Plant extracts can be used as an alternative to synthetic insecticides for the control of insect pests. Based on this knowledge, juvenomimetic and insecticidal activities of n-hexane extracts of the aerial parts of Senecio salignus DC. (Asteraceae) and Salvia microphylla Kunth (Lamiaceae) collected in Mexico were evaluated against 1st instar larvae of Spodoptera frugiperda Smith & Abbot (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae). Senecio salignus extract showed insecticidal activity at 500 ppm, resulting in larval mortality of 52.5% and pupal mortality of 62.5%. Salvia microphylla extract at the same concentration caused larval mortality of 65.0% and pupal mortality of 82.5%. The LC50 was 440 ppm for S. salignus extract and 456 ppm for S. microphylla extract based on the total larval period. The juvenomimetic activity of S. salignus extract at 500 ppm increased the duration of the larval period to 17.3 d and of the pupal period to 1.4 d. It also reduced pupal weight by 34.7% with respect to the control (241 mg). For S. microphylla extract at 500 ppm, the duration of the larval and pupal periods were increased by 2.0 and 12.1 d, respectively, and the pupal weight was reduced by 14.1% with respect to the control (243 mg). The major compounds of S. salignus extract were γ-sitosterol, palmitic acid, lupeol, and β-amyrin, and those of S. microphylla extract were oleic acid, γ-sitosterol, (Z,Z,Z)-9,12,15-octadecatrien-1-ol, and palmitic acid. These results indicate that both extracts have potential to be used to control S. frugiperda due to their juvenomimetic and insecticidal activities.

To understand the chemical interaction of Diatraea magnifactella Dyar (Lepidoptera: Crambidae) with its conspecifics, the aim of the present paper was to describe and determine the effect of age on the duration of pre-courtship behavior in the female of D. magnifactella. To do so, we established a colony of D. magnifactella in the laboratory and placed 60 newly emerged females individually in 15 × 15 cm (height × width) acrylic cases. Then, we observed the behavior and effect of age on the duration of pre-courtship in the females for 11 d. The pre-courtship behavior of D. magnifactella was described based on the pre-courtship behavior of Diatraea considerata Heinrich, whereas the relationship between the duration of the pre-courtship behavior and the age of the female was determined through a non-linear regression analysis. The pre-courtship behavior of D. magnifactella females began with the separation of the wings from the body and the rhythmic movement of the antennae. After this, the female rotated its body on the surface where it was located, flexed its body, and exposed its sex gland. Pre-courtship started 6 h after the onset of darkness. It lasted longest on days 3 to 6 after it began. The duration decreased from day 5 until it ended on day 10. This pattern indicated that the age of the female plays a negative role in the duration of the pre-courtship activity in D. magnifactella.

The blue-fronted dancer, Argia apicalis Say (Odonata: Coenagrionidae), is an ecologically vagile species inhabiting both pond and stream environments of the eastern United States. Variation in color pattern in A. apicalis occurs between a southeastern United States morph and a south Florida morph. Southeastern populations often are described as “typical” with a predominantly bright blue pterothorax and narrow black humeral stripe, whereas the southern Florida populations are “atypical,” with a bright blue pterothorax and larger, wider black humeral stripes. Variability in color pattern has caused some researchers to question the true identity of the Florida morph. This study used color pattern and mitochondrial cytochromeb sequences to test the species identity of the 2 A. apicalis geographical color morphs. Mitochondrial cytochrome-b gene sequences showed that there is a single haplotype, showing no divergence between individuals, populations, or regions. This study is the first to test if color pattern variation is correlated with molecular characters within this species.

Stink bugs (Hemiptera: Pentatomidae) are economic pests of cotton. Our specific objective for this 3 yr study was to use traps baited with Euschistus pheromone to monitor stink bugs in habitats near cotton and peanut field edges in Georgia, USA, before, during, and after crop growth and development. Plant-feeding stink bugs captured in traps included Euschistus servus (Say), E. tristigmus (Say), Chinavia hilaris (Say), Nezara viridula (L.), Hymenarchys nervosa (Say), E. ictericus (L.), Thyanta custator custator (F.), E. quadrator Rolston, Brochymena quadripustulata F., Proxys punctulatus (Palisot), and Oebalus pugnax (F.). Two predatory stink bug species, Podisus maculiventris (Say) and Euthyrhynchus floridanus (L.), also were captured. Euschistus servus was the predominant species captured, followed by E. tristigmus. In both cotton and peanut, traps with a pyramid-shaped base captured significantly more E. servus and E. tristigmus nymphs and adults than traps with a bamboo pole base, suggesting that the pyramid base provides a broader platform for nymphs to crawl into the insect-collecting device at the top of the trap and for adults to land. Euschistus servus, E. tristigmus, C. hilaris, and N. viridula were captured in traps before crop production, during the time stink bugs were detected in peanut and/or cotton, and after crop senescence or harvest at which time some overwintering E. servus and E. tristigmus adults were captured. Sustainable management strategies, including using pheromone-baited traps to capture and kill stink bugs, have the potential to disrupt the cycle of stink bug population growth and dispersal in farmscapes.

A new erythroneurine genus, Dentaneura gen. nov., and a new species, Dentaneura henanensis sp. nov. (Hemiptera: Cicadellidae: Typhlocybinae) from Henan Province, China, is described. Detailed morphological descriptions and illustrations of the new genus and species and a key to the genera of Erythroneurini of China are given.

There are many butterfly and moth species in Mexico whose possible areas of distribution are still largely unknown. Some are endemic and rare but are not yet protected by the Norma Oficial Mexicana NOM-059-SEMARNAT-2010 (Environmental protection—Native species of flora and fauna from Mexico). An example is the moth Coreura albicosta Draudt (Lepidoptera: Erebidae: Ctenuchina), a rare and apparently endemic species known from southern Mexican cloud forest habitats. To document the distribution of this species, ArcView was used to map its known distribution in Mexico. Maxent models were used to predict C. albicosta's potential distribution. Results indicate that C. albicosta is distributed exclusively in high altitudes along mountainous cloud forests of the Sierra Madre Oriental and the mountains of Chiapas. The Maxent model proved to be highly reliable (AUC = 0.984), and the ability to predict the excluded grid in every model was high (88.9%). Environmental variables with a large contribution to the model were vegetation type and mean annual precipitation. Only 1.0% of the species' known distribution and 6.8% of the potentially favorable grids coincided with the existing network of spaces protected in Mexico. Results emphasize the need to promote the conservation of this endemic cloud forest species and support the proposed inclusion of C. albicosta in the Mexican legislation for species protection with the purpose of conservation.

The aim of the current study was to evaluate the effectiveness of 5 food lures for fruit fly monitoring in citrus orchards in the municipality of Pinto Bandeira, Rio Grande do Sul State, Brazil, from Nov 2012 to Oct 2013. Food lures included: 1) CeraTrap™ (undiluted), 2) Torula™ (6 tablets of 3 g/L), 3) BioAnastrepha (5%), 4) 10% corn syrup, and 5) 25% red grape juice (control). The lures were replaced weekly with the exception of CeraTrap™, which was replaced every 45 d. McPhail traps were baited with 300 mL of each food lure, and the traps were placed 10 m apart at the edge of the orchard. Traps were rotated weekly to prevent any bias in treatment location. Anastrepha fraterculus (Wiedemann) (Diptera: Tephritidae) was the species with the greatest mean number of fruit fly adults per trap per day (FTD), with 7.8, 2.8, 2.6, 1.7, and 0.9 FTD for the food lures CeraTrap™, Torula™, BioAnastrepha, corn syrup, and grape juice, respectively. CeraTrap™ lured A. fraterculus in amounts above the economic threshold (0.5 FTD) over 73% of the study period, whereas Torula™, BioAnastrepha, corn syrup, and grape juice lured A. fraterculus in amounts above the control level for 28, 20, 11, and 6% of the study period, respectively. Thus, the hydrolyzed protein CeraTrap™ showed the highest efficacy for fruit fly monitoring in the citrus orchard.

A new species of Proantrusa Tobias, 1998 (Braconidae: Alysiinae: Dacnusini), P. tridentata sp. nov., is described and illustrated from northwestern China (Ningxia). The genus Proantrusa Tobias is newly recorded for China.

Baseline surveys for ants were conducted in hydrologically disturbed and undisturbed preserves in the western Everglades in Collier County, Florida, by using baited vials and sweep nets. The 50 sampling sites were selected based on 1) major plant communities and 2) whether or not the site was located in an area that is expected to be affected by the hydrologic restoration of Picayune Strand State Forest. Forty-eight species were collected, of which 33 were native and 15 were exotic. The surveys revealed that approximately half of the species identified were associated with specific plant communities. As these surveys were site specific and can be repeated at a later date, shifts in the distribution and frequency of the ant species can be used to assess successional changes in the plant communities resulting from the hydrologic restoration of the Picayune Strand State Forest and adjacent preserves.

The Chinese species of the genus Ablerus Howard (Hymenoptera: Chalcidoidea: Azotidae) are recorded, including 10 described species, Ablerus atomon (Walker), A. calvus (Huang), A. chionaspidis (Howard), A. connectens Silvestri , A. floccosus (Huang), A. macrochaeta Silvestri, A. perspeciosus Girault, A. pexus (Huang), A. promacchiae Viggiani & Ren, A. williamsi (Annecke & Insley), and 1 new species, Ablerus fasciarius Wang, Huang & Polaszek sp. nov. A key to the females of Chinese Ablerus species is provided.

A new tribe Bucini trib. nov. is erected for the genus Buca Walker, 1858 in Tropiduchidae (Elicinae), with a discussion of tribal features with respect to the New World fauna. Two new species of Buca are described from Ecuador (Buca asymmetrospinata sp. nov.) and French Guiana (Buca truncoptera sp. nov.). Keys to Buca species and to higher taxa of New World Tropiduchidae are provided. Male and female genitalia of Buca species are illustrated for the first time.

Two species of Calophya (Hemiptera: Calophyidae) were previously reported from Mexico: Calophya dicksoni Jensen associated with Fouquieria columnaris Kellogg ex Curran (Ericales: Fouquieriaceae) and Calophya schini Tuthill associated with Schinus molle L. (Sapindales: Anacardiaceae). Here, a 3rd species, Calophya spondiadis sp. nov. from hog plum, Spondias purpurea L. (Sapindales: Anacardiaceae), is described and illustrated. The immatures do not induce galls on the host. They are polyphenic with respect to the presence or absence of long asperate processes on head, thorax, wing pads, and abdomen which is unusual and so far known only for Calophya californica Schwarz. The original description of C. dicksoni is supplemented and the current status of C. schini is discussed.

We conducted a survey of the species of frugivorous flies (Tephritidae and Lonchaeidae), their hosts, and their parasitoids found on Ilha de Santana, Amapá State, Brazilian Amazon. We also assessed host plant use by Bactrocera carambolae Drew & Hancock. Fruits were collected from various plant species, at 30 d intervals, from Jan to Jul 2015. In total, 149 fruit samples were collected (3,142 fruits, 76.3 kg), belonging to 20 plant species (9 native and 11 introduced) in 13 botanical families. Infestation by fruit flies was observed in 86 samples (11 species in 8 botanical families). Specimens of 5 species of Tephritidae and 4 species of Lonchaeidae fruit flies were obtained, as well as 3 species of braconid parasitoids. The most important fruit fly species on Ilha de Santana are: B. carambolae, for being a species of quarantine importance; and Anastrepha obliqua (Macquart) and Anastrepha striata Schiner, for infesting plant species of local socioeconomic importance. Averrhoa carambola (Oxalidaceae), Eugenia uniflora (Myrtaceae), Malpighia emarginata (Moc. & Sesse) ex DC. (Malpighiaceae), and Psidium guajava (Myrtaceae) are the host plants responsible for sustaining the population of B. carambolae.

Gonatopus sandovalae sp. nov. (Hymenoptera: Dryinidae) is described from Los Rios Province (Ecuador). Gonatopus sandovalae can be distinguished from the related Neotropical species G. canadensis (Olmi) and G. malkini (Olmi) by the different sculpture of the scutum (with 2 lateral pointed apophyses in G. sandovalae; without lateral pointed apophyses in G. canadensis and G. malkini).

Gynaikothrips uzeli (Zimmermann) (Thysanoptera: Phlaeothripidae) adults induce permanent leaf folds on Ficus benjamina L. (Moraceae), inside which they feed and reproduce. Range expansion of G. uzeli in North America was accompanied by Thripastichus gentilei (del Guercio) (Hymenoptera: Eulophidae). The objectives of this study were to determine the life stage(s) of G. uzeli parasitized by T. gentilei, the emergence period of T. gentilei from parasitized thrips, and the adult longevity of T. gentilei. We also determined the development time for both parasitoid and host at a constant temperature. Leaf folds representing only 1 life stage of G. uzeli were challenged with T. gentilei adults to determine life stage susceptibility. In a growth chamber at 30 °C, we recorded the development time for the thrips host and observed the emergence period of T. gentilei from thrips. Wasps were provisioned with liquid diets to determine longevity. Development of G. uzeli required 10.3 d at 30 °C with successful parasitism of only 1st and 2nd instars of the thrips. Wasps emerged from thrips about 20 d after their exposure to females and could survive in the laboratory for about 3 d longer when provisioned with sugar solution relative to water only or starved wasps. We concluded that T. gentilei, released for control of Gynaikothrips ficorum (Marchal) (Thysanoptera: Phlaeothripidae) is now also using G. uzeli as a host. This larval parasitoid takes about twice as long as G. uzeli to develop, yet adults can survive up to 16 d when a carbohydrate source is present. Thripastichus gentilei should complement the activity of other natural enemies attacking Gynaikothrips species on Ficus. However, the development rate of G. uzeli and its potential interactions with Montandoniola confusa Streito & Matocq (Hemiptera: Anthocoridae) may limit the ability of T. gentilei to establish on plants wherever this anthocorid is present.

Rhopalosiphum padi (L.) (Hemiptera: Aphididae) is a devastating pest of wheat worldwide. Beta-cypermethrin is widely used to control piercingsucking pest insects, including R. padi. Field-applied insecticides gradually descend to sublethal concentrations with the passage of time. Sublethal concentrations of insecticide may affect physiology and behavior of pests, potentially leading to pest resurgence. This study investigated potential sublethal effects of beta-cypermethrin and indoxacarb on an experimental population of R. padi. Indoxacarb is a relatively new pesticide with a mechanism of action that is different from that of beta-cypermethrin. The leaf dip method was used to test the acute toxicity of these insecticides to adult aphids, and life tables were constructed to analyze the effects of 2 sublethal concentrations of beta-cypermethrin (B-LC10, B-LC30) and indoxacarb (I-LC10, I-LC30) on the development and reproduction of the F0 and F1 generations of R. padi. Results of these analyses showed that sublethal concentrations of the 2 insecticides can significantly reduce the fecundity and longevity of the F0 generation. Also, sublethal concentrations of both insecticides prolonged the development of nymphs in the subsequent generation. Life table parameters demonstrated that the evaluated insecticides at sublethal concentrations did not stimulate aphid reproductive potential. This information could be important to enable a more effective use of these insecticides in management programs for R. padi.

Growth, oviposition, and survival rates of the bromeliad-eating weevil Metamasius callizona (Chevrolat) (Coleoptera: Curculionidae) were measured at a range of temperatures to determine optimal temperature range, lower and upper development thresholds, and degree-days needed for development of immature stages. Optimal temperature range for growth was 25 to 30 °C and for oviposition 22 to 33 °C. The lower development threshold was 13 °C and upper threshold about 35 °C. Development of the egg and larval stages required 518 degree-days, and from pupation to adult 140 degree-days. Adult weevils suffered higher mortality at 35 °C than at 25 or 16 °C. Typical winter conditions likely have at most a minimal effect on weevil populations in central Florida and no effect in southern Florida. As well, high summer temperatures could potentially cause weevil mortality due to heat stupor but, as with winter temperatures, the effects would be minimal. Extremely cold winters and extremely high summer temperatures may cause high weevil mortality, particularly in central Florida. Sea breezes on the east coast of Florida may create cooler habitats during the summer and therefore ameliorate mortality due to summer temperatures.

In Brazil, the forage species Brachiaria spp., Pennisetum purpureum (Schumacher), and Cynodon dactylon (L.) (Poaceae) are important components in the feed that is used to rear animals for meat and milk production. Aphids are among the insects that feed on these forage species and, at high population levels, greatly reduce the amount and quality of forage. Hence, the aim of this study was to determine the nutritional suitability of the forage species Brachiaria decumbens Stapf, C. dactylon, and P. purpureum for the aphids Sipha flava (Forbes), Rhopalosiphum maidis (Fitch), Hysteroneura setariae (Thomas), and Rhopalosiphum padi (L.) (Hemiptera: Aphididae). Nymphs, which were up to 24 h old, of the 4 aphid species were observed for a biological cycle (1 full generation) on the 3 species of forage. For each association between a species of plant and a species of aphid, 70 aphids were used to create the individual units. The number of instars and the duration and survival of each instar and nymphal stage were evaluated. Additionally, the longevity and the reproductive capacity were recorded for the adults of each aphid species, and a fertility table was prepared. These parameters of each aphid species were compared for each of the 3 species of forage supplied as food and for the identical forage. All aphid species completed their development cycles and produced offspring on all 3 species of forage. However, the duration, survival, and reproduction of the aphid species changed dependent on the nutritional suitability of the forage. For all of the aphid species, the forage P. purpureum provided the best conditions for population growth. When the aphid species were fed the identical forage, R. padi developed better and produced more offspring on all forage species. The 4 aphid species have the potential to be pests of P. purpureum, B. decumbens, and C. dactylon.

Few publications exist toward the identification of larval thrips. As a result, researchers and practitioners often are unable to report larval species data or may misinterpret what is a host plant when adults of multiple species are collected. Therefore, we conducted repetitive plant sampling and detailed examination of larvae with adults, which revealed morphological differences of some undescribed Frankliniella (Thysanoptera: Thripidae) larvae. The morphological differences were confirmed by non-destructive DNA extraction, PCR, and sequencing of the COI mitochondrial gene. A larva II morphological key to 7 Frankliniella species found in Florida is presented with new larval descriptions of 4 species.

The Asian citrus psyllid vectors bacteria responsible for a serious citrus disease known as huanglongbing (also known as citrus greening). Many research endeavors on huanglongbing are dependent on a steady supply of Asian citrus psyllid, which can be facilitated using laboratory or greenhouse colonies maintained on an Asian citrus psyllid host plant. The choice of a plant species may be influenced by the flushing characteristics of a genotype, particularly if the goal is to produce large numbers of psyllids. This is because Asian citrus psyllid is dependent on flush (new young leaves) for reproduction. To expedite rearing, plants can be trimmed to stimulate flush growth. We studied the flushing characteristics of 9 plant genotypes known to be highly susceptible to colonization by Asian citrus psyllid: Afraegle paniculata (Schumacher) Engl., Bergera koenigii L., Citrus aurantiifolia (Christm.) Swingle, C. macrophylla Wester, C. maxima (Burm.) Merr., C. medica L., C. reticulata Blanco, C. taiwanica Tanaka & Shimada, and Murraya paniculata (L.) Jack. (all: Rutaceae). When plants were trimmed at 7 mo after planting, the following produced the greatest number of flush shoots: B. koenigii, C. aurantiifolia, C. macrophylla, and M. paniculata. Pruning plants once or twice before a final trimming at 7 mo after planting did not increase the number of flush shoots produced per plant for any of the genotypes. The number of psyllids produced per flush shoot was assessed on 5 genotypes that produced good quantities of flush: B. koenigii, C. aurantiifolia, C. macrophylla, C. taiwanica, and M. paniculata. Although some significant differences among the genotypes were observed with respect to when new adults first began to emerge and when peak emergence occurred, the differences were relatively small (a day or two). During a winter experiment, numbers of psyllids produced per flush shoot were relatively small, but significantly greater numbers of new adults were produced on C. aurantiifolia than on C. taiwanica or M. paniculata. Greater numbers of adults per shoot were produced during warmer weather, with no significant differences among plant genotypes. Regardless of plant genotype or time of year and for reasons that were not clear, small percentages of adults developed wing deformities. There were no differences in sex ratio, and few differences in abdominal color, among Asian citrus psyllid reared on the tested plant genotypes.

The weeping fig thrips Gynaikothrips uzeli Zimmerman (Thysanoptera: Phlaeothripidae) is an invasive pest that is being spread via shipments of ornamental Ficus (Rosales: Moraceae). We tested 50 Ficus cultivars from 12 species for their suitability as hosts for G. uzeli under greenhouse conditions. Results showed that G. uzeli reproduced well only on F. benjamina L.; other species were much less suitable. Plants of F. benjamina sustained folded leaf galls in new growth within 2 to 3 d of being exposed to adult thrips. In subsequent tests, we noted some differences among 27 F. benjamina cultivars in terms of the degree of infestation (number of leaves galled) and reproductive output of G. uzeli over 1 to 2 generations. Plant variegation did neither affect the number of galled leaves nor the number of thrips recovered in our studies. Our results suggest that genetic variation exists among F. benjamina cultivars in resistance to G. uzeli infestation. Additionally, Ficus species other than F. benjamina may be substituted in cases where G. uzeli is potentially troublesome.

Aphis glycines Matsumura (Hemiptera: Aphididae), the soybean aphid, has become an important pest of soybeans, leading to significant yield losses in the United States. Host plant resistance is a viable alternative for managing A. glycines. The objectives of this study were to identify and categorize sources of resistance in soybean to A. glycines on genotypes from the United States and Brazil. An antixenosis assay was initially conducted with 8 genotypes to evaluate attractiveness to A. glycines. The selected soybean genotypes were further evaluated in a colonization assay to investigate the resistance of the genotypes at V1 (fully developed leaves at unifoliate node, 1st trifoliate leaf unrolled) and V3 (fully developed leaf at 2nd trifoliate node, 3rd trifoliate leaf unrolled) stages. An antibiosis assay was also conducted, in which multiple biological parameters of A. glycines were recorded. In the antixenosis assay, PI 200538, IAC 24, and IAC 17 genotypes were least attractive to adults of A. glycines, indicating moderate levels of antixenosis. The colonization assay showed that genotypes infested at the V3 stage had greater resistance when compared with the respective plants infested at the V1 stage. In addition, high levels of antibiosis to A. glycines were found in UX 2569-159, PI 200538, and PI 243540 genotypes. The identification of soybeans with resistance to A. glycines is of importance for the integrated pest management of this insect pest in the United States. Moreover, this research represents the first report on potential sources of resistance to A. glycines in soybeans from Brazil.

The Asian subterranean termite, Coptotermes gestroi (Wasmann) (Isoptera: Rhinotermitidae), was discovered on Grand Cayman Island in 2000 and, by 2014, had been recorded from 102 land-based localities. These data were used in a hierarchical cluster analysis to identify homogeneous clusters of sites to estimate separate introduction points on the island. Results suggest 4 separate introductions of C. gestroi to Grand Cayman by boat and 1 by land transport from other previously infested parts of the island. The infestations by boat could be either primary introductions (originating from another island) or secondary introductions (originating from other previously infested parts of Grand Cayman). An individual-based model was used to simulate non-anthropogenic spread of C. gestroi over Grand Cayman from 2014 to 2050. The model predicts that by 2050, most of the western part of Grand Cayman will likely be heavily infested by C. gestroi, whereas patches of unsuitable habitat restrict the expansion of the species over the central and eastern parts of the island. In the absence of further human introductions, it will likely take a century for C. gestroi to saturate the island by natural dispersal only. Based on detailed termite diversity surveys, we provide updated records for 14 termite species, collectively, on Grand Cayman, Little Cayman, and Cayman Brac.

Environmental factors are hypothesized to account for spatial and temporal differences in Florida in the abundance and distribution of the native thrips species Frankliniella bispinosa (Morgan) and the invasive Frankliniella occidentalis (Pergande) (Thysanoptera: Thripidae). Laboratory experiments were conducted at a constant temperature of 23 ± 1 °C to investigate the effects of humidity on the fecundity and egg incubation of F. bispinosa and F. occidentalis. Adult thrips were allowed to oviposit on green bean (Phaseolus vulgaris L.; Fabaceae) pods. Eggs were maintained at relative humidity treatment levels of 40 ± 5, 55 ± 5, 70 ± 5, and 80 ± 5%. Fecundity and time of egg hatch were determined every 12 h. Results showed that F. bispinosa had a higher fecundity and a shorter time to egg hatch compared with F. occidentalis at higher humidity levels. These results partially explained patterns of abundance and distribution of F. bispinosa and F. occidentalis in Florida. When relative humidity was high in summer and fall, populations of F. bispinosa were abundant and population levels of F. occidentalis were very low. Management strategies for F. bispinosa and F. occidentalis can be improved to accommodate the biological differences.

Due to its role in the transmission of Candidatus Liberibacter asiaticus, a pathogen associated with huanglongbing, a catastrophic disease of citrus in the world, Diaphorina citri Kuwayama (Hemiptera: Liviidae) has become a very dangerous invasive pest. To contribute to increasing alternatives for its management, we evaluated against D. citri adults the pathogenicity of conidia and blastospores of 8 Mexican strains of the entomopathogenic fungus Hirsutella citriformis Speare (Hypocreales: Ophiocordycipitaceae). Furthermore, we conducted tests with non-target insects that included the predators Hippodamia convergens Guérin-Méneville (Coleoptera: Coccinellidae) and Chrysoperla rufilabris (Burmeister) (Neuroptera: Chrysopidae). Experiments in the laboratory included the application of the fungus by contact and through liquid sprays. Strains were collected from citrus areas of Mexico. They were grown in PDAY media and applied at 1 × 10⁶ conidia per mL. All bioassays were conducted under controlled conditions at 26 ± 1 °C, a 16:8 h L:D photoperiod, and 76 ± 4% RH and maintained during 26 d after inoculation. Tests with D. citri were performed 3 times at different dates. Mean mortality by H. citriformis strains on D. citri adults ranged from 82 to 92%; INIFAP-Hir-1 strain produced the highest rate. Sprayed conidia produced 69% mortality. Use of sprayed blastospores caused 32 to 49 % mortality. LC50 obtained for INIFAP-Hir-1 strain was 3.4 × 10⁶ conidia per mL. IB-Hir-1, IB-Hir-2, INIFAP-Hir-1, and INIFAP-Hir-2 strains inoculated by contact on H. convergens adults caused 9 to 11% mortality; in larvae of C. rufilabris, mortality ranged from 19 to 25%. In both tests, there were no statistical differences when compared with the untreated control. Unlike D. citri, all dead predator specimens showed absence of H. citriformis mycosis. The results suggest potential for the integration of this fungus in the management of D. citri. Data obtained from the predators could support safe use of this biological control agent.

Nephaspis oculata (Blatchley) (Coleoptera: Coccinellidae) is a predatory lady beetle that has been studied for biological control of whiteflies. Here, we studied the feeding rate and development of this beetle on rugose spiraling whitefly, Aleurodicus rugioperculatus Martin (Hemiptera: Aleyrodidae), an invasive whitefly species that was first found in the United States in 2009. The objective of our study was to measure the feeding rate of N. oculata on rugose spiraling whitefly and compare the egg-to-adult development on eggs and nymphs. Our results showed that N. oculata is able to complete its development from egg to adult solely on rugose spiraling whitefly. At 26.7 °C, immature (1st to 4th instars combined) beetles consumed an average of 245.7 ± 14.4 rugose spiraling whitefly eggs prior to pupation. Adult beetles consumed 50.6 ± 1.8 eggs per day. There was no difference between the feeding rate of adult males and females or between immature males and females. Larvae searched for prey by sweeping the leaf surface in an arc-shaped area around them. Extra-oral digestion was observed during feeding, which involved withdrawing and regurgitating of fluids from and into the egg shell. It took 21.3 ± 0.7 d for the beetles to develop from egg to adult. The feeding rate of N. oculata on rugose spiraling whitefly was compared with that on Bemisia tabaci (Gennadius) (Hemiptera: Aleyrodidae) at the same temperatures based on data from the literature. Adults of N. oculata consumed significantly lower number of eggs when fed on rugose spiraling whitefly compared with B. tabaci. However, rugose spiraling whitefly eggs are 3.7 times larger than B. tabaci eggs so the actual daily volume of rugose spiraling whitefly eggs consumed was 1.7 greater. Females of N. oculata produced significantly more adult progeny when fed on rugose spiraling whitefly eggs compared with rugose spiraling whitefly nymphs. Therefore, rugose spiraling whitefly eggs could be considered a more suitable choice than nymphs for rearing N. oculata. Results of our study may help researchers to determine suitable beetle-to-whitefly release ratios and to improve rearing methods of this beetle.

Sphenophorus incurrens Gyllenhal (Coleoptera: Curculionidae) is an insect that feeds mainly on plants of the family Poaceae in the Neotropics. In Mexico, this weevil is an emergent pest of sugarcane. In this study, first the behavioral responses of both sexes to conspecifics were evaluated in a Y-tube olfactometer. Second, the volatiles of S. incurrens were sampled by the dynamic headspace technique and analyzed by gas chromatography coupled with electroantennographic detection (GC-EAD). Third, the antennal-active compound was identified by gas chromatography coupled with mass spectrometry. Finally, the biological activity of the identified compound was evaluated in laboratory and field tests. Our results showed that males emitted a pheromone that attracts both sexes. The GC-EAD analysis of the male volatiles showed that one peak elicited antennal responses from male and female weevils. The compound was identified as 2-methyl-4-octanol. Laboratory and field tests showed that the identified compound is attractive to both sexes of this weevil species, confirming its pheromonal activity.

Diaphorina citri Kuwayama (Hemiptera: Liviidae) is a major pest of citrus production because it is the vector of Candidatus Liberibacter asiaticus (Rhizobiales: Rhizobiaceae), which causes Asiatic huanglongbing, a devastating disease of citrus. Understanding the probing and ingestion behavior of the vector is important in understanding pathogen transmission and possible strategies to reduce disease incidence. We assessed the feeding behavior in D. citri by using electropenetrography, wherein a small electric current is passed through the insect. Changes in circuit voltage are recorded, and patterns of voltage changes are subsequently correlated with specific behaviors. However, different laboratories use different equipment with varying applied voltages. It is axiomatic that there will be some voltage at which there will be a change in the behavior of the insect. Current equipment has a range from 0 to 1300 mV, but studies where voltage was reported were in the range from 20 to 600 mV. The purpose of this study was to determine the behavioral response of D. citri to voltages in this range. Our results demonstrated that 600 mV DC with an input impedance of 109 ohms was below the threshold where D. citri's feeding behaviors were affected. Thus, the outcomes of past studies using different voltages should not have been affected. However, in the present study, we did find that choice of host plant altered D. citri's feeding behavior; thus, it would be beneficial to standardize the host plant if you were studying the effects of non-host factors that may influence feeding, such as insecticides, interspecific competition, or abiotic conditions.

Classical biocontrol programs usually employ multiple species to control a single pest; however, the beneficial effects are not always additive due to competition between the introduced species. Knowledge of these potentially negative interactions is crucial when determining whether the introductions were successful and the extent to which they influence pest suppression. Here, we report the results of such competition between 2 exotic wasp species [Encarsia bimaculata Heraty & Polaszek and Eretmocerus sp. nr. emiratus (Hymenoptera: Aphelinidae)] introduced into Florida for control of the circumglobal super pest currently known as Middle East-Asia Minor 1, a cryptic species within the Bemisia tabaci complex (Hemiptera: Aleyrodidae). Levels of parasitism, progeny production, and host feeding were evaluated in the laboratory under various parasitoid combinations on 2 host plant species (collard and eggplant) that differed in leaf pilosity (i.e., number of trichomes on the abaxial leaf surface). Significant differences in parasitism were observed by treatment, but not host plant. Encarsia bimaculata produced fewer progeny when introduced before Er. sp. nr. emiratus on collard; however, this trend was reversed on eggplant. Eretmocerus sp. nr. emiratus produced less progeny in all combinations involving En. bimaculata on collard and when introduced before En. bimaculata on eggplant. Mortality caused by host feeding was atypical for the whiteflyparasitizing aphelinids (<5% in all treatments). Based on differences in parasitism and progeny production, no additional pest suppression would be gained by releasing En. bimaculata into an environment already under control by Er. sp. nr. emiratus.

A gregarious larval parasitoid, Cotesia dictyoplocae (Watanabe) (Hymenoptera: Braconidae: Microgastrinae), is reported for the first time from the host Antheraea assamensis Helfer (Lepidoptera: Saturniidae) from Assam, India. This wasp is a gregarious larval parasitoid and produces on an average 30 cocoons per host larva. Parasitized larvae are easily identified by the aggregation of exposed yellowish white cocoons on the body. Larval parasitism in natural conditions was low. Removal of parasitized larvae by hand is suggested.

Ten years after its discovery, a survey of the exotic termite Nasutitermes corniger (Motschulsky) (Isoptera: Termitidae) on Abaco Island, The Bahamas, revealed an infested area of about 40 ha. The age and spread of the Abaco infestation is remarkably similar to the introduced N. corniger population in Dania Beach, Florida. Survey evidence corroborated that both dispersal at the Abaco location and lack of genetic variation (from its subsequent spread) of this established population point to a single introduction event fostered through a maritime introduction.

We report a likely range expansion of the introduced social wasp Polistes major major Palisot de Beauvois (Hymenoptera: Vespidae) from Florida into southern Georgia, USA, as well as the first records of Polistes apachus de Saussure from Georgia. We also review what is known of the history of these species in the southeastern United States.

This is the first report of the tropical bed bug in Florida in over 6 decades. The tropical bed bug had previously been documented in Florida in the 1930s and 1940s.

Tropical soda apple is a perennial invasive weed species that has become a serious problem in both agricultural and natural areas of the southeastern United States. A field survey was conducted at a ranch in Madison County, Florida, to assess the effect of sun and shade conditions on the abundance and feeding activity of Gratiana boliviana Spaeth (Coleoptera: Chrysomelidae) on tropical soda apple. The results revealed that beetle abundance and their feeding damage were greater on plants growing in full sun exposure than on plants growing in shaded habitat.

The 2 cryptic species of Euwallacea nr. fornicatus (Coleoptera: Curculionidae: Scolytinae) have more than 300 known hosts, of which avocado is the most important. Fusarium dieback, the fungal disease associated with these beetles, has killed some host plant species in Israel and the USA. Kuroshio shot hole borer, one of the 2 cryptic species, is reported for the first time in Baja California, Mexico, and represents a new threat to avocado and other potential hosts in urban and natural areas.

Plant growth regulators are known to influence a plant's characteristics and therefore can be used as an alternative strategy in making Blissus insularis Barber (Hemiptera: Blissidae) habitat unfavorable for this insect's survival. The reduction of B. insularis population densities following the application of mefluidide and trinexapac-ethyl in field plots indicated the indirect effect of plant growth regulator application on B. insularis for its management in St. Augustinegrass.

Parasitoids that locate their hosts by eavesdropping on the acoustic signals of other insects can be collected in traps baited with audio signals that mimic the sounds of the parasitoid's hosts. I describe a new acoustic trap designed to capture Emblemasoma erro Aldrich (Diptera: Sarcophagidae), an eavesdropping parasitoid of cicadas whose phonotactic behavior differs from that of the acoustic parasitoids targeted by previous trap designs. Specifically, unlike some other acoustic parasitoids, E. erro often remains at an artificial sound source only a few seconds, so the new trap features multiple, oblique side entrance funnels with large outer apertures that allow E. erro to rapidly access the trap's interior. The trap also has a modular design that allows the broadcast loudspeaker to be used independently of the trapping apparatus, and the trap is lightweight and easily transported in the field.

Sugarcane beetle (Euetheola rugiceps LeConte; Coleoptera: Scarabaeidae) is a pest of turfgrass in the southeastern United States. This study was conducted to evaluate the toxicity of 5 products for sugarcane beetle pest management in managed bermudagrass (Cynodon dactylon L.; Poaceae). Spring and fall populations of sugarcane beetle adults were exposed to 4 active ingredients and combinations (bifenthrin, bifenthrin plus clothianidin, carbaryl, clothianidin, and dinotefuran) under greenhouse conditions. At 7 d after treatment, there were no significant differences among insecticide treatments applied to spring beetles at either a low or a high field rate, although all insecticides caused a significant increase in beetle mortality relative to untreated (control) beetles. In contrast, bifenthrin caused significantly greater control of fall populations at the low field rate compared with other treatments. Target population (spring or fall) appears to have more impact on pesticide efficacy than either product selection or application rate.

A number of important behavioral and physiological traits distinguish both social forms of Solenopsis invicta Buren (Hymenoptera: Formicidae) and correlate with the Gp-9 locus within a supergene complex. These traits include fat body content, number of colony queens, dispersal, ability to initiate new colonies, size of workers, selective mortality, etc. Previous studies suggested gene flow between both social forms is unidirectional, with monogyne males mating almost exclusively with polygyne females. This study examined the genotypes of queens and their stored sperm during a mating flight in Florida where polygyne colonies predominate, and provides evidence of non-random mating; 84.6% of inseminated polygyne queens were mated to males of their own social form, and 92.4% of inseminated monogyne queens were mated by haploid males from monogyne colonies. Fertile, diploid males with unreduced sperm may be a cause for the high frequency of triploid BB alates (26.7%) and triploid polygyne alates (33.3%), and for some portion of all alates storing sperm that exhibited 2 microsatellite alleles (15.8%).

Two biotypes (Paraguay and Argentine) of Megamelus scutellaris (Berg) (Hemiptera: Delphacidae), a biological control agent for waterhyacinth, were tested for differences in number of progeny, development time, and weight across average south Florida seasonal temperatures. Significant differences between the biotypes were found at summer temperatures. In general, progeny of the Paraguay biotype weighed more than those of the Argentine biotype during the summer.

Surveys for natural enemies of Lygodium microphyllum (Cav.) R. Br. (Lygodiaceae) in Thailand resulted in the collection of Archips machlopis Meyrick (Lepidoptera: Tortricidae). Multiple generations of the tortricid were reared on L. microphyllum in a quarantine laboratory, demonstrating that the plant is a developmental host. Further host specificity testing indicated that A. machlopis is able to complete development on 12 of the 15 fern species tested, confirming that the polyphagous herbivore's diet includes Pteridophyta. These data also confirm that A. machlopis is not sufficiently host specific to be considered for biological control of L. microphyllum.

The effect of 3 soil moisture regimes (dry, normal, and wet) on oviposition was studied for the invasive soil pest Plectris aliena Chapin (Coleoptera: Scarabaeidae) in North Carolina agroecosystems. In laboratory cages, there was a significant increase of 20 more eggs deposited by females in wet soil compared with the dry soil (2% moisture) treatment. When the beetles were tested under field conditions, there were no significant differences in oviposition.

A native parasitoid, Kalopolynema ema (Schauff and Grissell) (Hymenoptera: Mymaridae), has begun utilizing a new host, Megamelus scutellaris Berg (Hemiptera: Delphacidae), the introduced biological control agent for waterhyacinth, Eichhornia crassipes (Mart.) Solms (Commelinales: Pontederiaceae). Parasitism rates varied between outdoor M. scutellaris rearing tanks and sentinel plants placed in the field, with parasitism rates in the tanks being higher.

Prolonged emergence of Trachykele blondeli blondeli Marseul (Coleoptera: Buprestidae) is reported from kiln-dried and subsequently painted wood in this report. The specimen emergence is a new record for Florida. Because the specimen did not emerge from host plant material grown in Florida, it is likely that its origin was exterior to Florida. Because of delayed and prolonged emergence capability in Buprestidae, as well as specimen survival of wood preservation processes like kiln drying, the current report does indicate a concern for redistribution of non-indigenous buprestid species to new areas.

Conotelus sp. (Coleoptera: Nitidulidae) is documented in passion fruit plantations in the state of Rondônia, Brazil, where producers have reported losses of approximately 80%. Damage is higher than that caused by traditional passion fruit insect pests, and there are no effective control methods. Flowering phenology is a key factor in insect attraction and recurrence. The beetles attack flowers, and a larval preference for pollen was shown. This insect can complete its life cycle in flowers on the ground. Damage characteristics, the distribution of the insect, changes in population size, and possible causes of outbreaks are reported.

We report the discovery of Aulacaspis yasumatsui Takagi (Hemiptera: Diaspididae) in Chiapas State near the Guatemala—Mexico border. This cycad pest presents a potentially serious threat to the many cycads species native to Mexico.