia
Authors: See Y.A. , Khoo K.C.
Published: July 2009

The relationship between abundance of Dolichoderus thoracicus (Smith) and damage to cocoa pods caused by Conopomorpha cramerella Snellen was examined in a series of experiments. Pods were harvested from ant-abundant and ant-scarce plots and categorized into fully extractable, partially extractable and unextractable, the last category reflecting the most severe degree of C. cramerella infestation. An abundance of D. thoracicus was associated with significant reductions in the percentage unextractable pods but had little or no influence on the other two categories. Mean percentage pods infested was generally kept below 50% in ant-abundant plots and mostly exceeded the 50% level in ant-scarce plots. Other studies were: a survey of individual pods relating rate of infestation by C. cramerella to D. thoracicus abundance, an experiment which examined the effect of D. thoracicus exclusion on the rate of C. cramerella infestation, and a count of exit holes made by emerging prepupae of C. cramerella in relation to varying degrees of D. thoracicus abundance. The results showed a clear negative effect of D. thoracicus abundance on C. cramerella infestation rate. The results also indicated that the protection conferred by D. thoracicus was largely confined to the particular pod on which it was present. Rat damage, monitored as a subsidiary study, was higher in ant-scarce plots throughout the study period.
Two new Species of Uranotaenia (Culicidae) from Nigeria, with Notes on the Genus in the Ethiopian Region
Authors: Philip Cornelius B.
Published: July 2009

During the course of certain investigations, the writer had occasion to collect a considerable number of mosquitoes in Nigeria, particularly in the vicinity of Lagos. Several species of Uranotaenia were represented in many of the collections. In view of the difficulties experienced in identifying certain specimens, opportunity was taken during a recent visit to the British Museum (Natural History) to study the African Uranotaenia in the collections there. Subsequent to the publication by Edwards in 1912 of the last generic treatment and key for the separation of the species, several additional species have been added to the list from the Ethiopian region, and more materials have accumulated, thus facilitating further study and permitting a reconsideration of certain specific assignments.
Gall Midges (Cecidomyidae) whose Larvae prevent Seed Production in Grasses (Gramineae)
Authors: Barnes H. F.
Published: July 2009

Among the insects which do serious damage to grasses grown for seed, the larvae of gall midges (Cecidomyidae) are of great importance. Very little is known about their bionomics, except in the case of the Sorghum midge (Contarinia sorghicola), and the Meadow Foxtail midges (Dasyneura alopecuri, Contarinia merceri, and Stenodiplosis geniculati). In view of this and the fact that several grasses are grown for seed with advantage in Great Britain, it has been thought advisable to collect together all the available information.
A new predacious Gall Midge (Dipt., Cecidomyidae)
Authors: Barnes H. F.
Published: July 2009

Through the courtesy of the Imperial Institute of Entomology, I have been able to examine specimens of a remarkable gall midge reared by Mr. E. Hargreaves, in Sierra Leone, from larvae predacious on a species of mealy-bug.
The critical Point of Parasitism and the Law of Malthus
Authors: Muir F.
Published: July 2009

The law of population, as finally expounded by Malthus, conceives that increase depends upon the availability of food or upon the ease, difficulty, or ability of procuring it. The consideration of the action of parasites from this point of view, I believe, is of interest and importance, both from the economic and biological standpoints.
Descriptions and Records of parasitic Hymenoptera from British Guiana and the West Indies
Authors: Myers J. G.
Published: July 2009

The following notes are based almost entirely upon actual rearing records, the hosts in most cases being insects of economic importance. The greatest attention has been paid to parasites of the small moth-borers of sugar-cane (Diatraea spp.). The systematic work has been done entirely at the British Museum and would have been impossible without the facilities in literature and collections there, and the great help of Mr. D. S. Wilkinson and Dr. C. Ferrière, of the Imperial Institute of Entomology. Types of new species are in the British Museum.
The Ash Content of Insects
Authors: Uvarov E. B.
Published: July 2009

In the case of silica, there appears to be a definite variation of SiO2 content with different species. The difference between yellow locusts (6·27 per cent.) and red locusts (14·7 per cent.) is especially marked. It may be attributed to the fact that red locusts are actively feeding, sexually immature adults, and in consequence they consume large amounts of food with a high silica content. The fact that museum specimens of yellow locusts contain a higher percentage of silica than intact yellow specimens indicates that the majority of the silica is not concentrated in the digestive tract. The same appears to apply to the iron content. Copper was found in appreciable quantities in all the insects examined, but no definite conclusion can be drawn from the numerical results, as the variation from batch to batch was too great. The results for manganese are not satisfactory, as in several cases negative evidence was obtained. This is inconsistent with the work of Vinogradov, who obtained conclusive evidence of manganese in insects. In the case of Agonoscelis, however, the manganese content was found to be extraordinarily high (0·47 per cent.), suggesting that it may play a definite physiological part. The presence of a respiratory pigment, pinnaglobin, containing manganese, has been shown in the tropical mussel, but there is as yet no evidence for the presence of this pigment in the insect world.

It is impossible, however, to draw any such conclusions from ash analysis results of entire insects only, and systematic analyses of the blood of numerous species will be necessary to establish the presence of the metals iron, copper and manganese, in their respiratory pigments.

Definite evidence of nickel (in almost negligible amounts) was shown by the large-scale analysis, but apart from this no element was detected which had not been previously reported.
The Larva and Pupa of Uranotaenia ornata, Theo.
Authors: Connal Sophia L. M. Summers
Published: July 2009

The larvae of Uranotaenia ornata, Theo., are commonly found in pineapple plants in the neighbourhood of Lagos, Nigeria, and invariably in company with Harpagomyia larvae.
On African Sandflies (Dipt.)
Authors: Theodor O.
Published: July 2009

The following notes deal with a collection of sandflies from Africa sent for identification by Sir Guy Marshall, C.M.G., F.R.S., of the Imperial Institute of Entomology, by Dr. Pontes from Mozambique, by Major W. F. M. Loughnan, R.A.M.C., Mauritius, and with a number of specimens lent to Prof. Adler by the London School of Tropical Medicine. I am indebted to Prof. Adler for placing this material at my disposal.
Studies on the Abundance, Distribution and Feeding Habits of some West African Mosquitos
Authors: Kerr J. A.
Published: July 2009

Almost all of the studies here reported were made in one small region, so that very little new information was secured on the ranges of the species of mosquitos under consideration.

Our investigations regarding breeding-places were limited to a few species.Aëdes vittatuswas found occasionally breeding in tree-holes in Ibadan.Aëdes irritansadults were taken at Ibadan, which is so far inland that this species must sometimes breed in places other than crab-holes at the edges of salt or brackish water. We did not, however, find the larvae of this species at Ibadan. The favourite breeding-place ofEretmopodites chrysogasterwas found to be small collections of water in fallen leaves (especially those of cocoa trees) lying in moist and densely shaded places. Because of the abundance ofMansonia africanain places practically free fromPistia, we conclude that in the vicinity of Lagos it must breed abundantly on other plants. The long flight range of this species was taken into consideration in arriving at this conclusion. An extensive search failed, however, to reveal these plants.M. uniformis, also abundant in the vicinity of Lagos, does not breed there uponPistia, but an extensive search failed to reveal its breeding-place.
Notes on some Dipterous Parasites of Schistocerca and Locusta in the Sudan
Authors: Wood A. H.
Published: July 2009

(1) The life-history of S. destructor was investigated, and it is shown that it is primarily a saprophagous feeder but with distinct potentialities for occasional parasitism.

(2) Two species of parasites were bred out of Locusta and Schistocerca from the Red Sea Coast: Blaesoxipha lineata, Fall., and B. filipjevi, Rohd.

(3) The percentage of parasitism was high; 39 per cent. of the adults examined in the area in December 1932 either contained parasites, or had been parasitised and recovered.

(4) The recovery from parasitism was high; 19 per cent. of the locusts examined had been parasitised and recovered.

(5) The life-history of B. lineata and B. filipjevi was investigated in the laboratory; Olsuf'ev's observation that B. lineata is not a very effective parasite was confirmed. A 78 per cent. recovery from parasitism by B. lineata was obtained. Only 38 per cent. of the locusts parasitised reproduced.
Experimental Studies in Insect Parasitism. VI.—Host Suitability
Authors: Salt George
Published: July 2009

1. For the purposes of this paper a suitable host is defined as one on which the parasitoid can generally reproduce fertile offspring.

2. To be suitable forTrichogramma, a host must satisfy conditions required by two generations of the parasite: it must be such that it can be actually parasitized by the adult parasitoid; and it must provide an environment in which the parasite offspring can develop.

3. Some hosts prevent the attack ofTrichogrammaleading to parasitization by the physical resistance of their chorion; others by inhibiting the impulse to oviposition.

4. Five physical characteristics of the hosts ofTrichogrammaare investigated: the permeability, rigidity, and hardness of the egg-shell; and the fluidity and quantity of the egg-contents (pp. 226 to 231).

5. Eggs ofSialis lutaria,Tenebrio molitor, andBruchus obtectusare chemically unsuitable forTrichogramma evanescensas food.

6. Two biological characteristics of the host, its viability and its age, do not directly affect its suitability forTrichogramma; a third, the ability of the embryo to move, is of some importance.

7. The various known factors of host unsuitability are given in tabular form (p. 239).

8. In spite of numerous attempts during several years it has not been possible to develop a strain ofTrichogramma evanescenswhich could useBruchus obtectusas a host.

9. The host list of most groups of parasites is greatly limited by the inaccessibility of many species; it is further restricted in some groups (e.g., the parasitoid Hymenoptera) by the selection exercised by the parasite; it is finally limited in all groups (and especially the parasitoid Diptera) by the unsuitability of many infected animals.

10. The division of the problem of host specificity into the three parts, host finding, host selection, and host suitability, is fundamental.
The Mosquitos of the Island of Corfu, Greece
Authors: Stephanides Theodore
Published: July 2009

The following mosquitos should be added to the list given in my earlier paper on this subject (Bull. Ent. Res. 28, 1937, pp. 405—407).

1. Anopheles elutus, Edwards.

The larvae are found in the same habitats as those of A. maculipennis, but seem to show a greater preference for waters near the sea-shore. A. elutus appears to be considerably rarer in Corfu than A. maculipennis, but sufficient data are not yet to hand to settle this question.

2. Anopheles plumbeus, Stephens.

Not common. I have obtained the larvae from the rot-holes of oak, elm and white poplar, but never so far from those of olive-trees. They favour deep holes containing plenty of rotting material.

3. Aëdes (Ochlerotatus) caspius, Pallas.

The larvae are sometimes present in fresh, but more frequently in slightly brackish waters. They are often gregarious with the larvae of O. detritus, Hal., but are much less abundant than the latter.

4. Aëdes (Ochlerotatus) pulchritarsis, Rondani.

The larvae live in rot-holes of oak, elm and white poplar, and are sometimes met with in considerable numbers in the same hole. They prefer holes in which the collected water has become thick and very dark amber in colour owing to the presence of decaying wood debris.

5. Orthopodomyia pulchripalpis, Rondani.

The larvae are found in the same habitats as those of O. pulchritarsis and are often gregarious with the latter. They are less plentiful, on the whole, than O. pulchritarsis and prefer somewhat clearer water.

Note.—In my paper referred to above I mentioned that Finlaya echinus, Edw., is commoner in Corfu than F. geniculatus, Oliv. This statement is due to an error of determination arising from the fact that in many of the Corfu larvae of F. geniculatus the bristles of the abdominal tufts are somewhat more developed than those described in some text-books.
The genera of Signiphoridae (Hymenoptera) with description of a new genus
Authors: Subba Rao B. R.
Published: July 2009

A key is given to the six genera of Signiphoridae includingRozanoviellagen. n. which is described to accommodate five congeneric species, three transferred fromSigniphoraand two fromThysanus. All are secondary parasites of Hymenoptera and Lepidoptera through Tachinids. The correct name of the type-species ofKerrichiellais shown to beThysanus coleoptratusKerrich.
Notes on the species of Heteropelma Wesmael (Hymenoptera, Ichneumonidae) occurring in Australia
Authors: Gauld I. D.
Published: July 2009

The Australian species of the genus Heteropelma Wesmael (Anomaloninae) are revised. Three species, H. flavitarse (Brullé), H. scaposum (Morley) and H. perniciosum (Turner), are considered valid, and are redescribed. Two new synonymies have been proposed.
Direct observations on the responses of tsetse flies (Diptera, Glossinidae) to hosts
Authors: Vale G. A.
Published: July 2009

To elucidate the host preferences of tsetse, an observer followed animals as they wandered in woodland infested with Glossina morsitans morsitans Westw. From 55 to 88 landings by tsetse and 0·2–3·0 engorgements were seen per hour on ox, dog, bushpig and adult warthog, as against 14 landings and no engorgements on warthog 2–5 months old and 0·3–1·7 landings and no engorgements on impala and bushbuck. Many of the landings and most of the engorgements on adult suids occurred near the eye but this region was not attractive with other animals and young warthog. Unsuccessful attempts were made to determine the attractive stimuli from the eye region of adult suids.
Distribution and ecology of Ornithodoros moubata porcinus Walton (Acarina) in animal burrows in East Africa
Authors: Peirce M. A.
Published: July 2009

In a survey of animal burrows in nine East African game areas or ranches 112621 specimens of Ornithodoros moubata pordnus Walton, vector of African Swine Fever Virus (ASFV), were collected from 172 burrows (out of 442 examined) in six areas. Burrows were usually located in open ground, in patches of scrub thicket and frequently in termite mounds; often the burrows had been excavated originally by antbear. Ticks were obtained by means of a lure, by chipping samples from the burrow walls and by taking soil samples from the burrow floors. Tick populations ranged from a few individuals to 250000 per burrow, second- and third-stage nymphae accounting for over 70% of the total population. Generally, ticks were found near the entrances of burrows on the floor, or on the roofs if the burrows had been unoccupied for some time, the latter position appearing to be a hunger response. Factors favouring large tick populations were neutral soils, high relative humidity, optimal temperature to be found at 3000–5000 ft above sea level, vegetation surrounding the burrow and the presence of burrow-inhabiting animals. Above 5000 ft O. m. porcinus was less common, and above 6150 ft none was found. Blood-meal identifications have shown warthog to be the primary host; other hosts included antbear, porcupine and hyaena. In areas with a particularly favourable environment the ticks can remain quiescent for long periods; in less favourable areas the continued maintenance of colonies is dependent upon the frequency with which ticks can feed on a suitable host. Some predation of adult ticks occurs but losses due to bush fires are not important. Heavy infestations of ticks may contribute to the mortality of young warthogs. The survey confirms experimental evidence that ASFV is well adapted to maintenance in the vector population.
Teratological effects of the virus Rhabdionvirus oryctes on Oryctes rhinoceros (L.) (Coleoptera, Dynastidae)
Authors: Monty J.
Published: July 2009

Following the introduction and establishment of Rhabdionvirus oryctes in Mauritius, seven adults of Oryctes rhinoceros (L.) were found with external malformations ranging from slight deviation at the base of the elytra to almost complete atrophy of the wings and elytra. Histological abnormalities of the midgut are described from a sample of 46 beetles of which 36 proved to be infected; infected epithelial cells are discharged into the gut lumen and so into larval and adult habitats.
Aphids caught on sticky traps in eastern England in relation to the spread of yellowing viruses of sugar-beet
Authors: Heathcote G. D.
Published: July 2009

Long-term records of aphid catches on two sticky traps, one at Rothamsted (1942–64) and one at Broom's Barn (1960–64) are extended to 1973 and are supplemented by data from up to 12 sticky traps in sugar-beet crops in eastern England (1960–73). The incidence of yellowing viruses of sugar-beet between 1965 and 1973 showed no relation to aphid numbers, but between 1942 and 1973 the pattern of annual incidence was similar to that of numbers of Myzus persicae (Sulz.) trapped in May and June. Linear regressions of the incidence of yellowing viruses on numbers of M. persicae in May and June accounted for 28–57% of the variance, and on Aphis fabae group for 2–40% of the variance. It is concluded that sticky traps provide useful information for advisory entomologists and that there has been no general increase in aphid numbers over the last 30 years.
The biology and taxonomy ofHyperaspis pantherina(Coleoptera: Coccinellidae) and the classical biological control of its prey,Orthezia insignis(Homoptera: Ortheziidae)
Authors: Booth R.G. , Cross A.E. , Flower S.V. , Shaw R.H.
Published: July 2009

Between 1908 and 1959, the predatory coccinellid,Hyperaspis pantherinaFürsch, was released for the biological control of the ensign scaleOrthezia insignisBrowne in Hawaii, four African countries and Peru. Substantial control was reported after all the releases, although the outcome was disputed in Malawi. Other coccinellid species and predatory Diptera were released againstOrtheziaspp. in various programmes from 1952 to 1977. In most cases these agents failed to establish, and there were no reported effects on the targetOrtheziaspp. In 1993,H. pantherinawas released in St Helena for the control ofO. insignison the endemic gumwood tree,Comm idendrum robustum(Compositae). Preparatory investigations for this release revealed that the taxonomy and biology of this biocontrol agent were poorly known.Hyperaspis pantherinais redescribed and shown to be the correct name for the species previously known incorrectly asH. jocosa(Mulsant).Hyperaspis laetaGorham andH. levrati(Mulsant) are transferred to the genusCyraMulsant (comb. n.).Hyperaspis metator(Casey) (stat. rev.) is resurrected from synonymy withH. levratiauctt. Studies of the life history revealed thatH. pantherinanormally lays its eggs directly onto the adult femaleO. insignisand that the first two instars of the larvae are frequently passed inside the ovisac of the female host, after which the host itself is often consumed. The information on the biology and taxonomy ofH. pantherina, together with details of culturing methods, should facilitate the further use of this agent for the classical biological control ofO. insignis, a pantropical pest.
Field and laboratory evaluation of a sex pheromone trap for the autodissemination of the fungal entomopathogen Zoophthora radicans (Entomophthorales) by the diamondback moth, Plutella xylostella (Lepidoptera: Yponomeutidae)
Authors: Furlong Michael J. , Pell Judith K. , Pek Choo Ong , Abdul Rahman Syed
Published: July 2009

The effectiveness of a sex pheromone trap designed specifically to deliver conidia (infective fungal propagules) of the entomopathogenic fungus Zoophthora radicans Brefeld (Zygomycetes: Entomophthorales) to male Plutella xylostella (Linnaeus) was investigated. In field experiments in the Cameron Highlands of Malaysia, synthetic pheromone lures attracted adult males P. xylostella at all times of the day whereas lures of virgin female moths attracted males only between the hours of dusk and dawn, when females are known to produce their pheromone. Adult male moths attracted to traps baited with synthetic pheromone spent a geometric mean time of 88 seconds within the inoculation chamber, a time compatible with the period adults must spend within a shower of Z. radicans conidia produced by uniform mycelial mats in order to become infected. The field longevity of male and female P. xylostella adults was found to be similar, with individuals living for a mean time of 4.9 days. This was sufficient time for male moths to respond to the pheromone, enter the trap, become infected with Z. radicans and succumb to that infection in the field (3–3.5 days) thereby releasing infective conidia into the cabbage crop.