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Insects
Volume 16
Issue 2
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Insects, Volume 16, Issue 2 (February 2025) – 128 articles

Cover Story (view full-size image): The tomato potato psyllid, Bactericera cockerelli (Hemiptera: Triozidae), is an invasive pest that threatens Solanaceous crops. First detected in Western Australia in 2017, it poses risks to crop yields and biosecurity. Biological control using native predators could help suppress psyllid populations, yet little is known about their effectiveness. This study identifies predator species in Solanaceous fields and assesses their predation on B. cockerelli using molecular tools. By analysing field-collected predators for psyllid DNA, we provide insights into predator–prey interactions and their potential role in integrated pest management strategies for B. cockerelli in Australia. View this paper
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17 pages, 2951 KiB  
Article
Native Japanese Polygonaceae Species as Potential Native Insectary Plants in Conserving Indigenous Natural Enemies
by David Wari, Junichiro Abe and Toshio Kitamura
Insects 2025, 16(2), 232; https://doi.org/10.3390/insects16020232 - 19 Feb 2025
Viewed by 623
Abstract
Conservation biological control (CBC) is the application of agricultural practices that utilize insectary plants to conserve and enhance natural enemies, thereby increasing their efficiency to suppress pests. Most of the insectary plants used in CBC are non-native invasive insectary plants, which are costly [...] Read more.
Conservation biological control (CBC) is the application of agricultural practices that utilize insectary plants to conserve and enhance natural enemies, thereby increasing their efficiency to suppress pests. Most of the insectary plants used in CBC are non-native invasive insectary plants, which are costly and pose threats to the local ecosystems and biodiversity. Alternative to non-native insectary plants, the use of native plants is proposed. Hence, the aim of this study is to identify native plant species that can be used as alternatives to non-native insectary plants to conserve and promote indigenous natural enemies (INEs) for sustainable pest management. To achieve this, first, we bio-prospected the surrounding habitats of organic fields in the western region of Japan (i.e., Hiroshima Prefecture) to identify native plant species as prospective native insectary plants. As a result, among various Japanese native plants surveyed, Polygonaceae plant species seem to host a variety of INEs, showing potential as a native insectary plant. We then conducted open field experiments to test the role of Polygonaceae plants in promoting INEs, thereby indirectly suppressing pest densities on vegetable crops such as eggplants. Results show that significantly high densities of INEs (green lacewing, p = 0.024; Orius spp., p = 0.001: GLM) were observed on eggplants with Polygonaceae plants compared to eggplants without Polygonaceae plants, leading to a significant reduction in pest densities (thrips, p = 0.000; whiteflies, p = 0.002: GLM) on the eggplants with Polygonaceae plants. Furthermore, molecular analysis revealed that Orius spp., as a representative INE in this study, migrated from Polygonaceae plants to eggplants, suggesting that Polygonaceae plants may conserve and promote INEs to vegetable crops, resulting in pest suppression. Here, we discuss the roles of Polygonaceae plants (and other native plants) in regulating pest densities on crops. Full article
(This article belongs to the Collection Integrated Pest Management in Agricultural Crops and Forest Ecosystems)
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12 pages, 7059 KiB  
Case Report
Medical–Legal Entomology in Action: Evaluation of Insect-Based Post-Mortem Interval Estimation in South Korean Death Investigations
by In-Seong Baek, Hyeon-Seok Oh, Yi-Re Kim, Min-Gyu Kang, Jae-Bong Jung and Sang-Hyun Park
Insects 2025, 16(2), 231; https://doi.org/10.3390/insects16020231 - 19 Feb 2025
Viewed by 748
Abstract
Estimating the minimum post-mortem interval (PMI-min) is crucial in criminal investigations for identifying victims and the circumstances surrounding their death. Traditional post-mortem indicators are reliable only within the first 48–72 h post-mortem. This study explored forensic entomology as an alternative method for PMI [...] Read more.
Estimating the minimum post-mortem interval (PMI-min) is crucial in criminal investigations for identifying victims and the circumstances surrounding their death. Traditional post-mortem indicators are reliable only within the first 48–72 h post-mortem. This study explored forensic entomology as an alternative method for PMI estimation, focusing on three cases in Busan, South Korea. Forensic cases involving insect specimens collected from bodies found in Busan from 2022 were examined. Personal and photographic data were documented, and insect specimens were collected, preserved, and identified based on both their morphological characteristics and DNA sequences. To enhance the estimation accuracy, corrected death scene temperatures were calculated using an electronic thermo-hygrometer and meteorological data, applying both quadratic regression and the Support Vector Machine (SVM) model. The PMI-min was estimated using growth models and developmental data from established studies. Lucilia sericata (Meigen) at different life-cycle stages were discovered in all of the cases, whereas Chrysomya megacephala (Fabricius) was found in only two out of the three cases. In each case, the estimated time of death based on the necrophagous flies differed from the deceased’s last known activity by approximately one–two days. These discrepancies may arise from the pre-colonization interval (PCI), a critical but often overlooked factor for accurate PMI-min estimation. Additional factors, including weather conditions, oviposition timing, mixed fly populations, and maggot-generated heat, further contribute to the uncertainty of PMI-min estimates. Future research should integrate these variables and employ advanced technologies such as machine learning to improve the accuracy of these estimates. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Role of Insects in Human Society)
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16 pages, 2458 KiB  
Article
Bridging the Gap Between Platforms: Comparing Grape Phylloxera Daktulosphaira vitifoliae (Fitch) Microsatellite Allele Size and DNA Sequence Variation
by Mark J. Blacket, Alexander M. Piper, Ary A. Hoffmann, John Paul Cunningham and Isabel Valenzuela
Insects 2025, 16(2), 230; https://doi.org/10.3390/insects16020230 - 19 Feb 2025
Viewed by 569
Abstract
Grape phylloxera, Daktulosphaira vitifoliae (Fitch), is an economically significant pest of grapevines. Identification of phylloxera genotypes is an important aspect of management as genotypes differ in virulence and susceptibility to control using resistant rootstocks. Microsatellite markers developed on polyacrylamide gel systems have been the [...] Read more.
Grape phylloxera, Daktulosphaira vitifoliae (Fitch), is an economically significant pest of grapevines. Identification of phylloxera genotypes is an important aspect of management as genotypes differ in virulence and susceptibility to control using resistant rootstocks. Microsatellite markers developed on polyacrylamide gel systems have been the most widely used molecular method for phylloxera genotype identification, but this approach has been superseded by fluorescent capillary-based genotyping. The current study presents new laboratory methods for amplifying a standard set of eight phylloxera microsatellite markers using PCR-incorporated fluorescently labelled primers, genotyped on an ABI capillary platform. Comparison of allele size data scored on (i) polyacrylamide, (ii) capillary, and (iii) high-throughput sequencing (HTS) platforms revealed that the capillary genotyping most closely matched the HTS allele sizes, while alleles of loci originally scored on a polyacrylamide platform differ in size by up to three base pairs, mostly due to the presence of previously uncharacterised DNA sequence indels. Seven common clonal lineages of phylloxera known from Australia are proposed as reference samples for use in calibrating genotyping systems between platforms and laboratories to ensure universal scoring of allele sizes, providing a critical link for accurately matching previous phylloxera genotype studies with current research. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Genetic Diversity of Insects)
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16 pages, 4063 KiB  
Article
Effects of Double-Stranded RNA Degrading Nucleases on RNAi Efficiency in Beet Moth Spodoptera exigua (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae)
by Guandi Wang, Qian Wang, Wenrui Liu, Jingxin Wen, Yubo Yang, Zhilong Niu, Wei Guo and Dan Zhao
Insects 2025, 16(2), 229; https://doi.org/10.3390/insects16020229 - 19 Feb 2025
Viewed by 613
Abstract
The insect order Lepidoptera contains many species that are considered to be agricultural pests. Specific double-stranded RNA-degrading enzymes in some moth species decrease the efficiency of RNA interference (RNAi). RNAi refers to the efficient and specific degradation of homologous mRNA induced by highly [...] Read more.
The insect order Lepidoptera contains many species that are considered to be agricultural pests. Specific double-stranded RNA-degrading enzymes in some moth species decrease the efficiency of RNA interference (RNAi). RNAi refers to the efficient and specific degradation of homologous mRNA induced by highly conserved, double-stranded RNA during evolution. The dsRNase enzymes can specifically recognize exogenous dsRNA, and bind to and degrade dsRNA, resulting in the inability of dsRNA to play its role. Although dsRNases play an important role in dsRNA degradation, there has been limited research on these enzymes. In this study, we successfully identified four genes related to dsRNases (named SeRNase1, SeRNase2, SeRNase3 and SeRNase4) from the genome of Spodoptera exigua. To overcome the rapid degradation of dsRNA in the midgut of S. exigua, we combined nanotechnology with biology and developed a new strategy to administer RNAi to insect pests. This binding block directed contact between the dsRNA and SeRNases to improve the efficiency of RNAi in suppressing gene expression. We demonstrate the potential of using nanotechnology to provide a novel RNAi delivery method for pest control. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Insect Pest and Vector Management)
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13 pages, 4628 KiB  
Article
Effect of Processing Parameters on the Heating Uniformity of Postharvest Tobacco Leaves Subjected to Radio Frequency Disinfestations
by Jinsong Zhang, Yingqi Tian, Xin Ye, Zijun Mo, Rui Li and Shaojin Wang
Insects 2025, 16(2), 228; https://doi.org/10.3390/insects16020228 - 19 Feb 2025
Viewed by 423
Abstract
Uneven heating is the biggest obstacle to the application of radio frequency (RF) technology in insecticidal applications. Since many existing studies have focused on the RF heating uniformity of granular materials, few RF treatment solutions have been reported for leaf materials. To improve [...] Read more.
Uneven heating is the biggest obstacle to the application of radio frequency (RF) technology in insecticidal applications. Since many existing studies have focused on the RF heating uniformity of granular materials, few RF treatment solutions have been reported for leaf materials. To improve the RF heating uniformity of tobacco leaves, a combined RF-hot air treatment method was developed for disinfestation in this study. The experiments were conducted to determine the effects of three process parameters (electrode gap, sample thickness, and hot air temperature) on the RF heating rate and uniformity of tobacco leaves. The results showed that the heating rate of RF-hot air combined treatment increased with decreasing electrode gap but increased with increasing sample thickness and hot air temperature. The RF heating uniformity in tobacco leaves decreased with increasing heating rate but could be significantly improved with the conveyor movement. Considering the heating uniformity and heating rate, the material thickness of 60 mm and electrode gap of 110 mm were selected as optimal process parameters. The results of the study may provide a feasible method to improve the RF heating uniformity in tobacco leaves and potential applications for effective disinfestations. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Controlling Insect Pests in Postharvest Agricultural Products Using Non-Chemical Methods)
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18 pages, 4781 KiB  
Article
Projecting Current and Future Habitat Suitability of the Pepper Weevil, Anthonomus eugenii Cano, 1894 (Coleoptera: Curculionidae), in China: Implications for the Pepper Industry
by Qisong Li, Jianxiang Mao, Weifeng Wang, Ruijun Liu, Qiufan Xie, Shiyao Su, Zhong Wang, Yunzhe Song, Yongcong Hong and Pumo Cai
Insects 2025, 16(2), 227; https://doi.org/10.3390/insects16020227 - 19 Feb 2025
Viewed by 639
Abstract
The pepper weevil, Anthonomus eugenii Cano, 1894 (Coleoptera: Curculionidae), poses a significant threat to pepper cultivation, causing extensive crop damage and economic losses. While numerous studies have addressed its occurrence, biology, and control methods, less attention has been given to how climate change [...] Read more.
The pepper weevil, Anthonomus eugenii Cano, 1894 (Coleoptera: Curculionidae), poses a significant threat to pepper cultivation, causing extensive crop damage and economic losses. While numerous studies have addressed its occurrence, biology, and control methods, less attention has been given to how climate change might alter its distribution. This research utilized the optimized MaxEnt model to project the current and future habitat suitability of the pepper weevil under four distinct climate scenarios (SSP1-2.6, SSP2-4.5, SSP3-7.0, and SSP5-8.5) for the periods spanning the 2030s to 2090s. Optimal model performance was achieved with a regularization multiplier of two and a feature combination of QHP, yielding high predictive accuracy with mean testing AUC values of 0.921. The analysis identified annual mean temperature (Bio1) and precipitation of the coldest quarter (Bio19) as the primary environmental factors influencing the pest’s distribution. Currently, in China, suitable habitats for A. eugenii encompass an area of 273.74 × 104 km2 or 28.47% of the nation’s territory, predominantly located in central, eastern, southern, and southwestern regions. Future projections suggest that suitable areas are expected to shrink across various scenarios, barring increases in specific instances like SSP126-2050s, SSP245-2070s, and SSP370-2050s, with shifts towards southwestern regions. This investigation deepens our comprehension of agricultural pest dynamics under climate change and supports the formulation of preemptive management strategies to safeguard agricultural productivity. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Insect Pest and Vector Management)
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9 pages, 5601 KiB  
Brief Report
Morphological and Molecular Identification of Lethocerus patruelis (Stål, 1854) (Hemiptera: Belostomatidae) Specimen Collected in Close Proximity to Humans in Southern Italy
by Donato Antonio Raele, Maria Grazia Cariglia, Stefania Patrizia Grimaldi, Antonella Carla Dinoi, Ettore Franco and Maria Assunta Cafiero
Insects 2025, 16(2), 226; https://doi.org/10.3390/insects16020226 - 19 Feb 2025
Viewed by 505
Abstract
The Belostomatidae is a family of aquatic Heteropteran insects that normally inhabit swamps of tropical, subtropical and temperate regions where they naturally feed on a large range of prey, mainly fish, amphibians and reptiles. However, these arthropods can occasionally bite humans when provoked, [...] Read more.
The Belostomatidae is a family of aquatic Heteropteran insects that normally inhabit swamps of tropical, subtropical and temperate regions where they naturally feed on a large range of prey, mainly fish, amphibians and reptiles. However, these arthropods can occasionally bite humans when provoked, causing pain. The only species of giant water bug known to be found in Europe is Lethocerus (L.) patruelis. We reported the finding of a specimen of female L. patruelis in Southern Italy. The arthropod was collected by a tourist on his body while he lying down on a beach close to a nature reserve. To finalize the giant water bug identification, both morphological and molecular tools were used for the first time in our country. Herein, information on cases of patients bitten by giant water bugs belonging to the Belostomatidae family are reported, and circumstances involving their contact with humans are also discussed. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Aquatic Insects: Diversity, Ecology and Evolution)
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14 pages, 2253 KiB  
Article
Risk Assessment of RNAi-Based Potential Pesticide dsNlAtg3 and Its Homologues for Nilaparvata lugens and Non-Target Organisms
by Kai Li, Tongtong Chen, Yuliang Li, Kai Sun, Kun Pang, Xiaoping Yu and Peiying Hao
Insects 2025, 16(2), 225; https://doi.org/10.3390/insects16020225 - 19 Feb 2025
Viewed by 576
Abstract
The brown planthopper (Nilaparvata lugens) is an insect pest of rice, which mainly feeds on the phloem sap of the leaf sheath. RNA interference (RNAi) has application prospects in pest control, but it is necessary to select target genes and design [...] Read more.
The brown planthopper (Nilaparvata lugens) is an insect pest of rice, which mainly feeds on the phloem sap of the leaf sheath. RNA interference (RNAi) has application prospects in pest control, but it is necessary to select target genes and design suitable dsRNA fragments for RNAi so that it can achieve effective pest control and avoid risks to non-target organisms. NlAtg3 is a key protein in the autophagy pathway of N. lugens. Three kinds of dsRNA fragments of the NlAtg3 gene (dsNlAtg3-474×1, dsNlAtg3-138×3 and dsNlAtg3-47×10) were designed to compare the RNAi efficiency and specificity against the target insect N. lugens and non-target organisms through microinjection. The results showed that the fragment dsNlAtg3-474×1 showed strong inhibitory effects on the survival of N. lugens, which resulted in the survival rate decreasing to zero on the fifth day, while the survival rate of a closely related species, Sogatella furcifera, dropped to 2.22%. In contrast, dsNlAtg3-47×10 specifically designed against N. lugens only showed slight or no inhibitory effects on S. furcifera and other non-target organisms such as Drosophila melanogaster, but still showed good lethal effects against N. lugens, with the survival rate dropping to 18.89% on the ninth day. In addition, after being fed N. lugens injected with dsNlAtg3-47×10 fragments, the survival rate of the natural enemies Dolomedes sulfureus and Tytthus chinensis did not show significant change, compared with those treated with the dsGFP control. Our results suggest that the NlAtg3 gene can serve as a potential target for controlling N. lugens. Moreover, by designing suitable RNAi fragments, it is possible to avoid harm to non-target organisms while effectively inhibiting the target insect N. lugens. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue RNAi in Insect Physiology)
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17 pages, 1613 KiB  
Article
Biological Control Potential of the Reduviid Predator Rhynocoris fuscipes (Fabricius) in Managing Noctuid Pests: Insights Into Predation and Prey Preference
by Chuanzhen Xue, Jiaying Mao, Bowen Xu, Lei Zhou, Haihang Zhou, Jianjun Mao, Zhongjian Shen, Lisheng Zhang, Mengqing Wang and Yuyan Li
Insects 2025, 16(2), 224; https://doi.org/10.3390/insects16020224 - 18 Feb 2025
Viewed by 674
Abstract
Understanding predator–prey and predator–predator interactions is essential for evaluating the effectiveness of biocontrol agents and developing efficient pest management strategies. This study investigates the effects of prey species, predator life stage, and predator density on the predatory efficiency of the generalist predator Rhynocoris [...] Read more.
Understanding predator–prey and predator–predator interactions is essential for evaluating the effectiveness of biocontrol agents and developing efficient pest management strategies. This study investigates the effects of prey species, predator life stage, and predator density on the predatory efficiency of the generalist predator Rhynocoris fuscipes (Fabricius) under semi-field conditions. Both the nymphs and adults of R. fuscipes consumed significantly more second-instar larvae of S. frugiperda than larvae of S. litura or M. separata. Notably, fifth-instar nymphs and adults exhibited higher predation capacity (11.75 ± 0.37 and 10.90 ± 0.40 larvae) than fourth-instar nymphs (9.05 ± 0.29 larvae) on S. frugiperda. R. fuscipes demonstrated a Type II functional response at all developmental stages toward each prey species, and fifth-instar nymphs revealed higher attack rates (a = 1.5205 ± 0.0544) on S. frugiperda; additionally, the handling time did not significantly differ among three prey species. It suggests that this predator may be more effective at controlling noctuid populations at low prey densities. As predator age and density increased, intraspecific competition among R. fuscipes also intensified. In a multi-prey system, R. fuscipes showed a marked preference for S. frugiperda over the other two prey species. These findings indicate that the fifth-instar nymphs and adults of R. fuscipes are particularly effective in suppressing early-instar larvae of the three noctuid pests, especially S. frugiperda, at low densities. This study enhances our understanding of the predation capacity and prey preference of R. fuscipes towards the three noctuid pests and provides a foundation for the development of more targeted and efficient pest management strategies using this predator. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Insect Pest and Vector Management)
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70 pages, 91526 KiB  
Article
A Review of the Genus Ambulyx Westwood, 1847 (Lepidoptera: Sphingidae) from China Based on Morphological and Phylogenetic Analyses, with the Description of a New Species
by Zhuo-Heng Jiang, Ian J. Kitching, Xiao-Dong Xu, Zhen-Bang Xu, Ming Yan, Wen-Bo Yu, Chang-Qiu Liu and Shao-Ji Hu
Insects 2025, 16(2), 223; https://doi.org/10.3390/insects16020223 - 18 Feb 2025
Viewed by 654
Abstract
The taxonomy of genus Ambulyx Westwood, 1847 from China is reviewed based on analysis of wing morphology, male and female genitalia and phylogenetic relationships derived from DNA barcodes. A new species, Ambulyx wukong sp. nov. is described from NW Yunnan, China. A male [...] Read more.
The taxonomy of genus Ambulyx Westwood, 1847 from China is reviewed based on analysis of wing morphology, male and female genitalia and phylogenetic relationships derived from DNA barcodes. A new species, Ambulyx wukong sp. nov. is described from NW Yunnan, China. A male of the rare species, A. zhejiangensis from Yintiaoling Nature Reserve, Chongqing, China is examined and its male genitalia illustrated for the first time. Two taxa are newly recorded from China, A. tattina tattina from Xishuangbanna, Yunnan, and A. semiplacida montana from Pingbian, Yunnan. Distribution maps, biological notes, and ecological records are also given. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Insect Systematics, Phylogeny and Evolution)
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12 pages, 8881 KiB  
Article
Impact of Different Temperatures on Activity of the Pest Monolepta hieroglyphica Motschulsky (Coleoptera: Chrysomelidae)
by Rongrong Shi, Jianyu Hao, Yue Zhang, Qinglei Wang, Chunqin Liu and Qing Yang
Insects 2025, 16(2), 222; https://doi.org/10.3390/insects16020222 - 18 Feb 2025
Viewed by 605
Abstract
Monolepta hieroglyphica (Motschulsky) (Coleoptera: Chrysomelidae) is widely distributed in China and is polyphorous, being a major pest to cash crops, such as corn, cotton, and millet. Given the increasing severity of the greenhouse effect in recent years, we aimed to investigate the adaptability [...] Read more.
Monolepta hieroglyphica (Motschulsky) (Coleoptera: Chrysomelidae) is widely distributed in China and is polyphorous, being a major pest to cash crops, such as corn, cotton, and millet. Given the increasing severity of the greenhouse effect in recent years, we aimed to investigate the adaptability of M. hieroglyphica adults to varying temperatures. In this study, we assessed the survival, longevity, fecundity, feeding capacity, and antioxidant capacity of leaf beetle adults under laboratory conditions at 25–34 °C. Elevated temperatures (i.e., 31 and 34 °C) had (negative) impacts on M. hieroglyphica adults’ survival and reproduction. Similarly, the temperature negatively affected the feeding capacity of M. hieroglyphica adults, with the impact becoming more pronounced as the temperature increased. Under the same treatment time, the SOD and CAT activity levels increased with the increase in treatment temperature. The GST activity levels showed a decreasing trend. The POD activity showed a biphasic response to increasing temperatures, first decreasing and then increasing. The above indicates that different antioxidant enzymes of M. hieroglyphica adults have different levels of sensitivity to high temperatures. In the laboratory, our work analyzes the response of M. hieroglyphica adults to temperature from ecological and physiological research perspectives and provides strategies for strengthening its subsequent integrated pest management (IPM) under conditions of global warming or extreme weather events. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Insect Pest and Vector Management)
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16 pages, 3343 KiB  
Article
Bacillus subtilis Contributes to Amylase Production in the Honey Sac of Apis mellifera
by Miao Wang, Wenzheng Zhao, Danyin Zhou and Jian Huang
Insects 2025, 16(2), 221; https://doi.org/10.3390/insects16020221 - 18 Feb 2025
Viewed by 619
Abstract
Background: Amylase activity is a critical biomarker for assessing the freshness of honey. Historically, bees have been considered the sole source of honey amylase. However, recent studies suggest that Bacillus subtilis may also contribute to amylase production in the honey sac of Apis [...] Read more.
Background: Amylase activity is a critical biomarker for assessing the freshness of honey. Historically, bees have been considered the sole source of honey amylase. However, recent studies suggest that Bacillus subtilis may also contribute to amylase production in the honey sac of Apis mellifera. Methods: In this study, amylase levels were measured in samples of nectar, honey sac fluid, and honey. The identification of B. subtilis in nectar, honey sac, and honey was evaluated. An in vitro bacterial culture system and a feeding experiment were developed to simulate honey sac conditions. Results: Our results showed that B. subtilis was detected in all sample groups, with the highest concentration in honey sac samples. Amylase levels in honey sac and honey samples were significantly higher than those in nectar. In the simulation experiment, amylase activity was only observed in cultures containing both B. subtilis and sucrose/nectar; no activity was detected in cultures containing only H2O or no B. subtilis. In the feeding experiment, bees fed sucrose or nectar showed higher amylase activity in their honey sacs than those fed water. Conclusions: Our data show that B. subtilis can produce amylase and offer potential for more standardized quality assessment of honey. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Social Insects and Apiculture)
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23 pages, 3093 KiB  
Article
Conservation Genetics of the Endangered Danube Clouded Yellow Butterfly Colias myrmidone (Esper, 1780) in the Last Central European Stronghold: Diversity, Wolbachia Infection and Balkan Connections
by Aleksandra Gwiazdowska, Robert Rutkowski and Marcin Sielezniew
Insects 2025, 16(2), 220; https://doi.org/10.3390/insects16020220 - 17 Feb 2025
Viewed by 606
Abstract
The Danube Clouded Yellow (Colias myrmidone) has experienced one of the most dramatic declines among European butterflies. To estimate genetic diversity in the last population in Poland that has survived in the Knyszyn Forest (KF), we analyzed mitochondrial (COI) [...] Read more.
The Danube Clouded Yellow (Colias myrmidone) has experienced one of the most dramatic declines among European butterflies. To estimate genetic diversity in the last population in Poland that has survived in the Knyszyn Forest (KF), we analyzed mitochondrial (COI) and nuclear (EF-1α) polymorphisms in individuals sampled in 2014 and 2022. The results were compared with genetic data obtained in 2014 from a recently extirpated nearby population (Czerwony Bór, CB). Because mtDNA polymorphisms in insects can be modulated by endosymbionts, the samples were screened for Wolbachia. The polymorphism of EF-1α indicated that diversity was gradually decreasing. The KF experienced rapid demographic processes, manifested by a significant change in allele frequency. The small differentiation in nuclear markers between the KF and CB in 2014 suggests that the regional population used to be genetically uniform. Four COI haplotypes that were identified in this study probably belong to two different haplogroups. Wolbachia was detected only in individuals with one specific haplotype, and the prevalence was female-biased, suggesting the induction of two reproductive manipulations. The most common COI haplotype found in Poland was the same as that reported from other parts of Europe, not only for C. myrmidone but also C. caucasica. These results allow us to question the distinctiveness of each taxa. Full article
(This article belongs to the Collection Butterfly Diversity and Conservation)
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17 pages, 6113 KiB  
Article
On the Study of Joint YOLOv5-DeepSort Detection and Tracking Algorithm for Rhynchophorus ferrugineus
by Shuai Wu, Jianping Wang, Wei Wei, Xiangchuan Ji, Bin Yang, Danyang Chen, Huimin Lu and Li Liu
Insects 2025, 16(2), 219; https://doi.org/10.3390/insects16020219 - 17 Feb 2025
Viewed by 573
Abstract
The Red Palm Weevil (RPW, Rhynchophorus ferrugineus) is a destructive pest of palm plants that can cause the death of the entire plant when infested. To enhance the efficiency of RPW control, a novel detection and tracking algorithm based on the joint [...] Read more.
The Red Palm Weevil (RPW, Rhynchophorus ferrugineus) is a destructive pest of palm plants that can cause the death of the entire plant when infested. To enhance the efficiency of RPW control, a novel detection and tracking algorithm based on the joint YOLOv5-DeepSort algorithm is proposed. Firstly, the original YOLOv5 is improved by adding a small object detection layer and an attention mechanism. At the same time, the detector of the original DeepSort is changed to the improved YOLOv5. Then, a historical frame data module is introduced into DeepSort to reduce the number of target identity (ID) switches while maintaining detection and tracking accuracy. Finally, an experiment is conducted to evaluate the joint YOLOv5-DeepSort detection and tracking algorithm. The experimental results show that, in terms of detectors, the improved YOLOv5 model achieves a mean average precision (mAP@.5) of 90.1% and a precision (P) of 93.8%. In terms of tracking performance, the joint YOLOv5-DeepSort algorithm achieves a Multiple Object Tracking Accuracy (MOTA) of 94.3%, a Multiple Object Tracking Precision (MOTP) of 90.14%, reduces ID switches by 33.3%, and realizes a count accuracy of 94.1%. These results demonstrate that the improved algorithm meets the practical requirements for RPW field detection and tracking. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Insect Pests Management: Securing Food Security, Human Health, and Natural Resources)
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19 pages, 2729 KiB  
Article
Fall Armyworm-Induced Secondary Metabolites in Sorghum Defend Against Its Attack
by Juan-Ying Zhao, Qi Lu, Jiang Sun, Li-Yuan Sun, Ruiyan Ma, Yuanxin Wang, Jun Hu, Huiyan Wang, Yizhong Zhang, Dong Jia and Jun Yang
Insects 2025, 16(2), 218; https://doi.org/10.3390/insects16020218 - 17 Feb 2025
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 701
Abstract
The fall armyworm (FAW), Spodoptera frugiperda, is one of the major agricultural pests that has invaded China. The FAW is a polyphagous insect with the gramineous crop sorghum being a key host plant. However, the basis of sorghum’s chemical defense against FAW [...] Read more.
The fall armyworm (FAW), Spodoptera frugiperda, is one of the major agricultural pests that has invaded China. The FAW is a polyphagous insect with the gramineous crop sorghum being a key host plant. However, the basis of sorghum’s chemical defense against FAW feeding is still unclear. In this study, we investigated the potential defensive mechanism of sorghum against this insect species. It was found that FAW larvae preferred maize over sorghum, the selection and damage rates for sorghum plants by larvae were significantly lower than those of maize plants, and feeding on sorghum restricted larval weight. The non-target metabolomics revealed that the feeding of FAW larvae altered the plant secondary metabolite spectra in maize and sorghum, resulting in species-specific differential secondary metabolites (DSMs). Of these, 19 DSMs were specific in maize, and 51 in sorghum, and only 6 were found in both species. Two-choice and no-choice feeding assays found that gambogenic acid and chimonanthine, two DSMs unique to sorghum, were found to deter larval feeding and decrease the larval weight. These findings reveal that the defense of sorghum against FAW is regulated by changing the response spectra of secondary metabolites and that the induced metabolites have a defensive function by acting as antifeedants, which provides new insights into employing bioactive plant compounds against polyphagous insects. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Insect Pest and Vector Management)
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15 pages, 10212 KiB  
Article
An Integrative Phylogenetic Analysis of the Genus Rhynchium Spinola (Hymenoptera: Vespidae: Eumeninae) from China Based on Morphology, Genomic Data and Geographical Distribution
by Yun-Lian Peng, Shu-Lin He, Bin Chen and Ting-Jing Li
Insects 2025, 16(2), 217; https://doi.org/10.3390/insects16020217 - 16 Feb 2025
Viewed by 633
Abstract
The species of the genus Rhynchium Spinola are important natural insect control resources and widespread in the Old World. Due to the various color patterns of several species in China, it is difficulty to accurately classify and identify the genus. We combined their [...] Read more.
The species of the genus Rhynchium Spinola are important natural insect control resources and widespread in the Old World. Due to the various color patterns of several species in China, it is difficulty to accurately classify and identify the genus. We combined their morphology with population genetic differentiation, phylogenetic relationship and geographical distribution to delimitate the species of Rhynchium from China. Within the genus, more than 600 pinned specimens were examined and a total of 37 whole genomes were analyzed, of which 35 were newly sequenced. Firstly, COI sequences, 13 PCGs and 2 rRNAs sequences of the mitochondrial genomes, USCO nucleotide matrix of 90% completeness (USCO90_fna), and USCO amino acid matrix of 90% completeness (USCO90_faa) were extracted from the whole-genome data. Then, genetic distances were calculated using the COI sequences, and ABGD species delimitation analysis identified three valid species. By integrating the four phylogenetic trees inferred from the four datasets and morphological analysis, the specimens of Rhynchium from China were recognized as R. carnaticum (newly recorded), R. quinquecinctum, and R. brunneum; the last is the most widely distributed in China, while the remaining two only occur in Hainan and Yunnan, respectively, markedly different from previous records. Finally, it is interesting that color patterns of the species R. brunneum seem to closely relate to the geographical distribution, embodying two different modes in the South and the North of China, as well as a transitional state in the middle. The roles of the color patterns are still not resolved and their underlying evolutionary mechanisms need further exploration. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Insect Systematics, Phylogeny and Evolution)
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18 pages, 2514 KiB  
Article
Untargeted Volatile Profiling Identifies Key Compounds Driving the Attraction of Western Flower Thrips to Alstroemeria Cultivars
by Luis Gerardo Cubillos-Quijano, Marco Díaz, Ericsson Coy-Barrera and Daniel Rodríguez
Insects 2025, 16(2), 216; https://doi.org/10.3390/insects16020216 - 16 Feb 2025
Viewed by 514
Abstract
Western flower thrips (WFTs) are significant pests affecting various crops globally. Developing sustainable strategies for managing WFTs is essential for improving thrips management. Ethological control methods, particularly those employing volatile organic compounds (VOCs) emitted by plants to influence insect behavior, have emerged as [...] Read more.
Western flower thrips (WFTs) are significant pests affecting various crops globally. Developing sustainable strategies for managing WFTs is essential for improving thrips management. Ethological control methods, particularly those employing volatile organic compounds (VOCs) emitted by plants to influence insect behavior, have emerged as a promising avenue for pest management. Natural hosts such as Alstroemeria provide an intriguing yet underexplored opportunity for developing attractants tailored to WFT management. This study examined the behavioral preferences of WFTs towards flowers of four commercial Alstroemeria cultivars, focusing on variations in VOC profiles. Using headspace solid-phase microextraction (HS-SPME), VOCs were captured in vivo from cultivars with contrasting levels of WFT infestation. Gas chromatography coupled with mass spectrometry (GC-MS) was employed to analyze the VOCs, with linear retention indices aiding compound identification. An untargeted volatile profiling-based comparative analysis revealed key VOCs that differed among cultivars, shedding light on their potential correlation with WFT behavior. Behavioral assays identified three specific VOCs—butyl butyrate, 1-methylnaphthalene, and citronellyl acetate—as influential in attracting WFTs. Attraction responses were concentration-dependent, with two tested concentrations eliciting significant behavioral effects. These findings highlight the potential of these active VOCs as components of novel attractants for WFT management. The results direct future research and the development of tools to integrate ethological strategies into sustainable pest management practices for crops. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Chemical Ecology of Plant–Insect Interactions)
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12 pages, 826 KiB  
Article
Identification of Necrophagous Beetles (Coleoptera) Using Low-Resolution Real-Time PCR in the Buffer Zone of Kampinos National Park
by Tadeusz Malewski, Katarzyna Leszczyńska, Katarzyna Daria Borzuchowska, Maciej Sierakowski, Tomasz Oszako and Justyna Anna Nowakowska
Insects 2025, 16(2), 215; https://doi.org/10.3390/insects16020215 - 15 Feb 2025
Viewed by 698
Abstract
Forensic entomology is concerned with the study of arthropods that assist in criminal investigations. Among them, necrophagous beetles (Coleoptera) play a crucial role as they are found in all stages of decomposition of corpses, which makes them valuable for forensic analysis. Accurate species [...] Read more.
Forensic entomology is concerned with the study of arthropods that assist in criminal investigations. Among them, necrophagous beetles (Coleoptera) play a crucial role as they are found in all stages of decomposition of corpses, which makes them valuable for forensic analysis. Accurate species identification is crucial for the effective use of entomological evidence. Efficient, cost-effective, and rapid methods are essential for this purpose. In the present study, we developed a novel assay that enables simple, inexpensive, and rapid identification of necrophagous beetle species. Using two primer sets targeting the cytochrome c oxidase 1 (COI) gene and analyzing the resulting SYBR Green I melting curves, we were able to identify fourteen beetle species: Aleochara curtula (Goeze, 1777), Anoplotrupes stercorosus (Scriba, 1791), Creophilus maxillosus (Linnaeus, 1758), Dermestes undulatus (Brahm, 1790), Hister unicolor (Linnaeus, 1758), Margarinotus brunneus (Fabricius, 1775), Necrodes littoralis (Linnaeus, 1758), Nicrophorus investigator (Zetterstedt, 1824), Ontholestes murinus (Linnaeus, 1758), Oiceoptoma thoracicum (Linnaeus, 1758), Philonthus cognatus (Stephens, 1832), Saprinus planiusculus (Motschulsky, 1849), Silpha tristis (Illiger, 1798), and Thanatophilus rugosus (Linnaeus, 1758). Data on the melting temperature of the amplicon can be obtained within 60–90 min after DNA extraction. This study expands the understanding of the species composition of necrophagous Coleoptera, which is crucial for forensic entomology methods based on insect succession. Furthermore, it provides the first comprehensive data on necrophagous beetles in the vicinity of Kampinos National Park. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Forensic Entomology: From Basic Research to Practical Applications)
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11 pages, 1169 KiB  
Article
Impact of Oviposition Sequence and Host Egg Density on Offspring Emergence and Interspecific Competition in Two Species of Trichogramma Parasitoids
by Yu Wang, Asim Iqbal, Kanwer Shahzad Ahmed, Zheng-Kun Zhang, Juan Cui and Chen Zhang
Insects 2025, 16(2), 214; https://doi.org/10.3390/insects16020214 - 15 Feb 2025
Viewed by 520
Abstract
Asian corn borer (ACB), Ostrinia furnacalis Guenee (Lepidoptera: Crambidae) and the rice moth (RM), Corycyra cephalonica Stainton (Lepidoptera: Pyralidae) are economically significant insect pests that threaten the agricultural products worldwide. Trichogramma parasitoids are successfully mass-reared using artificial host eggs, RM, and are often [...] Read more.
Asian corn borer (ACB), Ostrinia furnacalis Guenee (Lepidoptera: Crambidae) and the rice moth (RM), Corycyra cephalonica Stainton (Lepidoptera: Pyralidae) are economically significant insect pests that threaten the agricultural products worldwide. Trichogramma parasitoids are successfully mass-reared using artificial host eggs, RM, and are often managed by economically important lepidopterous pests, such as ACB in China. Trichogramma ostriniae Pang and Chen (To) and T. dendrolimi Matsumura (Td) (Hymenoptera: Trichogrammatidae) are two important parasitoids of ACB. To determine the influence of interspecific competition between To and Td on their offspring’s emergence. We determine the emergence of wasp progeny from two distinct hosts (ACB and RM eggs) of varying densities (10, 20, 30, and 100) by examining the effect of three distinct oviposition sequences (To-Td, Td-To, and To+Td) by two Trichogramma species. We discovered that the progeny emergence rate of To and Td from the host was substantially influenced by the parasitoid types, host types, oviposition sequences, and host densities, and their two-, three-, and four-factor interactions while investigating the ACB and RM eggs after oviposition. Additionally, the progeny of Td emerged from 10, 20, and 30 ACB host eggs under three oviposition sequences, which was significantly higher than that of ACB eggs of 100 densities. Nevertheless, the optimum emergence rate of Td progeny was also observed in ACB eggs with a density of 100 under all oviposition sequences. The most suitable oviposition sequences for both wasp species are To-Td and Td-To, as they have the highest rate of progeny emergence. The progeny emergence of both Trichogramma species from RM eggs of varying densities was observed to be significantly different. Nevertheless, the most influential density is 100 RM eggs, as a result of the maximal emergence rate of To and Td. Overall, it is concluded that host eggs with a density of 100 are adequate to meet the oviposition requirements of both wasps in all oviposition orders, thereby limiting their interspecific competition. These findings provide insights into optimizing host density and oviposition strategies for mass-rearing Trichogramma species, which can enhance their efficacy in biological control programs. Future research should explore field-level applications to validate these laboratory findings under natural conditions. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Diapause Regulation and Biological Control of Natural Enemy Insects)
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14 pages, 1960 KiB  
Article
Lobesia botrana Infestation in Petit Verdot and Sangiovese: A Comparative Study
by Lorenzo Corsi, Giorgio Sperandio, Sara Ruschioni, Fabio Ramilli, Tania Lattanzi, Oriana Silvestroni and Paola Riolo
Insects 2025, 16(2), 213; https://doi.org/10.3390/insects16020213 - 15 Feb 2025
Viewed by 635
Abstract
The European grapevine moth (Lobesia botrana), a significant pest in viticulture, impacts grape quality and yield through larval feeding and secondary infections. This study examined the impact of L. botrana on two grape varieties, Petit Verdot and Sangiovese, while also investigating [...] Read more.
The European grapevine moth (Lobesia botrana), a significant pest in viticulture, impacts grape quality and yield through larval feeding and secondary infections. This study examined the impact of L. botrana on two grape varieties, Petit Verdot and Sangiovese, while also investigating cultivar-specific traits. Field trials were conducted in central Italy to assess infestation levels, female population abundance, and cultivar-specific morphological traits. The results revealed significantly lower larval infestation levels, but higher female abundance in Petit Verdot compared to Sangiovese. Bunch density and bunch compactness were also significantly lower in Petit Verdot than in Sangiovese. Morphological traits, such as a greater canopy thickness and higher leaf layer number in Petit Verdot, did not correspond to increased infestation levels, challenging existing findings regarding the impact of sun exposure on female oviposition and larval settlement. The seasonal dynamics of L. botrana indicated three major adult flight peaks and a partial fourth peak, potentially influenced by local weather patterns. These findings highlight the critical role of cultivar-specific traits in shaping pest infestation dynamics and provide essential insights for optimizing integrated pest management (IPM) strategies, particularly in cultivar selection and monitoring protocols for sustainable viticulture. Full article
(This article belongs to the Collection Integrated Pest Management in Arable and Open Field Horticultural Crops)
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17 pages, 5275 KiB  
Article
Genome-Wide Identification and Expression Profiling of Odorant-Binding Protein Genes in the Bean Flower Thrips Megalurothrips usitatus (Bagnall) (Thysanoptera: Thripidae)
by Gen Xia, Lang Yang, Boliao Li, Qinli Wang, Lifei Huang, Xiaoli Tian and Guohui Zhang
Insects 2025, 16(2), 212; https://doi.org/10.3390/insects16020212 - 14 Feb 2025
Viewed by 673
Abstract
Megalurothrips usitatus is an economically important vegetable pest. Because of the growing demand for reducing pesticide use on vegetables, new environmentally friendly strategies for controlling M. usitatus are urgently needed. Insect odorant-binding proteins are prospective targets for screening environmentally friendly odorant attractants for pest [...] Read more.
Megalurothrips usitatus is an economically important vegetable pest. Because of the growing demand for reducing pesticide use on vegetables, new environmentally friendly strategies for controlling M. usitatus are urgently needed. Insect odorant-binding proteins are prospective targets for screening environmentally friendly odorant attractants for pest control. However, very little is known about OBP genes in M. usitatus. Here, we identified 14 OBPs in the M. usitatus genome using HMMER and BLAST. The chromosomal location showed that these OBPs were widely distributed across eight chromosomes. The analysis of the gene and protein structure characteristics of OBPs in M. usitatus revealed substantial diversity within the OBP gene family. The spatiotemporal expression profiles showed that ten out of 14 MusiOBPs displayed male biased expression, which were highly expressed in antennae, suggesting that they may play a crucial role in the recognition of host plant volatiles and thrips aggregation pheromones. Notably, only MusiOBP8 was significantly higher expressed in female adults, indicating a potential involvement in reproduction. Moreover, MusiOBP7 and MusiOBP13 were highly expressed in the pupae, indicating their possible role in immune responses. These results provide an important foundation for further exploration of the functions of the OBPs in M. usitatus. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Insect Molecular Biology and Genomics)
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24 pages, 5181 KiB  
Article
Ecologo-Geographic Distribution Patterns of the Italian Locust Calliptamus italicus (Linnaeus) (Orthoptera: Acrididae) in the Easternmost Part of Its Range
by Michael G. Sergeev, Muratbek K. Childebaev, Rong Ji, Vladimir V. Molodtsov, Natalya S. Baturina, Irina A. Van’kova, Marya N. Kim-Kashmenskaya, Kristina V. Popova, Vasily D. Zharkov and Oxana V. Yefremova
Insects 2025, 16(2), 211; https://doi.org/10.3390/insects16020211 - 14 Feb 2025
Viewed by 592
Abstract
Grasshoppers (Acridoidea) are one of the most essential components of grassland ecosystems. They are mainly primary consumers and some of them, e.g., the Italian locust, may be very important pests. The main goal of this article is to discuss possible shifts in the [...] Read more.
Grasshoppers (Acridoidea) are one of the most essential components of grassland ecosystems. They are mainly primary consumers and some of them, e.g., the Italian locust, may be very important pests. The main goal of this article is to discuss possible shifts in the species distribution relative to global and local changes. General patterns of latitudinal, longitudinal, and altitudinal distribution of its populations are revealed for the eastern part of its range (mainly from 70° E eastward). Data on its historic and modern localities with geographic coordinates were collected and analyzed. The Maxent approach was used to model species distribution. The comparative analysis shows there are no significant changes in its range. The analysis of altitudinal distribution over mountains of the region demonstrates no significant changes as well. The expected distribution of Calliptamus italicus based on the location points displays significant changes in areas suitable for the species and their evident associations with outbreak occurrences. The models created for 2021–2040 and 2041–2060 unveil that, in the future, the local parts of the Italian locust range may shift northward and north-eastward, but the main areas with suitable conditions for this species will remain almost the same. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Insect Pest and Vector Management)
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17 pages, 16790 KiB  
Article
A YOLO-Based Model for Detecting Stored-Grain Insects on Surface of Grain Bulks
by Xueyan Zhu, Dandan Li, Yancheng Zheng, Yiming Ma, Xiaoping Yan, Qing Zhou, Qin Wang and Yili Zheng
Insects 2025, 16(2), 210; https://doi.org/10.3390/insects16020210 - 14 Feb 2025
Viewed by 695
Abstract
Accurate, rapid, and intelligent stored-grain insect detection and counting are important for integrated pest management (IPM). Existing stored-grain insect pest detection models are often not suitable for detecting tiny insects on the surface of grain bulks and often require high computing resources and [...] Read more.
Accurate, rapid, and intelligent stored-grain insect detection and counting are important for integrated pest management (IPM). Existing stored-grain insect pest detection models are often not suitable for detecting tiny insects on the surface of grain bulks and often require high computing resources and computational memory. Therefore, this study presents a YOLO-SGInsects model based on YOLOv8s for tiny stored-grain insect detection on the surface of grain bulk by adding a tiny object detection layer (TODL), adjusting the neck network with an asymptotic feature pyramid network (AFPN), and incorporating a hybrid attention transformer (HAT) module into the backbone network. The YOLO-SGInsects model was trained and tested using a GrainInsects dataset with images captured from granaries and laboratory. Experiments on the test set of the GrainInsects dataset showed that the YOLO-SGInsects achieved a stored-grain insect pest detection mean average precision (mAP) of 94.2%, with a counting root mean squared error (RMSE) of 0.7913, representing 2.0% and 0.3067 improvement over the YOLOv8s, respectively. Compared to other mainstream approaches, the YOLO-SGInsects model achieves better detection and counting performance and is capable of effectively handling tiny stored-grain insect pest detection in grain bulk surfaces. This study provides a technical basis for detecting and counting common stored-grain insect pests on the surface of grain bulk. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Ecology, Behaviour, and Monitoring of Stored Product Insects)
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14 pages, 2058 KiB  
Article
Do Random Forest-Driven Climate Envelope Models Require Variable Selection? A Case Study on Crustulina guttata (Theridiidae: Araneae)
by Tae-Sung Kwon, Won Il Choi and Min-Jung Kim
Insects 2025, 16(2), 209; https://doi.org/10.3390/insects16020209 - 14 Feb 2025
Viewed by 555
Abstract
Climate Envelope Models (CEMs) commonly employ 19 bioclimatic variables to predict species distributions, yet selecting which variables to include remains a critical challenge. Although it seems logical to select ecologically relevant variables, the biological responses of many target species are poorly understood. Random [...] Read more.
Climate Envelope Models (CEMs) commonly employ 19 bioclimatic variables to predict species distributions, yet selecting which variables to include remains a critical challenge. Although it seems logical to select ecologically relevant variables, the biological responses of many target species are poorly understood. Random Forest (RF), a popular method in CEMs, can effectively handle correlated and nonlinear variables. In light of these strengths, this study explores the full model hypothesis, which involves using all 19 bioclimatic variables in an RF model, using Crustulina guttata (Theridiidae: Araneae) as a test case. Four model variants—a simplified model with two variables, an ecologically selected model with seven variables, a statistically selected model with ten variables, and a full model with nineteen variables—were compared against a thousand randomly assembled models with matching variable counts. All models achieved high performance, though results varied based on the number of variables employed. Notably, the full model consistently produced stronger predictions than models with fewer variables. Moreover, specifying particular variables did not yield a significant advantage over random selections of equally sized sets, indicating that omitting variables may risk the loss of important information. Although the final model suggests that C. guttata may have dispersed beyond its native European range through artificial means, this study examined only a single species. Thus, caution is warranted in generalizing these findings, and additional research is needed to determine whether the full model hypothesis extends to other taxa and environmental contexts. In scenarios where ecological knowledge is limited, however, using all available variables in an RF model may preserve potentially significant predictors and enhance predictive accuracy. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Insect Ecology, Diversity and Conservation)
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17 pages, 1902 KiB  
Article
The Impact of Termiticides on Termite Corpse Management
by Jizhe Shi, Austin Merchant and Xuguo Zhou
Insects 2025, 16(2), 208; https://doi.org/10.3390/insects16020208 - 14 Feb 2025
Viewed by 664
Abstract
Soil treatments and baits are two primary chemical control strategies for subterranean termites. Baiting is targeted and eco-friendly but requires ongoing maintenance, while soil treatments provide immediate, long-lasting protection with potential environmental concerns. Previously, we found that termites differentially manage deceased individuals based [...] Read more.
Soil treatments and baits are two primary chemical control strategies for subterranean termites. Baiting is targeted and eco-friendly but requires ongoing maintenance, while soil treatments provide immediate, long-lasting protection with potential environmental concerns. Previously, we found that termites differentially manage deceased individuals based on their postmortem chemical signatures, potentially circumventing chemical controls. Given the distinct differences in the synthetic termiticides used for soil treatments (fast-acting) and baits (slow-releasing), we hypothesized that termites would respond differently to corpses treated with these two methods. To test this hypothesis, in Reticulitermes flavipes, we (1) profiled postmortem chemicals in termites exposed to different termiticides and (2) documented live termite responses to these corpses. Significant variations in postmortem chemical signatures, particularly 3-octanol and 3-octanone, were found among termites exposed to different termiticides, especially bifenthrin and fipronil. However, these variations did not lead to significantly different undertaking behaviors, indicating a complex relationship between death cues and termite behavior. Contrary to our hypothesis, except for bifenthrin, the fundamental undertaking behaviors were consistent despite differences in retrieval timing. This suggests that termiticides alone do not fully dictate termite undertaking behavior. Understanding termite corpse management is crucial for evaluating termiticide effectiveness, highlighting the need for an integrated pest management approach. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Insect Pest and Vector Management)
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14 pages, 2247 KiB  
Article
Molecular Detection of Hemoparasites in Hematophagous Insects Collected from Livestock Farms in Northeastern Thailand
by Pairpailin Jhaiaun, Apiraya Rudeekiatthamrong, Wissanuwat Chimnoi, Giang Thi Nguyen, Ruttayaporn Ngasaman, Jumnongjit Phasuk and Ketsarin Kamyingkird
Insects 2025, 16(2), 207; https://doi.org/10.3390/insects16020207 - 14 Feb 2025
Viewed by 799
Abstract
Vector-borne parasitic diseases (VBPDs) are diseases that have a major impact on the health and productivity of livestock. VBPDs, including trypanosomosis, theileriosis, and anaplasmosis, are caused by blood parasites and Rickettsiales infections that can be transmitted by biting insects. The control and elimination [...] Read more.
Vector-borne parasitic diseases (VBPDs) are diseases that have a major impact on the health and productivity of livestock. VBPDs, including trypanosomosis, theileriosis, and anaplasmosis, are caused by blood parasites and Rickettsiales infections that can be transmitted by biting insects. The control and elimination of VBPDs is difficult and challenging. This study contributed to better understanding the impact of hematophagous insects on carrying pathogens to livestock by investigating the detection of Trypanosoma evansi, Theileria spp. and Anaplasma spp. in hematophagous insects collected from five livestock farms in Northeastern Thailand using polymerase chain reaction (PCR). The Stomoxys and Tabanus samples were collected using Nzi and Vavoua traps. Morphological and molecular identifications of hematophagous insects were performed. The Stomoxys samples were dissected into head and abdomen parts, while the Tabanus samples were dissected into head, salivary glands, and abdomen parts before DNA extraction individually. The host blood meal in the DNA of each part of the hematophagous insects was identified using PCR targeting the prepronociceptin (PNOC) gene. PCR detection of T. evansi, Theileria spp., and Anaplasma spp. were performed by targeting the ITS2, 18s rRNA, and msp4 genes, respectively. In total, 131 insect samples were collected, with Stomoxys calcitrans being the most common species at 40 (30.53%), followed by Tabanus spp. at 14 (10.69%) and the other Stomoxys spp. at 7 (5.34%), respectively. The hemoparasite detection results identified Theileria spp. in the abdomen (21.43%; 3/14) of three Tabanus samples. Neither Anaplasma spp. nor T. evansi were detected in this study. Additionally, host blood meal DNA was found in the abdomen of Stomoxys calcitrans (4.17%; 1/24) and Stomoxys spp. (20%; 1/5). For the Tabanus spp., host blood meal DNA was detected in the head (7.14%; 1/14), salivary glands (7.14%; 1/14), and abdomen (14.29%; 2/14). These results highlighted that Tabanus spp. might play an important role in Theileria transmission. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Medical and Livestock Entomology)
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2 pages, 141 KiB  
Correction
Correction: Lu et al. Host Volatiles Potentially Drive Two Evolutionarily Related Weevils to Select Different Grains. Insects 2024, 15, 300
by Shaohua Lu, Lingfang Zhang, Yujie Lu, Mingshun Chen and Zhengyan Wang
Insects 2025, 16(2), 206; https://doi.org/10.3390/insects16020206 - 13 Feb 2025
Viewed by 393
Abstract
In the original publication [...] Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Chemical Ecology of Plant–Insect Interactions)
12 pages, 680 KiB  
Article
Daily Prey Consumption and Functional Response of Orius insidiosus: Implications for Biological Control of Scirtothrips dorsalis in Strawberries
by Lovely Adhikary, Hugh Adam Smith and Sriyanka Lahiri
Insects 2025, 16(2), 205; https://doi.org/10.3390/insects16020205 - 13 Feb 2025
Viewed by 723
Abstract
Strawberry is an important specialty crop grown in Florida. Recently, chilli thrips, Scirtothrips dorsalis Hood (Thysanoptera: Thripidae), have become a significant threat to Florida strawberry production. Pesticide applications are not always recommended because of the development of insecticidal resistance. Biological control can be [...] Read more.
Strawberry is an important specialty crop grown in Florida. Recently, chilli thrips, Scirtothrips dorsalis Hood (Thysanoptera: Thripidae), have become a significant threat to Florida strawberry production. Pesticide applications are not always recommended because of the development of insecticidal resistance. Biological control can be a viable control option for this pest. However, the management of S. dorsalis using predatory bug Orius insidiosus Say (Hemiptera: Anthocoridae) has never been explored in strawberries. Therefore, this study’s aim was to evaluate the predation efficacy of O. insidiosus through daily consumption rate and the functional response while preying on S. dorsalis. The results suggest that adult O. insidiosus has a significantly higher daily consumption rate than fifth-instar nymphs when feeding on both life stages of S. dorsalis. A Type II functional response was expressed by O. insidiosus when feeding on larval and adult S. dorsalis, indicating that the predation rate can increase with the prey density before it reaches a saturation point. The attack rates (a) and prey handling time (Th) were also computed on second-instar larvae and adult S. dorsalis, respectively. The results indicate that O. insidiosus can be used as an augmentation biocontrol agent for S. dorsalis management in strawberries. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable Pest Management in Agricultural Systems)
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16 pages, 1511 KiB  
Article
Widespread Distribution of chs-1 Mutations Associated with Resistance to Diflubenzuron Larvicide in Culex pipiens Across Italy, Reaching Virtual Fixation in the Venetian Lagoon
by Martina Micocci, Verena Pichler, Paola Serini, Carola Giammarioli, Chiara Malandruccolo, Chiara Virgillito, Marco Ballardini, Riccardo Paolo Lia, Daniele Arnoldi, Stefano Vettore, Davide Bonetto, Simone Martini, Andrea Drago, Alessandra della Torre and Beniamino Caputo
Insects 2025, 16(2), 204; https://doi.org/10.3390/insects16020204 - 12 Feb 2025
Viewed by 693
Abstract
Control interventions against mosquito larvae are the primary measure to reduce the adult abundance and risk of arbovirus outbreaks in Europe. One of the most commonly used larvicides in Italy is diflubenzuron (DFB), which targets chitin synthase 1 (chs-1), interrupting the [...] Read more.
Control interventions against mosquito larvae are the primary measure to reduce the adult abundance and risk of arbovirus outbreaks in Europe. One of the most commonly used larvicides in Italy is diflubenzuron (DFB), which targets chitin synthase 1 (chs-1), interrupting the normal development of larvae into adults. Recent studies identified high levels of DFB resistance in Culex pipiens populations from Emilia-Romagna (Italy) associated with I1043L/M/F mutations at position 1043 of the chs-1 gene. The aim of the present study was to assess the circulation of 1043 resistance alleles in Cx. pipiens populations across Italy, outside Emilia-Romagna, with a focus on the Veneto region. Overall, 1032 specimens were genotyped. The 1043L allele was found in all examined Italian regions (Trentino-Alto Adige 19–36%; Veneto 0–91%; Piemonte 11%; Liguria 28%; Lazio 0–8%; Puglia 5%). The highest frequencies (up to >90%) were observed in the Venetian lagoon, where 1043M was also detected (6–11%). Overall, the relatively low frequencies of 1043 mutations despite extensive and longstanding use of DFB in Italy suggest a high fitness cost worthy of further investigations, while their extremely high frequencies in coastal touristic sites point to these sites as the most relevant for resistance monitoring and larvicide rotation. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Insecticide Resistance in Mosquitoes)
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12 pages, 1742 KiB  
Article
Comparative Mitogenomic Analyses of Tanypodinae (Diptera: Chironomidae)
by Xiu-Ru Xiao, Meng-Han Chen, Shu-Yi Li, Bing-Xin Guo, Yan Zhang, Zhi-Chao Zhang, Ya-Jun Qiao and Xiao-Long Lin
Insects 2025, 16(2), 203; https://doi.org/10.3390/insects16020203 - 12 Feb 2025
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 593
Abstract
Tanypodinae, a highly diverse subfamily within Chironomidae (Diptera), has been poorly represented in mitochondrial genome (mitogenome) databases, with only a limited number of complete or partial sequences available. To address this gap, we present the first complete mitogenome sequences of 16 Tanypodinae species [...] Read more.
Tanypodinae, a highly diverse subfamily within Chironomidae (Diptera), has been poorly represented in mitochondrial genome (mitogenome) databases, with only a limited number of complete or partial sequences available. To address this gap, we present the first complete mitogenome sequences of 16 Tanypodinae species and 1 Podonominae species. By integrating these novel data with previously published chironomid mitogenomes, we conducted a comprehensive comparative mitogenomic analysis of 21 Tanypodinae species. Our results reveal that Tanypodinae mitogenomes maintain a conserved structural organization, preserving the ancestral insect gene arrangement. The nucleotide composition exhibits significant bias, with the control region demonstrating the highest A + T content among all genomic regions. Evolutionary analysis indicates that all protein-coding genes (PCGs) are subject to purifying selection, with ATP8 exhibiting the most rapid evolutionary rate. Phylogenetic reconstruction based on PCG amino acid sequences delineates seven well-supported clades within Tanypodinae, corresponding to the tribes Pentaneurini, Natarsiini, Procladiini, Tanypodini, Clinotanypodini, Macropelopiini, and Anatopyniini. These findings significantly advance our understanding of mitogenomic architecture and provide critical insights into the phylogenetic relationships within Tanypodinae. Full article
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