Journal Description
Insects
Insects
is an international, peer-reviewed, open access journal on entomology published monthly online by MDPI.
- Open Access— free for readers, with article processing charges (APC) paid by authors or their institutions.
- High Visibility: indexed within Scopus, SCIE (Web of Science), PubMed, PMC, PubAg, and other databases.
- Journal Rank: JCR - Q1 (Entomology) / CiteScore - Q1 (Insect Science)
- Rapid Publication: manuscripts are peer-reviewed and a first decision is provided to authors approximately 17 days after submission; acceptance to publication is undertaken in 2.9 days (median values for papers published in this journal in the second half of 2023).
- Recognition of Reviewers: reviewers who provide timely, thorough peer-review reports receive vouchers entitling them to a discount on the APC of their next publication in any MDPI journal, in appreciation of the work done.
Impact Factor:
2.7 (2023);
5-Year Impact Factor:
2.9 (2023)
Latest Articles
An Effective Fluorescent Marker for Tracking the Dispersal of Small Insects with Field Evidence of Mark–Release–Recapture of Trissolcus japonicus
Insects 2024, 15(7), 487; https://doi.org/10.3390/insects15070487 (registering DOI) - 29 Jun 2024
Abstract
Understanding insect dispersal helps us predict the spread of insect pests and their natural enemies. Dispersal can be studied by marking, releasing, and recapturing insects, known as mark–release–recapture (MRR). MRR techniques should be convenient, economical, and persistent. Currently, there are limited options for
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Understanding insect dispersal helps us predict the spread of insect pests and their natural enemies. Dispersal can be studied by marking, releasing, and recapturing insects, known as mark–release–recapture (MRR). MRR techniques should be convenient, economical, and persistent. Currently, there are limited options for marking small parasitoids that do not impact their fitness and dispersal ability. We evaluated commercially available fluorescent markers used in forensics. These fluorophores can easily be detected by ultraviolet (UV) light, requiring minimal costs and labor to process the marked specimens. This fluorophore marking technique was evaluated with the pest Drosophila suzukii and three parasitoids: Trissolcus japonicus, Pachycrepoideus vindemiae, Ganaspis brasiliensis (=G. kimorum). We evaluated the persistence of the marks on all the insects over time and examined the parasitoids for impacts on longevity, parasitism, locomotor activity, and flight take-off. The green fluorophore marker persisted for over 20 days on all four species. Marking generally did not consistently reduce the survival, parasitism rate, locomotor activity, or take-off of the parasitoids tested. Marked T. japonicus were recaptured in the field up to 100 m away from the release point and three weeks after release, indicating that this technique is a viable method for studying parasitoid dispersal.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Other Arthropods and General Topics)
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Open AccessArticle
Population Growth Parameters of Scymnus nubilus Fed Single-Aphid Diets of Aphis fabae or Myzus persicae
by
Isabel Borges, Guillaume J. Dury and António O. Soares
Insects 2024, 15(7), 486; https://doi.org/10.3390/insects15070486 (registering DOI) - 28 Jun 2024
Abstract
Life tables are an important tool to forecast the performance of biological control agents used in pest management programs, and they are often assessed in terms of population growth. In the present study, the suitability of the aphids Aphis fabae Scopoli and Myzus
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Life tables are an important tool to forecast the performance of biological control agents used in pest management programs, and they are often assessed in terms of population growth. In the present study, the suitability of the aphids Aphis fabae Scopoli and Myzus persicae (Sulzer) for the ladybird predator Scymnus nubilus Mulsant was assessed for the first time. For this, we evaluated and compared the life history traits of immature individuals and adults of the predator fed single-aphid diets and the consequences of the single-aphid diets for the demographic parameters. Scymnus nubilus that were fed A. fabae were significantly more fecund and presented a shorter immature development time than those fed M. persicae. The predators fed A. fabae had a significantly higher net reproductive rate, an intrinsic and finite rate of increase, while their doubling time was significantly lower than that of those fed M. persicae. The aphid species used in this study are new additions to the essential prey list of the ladybird, with the predator presenting a better biological performance than that found on the previously known essential prey species.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Understanding of the Ecology and Biodiversity of Coleoptera: Coccinellidae)
Open AccessArticle
Effect of Sex, Age and Temperature on the Functional Response of Macrolophus pygmaeus Ramber and Nesidiocoris tenuis Reuter (Heteroptera: Miridae) on Eggs of Tuta absoluta
by
Eleni Yiacoumi, Nikos A. Kouloussis and Dimitrios S. Koveos
Insects 2024, 15(7), 485; https://doi.org/10.3390/insects15070485 (registering DOI) - 28 Jun 2024
Abstract
The predatory mirids Macrolophus pygmaeus Ramber (Heteroptera: Miridae) and Nesidiocoris tenuis Reuter (Heteroptera: Miridae) are used for the biological control of Tuta absoluta Meyrick (Lepidoptera: Gelechiidae) and other pests in tomato greenhouses. The functional response of 1-day-old (young) and 10-day-old (old) adult females
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The predatory mirids Macrolophus pygmaeus Ramber (Heteroptera: Miridae) and Nesidiocoris tenuis Reuter (Heteroptera: Miridae) are used for the biological control of Tuta absoluta Meyrick (Lepidoptera: Gelechiidae) and other pests in tomato greenhouses. The functional response of 1-day-old (young) and 10-day-old (old) adult females and males of M. pygmaeus and N. tenuis on eggs of T. absoluta was determined on tomato at two temperatures (20° and 25 °C) and LD 16:8. Females of M. pygmaeus exhibited higher predation efficiency than males at both tested temperatures. Young M. pygmaeus females had a higher efficiency than old ones, whereas males had a low efficiency irrespective of age. The predation efficiency of N. tenuis was high (but lower than M. pygmaeus) in both young females and males, although old females had a higher efficiency than the respective males. Our results show that the two predatory species have different functional response characteristics to their prey depending mainly on sex and age, which may affect their role as biological control agents.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Insect Pest and Vector Management)
Open AccessArticle
Effects of Two Prey Species Combinations on Larval Development of the Predatory Ladybird Cheilomenes propinqua
by
Andrey N. Ovchinnikov, Antonina A. Ovchinnikova, Sergey Y. Reznik and Natalia A. Belyakova
Insects 2024, 15(7), 484; https://doi.org/10.3390/insects15070484 - 28 Jun 2024
Abstract
Feeding on mixed, alternating, or changing diets often favor insect development. With the aim to optimize mass rearing and use for the biological control of insect pests, we investigated the effects of various combinations of high-quality (the green peach aphid Myzus persicae)
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Feeding on mixed, alternating, or changing diets often favor insect development. With the aim to optimize mass rearing and use for the biological control of insect pests, we investigated the effects of various combinations of high-quality (the green peach aphid Myzus persicae) and low-quality (eggs of the grain moth Sitotroga cerealella) foods on the larval development of a predatory ladybird Cheilomenes propinqua. In the first experiment, eggs and aphids were mixed in different proportions; in the second experiment, larvae switched from feeding on aphids to feeding on eggs. Although the beneficial additive effect of mixed foods was detected in some treatments with limited diets, feeding on various combinations of eggs with aphids never resulted in higher survival, faster development, or a larger size of emerging adults than those observed for feeding on unlimited amounts of aphids. For the practice of biological control, we conclude that, if necessary (for example, in the case of temporary shortage or a lack of aphids in mass rearing facilities or in the case of preventing release of C. propinqua adults in greenhouses), C. propinqua larvae can be fed with grain moth eggs by replacing, mixing, or alternating with aphids, although this will inevitably result in a proportional decrease in pre-adult survival, rate of development, weight, and size of the emerging adults. On the other hand, even a minimal addition of aphids can have a substantial positive effect on larvae fed with grain moth eggs.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Collection Science of Insect Rearing Systems)
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Open AccessArticle
Target Enzymes of Origanum majorana and Rosmarinus officinalis Essential Oils in Black Cutworm (Agrotis ipsilon): In Vitro and In Silico Studies
by
Fatma S. Ahmed, Walid S. Helmy, Nawal Abdulaziz Alfuhaid and Moataz A. M. Moustafa
Insects 2024, 15(7), 483; https://doi.org/10.3390/insects15070483 - 28 Jun 2024
Abstract
In this study, in vitro and in silico approaches were employed to assess the toxicity of marjoram (Origanum majorana) and rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis) essential oils (EOs) to A. ipsilon larvae. The study determined the activities of ATPases in the
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In this study, in vitro and in silico approaches were employed to assess the toxicity of marjoram (Origanum majorana) and rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis) essential oils (EOs) to A. ipsilon larvae. The study determined the activities of ATPases in the larvae after treatment with the LC20 and LC70 of each EO. α-esterase and glutathione-S-transferase (GST) activities were also determined after treatment with LC10 and LC30 of each EO. Furthermore, molecular docking was employed to determine the binding affinity of terpinene-4-ol and α-pinene, the major constituents of O. majorana, and R. officinalis EOs, respectively, compared to the co-crystallized ligand of α-esterase, diethyl hydrogen phosphate (DPF). Toxicity assays revealed that O. majorana EO was more toxic than R. officinalis EO to the A. ipsilon larvae at 96 h post-treatment. However, the LC20 and LC70 of the latter significantly inhibited the activity of the Na+-K+ pump at almost all intervals. The same concentrations significantly inhibited the Mg2+/Ca2+-ATPase and Ca2+ pump at 96 h post-treatment. In contrast, O. majorana EO showed a variable effect on the Na+-K+ pump across different time intervals. On the other hand, LC10 and LC30 of both EOs showed varied effects on α-esterase and GST over time. Molecular docking revealed energy scores of −4.51 and −4.29 kcal/mol for terpinene-4-ol and α-pinene, respectively, compared to a score of −4.67 for PDF. Our study demonstrated the toxicity of the tested EOs to A. ipsilon, suggesting their potential efficacy as insecticides.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue New Formulations of Natural Substances against Insect Pests)
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Open AccessArticle
Leaf and Flower Extracts from the Dwarf Elder (Sambucus ebulus): Toxicity and Repellence against Cosmopolitan Mosquito-Borne Diseases Vectors
by
Priscilla Farina, Claudia Pisuttu, Camilla Tani, Stefano Bedini, Cristina Nali, Marco Landi, Giulia Lauria, Barbara Conti and Elisa Pellegrini
Insects 2024, 15(7), 482; https://doi.org/10.3390/insects15070482 - 28 Jun 2024
Abstract
As there has been no scientific evidence of the bioactivity of Sambucus ebulus (Adoxaceae) extracts against insects, we chemically characterized S. ebulus leaves and flowers extracted in methanol and water. The crude extracts, phenolic compounds, and amino acids isolated were tested as larvicides
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As there has been no scientific evidence of the bioactivity of Sambucus ebulus (Adoxaceae) extracts against insects, we chemically characterized S. ebulus leaves and flowers extracted in methanol and water. The crude extracts, phenolic compounds, and amino acids isolated were tested as larvicides against the fourth-instar larvae of Aedes albopictus and Culex pipiens (Diptera: Culicidae). To understand their mode of action, we evaluated the in vitro acetylcholinesterase (AChE) inhibitor effect of the crude extracts on the two mosquito larvae through a colorimetric method. Furthermore, the deterrent effect of the crude extracts against ovipositing Ae. albopictus females was assessed in the open field. Twelve phenylpropanoids and fourteen amino acids were detected in the extracts, with a prevalence of hydroxycinnamic acids and nonaromatic amino acids. The most toxic compound to Ae. albopictus larvae after 24 h was gallic acid, followed by the crude S. ebulus leaf extract; on Cx. pipiens, it was the crude flower extract. The AChE test showed higher inhibition on both mosquito species exerted by the leaf extract if compared to the flower extract, and it also deterred oviposition by Ae. albopictus females starting from the third day. The results indicated that vegetal extracts could effectively help in the integrated vector management of mosquitoes.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Biology, Ecology and Management of Mosquitoes Affecting Humans and Animals)
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Open AccessArticle
Ovicidal Toxicity and Morphological Changes in Housefly Eggs Induced by the Essential Oils of Star Anise and Lemongrass and Their Main Constituents
by
Hataichanok Passara, Sirawut Sittichok, Jirisuda Sinthusiri, Tanapoom Moungthipmalai, Cheepchanok Puwanard, Kouhei Murata and Mayura Soonwera
Insects 2024, 15(7), 481; https://doi.org/10.3390/insects15070481 - 27 Jun 2024
Abstract
This study attempted to evaluate the ovicidal activity of single-component formulations and combination formulations of lemongrass and star anise essential oils (EOs) and their main constituents against housefly eggs. The efficacies of the combinations were compared with those of single-component formulations and α-cypermethrin.
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This study attempted to evaluate the ovicidal activity of single-component formulations and combination formulations of lemongrass and star anise essential oils (EOs) and their main constituents against housefly eggs. The efficacies of the combinations were compared with those of single-component formulations and α-cypermethrin. Safety bioassays of all treatments and α-cypermethrin on non-target predators—guppy and molly—were conducted. Two combinations: 1% lemongrass EO + 1% trans-anethole and 1% star anise EO + 1% geranial, exhibited a strong ovicidal activity with an inhibition rate of 94.4 to 96.2%. They were 1.1 times as effective as α-cypermethrin. The two combinations also showed high synergistic activity compared to single-component formulations, with a high synergistic index and a high increased inhibition value of 37.4 to 57.7%. All EO treatments were benign for all non-target aquatic species with a high 50% lethal time (LT50) and safety index. In contrast, α-cypermethrin was highly toxic to them with a low LT50. The morphological abnormalities observed in housefly eggs at death were those such as the shrivelling of the eggs, aberrations and damage to the eggshells, hatching lines, aeropyles, plastron, and micropyle. The potential of these two combinations as a cypermethrin replacement is compelling.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Insect Vectors of Human and Zoonotic Diseases)
Open AccessArticle
Functional Analysis of Forkhead Transcription Factor Fd59a in the Spermatogenesis of Drosophila melanogaster
by
Ting Tang, Mengyuan Pei, Yanhong Xiao, Yingshan Deng, Yuzhen Lu, Xiao-Qiang Yu, Liang Wen and Qihao Hu
Insects 2024, 15(7), 480; https://doi.org/10.3390/insects15070480 - 27 Jun 2024
Abstract
Spermatogenesis is critical for insect reproduction and is regulated by many different genes. In this study, we found that Forkhead transcription factor Fd59a functions as a key factor in the spermatogenesis of Drosophila melanogaster. Fd59a contains a conversed Forkhead domain, and it
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Spermatogenesis is critical for insect reproduction and is regulated by many different genes. In this study, we found that Forkhead transcription factor Fd59a functions as a key factor in the spermatogenesis of Drosophila melanogaster. Fd59a contains a conversed Forkhead domain, and it is clustered to the FoxD subfamily with other FoxD members from some insect and vertebrate species. Mutations in Fd59a caused swelling in the apical region of the testis. More importantly, fewer mature sperm were present in the seminal vesicle of Fd59a mutant flies compared to the control flies, and the fertility of Fd59a2/2 mutant males was significantly lower than that of the control flies. Immunofluorescence staining showed that the homeostasis of the testis stem cell niche in Fd59a2/2 mutant and Fd59a RNAi flies was disrupted and the apoptosis of sperm bundles was increased. Furthermore, results from RNA sequencing and qRT-PCR suggested that Fd59a can regulate the expression of genes related to reproductive process and cell death. Taken together, our results indicated that Fd59a plays a key role in the spermatogenesis of Drosophila.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Insect Physiology, Reproduction and Development)
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Open AccessArticle
Influence of Soil Type and Moisture on Pupal Development of Chrysomya rufifacies (Macquart) at Two Different Temperatures
by
Tharindu B. Bambaradeniya, Paola A. Magni and Ian R. Dadour
Insects 2024, 15(7), 479; https://doi.org/10.3390/insects15070479 - 27 Jun 2024
Abstract
The present study investigates the developmental process of Chrysomya rufifacies (Macquart) pupae and their dependency on soil composition, moisture levels, and temperature changes. This research holds implications for forensic and veterinary applications, providing crucial insights for estimating minimum postmortem intervals and managing myiasis-causing
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The present study investigates the developmental process of Chrysomya rufifacies (Macquart) pupae and their dependency on soil composition, moisture levels, and temperature changes. This research holds implications for forensic and veterinary applications, providing crucial insights for estimating minimum postmortem intervals and managing myiasis-causing flies in diverse environments. Specifically, the study explores the impact of five moisture content levels in loam and sandy soils (0%, 20%, 40%, 60%, and 80%) on the pupal development of Ch. rufifacies under two distinct constant temperature regimes (24 ± 1 °C and 30 ± 1 °C). A significant correlation was observed between soil type and temperature regarding the time required to complete the pupal stages; however, moisture had no significant impact. Larvae exhibited varying survival rates across the two temperatures and five moisture levels in the two types of soils, particularly under extremely lower moisture conditions (0%) at 30 ± 1 °C, failing to progress to the pupariation stage. Additionally, growth parameters such as pupal length and width of the fully formed puparia were significantly impacted by temperature, soil type, and moisture level. Adult head width was systematically measured across different moisture levels and soil types, revealing distinct temperature-dependent responses. Furthermore, a sex-specific analysis highlighted that female Ch. rufifacies consistently displayed larger head widths and higher emergence rates compared to their male counterparts. This research enhances our understanding of the intricate interrelationship among three environmental variables: soil type, moisture level, and temperature, elucidating their collective impact on the pupation processes of dipterans.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Role of Insects in Human Society)
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Open AccessArticle
Resource Sharing between the Invasive Sirex noctilio and Native Woodborers and Beetles in Pinus Plantations
by
Ming Wang, Chenglong Gao, Ningning Fu, Lili Ren and Youqing Luo
Insects 2024, 15(7), 478; https://doi.org/10.3390/insects15070478 - 27 Jun 2024
Abstract
Sirex noctilio, a European woodwasp, occasionally shares resources with the native S. nitobei and other colonizers in northeast China. The impact of its coexistence on individual species remains unclear. Random sampling was conducted to assess the patterns and extent of insect co-colonization across
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Sirex noctilio, a European woodwasp, occasionally shares resources with the native S. nitobei and other colonizers in northeast China. The impact of its coexistence on individual species remains unclear. Random sampling was conducted to assess the patterns and extent of insect co-colonization across various spatial scales. Additionally, we analyzed wood sections to determine the density, adult size, and distribution of the two Sirex species. Spatial scales revealed negative associations (Asemum striatum and Phaenops sp.) and neutral ones (Ips acuminatus) between woodwasps and other co-colonizers. Clustering of woodwasps and Phaenops sp. occurred at a small scale (0–7.3 m). Regression analysis showed a positive correlation between the chance of woodwasp attacks and past attacks on the same host, with little impact from other colonization factors. The distribution and body size of S. noctilio within the tree appeared unaffected by S. nitobei’s presence. In the presence of S. noctilio, S. nitobei tended to lay eggs in damaged sections. At the stand level, the overall impact of S. noctilio on S. nitobei population density is likely positive because S. nitobei prefer weaker trees, a preference potentially influenced by initial attacks from S. noctilio on healthier hosts.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Insect Pest and Vector Management)
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Open AccessArticle
The Fumigation Toxicity of Three Benzoate Compounds against Phosphine-Susceptible and Phosphine-Resistant Strains of Rhyzopertha dominica and Sitophilus oryzae
by
Md Munir Mostafiz, Hwal-Su Hwang, Jun-Ran Kim, Bong-Su Kim and Kyeong-Yeoll Lee
Insects 2024, 15(7), 477; https://doi.org/10.3390/insects15070477 - 27 Jun 2024
Abstract
Phosphine (PH3) has been widely used as a fumigant in food storage, but increasing PH3 resistance in major pests makes finding alternative fumigants urgent. Methyl benzoate (MBe), a volatile organic compound regarded to be a food-safe natural product, has recently
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Phosphine (PH3) has been widely used as a fumigant in food storage, but increasing PH3 resistance in major pests makes finding alternative fumigants urgent. Methyl benzoate (MBe), a volatile organic compound regarded to be a food-safe natural product, has recently demonstrated significant toxicity against a variety of insect pests. This study is the first evaluation of the fumigation toxicity of three benzoate compounds, MBe, vinyl benzoate, and ethyl benzoate, against PH3-susceptible and PH3-resistant strains of Rhyzopertha dominica and Sitophilus oryzae. All strains were exposed to the compounds at concentrations up to 20 µL/1.5 L air for 24 h. Compared to vinyl benzoate and ethyl benzoate, MBe induced higher mortality rates in all strains at all concentrations. When food was made available, the lethal median concentration for MBe was 10–17-fold higher than when tested without food. Moreover, no significant differences were observed between the responses of the PH3-susceptible and PH3-resistant strains to the compounds. Notably, S. oryzae was more susceptible to MBe. In laboratory settings, MBe successfully controlled PH3-resistant strains of R. dominica and S. oryzae, making it a viable option for PH3-resistance management. Thus, MBe might be suitable for food security programs as an environmentally benign alternative fumigant.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Chemical and Non-chemical Control in Stored Product Protection: Modern Methods for Old Problems)
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Open AccessArticle
Insecticidal Activity of Allium sativum Essential Oil-Based Nanoemulsion against Spodoptera littoralis
by
Gaetano Giuliano, Orlando Campolo, Giuseppe Forte, Alberto Urbaneja, Meritxell Pérez-Hedo, Ilaria Latella, Vincenzo Palmeri and Giulia Giunti
Insects 2024, 15(7), 476; https://doi.org/10.3390/insects15070476 - 26 Jun 2024
Abstract
Spodoptera littoralis, commonly known as the Egyptian or African cotton leafworm, is a significant agricultural threat. It is widely distributed in Africa, Mediterranean Europe, and Middle Eastern countries. This polyphagous pest infests numerous crop plants across 44 families, including cotton, soybeans, alfalfa,
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Spodoptera littoralis, commonly known as the Egyptian or African cotton leafworm, is a significant agricultural threat. It is widely distributed in Africa, Mediterranean Europe, and Middle Eastern countries. This polyphagous pest infests numerous crop plants across 44 families, including cotton, soybeans, alfalfa, sweet potato, pepper, eggplant, tomato, maize, lettuce, strawberry, wheat, and hibiscus. The damage caused by S. littoralis on different plant organs, such as young leaves, shoots, stalks, bolls, buds, and fruits, often determines substantial product losses. Current control strategies predominantly rely on synthetic insecticides, which, despite their efficacy, have notable drawbacks, including insecticide resistance, environmental contamination, consumer concerns, and adverse effects on non-target organisms and beneficial insects. In response to these challenges, in this study, we developed and evaluated a garlic EO-based nanoemulsion with a high EO concentration (15%) and low surfactant content to mitigate the possible negative impact on plants and to enhance efficacy against S. littoralis larvae. Laboratory bioassays demonstrated promising larvicidal activity and reduced larval feeding, although some phytotoxicity symptoms were observed. This study underscores the potential of botanical insecticides as sustainable alternatives to synthetic chemicals, emphasizing the importance of balancing efficacy with environmental and ecological considerations in pest management strategies.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Chemical Toxicology and Insecticide Resistance on Insect Pests)
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Open AccessArticle
Unconventional Strategies for Aphid Management in Sorghum
by
Ivan Grijalva, Qing Kang, Daniel Flippo, Ajay Sharda and Brian McCornack
Insects 2024, 15(7), 475; https://doi.org/10.3390/insects15070475 - 26 Jun 2024
Abstract
Since the invasion of the sorghum aphid Melanaphis sorghi (Theobald), farmers in the sorghum (Sorghum bicolor L. Moench) production region in the Great Plains of the U.S. have faced significant crop damage and reduced yields. One widely used practice to aid in
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Since the invasion of the sorghum aphid Melanaphis sorghi (Theobald), farmers in the sorghum (Sorghum bicolor L. Moench) production region in the Great Plains of the U.S. have faced significant crop damage and reduced yields. One widely used practice to aid in managing sorghum aphids is pest monitoring, which often results in field-level insecticide applications when an economic threshold is reached. However, relying on this traditional management practice includes the application of insecticides to non-infested plants. To reduce insecticide usage in sorghum, we proposed spraying individual plants when aphids are present or absent compared to traditional spraying based on a standard economic threshold using field replicate plots over two summer seasons. The experimental results of this study indicated fewer aphids in plots managed with an economic threshold, followed by randomly sprayed and plant-specific treatments compared with the untreated control treatment. Therefore, compared with traditional management, those treatments can be alternative strategies for managing aphids on sorghum within our field plot study.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Integrated Pest Management in Agricultural Crops and Forest Ecosystems)
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Open AccessArticle
How Climate Warming Influences the Phenology of Grapholita molesta (Busck, 1916) (Lepidoptera: Tortricidae) in China: Insight from Long-Term Historical Data
by
Haotian Bian, Wenzhuo Li, Shengjun Yu, Jianxiang Mao, Yongcong Hong, Yunzhe Song and Pumo Cai
Insects 2024, 15(7), 474; https://doi.org/10.3390/insects15070474 - 25 Jun 2024
Abstract
Grapholita molesta (Busck, 1916), a significant pest affecting various fruits such as pears, apples, peaches, etc., is highly adaptable to changing temperatures. However, the phenological response mechanism of this pest to climate warming remains unclear. To address this issue, we collected population dynamics
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Grapholita molesta (Busck, 1916), a significant pest affecting various fruits such as pears, apples, peaches, etc., is highly adaptable to changing temperatures. However, the phenological response mechanism of this pest to climate warming remains unclear. To address this issue, we collected population dynamics data of G. molesta in China over the years along with corresponding climate data. We analyzed five phenological indexes: the first, end, and peak occurrence dates of contemporary adults as well as the first and peak occurrence dates of overwintering adults in China. Results revealed an upward trend in the annual average temperature and average temperature of the four seasons in regions infested by G. molesta in eastern, northeastern, northwestern, northern, and southwestern China from 1980 to 2020. Notably, the population peak date of overwintering adults in northeastern and eastern China significantly advanced along with the first occurrence date and the population peak date of overwintering adults in northern China. Additionally, the population peak date of contemporary adults in northwestern China significantly advanced. However, the end occurrence date of contemporary adults in northern China was significantly delayed, as was the first occurrence date of overwintering adults in northwestern China. Furthermore, our study demonstrated spatial heterogeneity in the phenological response of G. molesta to climate warming across China. This study elucidates the phenological response of G. molesta to climate warming, offering valuable insights for predicting future pest infestations and informing adaptive pest management strategies in fruit tree cultivation.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Insect Pest and Vector Management)
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Open AccessArticle
Insight into Olfactory Learning, Memory, and Mortality of Apis mellifera jemenitica after Exposure to Acetamiprid Insecticide
by
Mohamedazim I. B. Abuagla, Javaid Iqbal, Hael S. A. Raweh and Abdulaziz S. Alqarni
Insects 2024, 15(7), 473; https://doi.org/10.3390/insects15070473 - 25 Jun 2024
Abstract
The honey bee, a significant crop pollinator, encounters pesticides through various routes of exposure during foraging and flower visitation. Considering the potential threat of pesticide poisoning, the indigenous Saudi bee Apis mellifera jemenitica is susceptible to the risks associated with acetamiprid, a neonicotinoid
[...] Read more.
The honey bee, a significant crop pollinator, encounters pesticides through various routes of exposure during foraging and flower visitation. Considering the potential threat of pesticide poisoning, the indigenous Saudi bee Apis mellifera jemenitica is susceptible to the risks associated with acetamiprid, a neonicotinoid insecticide. This study investigates the acetamiprid-induced effects on the survival, olfactory learning, and memory formation of A. m. jemenitica through two exposure routes: topical application and oral ingestion. Field-realistic and serially diluted concentrations (100, 50, 25, and 10 ppm) of acetamiprid led to notable mortality at 4, 12, 24, and 48 h after treatment, with peak mortality observed at 24 h and 48 h for both exposure routes. Bee mortality was concentration-dependent, increasing with the rising concentration of acetamiprid at the tested time intervals. Food consumption following oral exposure exhibited a concentration-dependent pattern, steadily decreasing with increasing concentrations of acetamiprid. Oral exposure resulted in a substantially higher cumulative mortality (55%) compared to topical exposure (15%), indicating a significant disparity in bee mortality between the two exposure routes. The 24 h post-treatment LC50 values for acetamiprid were 160.33 and 12.76 ppm for topical application and oral ingestion, respectively. The sublethal concentrations (LC10, LC20, and LC30) of acetamiprid were 15.23, 34.18, and 61.20 ppm, respectively, following topical exposure, and 2.85, 4.77, and 6.91 ppm, respectively, following oral exposure. The sublethal concentrations of acetamiprid significantly decreased learning during the 2nd–3rd conditioning trials and impaired memory formation at 2, 12, and 24 h following both topical and oral exposure routes, compared to the control bees. Notably, the sublethal concentrations were equally effective in impairing bee learning and memory. Taken together, acetamiprid exposure adversely affected bee survival, hindered learning, and impaired the memory retention of learned tasks.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Healthy and Sustainable Beekeeping)
Open AccessArticle
Evaluating the Efficacy of Active Ingredients Used in Roach Baits against Small Hive Beetle (Aethina tumida) and Their Safety to Honey Bees (Apis mellifera)
by
Julia St. Amant, Amber Bisiau and Cameron Jack
Insects 2024, 15(7), 472; https://doi.org/10.3390/insects15070472 - 25 Jun 2024
Abstract
Beekeepers need new treatment options for controlling small hive beetles (Aethina tumida), a devastating honey bee (Apis mellifera) pest. For many years, commercial beekeepers in the U.S. have used gel roach baits off-label as a method for treating SHBs.
[...] Read more.
Beekeepers need new treatment options for controlling small hive beetles (Aethina tumida), a devastating honey bee (Apis mellifera) pest. For many years, commercial beekeepers in the U.S. have used gel roach baits off-label as a method for treating SHBs. Herein, we evaluated the acute toxicity of active ingredients commonly found in gel roach baits, including abamectin, clothianidin, hydramethylnon, fipronil, and indoxacarb through topical and oral routes of exposure against SHBs and honey bees. Additionally, coumaphos, the active ingredient of the only registered in-hive control treatment for SHBs, was evaluated to provide a comparison to the gel roach bait active ingredients. Fipronil was the most toxic compound to SHBs topically (LD50 = 0.23 ng/SHB) and through pollen (LC50 = 0.06 µg/g pollen). Fipronil (LD50 = 0.31 ng/honey bee) had a selectivity ratio of 1.3, suggesting that it is more toxic to SHBs than it is to honey bees, but only to a small degree. Abamectin, clothianidin, hydramethylnon, and indoxacarb had a higher toxicity to honey bees than to SHBs through topical exposure. Our results suggest that gel roach baits and their active ingredients are toxic to honey bees and pose a serious risk to colony safety if used as in-hive treatments.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Healthy and Sustainable Beekeeping)
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Graphical abstract
Open AccessArticle
Zoonotic Cycle of American Trypanosomiasis in an Endemic Region of the Argentine Chaco, Factors That Influenced a Paradigm Shift
by
Andrea Gómez-Bravo, Sebastián Cirignoli, Diana Wehrendt, Alejandro Schijman, Cielo M. León, María Flores-Chaves, Javier Nieto, Troy J. Kieran, Marcelo Abril and Felipe Guhl
Insects 2024, 15(7), 471; https://doi.org/10.3390/insects15070471 - 25 Jun 2024
Abstract
Trypanosoma cruzi, the causative agent of Chagas disease (American trypanosomiasis), is a highly complex zoonosis that is present throughout South America, Central America, and Mexico. The transmission of this disease is influenced by various factors, including human activities like deforestation
[...] Read more.
Trypanosoma cruzi, the causative agent of Chagas disease (American trypanosomiasis), is a highly complex zoonosis that is present throughout South America, Central America, and Mexico. The transmission of this disease is influenced by various factors, including human activities like deforestation and land use changes, which may have altered the natural transmission cycles and their connection to the environment. In this study conducted in the Argentine Chaco region, we examined the transmission dynamics of T. cruzi by collecting blood samples from wild and domestic animals, as well as triatomine bugs from human dwellings, across five sites of varying anthropic intervention. Samples were analyzed for T. cruzi infection via qPCR, and we additionally examined triatomines for bloodmeal analysis via NGS amplicon sequencing. Our analysis revealed a 15.3% infection rate among 20 wild species (n = 123) and no T. cruzi presence in 9 species of domestic animals (n = 1359) or collected triatomines via qPCR. Additionally, we found chicken (34.28%), human (21.59%), and goat (19.36%) as the predominant bloodmeal sources across all sites. These findings suggest that anthropic intervention and other variables analyzed may have directly impacted the spillover dynamics of T. cruzi’s sylvatic cycle and potentially reduced its prevalence in human habitats.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Insect Vectors of Human and Zoonotic Diseases)
Open AccessArticle
Do Phagostimulants, Alone or Combined with Ammonium Acetate, Di-Ammonium Phosphate, and Acetic Acid, Effectively Attract Both Sexes of Peach Fruit Flies, Bactrocera zonata (Diptera: Tephritidae)?: Insights from Laboratory and Field Bioassays
by
Muhammad Junaid Nisar, Muhammad Dildar Gogi, Asim Abbasi, Bilal Atta, Qudsia Yousafi, Inzamam Ul Haq, Mishal Subhan, Hayssam M. Ali, Waleed A. A. Alsakkaf and Mohamed S. Basiouny
Insects 2024, 15(7), 470; https://doi.org/10.3390/insects15070470 - 24 Jun 2024
Abstract
Laboratory and field assays of three sets of experiments were conducted to evaluate the impact of different phagostimulants alone and in combination with other phagostimulant lure sources, such as ammonium acetate, DAP, and acetic acid, on the attractancy of both sexes of B.
[...] Read more.
Laboratory and field assays of three sets of experiments were conducted to evaluate the impact of different phagostimulants alone and in combination with other phagostimulant lure sources, such as ammonium acetate, DAP, and acetic acid, on the attractancy of both sexes of B. zonata. In the first experiment, the laboratory olfactometer study revealed that out of eleven phagostimulants, banana, mulberry, mango, guava, molasses, and protein hydrolysate exhibited moderate attractancy (15.2–60.2%) to B. zonata. Unexpectedly, banana and protein hydrolysate were demonstrated to be highly attractive phagostimulants for starved female B. zonata (53.6% and 60.2%, respectively). In the field study, none of the tested phagostimulants exhibited high attractancy; however, banana, mulberry, protein hydrolysate, guava, mango, and molasses demonstrated moderate attractancy (5.6–35.6%) to B. zonata. In the second experiment, out of five phagostimulant-mixtures, phagostimulant-mixture-4 proved highly attractive (40.5–68.6% and 45.5–51.2%), followed by phagostimulant-mixture-3, which proved to be moderately attractive (17.0–22.5% and 28.4–36.1%) to B. zonata in olfactometer and field studies, respectively. In the third experiment, out of five phagostimulant-AdMixtures, phagostimulant-AdMixture-4 demonstrated strong attractiveness in the olfactometer (41.6–68.7%) and field studies (52.7–58.7%) for B. zonata, while the rest of the AdMixtures demonstrated moderate to no attractiveness for B. zonata. So, phagostimulant-AdMixture-4 with GF-120 could be used in the development of a phagostimulant bait station which attracts the maximum B. zonata population and ultimately provides pest-free fruits to the farmers
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Fruit Flies (Diptera: Tephritidae): Behavior, Ecology and Integrated Management)
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Open AccessArticle
Insecticide Efficacy of Green Synthesis Silver Nanoparticles on Diaphorina citri Kuwayama (Hemiptera: Liviidae)
by
Vidal Zavala-Zapata, Sonia N. Ramírez-Barrón, Maricarmen Sánchez-Borja, Luis A. Aguirre-Uribe, Juan Carlos Delgado-Ortiz, Sergio R. Sánchez-Peña, Juan Mayo-Hernández, Josué I. García-López, Jesus A. Vargas-Tovar and Agustín Hernández-Juárez
Insects 2024, 15(7), 469; https://doi.org/10.3390/insects15070469 - 23 Jun 2024
Abstract
Diaphorina citri Kuwayama (Hemiptera: Liviidae) is a vector of Liberibacter asiaticus Jagoueix et al. and Liberibacter americanus Teixeira et al., causal agents of the critical yellow dragon disease or Huanglongbing (HLB), which affects citrus production worldwide. Recently, green synthetic nanoparticles have emerged as a potential
[...] Read more.
Diaphorina citri Kuwayama (Hemiptera: Liviidae) is a vector of Liberibacter asiaticus Jagoueix et al. and Liberibacter americanus Teixeira et al., causal agents of the critical yellow dragon disease or Huanglongbing (HLB), which affects citrus production worldwide. Recently, green synthetic nanoparticles have emerged as a potential alternative to control of agricultural insect pests. The insecticide effect of silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) on 2nd instar nymphs of D. citri under laboratory and greenhouse conditions was evaluated. Mortality was recorded 24, 48, and 72 h after application on D. citri nymphs under both laboratory and greenhouse conditions. The laboratory results showed that AgNPs caused 97.84 and 100% mortality at 32 and 64 ppm, respectively, 72 h after treatment. In the greenhouse, AgNPs caused 78.69 and 80.14% mortality using 64 and 128 ppm 72 h after application. This research is the first to evaluate the green synthesis AgNPs on D. citri and are a promising strategy to control the pest.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Insect Pest and Vector Management)
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Open AccessArticle
Unveiling the Microbiome Diversity in Telenomus (Hymenoptera: Scelionidae) Parasitoid Wasps
by
Mayra A. Gómez-Govea, Kenzy I. Peña-Carillo, Gabriel Ruiz-Ayma, Antonio Guzmán-Velasco, Adriana E. Flores, María de Lourdes Ramírez-Ahuja and Iram Pablo Rodríguez-Sánchez
Insects 2024, 15(7), 468; https://doi.org/10.3390/insects15070468 - 23 Jun 2024
Abstract
Bacterial symbionts in insects constitute a key factor for the survival of the host due to the benefits they provide. Parasitoid wasps are closely associated with viruses, bacteria, and fungi. However, the primary symbionts and their functions are not yet known. This study
[...] Read more.
Bacterial symbionts in insects constitute a key factor for the survival of the host due to the benefits they provide. Parasitoid wasps are closely associated with viruses, bacteria, and fungi. However, the primary symbionts and their functions are not yet known. This study was undertaken to determine the gut microbiota of six species of the Telenomus genus: T. alecto (Crawford), T. sulculus Johnson, T. fariai Costa Lima, T. remus Nixon, T. podisi Ashmead, and T. lobatus Johnson & Bin. Wasp parasitoids were collected from their hosts in different locations in Mexico. DNA was extracted from gut collection, and sequencing of bacterial 16S rRNA was carried out in Illumina® MiSeq™. Among the six species of wasps, results showed that the most abundant phylum were Proteobacteria (82.3%), Actinobacteria (8.1%), and Firmicutes (7.8%). The most important genera were Delftia and Enterobacter. Seventeen bacteria species were found to be shared among the six species of wasps. The associate microbiota will help to understand the physiology of Telenomus to promote the use of these wasp parasitoids in the management of insect pests and as potential biomarkers to target new strategies to control pests.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Insect Behavior and Pathology)
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Edible Insects as Feed and Food: Opportunities and Challenges
Topic Editors: Rifat Ullah Khan, Shabana NazDeadline: 31 July 2024
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