bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Selection of Beauveria spp. isolates for control of the termite Heterotermes tenuis (Hagen, 1858)
Authors: Almeida J. E. M. , Alves S. B. , Pereira R. M.
Published: August 2009

Heterotermes tenuis is an important pest in sugarcane in Brazil, where alternative control methods are necessary due to cancellations of chemical pesticide registrations. Experiments were conducted to determine the pathogenicity, virulence and mass production yields of Beauveria spp. isolates as potential microbial control candidates for H. tenuis. Results demonstrated that the average virulence of the B. brongniartii isolates was comparable to that of B. bassiana isolates. Isolates obtained from soil were as effective as microbial control agents as those obtained directly from insect hosts. However, no B. brongniartii or soil isolate was among those best isolates selected, which included two of the three termite isolates tested. LT50 for 15 selected isolates varied between 2.91 and 4.91 days, and termite mortalities caused by these isolates were between 78.7 and 98.7% after 8 days. Significant differences were observed among these selected isolates. Conidial productions on artificial media (PDA and cooked rice) correlated well for the selected isolates. However, spore production on the termite cadavers did not correlate with production on these artificial media. The most productive isolate on cadavers (634) was 21% more productive than the second best isolate (447), and was also a good conidial producer on artificial media with 25% lower conidial yield than the best producer (756). The least productive isolate on cadavers or artificial medium (760) produced only 3% of production by isolate 756 on cooked rice and 45% of production on termite cadavers. Because high conidial production on cadavers is a desirable characteristic to facilitate transmission of the disease in the nest, isolate 634 was selected for further development as microbial agent for H. tenuis control.
Diet of Zonocerus variegatus (L) (Orth., Acrididae) in cassava fields in Congo
Authors: le Gall P. , Mingouolo E. , Bani G.
Published: August 2009

Abstract: This paper presents the results of a study on the diet of Zonocerus variegatus on cassava at Kombé, near Brazzaville in the Republic of Congo. Diet was determined by the analysis of plant fragments in the faeces of insects sampled in the fields. Cassava and Chromolaena odorata are the major food plants for Z. variegatus in the ecosystem. Z. variegatus eats leaves and flowers of C. odorata. During the dry season it has a broader diet than during the wet season. This was contrary to expectation, as it was expected that water content and flora diversity would affect the diet. The dry season is also the time when C. odorata leaves are found in the faeces of both adults and nymphs. The decrease in nutritional value of plants may oblige Z. variegatus to diversify its diet. Cassava and C. odorata replace each other in the diet of Z. variegatus during the year. The choice of food plants is not determined by the frequency of plant species in the field. For major food plants, the age and the physiological state of plants play an important role. At Kombé, nymphs and adults are present throughout the year. Therefore, the diet exhibited each month does not depend on the development stage of insects.
Influence of HD1 (Bacillus thuringiensis ssp. kurstaki) on the developmental stages of Diadegma sp. (Hym., Ichneumonidae) parasitoid of Plutella xylostella (Lep., Yponomeutidae)
Authors: Monnerat R. G. , Bordat D.
Published: August 2009

Abstract: Laboratory experiments have shown that HD1 strain of Bacillus thuringiensis Berliner has adverse effects on Diadegma sp. Young larvae of Plutella xylostella (L.), the diamondback moth (DBM), were killed by B. thuringiensis when the larvae were parasitized by Diadegma for only a short time (less than two days). Larvae were parasitized for more than two days before adding the bacterium, however, they decreased their foliar consumption (35% less) and therefore consumed fewer spores of B. thuringiensis. The low mortality of the DBM allows the parasitoid to finish its development. The presence of HD1 does not effect the F1 generation of Diadegma sp. There are no significant differences in the time of the larval stage and pupal development, sex‐ratio, longevity of adults and percentage of parasitism between adults from HD1 infected or non‐infected larvae.
Survival, development and fecundity in Euseius finlandicus, Typhlodromus pyri and Kampimodromus aberrans (Acari, Phytoseiidae) feeding on the San José scale Quadraspidiotus perniciosus (Coccina, Diaspididae)
Authors: Schausberger P.
Published: August 2009

Abstract: Studies on juvenile survival, development and reproduction of Euseius finlandicus Oudemans, Typhlodromus pyri Scheuten and Kampimodromus aberrans Oudemans feeding on crawlers of the diaspidid San José scale Quadraspidiotus perniciosus Comstock were conducted in the laboratory at 25 ± 1°C, 65 ± 5% RH and 16 h photoperiod. Immature life stages as well as adult females readily accepted crawlers as prey. All predatory species preying upon scale crawlers were able to complete development and to sustain reproduction during a 10‐day‐period. Immatures of E. finlandicus and K. aberrans had a low juvenile mortality, whereas nearly 50% of T. pyri protonymphs died. Mean development from larva to adult took 5.6 days in E. finlandicus, 13.2 days in K. aberrans and 17.4 days in T. pyri. E. finlandicus had a higher fecundity (0.7 eggs/day/female) than T. pyri (0.5 eggs/female/day) and K. aberrans (0.4 eggs/female/day). However, San José scale crawlers must be considered a suboptimal prey. Its nutritional value is discussed in relation to that of more adequate food sources. Data on development and fecundity are also discussed in relation to other phytoseiid species feeding on armoured scale insects.
Population dynamics of teak defoliator, Hyblaea puera Cram. (Lep., Hyblaeidae) in teak plantations of Bangladesh
Authors: Baksha M. W. , Crawley M. J.
Published: August 2009

Abstract: In Bangladesh one to two population peaks of teak defoliator, Hyblaea puera Cram. occurred between late April and July, followed in some years by another flatter peak in August and September. The temporal and spatial distribution of infestation suggested a short‐range migration of moth. When general flushing of teak occurs in March–April the population starts building up generation by generation. During early build up phase the infestations are distributed in discrete patches. When a critical density is reached in a patch the newly emerged moths migrate to a newly flushed teak areas. After one to three peaks the population declines due to leaf maturity, natural enemies or density dependant food depletion. Until next flushing season the population remains small, non‐migratory but active. This residual population survives on a small but continuous supply of tender leaves prevalent due to phenological variation of teak, and on alternative sources of food. This cycle of ups and downs is repeated every year.
The influence of sown herb strips and spontaneous weeds on the larval stages of aphidophagous hoverflies (Dipt., Syrphidae)
Authors: Salveter R.
Published: August 2009

Abstract: The influence of sown herb strips on larval stages of aphidophagous syrphids was studied in different strips and adjacent winter wheat fields near Berne (Switzerland) from 1993 to 1995. The aim of this study was to learn whether these sown herb strips offer a supply of aphids sufficient enough to sustain the first generation of syrphids in spring or a further generation after crop harvest. Aphid infestation of the strips occurred at about the same time as in winter wheat, between the end of May and the beginning of August. A first syrphid generation in spring can therefore not develop on weeds in strips. Furthermore, after harvest no further generations will appear in strips. The highest numbers of syrphid pre‐imaginal stages in 1993 and 1994 were found on spontaneously growing weeds (Rumex obtusifolius, Cirsium arvense and C. vulgare). Among the sown species, Centaurea jacea and Pastinaca saliva showed the highest syrphid larvae densities. The densities in herb strips (max. 0.6 larvae/m2) were manyfold lower than in wheat (10 pupae/nr). In herb strips the same syrphid species as in winter wheat were identified. In both habitats Episyrphus balteatus was the most abundant species. Epistrophe spp. were only found in strips. No dependence of oviposition within wheat fields on the distance to the strips could be demonstrated. Due to their great mobility, it is easy for adult syrphids to find aphid colonies within a crop field. The strips are neither significant for an early development of the first syrphid generation nor for an additional generation after wheat harvest. The importance of herb strips for hoverflies lies in their quality to supply them with pollen and nectar, which increases the fitness of the adults.
Dispersal and effects of barriers on the movement of the New Zealand hover fly Melanostoma fasciatum (Dipt., Syrphidae) on cultivated land
Authors: Lövei G. L. , Macleod A. , Hickman J. M.
Published: August 2009

Abstract: Dispersal within agricultural fields and the effects of different barriers on between‐field movement of the New Zealand hover fly Melanostoma fasciatum were studied using ingested pollen as markers. Hover flies did not generally disperse more than 20 m from the pollen source. Gravid females had no significant wind‐directed movement pattern whereas males significantly flew downwind. Flies tended to avoid flying over barren land: a dirt track, an asphalt road or a ploughed field all seemed to hamper hover fly dispersal equally. The implications for spatial arrangement of the flowering strips to enhance the biocontrol potential of hover flies are discussed.
Male mating success and body size in the European cherry fruit fly, Rhagoletis cerasi L. (Dipt., Tephritidae)
Authors: Jaastad G.
Published: August 2009

Abstract: Sexually selected traits or characteristics are often found to cause a non‐random distribution of male mating success. Understanding which traits or characteristics affect the mating success of insect pests is important for pest management strategies that are designed to interfere with normal reproduction. The European cherry fruit fly (Rhagoletis cerasi L., Tephritidae) is a serious pest of sweet‐cherries in Europe. Little is known about the mating behaviour and individual differences in mating success in the species. In this study R. cerasi males were found to have a non‐random distribution of mating success. However, size of males did not affect male mating success, nor was there any difference in size between mated and unmated females in this study. The importance of characteristics other than size for male mating success and the importance of female choice are discussed.
Occurrence of insects associated with nine Quercus species (Fagaceae) in cultured plantations in southern Slovakia during 1987–1992
Authors: Skuhravý V. , Hrubík P. , Skuhravá M. , Poz̈gaj J.
Published: August 2009

Abstract: A total of 78 insect species were recorded as damaging plant organs (galls, mines and eaten leaves) on nine Quercus species in south‐western Slovakia during 1987–1992. The insects belong to five orders: 41 species of Hymenoptera, 16 species of Lepidoptera, 13 species of Diptera, two species of Coleoptera and five species of Homoptera. In addition, galls of Eriophyes cerreus (Eriophyidae, Acari) were found. The following species were abundant: Andricus kollari (Htg.), A. lignicola (Htg.), A. lucida (Htg.), Neuroterus quercusbaccarum (L.), Biorrhiza pallida (Oliv.) (Hym., Cynipidae) and Periclista lineolata (Klug) (Hym., Tenthredinidae); Tischeria ekebladella (Bjerk.) (Lep., Tischeriidae) and Phyllonorycter (Lithocolletis) roboris Zll. (Lepidoptera, Gracillariidae); Haltica quercetorum Foundr. (Col., Chrysomelidae). The number of insect species moderately oscillated and changed during 1987–1992. The lowest number (35 species) was found in 1991, the highest (48 species) in 1989. The highest number, 42 insect species, was associated with Quercus cerris, the lowest (25 species) with Q. pubescens. Insect species caused a total of 6356 galls, mines and other types of damage on nine Quercus species. Insect species were evaluated according to degree of harmfulness.
Effects of below‐ground herbivory by Diabrotica virgifera virgifera (Col., Chrysomelidea) and soil moisture on leaf gas exchange of maize
Authors: Dunn J. P. , Frommelt K.
Published: August 2009

Abstract: Information on the physiological responses of plants to below‐ground herbivory is sparse. Effects of root herbivory by Diabrotica virgifera Leconte and the interactions of herbivory and soil moisture on photosynthesis and water relations of maize (Zea mays) were examined in a greenhouse. Plants were infested with 0, 50 and 100 larvae of D. v. virgifera at the six‐leaf stage of development and water stress induced to half of the plants in each treatment. The 100‐larvae treatment removed 67% of the roots and the 50‐larvae treatment removed 19.6% of the roots, as compared to uninfested controls. Fifty‐five days after infestation, damaged plants had recovered as there were no significant differences in root volumes among the infestation levels. Measurements of photosynthesis, stomatal conductance and leaf relative water content were not significantly different among larval treatments at 7, 13, 24 and 30 days after infestation. When soil moisture was withheld, however, photosynthesis and stomatal conductance were significantly reduced. On day 24, water stressed plants infested with 100 larvae had a 23% decrease in photosynthesis as compared to well‐watered plants that were uninfested. These results indicate the potential that maize plants have to tolerate root herbivory by D. v. virgifera and that the effects were greater when soil moisture was reduced.
Sex attractant dispensers for monitoring antler moth Cerapteryx graminis(L.) (Lep., Noctuidae): Effect of component ratio and dispenser type
Authors: Mottus E. , Klukowski Z. , Liblikas I. , Stachowiak M. , Viidalepp J.
Published: August 2009

Abstract: Male antler moths (Cerapteryx graminis) were attracted to traps baited with dispensers loaded with mixtures varying between 7.3 and 4.6 of Z11–16:Ald and Z11–16:Ac. The blends between 7–20% of Z11–16:Ac and 93–80% of Z11–16:Ald in its evaporated phase yielded the greatest catches in field trials. No variations in trap catches within these ratios were noticed. Additionally the emission rates of the attractive blend varying between 37 and 534 ng/h, trap catches decreased by 80% over the same period. The addition of Z11–16.OH had a strong inhibiting effect on the trap catches. Trap catches of different types of dispensers having evaporation area‐to‐volume between 1.2 mm−1 and 1.8 mm−1 were dependent on emission rates and ratios of Z11–16:Ald and Z11–16:Ac in evaporated phase. Minifer type dispensers with evaporation area‐to‐volume 1.5 mm−1 and higher evaporation rates are more economic and convenient to use. Attractant traps started to catch at earlier dates than light traps and were more attractive at lower insect densities.
Parasitism of the black bean aphid (Aphis fabae) by Lysiphlebus fabarum (Hym., Aphidiidae): the influence of host plant and habitat1
Authors: Völkl W. , Stechmann D.‐H.
Published: August 2009

Abstract: The black bean aphid (Aphis fabae) was heavily parasitized by the aphid parasitoid, Lysiphlebus fabarum both on agricultural crops (broad bean, fodder beet) and on associated weeds (goosefoot, chamomile, tansy). Parasitization rates increased during the season and were lower on broad bean than on other host plants. Habitat diversity contributed to an increase of parasitism on fodder beet but not on broad bean. Ant‐attendance lead to increased parasitism on all host plants. The findings of the field studies were confirmed by laboratory experiments on foraging and oviposition behaviour of L. fabarum females on the various host plants.
Biological studies on Eretmocerus longipes Compere (Hym., Aphelinidae), a parasitoid of Aleurotuberculatus takahashi David et Subramaniam (Hom., Aleyrodidae) in the laboratory
Authors: Sengonca C. , Liu B.
Published: August 2009

Abstract: Experiments on the duration of development, the longevities on different diets at constant temperatures, as well as the influence of constant temperatures, relative humidities and photoperiods, on the emergence of Eretmocerus longipes Compere (Hym., Aphelinidae), a parasitoid of the citrus whitefly, Aleurotuberculatus takahashi David et Subramaniam (Hom., Aleyrodidae), were conducted separately under laboratory conditions in Fuzhou, Fujian Province, China in 1996. The duration of the development of E. longipes from egg to adult decreased significantly as a result of an increase in temperature, ranging from 56.7 days at 15 °C to 11.4 days at 35 °C. Fhe longevities of E. longipes were strongly interaffected by temperatures and diets being 7.9 days at 20 °C, 4.5 days at 25 °C, and 2.8 days at 30 °C on a honey water diet, compared to 3.1 days at 20 °C, 1.2 days at 25 °C and 0.9 days at 30 °C without any food provision. However, no statistical difference between the provided diets of honey water or 3rd instars of the whitefly was found in longevities at the same temperature. With temperature increases in steps of 15–30 °C, the rate of emergence of the parasitoid increased from 44 to 89%. Relative humidity (RH) also significantly affected the rate of emergence of the parasitoid, which varied from 20.4% at 35% RH to 76.5% at 95% RH. On the other hand, the rate of emergence of the parasitoid was not significantly different at different photoperiods, amounting to 74.31% under total exclusion of light and 75.51% under the full light condition.
Beneficial thresholds for Coccinella 7‐punctata L. (Col., Coccinellidae) as a predator of cereal aphids in winter wheat – results of population investigations and computer simulations
Authors: Freier B. , Möwes M. , Triltsch H.
Published: August 2009

Abstract: Syrphid larvae as well as adults and larvae of Propylaea 14‐punctata (L.) and Coccinella 7‐punctata L. are the most dominant aphid predators in winter wheat of Middle and Eastern Germany. The aphid‐coccinellid interaction was investigated in a 4‐year project aimed at the definition of beneficial thresholds (density of a predator guild necessary to keep a pest under control) for these species. Eight field studies and four cage experiments were performed to calculate the infestation reducing effect of coccinellids, particularly C. 7‐punctata. The obtained data were used to estimate beneficial thresholds for the whole predator complex and especially for coccinellids whereby all predators have been converted into predator units (PU), e.g. fertile female of C. 7‐punctata = 1.00 PU, larva = 0.33 PU, Episyrphus balteatus larva = 0.46 PU. In the field studies the calculation of the coccinellid related effect within the antagonist potential has not yet succeeded. The cage experiments have to be seen as case studies under special conditions. Therefore activities concentrated on the improved and validated simulation model GTLAUS including the submodels COCCISEP and WHEAT. Simulation runs with this tritrophic interaction model including the field count and cage trail data have shown that the beneficial threshold of C. 7‐punctata to control cereal aphids under average conditions in Middle and Eastern Germany varies likely between 8 and 20 PU/m2. However, an isolated evaluation of C. 7‐punctata or another single predator species within the beneficial potential is undoubtedly not realistic. It seems to be better to calculate summarized effects of the whole predator community weighted as PU.
The effect of fluctuating temperature and humidity on the longevity of starved Rhodnius prolixus (Hem., Triatominae)
Authors: Luz C. , Fargues J. , Grunewald J.
Published: August 2009

Abstract: The survival potential of newly emerged unfed and starved Rhodnius prolixus nymphs was studied under various regimes of fluctuating temperatures between 15 and 35 °C and humidities between 43 and 97%. Both temperature and humidity were found to have an impact on survival. With fluctuating conditions at 12/12 h, survival of first instar nymphs was the longest after exposure to lower temperatures and elevated humidities. Longevity diminished with increasing temperatures at lower humidities. At alternating extreme humidity, high 97% and low 43%, nymphs were more sensitive to starvation than after combining extreme humidity 97 or 43% with humidity of 75 or 86%, independent of temperatures. First instar nymphs were more sensitive to starvation, than third and fifth instars.
Monofluoro analogues of methyl eugenol: new attractants for males of Bactrocera dorsalis (Hendel) (Dipt., Tephritidae)1
Authors: Liquido N. J. , Khrimian A. P. , DeMilo A. B. , McQuate G. T.
Published: August 2009

Abstract: Reports questioning the safety of methyl eugenol (1,2‐dimethoxy‐4‐[2‐propenyl] benzene) stimulated us to develop and test synthetic analogues that may be used as alternative attractants for oriental fruit fly, Bactrocera dorsalis (Hendel), males. Attraction to one propyl‐substituted and six monofluorine‐substituted methyl eugenol analogues were compared with attraction to methyl eugenol in field bioassays with both laboratory‐reared and wild oriental fruit fly males. The attractiveness of the test compounds to oriental fruit fly males was compared using two parameters: number of adults caught per trap and number of adults caught per mg of compounds released in traps. Based on these two parameters (E)‐1,2‐dimethoxy‐4‐(3‐fiuoro‐2‐propenyl)benzene was consistently as attractive as methyl eugenol to both laboratory‐reared and wild oriental fruit fly males. With further studies to determine optimum release rates, (E)‐1,2‐dimethoxy‐4‐(3‐fluoro‐2‐propenyl)benzene may potentially replace methyl eugenol for survey, detection, delimitation of infestation and eradication of oriental fruit fly populations.
Sex pheromone components of Diatraea considerata (Heinrich) (Lep., Pyralidae)
Authors: Gries R. , Dunkelblum E. , Gries G. , Baldilla F. , Hernandez C. , Alvarez F. , Perez A. , Velasoc J. , Oehlschlager A. C.
Published: August 2009

Abstract: Three aldehydes. (Z)‐11‐hexadecenal (Z11–16:Ald), (Z)‐7‐hexadecenal (Z7–16:Ald) and (Z)‐13‐octadecenal (Z13–18:Ald), in a ratio of 74:23:3 are female‐produced sex pheromone components of the pyralid moth, Diatraea considerata (Heinrich). Compounds extracted from pheromone glands were identified by coupled gas chromatographic‐electroantennographic detection (GC‐EAD) and coupled GC‐mass spectrometry (MS). In field trapping experiments, Z11–16:Ald, Z7–16:Ald or Z13–18:Ald singly were behaviourally inactive, but in ternary combination were as attractive as virgin females. Deleting either Z11–16:Ald or Z7–16:Ald from the ternary aldehyde blend strongly reduced attractiveness indicating that these two compounds are most important for attraction of males. Congeneric and sympatric female D. grandiosella (Dyar) also utilize Z11–16:Ald and Z13–18:Ald as sex pheromone components. Production of Z9–16:Ald by female D. grandiosella and Z7–16:Ald by female D. considerata contributes to the specificity of pheromone blends but does not prevent cross‐attraction of heterospecific males. In sugarcane plantations, aldehyde (Z11–16:Ald, Z7–16:Ald and Z13–18:Ald)‐impregnated lures may replace females as trap baits to monitor population densities of D. considerata.
Theoretical approaches to forensic entomology: II. Mathematical model of larval development
Authors: von Zuben C. J. , Bassanezi R. C. , von Zuben F. J.
Published: August 2009

Abstract: The present study represents the sequence of an overall theoretical approach to model phenomena of interest for forensic entomology. In particular in this paper, a mathematical model that describes the larval development is advanced for blowflies, which are usually the first to find a decomposing corpse. Data on development times for stages and instars of blowflies in experimental conditions have become the baseline information often used to estimate the age of maggots by interpolating these data against on‐site conditions. This information on larval development is relevant to estimates of post‐mortem interval (PMI) in forensic investigations.
Migration of larvae of the large Pine Weevil, Hylobius abietis L. (Col., Curculionidae): Possible predation a lesser risk than death by starvation?
Authors: Salisbury A. N. , Leather S. R.
Published: August 2009

Abstract: The ability of Hylobius abietis larvae to migrate through soil was investigated and experiments to establish whether migrating larvae were vulnerable to predation by carabid beetles, was conducted. The five week long investigation used three species of carabid. In the presence of one species, Pterostichus madidus, a significantly smaller number of successful migrations occurred than in the controls and other carabid treatments. This indicated that P. madidus consumed the larvae as they migrated through the soil, a conclusion supported by survival in the originally ‘infested’ piece of pine being similar for all the treatments in the procedure. The results of the investigation also indicated that migration increased overall larval survival. The implications of these findings for pest management strategies are discussed.
Flight ability of gypsy moth females (Lymantria dispar L.) (Lep., Lymantriidae): a behavioural feature characterizing moths from Asia?
Authors: Reineke A. , Zebitz C. P. W.
Published: August 2009

Abstract: The flight ability of gypsy moth (Lymantria dispar L.) females from Asia and Europe has been reported in the literature as extremely controversial. This contribution presents a short review about earlier statements on flight behaviour of gypsy moth females and compares flight capability of females from China, Romania and Germany, as well as that of hybrids of the Asian and the European strains. Mated and unmated female gypsy moths from China and Germany/Baden‐Württemberg were capable of strong, directed flight, whereas moths from Romania and Germany/Rhineland‐Palatinate showed no flight activity. Flight behaviour was not affected by differences in female weight as a result of rearing the larvae on more or less suitable kinds of host plants. In addition, hybrids of gypsy moths from flying and nonflying populations resembled more the behaviour of the nonflying parent.
Natural parasitism of the European corn borer eggs Ostrinia nubilalis Hbn. (Lep., Pyralidae) by Trichogramma in Slovakia—need for field releases of the natural enemy
Authors: Cagán L. , Tancik J. , Hassan S.
Published: August 2009

Abstract: Natural parasitism of the European corn borer (ECB) eggs by Trichogramma (Hym., Trichogrammatidae) was assessed in 1993 to 1996 in south‐western Slovakia. No parasitized eggs were found in 1993. In 1994, parasitized ECB eggs were observed on July 7th, July 11th and July 13th. The average percentage of egg parasitism was 3.86 and 1.54 at two locations. Only one parasitized egg cluster was observed at the beginning of the ECB egg laying in 1995. At the end of the egg laying period (10th, 13th, 17th and 24th July) parasitism varied between 1.29 and 100% and averaged 4.15% at the location Nitra‐Malanta. Parasitism was high in 1996 at the location Nitra‐Malanta and reaching an average of 15.21%. Parasitized eggs were detected throughout the ECB egg laying period. At Nitra‐Janíkovce in the same year, average parasitism reached 2.46%. The authors assume that extremely dry weather probably reduced the egg parasitoid populations in 1993–1995. The egg parasitoid species was identified as Trichogramma evanescens. The study showed that the egg parasitoide appears sporadically in corn fields, was often absent but sometimes occurred in low numbers in spring early summer and increased towards the end of the season. Therefore, the release of mass reared Trichogramma can be recommended to insure predictable biological control of the pest.
Behavioural evidence of methyl‐2,6,10‐trimethyltridecanoate as a sex pheromone of Euschistus heros (Het., Pentatomidae)
Authors: Borges M. , Mori K. , Costa M. L. M. , Sujii E. R.
Published: August 2009

Abstract: Males of the Neotropical brown stink bug, Euschistus heros, were attractive to conspecific females in bioassays. A synthetic stereoisomeric mixture of methyl‐2,6,10‐trimethyltridecanoate, previously identified and presumed as the male‐produced pheromone, was confirmed to attract females. A 24 h bioassay showed the presence of a diel periodicity, where the females respond to males from noon to midnight. A still‐air olfactometer assembled from commercially available food containers was used to test the attractants from E. heros.
Female calling behaviour and male response to the sex pheromone in Thaumetopoea pityocampa (Den. & Schiff.) (Lep., Thaumetopoeidae)
Authors: Zhang Qing‐He , Paiva M. R.
Published: August 2009

Abstract: Female calling behaviour and male response to natural and synthetic pheromone sources were used for a Portuguese population of the winter pine processionary moth Thaumetopoea pityocampa (Den. & Schiff.). Virgin females 1–5 days old were studied, the mean calling longevity being 3.3 ± 0.7 days. Calling started ≅ 3 h after the onset of scotophase, and 7 h after emergence, lasting, nightly, for 6.4 ± 0.7 h, and was not affected by female age. A drop in air temperatures during the first half of scotophase and an increase in light intensity at dawn apparently determined the onset and termination of calling. Male flight activity began, on average, 3 h before the females started emitting pheromone, and was similarly affected by air temperatures and light intensity. The attractivity of traps baited with synthetic pheromone (TP056A; Yne 11, Z13–16AC) was compared with that of virgin females. Male flight activity was monitored in central and southern Portugal, using pheromone traps, and seen to last between 6 and 10 weeks, with a major peak occurring, in all sites, at the beginning of September.
First release of Teretriosoma nigrescens Lewis (Col., Histeridae), the predator of Prostephanus truncatus (Horn) (Col. Bostrichidae), and follow‐up investigations in southern Togo
Authors: Richter J. , Biliwa A. , Helbig J. , Henning‐Helbig S.
Published: August 2009

Abstract: The predator Teretriosoma nigrescens Lewis was released in southern Togo for the first time in 1991. Followup storage trials were carried out after this first release of the predator in order to investigate effects on its prey, the storage pest Prostephanus truncatus (Horn), in maize stores. Two trials were installed in the same villages (Tsagba as release village and Dafo as control), one in the storage season 1990/91 and the other in 1992/93. A third trial was set up in Morétan (release village) and Akaba (control) in 1993 together with the second release of T. nigrescens. The storage period lasted 8 months with sampling every 2 months. The number of P. truncatus was reduced by 56.4% in stores with presence of T. nigrescens as compared to the control after 8 months of storage in 1990/91. Damage and losses of stored maize cobs were 40.7% and 47.4% smaller than without the predator. One year after the release, larger numbers of the predator were observed in stores. Again, P. truncatus was reduced by T. nigrescens, but this was not as visible as before. In the third trial in Morétan, 1993, shortly after the second release of T. nigrescens, again a decrease of numbers of the Larger Grain Borer was observed in stores after 8 months of storage, together with a reduction of damage and losses.
Potential effects of various ant species on green lacewing, Chrysoperla carnea (Stephens) (Neuropt., Chrysopidae) egg numbers
Authors: Morris T. I. , Campos M. , Jervis M. A. , McEwen P. K. , Kidd N. A. C.
Published: August 2009

Abstract: Chrysoperla carnea (Stephens) is an important egg predator of the olive moth, Prays oleae (Bernard). Its eggs are laid on pedicels, which are likely to provide some protection against predators and parasitoids. Ants figure prominently in the insect fauna of olive orchards. Six of the most common species in Granada were tested both in the laboratory and the field to establish their effect on chrysopid egg numbers. Crematogaster scutellaris Ol. and Tapinoma nigerrimum Nyl. were the most effective predators of chrysopid eggs with probably the latter being the most damaging due to both its large nest size and its activity. Plagiolepis pygmaea (Latr.), Camponotus micans Nyl. and Camponotus foreli Em. proved to be the least efficient predators. Formica subrufa Roger was intermediate in terms of its ability to eat lacewing eggs but a small sample prevents any firm conclusions from being drawn.
Variation in susceptibility to pyriproxyfen in four laboratory strains of Podisus maculiventris (Say) (Het., Pentatomidae)
Authors: De Clercq P. , Mestdagh I. , Degheele D.
Published: August 2009

Abstract: The susceptibility of four laboratory strains of the spined soldier bug, Podisus maculiventris (Say), to the juvenile hormone mimic pyriproxyfen was examined in the laboratory. Fifth instar nymphs (< 24 h old) were exposed to pyriproxyfen via ingestion of treated drinking water. LC50 values for a long‐term laboratory strain originating from Florida (FLO), a more recently introduced strain from Indiana (IND), and two mildly inbred strains (IS1, IS2) of the latter origin, were comparable, ranging from 39.8 to 61.6 mg a.i. ˙ 1−1. However, slopes of dose–mortality curves indicated that the susceptibility of the four populations of P. maculiventris decreased in order of IS2 > IS1 ≅ FLO > IND. The results of this study are discussed with respect to strain maintenance and quality control of natural enemies used to test side‐effects.
Patch level variation on bark beetle attack (Col., Scolytidae) on snapped and uprooted trees in Norway spruce primeval natural forest in endemic condition: effects of host and insolation
Authors: Jakuš R.
Published: August 2009

Abstract:Data were obtained from two snapped and five uprooted trees, giving a total of 452 samples.Ips typographus, I. amitinus, Dryocoetesspp.,Hylurgops palliatus, H. glabratus, Pityogenes chalcographus, Polygraphus polygraphus, P. subopacus, Pityophthorus pityographus, Xyloterus lineatusandXilechinus pilosuswere present. Cluster analysis, factor discriminant analysis and analysis of variance were performed. Results show that the spatial distribution of bark beetles on snapped and uprooted trees is mostly correlated to trunk geometry and to insolation. Timing of bark beetle is especially influenced by the connection of the trunk with the root system.
Mark and recapture studies of Hylobius pales (Herbst) (Col., Curculionidae) for measuring bait and trap efficacy
Authors: Fettig C. J. , Salom S. M. , Platt J. O.
Published: August 2009

Abstract: The pales weevil, Hylobius pales (Herbst) (Col., Curculionidae) is an important regeneration pest of Pinus seedlings and a secondary pest of Christmas tree plantations in the United States. Attempts to sample this endemic pest in Virginia, USA with simulated host odors of ethanol and turpentine have met with varying levels of success. Mark‐and‐recapture techniques were used to assess the efficacy of various combinations of host volatiles, pine billets, and trap designs for capturing H. pales adults. No differences were observed in the number of H. pales caught between pit and PVC pitfall traps containing the same bait type. Traps containing freshly cut Pinus strobus L. billets caught significantly more weevils than traps containing synthetic volatiles alone. Traps baited with freshly cut P. strobus caught significantly more weevils than those containing P. strobus cut 2 months previously. The synthetic attractant components of ethanol and turpentine were most effective when presented in a combined bait blend than when released from separate vials. Overall, traps baited with combined blends of 5:1 ethanol‐turpentine and freshly cut P. strobus were most effective in capturing H. pales. Hylobius pales showed no attraction to unbaited PVC pitfall or pit traps. Males and females responded similarly to all treatments.
Embryonic and larval development of Orthosia (Lep., Noctuidae) species used for optimizing timing of monitoring and control in apple orchards
Authors: Mols P. J. M. , van den Ende E. , Blommers L. H. M.
Published: August 2009

Abstract: Three Orthosia species were studied to forecast larval emergence and development and to find out the optimal moments for monitoring and control. The duration of embryonic and larval development of Orthosia incerta and Orthosia stabiliz was determined at various constant temperatures, and validated in field experiments. Embryonic development of Orthosia gothica was followed in the field. No significant differences between embryonic development of the species under study were observed. The estimated heat sum for embryonic development is 72 degree days above a developmental threshold of 7.0°C. Differences in development of the first larval stage depending on the quality of the substrate were found for O. incerta. Stage one of this species developed faster on artificial food than on fresh apple leaves, but total larval development rates of the species observed showed hardly any difference. The regression equation Y = 0.0017 × T – 0.0045 gives a good description of the total larval development rate (L1‐pupa) for both species. The larval development rates were implemented in an age‐structured phenological computer model INSIM. Results of simulations were in close agreement with field observations. Opportunities for use of these data in practice are discussed.
Effect of 1‐octen‐3‐ol in field trappingAedesspp. (Dipt., Culicidae) andHybomitraspp. (Dipt., Tabanidae) in subarctic Norway
Authors: Nilssen A. C.
Published: August 2009

Abstract:A field test with 1‐octen‐3‐ol (octenol) used as an attractant in flight traps was carried out in subarctic Norway (69o40′N, 23o30′E) during four warm days in July 1993.Aedesspp. (Dipt., Culicidae) were caught in significantly (P = 0.0001) higher numbers in octenol‐baited traps than in empty control traps (approximately seven‐fold increase), as wasHybomitra lundbeckiLyneborg (Dipt., Tabanidae), (P = 0.0003) (approximately nine‐fold increase). Octenol also increased but not significantly (P = 0.09,n= 14) the catch ofChrysops relictusMeigen (Dipt., Tabanidae). The study confirmed the established role of octenol as an attractant of biting Diptera. The advantage of using octenol instead of, or in combination with, carbon dioxide in control or surveillance of such insects is discussed.
Influence of the synthetic pyrethroid insecticide alpha‐cypermethrin on the structure of the syrphid coenosis (Syrphidae, Diptera) in a potato ecosystem
Authors: Markova E. , Ljubenova E.
Published: August 2009

Abstract: The influence of the synthetic pyrethroid insecticide alpha‐cypermethrin on the structure of syrphid coenosis was assessed in a field experiment. A significant influence on the number of species was noticed and a lesser influence upon the species composition of the syrphid coenosis. The effect of the chemical mixture on the population density of the distinct species differed in intensity but only on the first day could the effect of the insecticide be shown with regard to number complex before and after treatment. The total average density, defined as the result of all densities of the distinct species of syrphid flies was most highly affected on the first day after the treatment. At that time the estimated density was half than the level before the application of the insecticide. The effect of the insecticide treatment was manifested upon both the composition of complexes of dominant species and the general dominant structure of the syrphid coenosis. The parameters examined for species structure: Simpson's index of concentration of domination (D), Shannon‐Weaver's index of total diversity (H) and Margalef s index of species abundance (d) showed that the insecticide treatment exerts an unfavourable but not strong influence upon the syrphid coenosis.
The effect of Oecophylla longinoda (Latr.) (Hym., Formicidae) on coconut palm productivity with respect to Pseudotheraptus wayi Brown (Hem., Coreidae) damage in Zanzibar
Authors: Sporleder M. , Rapp G.
Published: August 2009

Abstract: A total of 1025 coconut palms of the East African Tall variety (EAT) in 41 small‐holding plots were examined twice in a survey of Pseudotheraptus wayi damage conducted from July 1992 to January 1993 on the island of Unguja, Zanzibar. The red weaver ant Oecophylla longinoda, the most important predator of P. wayi, was present on 34% and 37% of the total palms in Survey I and II, respectively. A change in the presence of O. longinoda on the palms was observed during both surveys. Approximately 50% of the palms were free of O. longinoda during the surveys. Strong colonies occupied 12% of the palms during both surveys. The remaining palms were either weakly occupied or the predator was found only once. The average annual yield of palms with strong and stable O. longinoda colonies was 57 nuts while palms without O. longinoda had an average yield of 41 nuts. Palms with varying degrees of O. longinoda colonization showed an increasing annual yield with a corresponding increase of O. longinoda activity. Intense O. longinoda colonization resulted in a significant reduction of female flower formation as well as less damage due to P. wayi. The number of 7–8‐month‐old nuts increased significantly with each increase in O. longinoda activity on palms. The average number of nuts per inflorescences ranged from about 2.7 nuts on palms without O. longinoda to 4.1 nuts on those with stable colonies. The formation of female flowers per inflorescence, the level of P. wayi damage and the retention of nuts varied seasonally, among the plots, individual palms and also within inflorescences on the same palm. Palms with strong weaver ant colonies displayed less fluctuations in flower production and netset which resulted in a more stable harvest.
Inter‐specific difference in budburst time and its consequences on egg hatch time and survival of the gall‐making adelgid Adelges japonicus (Monzen) (Hom., Adelgidae)
Authors: Ozaki K.
Published: August 2009

Abstract: Temporal variation in budburst time of a host plant is important in determining the performance of gall formers. To elucidate whether synchrony of budburst and egg hatch affects the performance of gall‐forming adelgids, the phenology of gallicola egg hatch and its survival were examined in Adelges japonicus (Monzen) on three plants (Picea jezoensis var. jezoensis (Sieb. et Zucc.) Carr., Picea jezoensis var. hondoensis (Mayr) Rehder and Picea sitchensis (Bongard) Carr.) that differed in budburst time. Picea j. jezoensis is native, while P. j. hondoensis and P. sitchensis are introduced plants. Although the date of budburst differed significantly among these plants, neither the date of oviposition nor the date of egg hatch differed significantly among them; most of the eggs hatched after budburst in P. j. jezoensis, while a large portion of eggs hatched before budburst and larval gallicolae waited for the buds to open in P. sitchensis and P. j. hondoensis. To examine the effect of this asynchrony on gallicola survival, the delay of egg mass disappearance with respect to budburst was correlated with the number of gallicolae that colonized each gall. The correlation was significantly positive in P. sitchensis but not significant in P. j. jezoensis. This indicates that in P. sitchensis, gallicola survival decreases with the increasing number of eggs that hatch before budburst, while budburst phenology does not affect gallicola survival in P. j. jezoensis, which is their native host. However, when the number of gallicolae that colonized each gall was compared among the three plants, it did not differ significantly among them. This suggests that lower gallicola survival caused by a greater asynchrony of budburst and egg hatch might be compensated for by other factors (e.g. higher fecundity) that increase the number of gallicolae in the galls.
Searching rate and potential of some natural enemies as bio‐agent against the cotton whitefly, Bemisia tabaci Genn. (Hom., Aleyrodidae)
Authors: El‐Kareim A. I. Abd
Published: August 2009

Abstract: The searching rate of the two aphelinid parasitoids, Eretmocerns mundas Merc. and Prospaltella lutea Masi, and the two predators, Chrysoperla carnea Steph. and Coccinella undecimpunctata L., were evaluated on Bemisia tabaci in the laboratory. Analysis of the obtained data indicated that E. mundus had a high searching rate with relatively low mutual interference in comparison with P. lutea. C. carnea also showed a higher searching rate than C. undecimpunctata. E. mundus exhibited a higher density dependent response to B. tabaci population on Lantana camara than P. lutea in October and December, while P. lutea exhibited the same response in August. Key factor analysis proved that the first instar larvae had the highest rate of mortality among the immature stages. Mortality caused by E. mundus contributed with high fate of total generation mortality (K) in comparison with P. lutea. The same result was obtained in the case of C. carnea against C. undecimpunctata.
Host plant preferences of Uresiphita reversalis (Guenée) (Lep., Crambidae)
Authors: Leen R.
Published: August 2009

Abstract: Uresiphita reversalis Guenée (Lep., Crambidae) is a North American species whose native hosts include legumes (Fabaceae) in the genera, Lupinus L. (Genisteae, Lupininae), Baptisia Vent. (Thermopsidae) and Sophora L. (Sophoreae). Several species from the Genisteae, subtribe Genistinae, have been introduced to the United States and U. reversalis has expanded its host range to include these species. Members of all of these tribes bear quinolizidine alkaloids (QA). Ovipositional and larval preferences of U. reversalis for both introduced and native species were examined. Adults and larvae prefer Genista L. and thus preference is proposed to be indirectly or directly associated with the presence of QA with higher toxicity in this genus than in other host genera. Larvae of U. reversalis are known to sequester QA, which are deterrent and toxic to their natural enemies.
Egg retention in the presence of a host in Trichogramma females
Authors: Reznik S. Ya. , Voinovich N. D. , Umarova T. Ya.
Published: August 2009

Abstract: Laboratory experiments with Trichogramma principium suggest that Trichogramma females may be in one of two alternative states: the parasitization state or the egg retention state. Dissections show that T. principium females at emergence have ≅ 20 mature ovarian eggs. Females in egg retention state have practically the same mean number of mature ovarian eggs, while the distribution is different, suggesting that both oosorption and oogenesis may occur during egg retention. In parasitizing females, additional maturation starts simultaneously with the oviposition. However, ovipositing females tend to lay eggs with maturation, which is why they mostly carry few (< 5) mature ovarian eggs. The mean number of eggs laid during the first 48 h of the oviposition does not depend on whether the parasitization is delayed or not, suggesting that egg retention is connected just with oviposition behaviour rather than with the intensity of oogenesis. We conclude that ‘voluntary’ egg retention in the presence of a host does not differ with the state of ovaria from ‘forced’ egg retention under host deprivation. Supposedly, egg retention with the availability of a suitable host may be considered as a sort of short‐term adult diapause‐like state when not oogenesis, but oviposition is subject to hormonal regulation.