DOI: 10.3897/bull.insectology.190015

Authors: Onessy Regina Rustan, Haliza Fawwaz Ayuningtyas, Siti Nurjanah, Titik Kartika, Sri Utami, Dita Meisyara, Beni Ernawan, Hadian Iman Sasmita, Vina Rizkawati, Hasmiwati Hasmiwati, Wan Fatma Zuharah, Ikhsan Guswenrivo

Abstract: Dengue Hemorrhagic Fever (DHF) remains a major public health challenge in Indonesia, where Aedes aegypti is the primary vector. Pyrethroids, particularly permethrin and deltamethrin, are widely used for vector control. However, their prolonged use has led to resistance, largely mediated by knockdown resistance (kdr) mutations in the voltage-gated sodium channel (VGSC) gene. This study aimed to determine the mortality status, frequency, and distribution of kdr mutations, as well as their association with phenotypic resistance in Ae. aegypti populations from Padang City, Bogor City, and Bogor Regency. Adult females were subjected to World Health Organization (WHO) susceptibility bioassays. Genomic DNA from individual specimens was analyzed to detect kdr mutations using polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and sequencing. All populations showed very low mortality (1–37%) with both insecticides after 24 h, indicating high resistance. Kaplan–Meier analysis showed near-complete survival under permethrin for all populations, while deltamethrin caused greater survival decline in Bogor City and Bogor Regency than Padang (log-rank: permethrin p = 0.051, deltamethrin p < 0.05).. Molecular analysis detected S989P, V1016G, and F1534C mutations, with mutant genotypes more prevalent than wild-type genotypes at all sites, and the highest frequencies were observed for all treatments. However, the association analysis showed no significant association between kdr mutations and phenotypic resistance (p > 0.05) in the study population. These findings demonstrate widespread pyrethroid resistance and high frequencies of kdr mutations, highlighting the need for larger sample sizes and more balanced sampling designs to better understand the role of kdr mutations in pyrethroid resistance.

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DOI: 10.3897/bull.insectology.187568

Authors: Marian D. Mirea, Iulia V. Miu, Lavinia C. Pindaru, Steluta Manolache, Laurentiu Rozylowicz

Abstract: Sexual size dimorphism and morphometric variation provide valuable insights into population ecology, habitat quality, and evolutionary processes in insects. However, morphometric data for saproxylic beetles remain limited across much of Europe, particularly in the Carpathian Mountains of Romania, which host some of the largest contiguous forest ecosystems and are a major biodiversity hotspot for these species, despite their high conservation importance. We investigated sexual size dimorphism patterns and allometric relationships in two protected saproxylic beetles, Osmoderma barnabita Motschulsky, 1845 (Scarabaeidae) and Rosalia alpina Linnaeus, 1758 (Cerambycidae), from the Putna-Vrancea Natural Park, Romania. Between 2022 and 2025, we captured 776 Osmoderma barnabita and 268 Rosalia alpina individuals using pheromone-baited traps and measured body length, body width, and fresh mass. Osmoderma barnabita exhibited weak male-biased sexual size dimorphism, with males slightly larger in body length (+3.4%) and body mass (+5.0%), while body width showed no significant difference between sexes. In contrast, Rosalia alpina displayed female-biased sexual size dimorphism across all traits, with the strongest dimorphism in body mass (+13.2%). Standardized Major Axis regression showed positive allometry of body width relative to body length in both species, indicating increased robustness with size. Body mass scaled isometrically with body length, with no sex-specific differences in allometric slopes, suggesting that sexual size dimorphism reflects uniform size shifts along shared developmental trajectories. Linear Discriminant Analysis achieved only moderate classification accuracy (63.5% for Osmoderma barnabita; 65.3% for Rosalia alpina), reflecting substantial morphological overlap between sexes. These findings establish baseline morphometric data essential for long-term population monitoring and conservation planning in the Eastern Carpathian forests.

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DOI: 10.3897/bull.insectology.195590

Authors: Stefano Maini

Abstract:

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DOI: 10.3897/bull.insectology.182672

Authors: Yehya Alattal, Ahmad Alghamdi

Abstract: Apis mellifera subspecies exhibit strong adaptation to their respective natural habitats; however, they display varying responses to thermal stress. In the present study, we examined the expression of lethal(2)-essential-for-life-like (l(2)efl) gene variants (724449, 724231, 410087, 724405, 724488, 724274, and 724367), as well as histone-lysine N-methyltransferase trithorax (trx) and polycomb protein Su(z)12 mRNA, in the eggs of two honeybee subspecies that exhibit clear differences in their thermal adaptation. The results revealed significantly higher expression levels of (l2efl variants: 724449, 724231, 410087, 724405, 724488, 724274, and 724367), polycomb protein Su(z)12 mRNA (ID: 409170), and histone-lysine N-methyltransferase (trx) (ID: 408716) in the eggs exposed to thermal stress compared to untreated controls in both A. mellifera subspecies. The main fold change between treated and control eggs reached approximately 200-fold for l2efl-724367, 100-fold for l2efl-724274, 40-fold for l2efl-724488, suggesting a robust heat-shock-like mechanism in response to thermal stress in early embryos of both subspecies. The results also showed distinct changes in l2efl and trx expression levels in both subspecies. While A. m. carnica exhibited higher expression of certain l2efl variants and trx, A. m. jemenitica showed stronger activation of other l2efl members and Su(z)12. The expression of Su(z)12 increased 86-fold more in A. m. jemenitica than in A. m. carnica. This might reflect different adaptive strategies in both subspecies. These findings suggest that thermal exposure in A. mellifera embryos not only triggers classical stress-response genes but also modulates epigenetic pathways that could contribute to transgenerational thermotolerance.

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DOI: 10.3897/bull.insectology.176198

Authors: Antonio Martini, Antonio Masetti, Mattia Fricano, Nadia Baldassari

Abstract: This study aimed at comparing the insecticidal and repellency activity of a commercial diatomaceous earth (DE) formulation (Silicosec®, Biofa AG) and a horsetail powder - Equisetum telmateia (Ehrh.) (Equisetales: Equisetaceae) against the lesser grain borer, Rhyzopertha dominica (F.) (Coleoptera: Bostrychidae). These substances were mixed with soft wheat grains at concentrations of 1000 and 2000 ppm and tested on unsexed adult beetles of mixed ages. Insecticidal assays were conducted at three exposure intervals (2, 7 and 14 days), after which the wheat samples were destructively sifted and mortality was recorded. The highest mortality was achieved with the DE, and the percentage of dead beetle significantly increased with exposure interval and concentrations. On the other hand, treatments with the horsetail powder did not significantly affect beetle mortality, regardless of the dose and exposure interval. Repellency tests, which were run according to Mohan and Fields’s method, showed a higher activity of both doses of the DE in comparison to the horsetail powder. The difference between the two application doses of the DE was statistically supported only at 24 h of exposure, whereas no differences were detected between the two doses at 48 and 72 h. Based on our findings, the horsetail powder seems not to be a reliable alternative to DEs for the control of R. dominica. Considering both efficacy and cost-effectiveness, the 1000 ppm DE dose could represent the best compromise for the management of the lesser grain borer in commercial applications.

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DOI: 10.3897/bull.insectology.177872

Authors: Wigunda Rattanapun, Yaowaphan Sontikun, Jessada Rattanawut, Manop Tarasin

Abstract: With the exception of live prey, some lady beetle species consume alternative foods including pollen, nectar and fruit. These alternative foods support the development and reproduction of certains coccinellid species, while others do not benefit as much. The study examined the effects of prey and alternative food sources on the development and reproduction of predaceous coccinellid Coelophora inaequalis (Fabricius) (Coleoptera: Coccinellidae), utilizing eggs of rice moth Corcyra cephalonica (Stainton) (Lepidoptera: Pyralidae) and bee pollen as alternative foods, while Aphis gossypii Glover (Hemiptera: Aphididae) served as the essential prey. Results revealed that 1st instar of C. inaequalis larvae fed on A. gossypii and A. gossypii supplemented with bee pollen success to complete development with no significant differences in growth duration and survival rates (100%) across different developmental stages, including adult longevity and percentage of egg hatch. However, the total number of laid egg was significantly higher on the group that consumed exclusively A. gossypii. Results indicated that the switch from natural prey to exclusively alternative prey affects variously each instar larvae and adults of C. inaequalis. The 3rd and 4th instars larvae, which have been fed on A. gossypii since 1st instar and then switched to exclusively alternative foods failed to progress to the next developmental stage. Only the 2nd instar larvae fed exclusively on bee pollen or rice moth eggs were able to progress to the 3rd and 4th instar. Likewise, male and female adults of C. inaequalis survived for a temporarily time when exclusively fed on bee pollen or rice moth eggs.

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DOI: 10.3897/bull.insectology.182663

Authors: Paolo Fontana, Valeria Malagnini, Federico Pedrazzoli, Petr Kočárek, Enrico Ruzzier

Abstract: Chelidura Latreille, 1825 is a genus of robust apterous earwigs with a Palaearctic distribution. Thanks to research carried out in Italy, Spain and France, the recent general reassessment of the European alpine species of Chelidura has clarified its distribution across Europe. Only one species, Chelidura aptera (von Charpentier, 1825), has been distinguished in the Alps so far, and we have subjected its populations to detailed morphometric and molecular analyses. The results revealed cryptic diversity and allowed us to define the presence of at least five species in the Alps: C. aptera (von Charpentier, 1825), C. montana (Gené, 1832), stat. nov., C. alpina (Gené, 1832), comb. nov., C. rhaetica sp. nov. and C. osellarum sp. nov. The diagnostic morphological characters of recognized species are described and illustrated, and an identification key for males of Western European Chelidura is provided. The distribution of Chelidura species is patchy, with most occurring in subalpine and alpine zones at altitudes between 1,600 and 2,300 metres in the Alps. The occupied habitat is characterized by rocky landscapes with sparse vegetation. According to current knowledge, all recognized species exhibit allopatric distribution patterns, and their ranges do not overlap. The recent decline in the numbers of Chelidura specimens sighted at many historical localities may suggest possible local extinctions or a shift to higher elevations in response to environmental changes.

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DOI: 10.3897/bull.insectology.177420

Authors: Annette Herz, Danilo Lüdke, Matthias Riedel

Abstract: The box tree pyralid moth (Cydalima perspectalis), which originates from Asia and has been introduced to Europe in 2006, has now infested several countries and continents outside its natural distribution. This herbivore is specialized on Buxus spp. and has destroyed not only many ornamental plantings, which are often of historical value, but also boxwood in its natural range, where it is often part of certain forest types. To date, no effective natural enemies are known, and plantings can only be saved by frequent insecticide applications, while natural boxwoods are threatened or have already gone extinct after massive outbreaks of this pest. During a monitoring in 2025, we discovered a parasitoid population in one of the first infested natural Buxus spp. stands in Europe, the boxwood forest near Grenzach-Wyhlen, Germany. According to our data, this Campoplegine larval parasitoid, Eriborus sp., is not native, but may have been accidentally introduced in the years after the introduction of its host nearby.

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DOI: 10.3897/bull.insectology.173918

Authors: Wandee Wattanachaiyingcharoen, Patcharapun Wanitsumran, Nonglak Yimtragool, Phanupong Changtor, Det Wattanachaiyingcharoen

Abstract: Insect pests are significant challenge to rice production, with over 20 species recognized as major insect pests, including some stink bugs (Hemiptera: Pentatomidae). The rice black bug, Scotinophara coarctata (Fabricius), is an invasive insect species firstly reported in southern Thailand, which later spread northward throughout rice-growing regions. Recently, our research team firstly discovered another insect species that has not been reported in Thailand, the white-spotted stink bug, Eysarcoris ventralis (Westwood), that infests rice fields and causes similar damage to that of the rice black bug. However, distinguishing between these two insect pests in the field is challenging due to their similar characters. We, therefore, pursue the differentiation between these two insects using both morphological characters and barcoding of COI genes, including investigation of the population status. The results showed that these insects display some differences in morphological characters. DNA barcoding of the partial COI gene separated them into different clades. The sample of S. coarctata is arranged in the same clade with S. lurida. All of the E. ventralis samples studied were placed in the same clade with the sample from China, indicating that they were related, but separated from other species of the genus Eysarcoris. The outcomes confirmed that these rice stink bugs are separate species and can be distinguished using both morphological examination and DNA barcoding of the COI gene. The analysis suggested a relatively high degree of genetic similarity among geographically diverse populations of Eysarcoris, with some interspecific differences still detectable within the genus.

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DOI: 10.3897/bull.insectology.174420

Authors: Dina Akroute, Rachid Boulamtat, Rachid Benkirane, Khaoula Habbadi, Rachid Lahlali, Mohamed Sbaghi, Salma El Iraqui El Houssaini

Abstract: The codling moth (C. pomonella) is a notorious pest of apples, pears and other pome fruits, causing significant economic damage during outbreaks. This study investigated the voltinism of codling moth across various climatic conditions at three distinct Moroccan apple orchards; two in the Atlas Mountains and one in the plain. Our objective was to assess the voltinism of the pest and to analyze its evolution in relation with the temperature factor through different locations. We employed phenological models to predict insect generation patterns and the onset of adult flights, and compared predictions with observed data obtained from trap catches. At all study sites, a single generation required an average accumulation of 549 DD close to some models assumptions. The study also highlighted the significant impact of temperature on the insect’s voltinism and indicated that a warmer climate could lead to an additional generation. In the mountainous regions, the pest typically occurs on three generations, with a potential fourth one if the growing season exceeds 2000 DD. In the plain, the moth completes four generations. Furthermore, the advent of flights varied among locations, highlighting the need to account for the synchrony between insect emergence and host tree phenological stages when predicting the onset of moth activity. Finally, the study suggests that different models should be used in Morocco to predict moth flights accurately as observed data were consistently aligning with specific models at each location.

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DOI: 10.3897/bull.insectology.161149

Authors: Filippo Cominelli, Rim Hamze, Alberto Ambrogio, Marco Mazzoni, Giuditta Casu, Emanuele Mazzoni

Abstract: Aphids are phytophagous insects that damage a wide range of plant species and may act as vectors of several pathogens, including Cucumber Mosaic Virus (CMV). CMV seriously affects tomato crops but, although earlier studies have described CMV in northern Italy, little is known about the aphid species in the area that could be involved in its transmission in tomato fields. This three-year survey (2021–2023) focused on monitoring aphid populations in open field tomato crops in the northern Italian provinces of Piacenza, Cremona and Mantua. Sampling included both tomato plants and nearby weeds like Solanum nigrum, Convolvulus arvensis, Abutilon theophrasti or crop like Medicago sativa, which may serve as CMV reservoirs. DNA barcoding of the COI gene, along with morphological analysis where necessary, was used to identify the aphids. A total of 28 aphid taxa were identified from the collected samples, and 89.8% of all identified samples were known CMV vectors. Aphis fabae and Macrosiphum euphorbiae were the most frequently identified species. The greatest number of aphid specimens and species diversity were recorded during the first sampling of each year, whereas the highest sampling diversity was recorded in Piacenza. The current study provides a comprehensive qualitative assessment of the diverse aphid species associated with open field tomato crops in one of the most important districts for their cultivation in Italy.

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DOI: 10.3897/bull.insectology.170456

Authors: Adriana Acevedo-Alcalá, J. Refugio Lomeli-Flores, Héctor González-Hernández, Esteban Rodríguez-Leyva, Ariel W. Guzmán-Franco, Julio C. Velázquez-González

Abstract: In the current century, there has been an increase in vegetable production in protected agriculture, as well as an increasing incidence of some insect pests. For example, some hemipterans such as mealybugs are sometimes a problem with greenhouse vegetables, but farmers do not have the same problem with vegetables grown in open fields. The objective of this work was to identify species of mealybugs and their natural enemies on vegetables in protected agriculture in México. Sampling was carried out in greenhouses and net houses, mainly in pepper and tomato, from 11 regions of the country. Mealybugs adult females were collected for processing and mounting, and some mealybugs immature and adults were kept in net devices to record the emergence of their parasitoids. Four species of mealybugs were identified, Phenacoccus solenopsis Tinsley, Phenacoccus solani Ferris, and Phenacoccus madeirensis Green were collected more frequently; Ferrisia virgata Cockerell (Hemiptera: Pseudococcidae) was recovered only once. Ten species of parasitoids were identified: Acerophagus angelicus Howard, Aenasius arizonensis Girault, Dicarnosis ripariensis Kerrich, Cheiloneurus sp. Westwood, Ectromaptosis americana Howard, Anagyrus paralia Noyes and Menezes, Holcencyrtus osborni Timberlake, Anagyrus tristis Noyes and Hayat (Hymenoptera: Encyrtidae), Chartocerus axillaris De Santis (Hymenoptera: Signiphoridae) and Allotropa sp. Förster (Hymenoptera: Platygastridae). Three of them were first recorded in México, and six had a new host record.

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DOI: 10.3897/bull.insectology.171229

Authors: Anna Teski, Zoltán Vas, Attila Takács, Balázs Kiss, Gábor Bozsik, Gábor Szőcs

Abstract: The fig-tree skeletoniser moth, Choreutis nemorana (Hubner, 1799), in the course of spreading from the Mediterranean Region towards Central Europe, was first detected as a pest in Hungary in 2011. Established populations threaten fig cultivation, a newly increasing branch of horticulture, lacking any licensed pesticides. In order to investigate whether local parasitoids of the native microlepidopterous species have started to accept C. nemorana as a new host, we collected C. nemorana larvae and cocoons from various sites in Hungary and reared them on fig leaves. Levels of parasitization were recorded and emerged parasitoids were collected for identification. The overall levels of parasitization ranged from 9.4% to 52.6%. Three ichneumonid (Hymenoptera: Ichneumonidae) parasitoid species were found as new associations for C. nemorana: Oiorhinus pallipalpis Wesmael, 1845 (Ichneumoninae), Scambus inanis (Schrank, 1802) (Pimplinae), and Encrateola laevigata (Ratzeburg, 1848) (Cryptinae); the latter species is also known as a facultative pseudohyperparasitoid. Mesochorus vittator (Zetterstedt, 1838) (Ichneumonidae, Mesochorinae), a true hyperparasitoid, was also reared presumably from a koinobiont larval parasitoid such as Diadegma sp. Apart from those two already known parasitoids of C. nemorana were also found: Scambus elegans (Woldstedt, 1877) (Pimplinae) and Diadegma sp. (Campopleginae). These results are discussed in terms of the potential future role of local parasitoids in affecting populations of C. nemorana. Many parasitoids belonging to groups other than Ichneumonidae were also reared and will be the subject of later papers.

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DOI: 10.3897/bull.insectology.164673

Authors: Eleni Tsiripli

Abstract: In temperate climates, bumblebee colonies typically persist for a single season, with their life span averaging 3 to 6 months depending on the species. However, certain bumblebee species exhibit bivoltinism, producing two generations within one season. This study investigates the seasonal food availability and its impact on the number of Bombus terrestris generations on Lesvos Island. Data were collected across 16 locations, categorized into forests, olive groves, abandoned fields, and coastal areas, conducted over nine weeks in winter (October 2020 to January 2021) and nine weeks in spring (March to May 2021). The emergence of the queens at early October and at the end of March indicates the presence of two distinct generations annually. The winter generation is sustained mainly by Arbutus unedo flowering in forested areas, which exhibited significantly higher bumblebee activity compared to other habitats. Also a correlation test showed that there is no significant correlation between temperature and bumblebee activity. This study highlights the ecological flexibility of B. terrestris and its potential adaptation to Mediterranean conditions.

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DOI: 10.3897/bull.insectology.168212

Authors: Milica Radenković, Jelena Purać, Nikola Krivokuća, Danijela Kojić, Dimitry Wintermantel, Julia Osterman, Ante Vujić

Abstract: Hoverflies (Syrphidae) play a key role in pollination services across ecosystems but are underrepresented in pesticide toxicity research. Laboratory toxicity testing is a fundamental step toward evaluating pesticide risks, yet established protocols for hoverflies are lacking. This study aims to fill this gap by developing an acute oral toxicity test for Eristalinus aeneus, a cosmopolitan hoverfly. A novel oral toxicity test was introduced using a custom-designed test cage with artificial flowers, allowing precise measurement of food consumption and dose assessment. Both individual and group feeding setups were tested, with group feeding proving more feasible, overcoming key limitations of individual feeding, including difficulty in locating food and evaporation of liquid diets. As an additional validation step, an oral toxicity test was conducted with dimethoate — a reference insecticide commonly used in toxicological studies — using three concentrations (0.007, 0.0014, and 0.0007 g/L). The estimated LC50 values for E. aeneus were ~0.00166 g/L (24 h) and ~0.00137 g/L (48 h), with corresponding LD50 values of ~0.56 and ~0.46 μg/g fly. Our results indicate that E. aeneus is highly sensitive to dimethoate and slightly more sensitive than Apis mellifera. These findings underscore the need to include E. aeneus and other syrphids in future toxicity testing and highlight the value of the developed methodology for ecotoxicological studies and conservation efforts.

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DOI: 10.3897/bull.insectology.168209

Authors: Paul Amouroux, Patrich Cerpa, Tania Zaviezo

Abstract: Ants (Hymenoptera: Formicidae) are a diverse and ecologically important group of social insects that play crucial roles in ecosystems worldwide. In this study, we aim to identify the community of ant species present in two important fruit crops of Central Chile. Ants were sampled from January to March in three cherry orchards and three vineyards, using standard pitfall traps to sample above-ground, and subterranean pitfall traps to sample below-ground. We found in total seven species of ants, three native and four introduced, with Strumigenys silvestrii Emery, 1906 being the first record of Attini species for central Chile. The introduced Hypoponera eduardi (Forel, 1894) was the most frequently sampled species, while the invasive Linepithema humile (Mayr, 1868) was found in only two sites. The ecological or functional roles of these species within the Chilean agroecosystems deserve further investigation.

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DOI: 10.3897/bull.insectology.161615

Authors: Angela G. Bartolo, Louis-F. Cassar, Camillo A. Cusimano, Sarah Schembri, Paolo Fontana, Bruno Massa

Abstract: The biology of the recently described stenoecious cricket Acheta pantescus is mostly unknown. This study includes an integrative systematics approach using ecology and barcode sequencing of the mtDNA NADH dehydrogenase subunits (ND1), the cytochrome c oxidase subunit 1 (COI) gene and the 16S ribosomal RNA region. A comparison with other species, including a discussion on the hypotheses about its origin, requires further work noting the lack of information currently available on GenBank. Two data loggers were placed at the Martingana locality, within the site where A. pantescus is known to occur and just outside it, to record temperatures and relative humidity; results show statistical differences between the area inhabited by the species and that immediately outside its habitat. Adults can be encountered between the end of April through to October; moreover, a broad range of life-cycle stages, from 1st instar to penultimate nymphal (sub-adult) phase were recorded in the month of May. Adults observed in May would have presumably been the result of eggs laid during the autumn and hatched around the latter part of February. Observations made during the night from a seacraft made it possible to identify locations on the island where the species is present, through its characteristic stridulatory ‘song’.

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DOI: 10.3897/bull.insectology.164658

Authors: Sándor Koczor, Bence Péter Schlitt, Attila Takács, Klaudia Kőszegi, Zsolt Medve, Balázs Kiss

Abstract: The fig leafhopper, Ficocyba ficaria (Horváth, 1897) (Cicadellidae: Typhlocybinae: Typhlocybini) was described from the coast of the Adriatic sea. Since then the species has been reported from several countries, primarily from the Mediterranean area of the Western Palaearctic Region. In the course of the current study the species was found at several locations in Hungary, indicating the presence of stable populations. An overview of currently known distribution of the species is provided. Recent records of the species including results of the present study indicate range expansion of the fig leafhopper.

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DOI: 10.3897/bull.insectology.162417

Authors: Marianna Olivadese, Maria Luisa Dindo

Abstract: Throughout history, insects have been silent yet potent agents of change, shaping the destiny of human civilizations in profound ways. They have actively influenced the development of societies through their roles in ecological systems and their direct interactions with humans. As carriers of disease, destroyers of crops, and symbols of both fear and resilience, insects have repeatedly forced humanity to adapt and innovate. The transformative power of these small creatures lies not only in their biological characteristics but also in their ability to alter human demographic, economic, and cultural trajectories in unexpected ways. Epidemics such as the Black Death, carried by fleas, and the enduring scourge of malaria, spread by mosquitoes, illustrate how insects have influenced demographic patterns, disrupted economies, and altered the trajectory of empires (Cantor 2002). Meanwhile, infestations of locusts and other agricultural pests have driven famines that reshaped societies, spurring migration and social upheaval. Beyond these direct impacts, insects have left an indelible mark on human consciousness, inspiring fear, innovation, and even art, as they became symbols of both destruction and resilience. This article explores the multifaceted influence of insects on human history, examining their roles in catalyzing social, economic, and cultural transformations. By understanding these interactions, we not only uncover the profound interconnectedness of humans and nature but also gain insights into addressing modern challenges posed by insects in a rapidly changing world.

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DOI: 10.3897/bull.insectology.158738

Authors: Wioleta Koźbiał, Elżbieta Wójcik-Gront, Mariusz Lewandowski

Abstract: The spotted wing drosophila (Drosophila suzukii) is an invasive pest causing significant damage to soft fruit crops in Europe. Native parasitoids may contribute to its biological control, yet information on their distribution and seasonal activity in Central Europe remains limited. This study aimed to investigate the species composition and seasonal dynamics of Drosophila parasitoids in agricultural and adjacent semi-natural habitats in Poland. Fieldwork was conducted during the early, middle, and late vegetation seasons in 2021–2022 using self-constructed traps baited with Drosophila melanogaster and D. hydei as hosts. Parasitoids emerging from collected traps were identified and quantified. Three hymenopteran parasitoid species were recorded: the larval parasitoid Asobara tabida and the pupal parasitoids Trichopria drosophilae and Pachycrepoideus vindemmiae. P. vindemmiae was the most abundant species, particularly in mid-season and in semi-natural areas. T. drosophilae dominated in the early season, while A. tabida was consistently less numerous. The overall parasitoid abundance was significantly higher in semi-natural habitats compared to agricultural sites. The structure of parasitoid assemblages changed with the season, with the highest species evenness in early and mid-season samples. These results highlight the influence of habitat type and seasonality on parasitoid occurrence and suggest that certain native species, especially P. vindemmiae and T. drosophilae, could contribute to the conservation biological control of D. suzukii. Promoting semi-natural refuges may enhance the presence and persistence of beneficial parasitoids in agricultural landscapes.

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DOI: 10.3897/bull.insectology.157538

Authors: Helen Anna Christine Pfitzner, Annette Herz

Abstract: Liotryphon caudatus, an ichneumonid parasitoid of codling moth (Cydia pomonella), is known to perform host-feeding on late-instar host larvae. In this study, we examine the relationship between host-feeding, parasitisation behaviour and nutritional requirements of L. caudatus females and the impact on oogenesis and parasitism success. Using a series of laboratory experiments, we demonstrate that female L. caudatus lacking access to hosts for host-feeding were not able to develop mature eggs. Females successfully attacked only the immobile stages of codling moth to either host-feed or parasitise. No major differences in host attack behaviour were observed between naïve and experienced females, as both performed host-feeding similarly. However, experienced females exhibited significantly greater parasitisation success. We also found that when fed honey, female longevity increased up to fivefold compared to having only host-feeding opportunities or to a pure water control. Additionally, success in killing host larvae through host-feeding or parasitism was significantly enhanced with the access to honey. Overall, our findings emphasize that the presence of a carbohydrate source (honey) and a suitable host for host-feeding (immobile larval stages) are essential for the effective parasitisation and host-feeding performance of L. caudatus, as well as for the prolonged survival of females. This study provides new insights into the nutritional requirements, host preferences, and behavioural strategies of L. caudatus and underscores the importance of host-feeding for the reproductive success and survival of this parasitoid.

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DOI: 10.3897/bull.insectology.164055

Authors: Reinhard Lakes-Harlan, Marie-Sa Do, Joscha A. Alt

Abstract: Here we introduce a mobile trackball system for measuring phonotactic behaviour of insects in the field. The trackball system allows generating quantitative behavioural data in the field. Experiments for determination of the phonotactic threshold of two insect species of a parasitoid-host system proofed the utility and usability of this method. The threshold of the parasitoid fly Emblemasoma auditrix (Shewell, 1976) in response to the calling song of the host cicada Okanagana rimosa (Say, 1830) could be confirmed with 61 dB SPL. The behavioural threshold of female cicadas O. rimosa could be determined for the first time to 62 dB SPL. Thus, the mobile system allowed testing of the cicada in the field, which was not possible in laboratory environment. Generally, it was possible to test animals that exhibit certain behaviours only outdoors and to test intact animals and to release them immediately after completion of the experiment. With this method, it will also be possible to test animals under real environmental conditions, for example, in respect to noise.

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DOI: 10.3897/bull.insectology.149555

Authors: Asem H. Abu Alloush, Omkar, Vera Raposo, António Onofre Soares

Abstract: Rhyzobius lophanthae (Blaisdell) (Coleoptera: Coccinellidae) is an Australian coccidophagous ladybird, that preys on several species Diaspididae and others soft scale insects. It is widely distributed and has been successfully introduced and established in many temperate regions around the world. This article aims to review the literature on R. lophanthae, focusing on its taxonomy and nomenclature, prey range and geographical distribution, biology and ecology (including, life-history, morphological description and identification, effects of temperature on survival and mortality rate, predation rate and fecundity, growth, development and life tables), impact of chemical pesticides and successful application as biocontrol agent. Additionally, this review identifies key aspects (areas) where future research should be focused, including molecular identification and phylogenetic relationships, intraguild predation and cannibalism, cold storage and artificial diets, impact of climate change, effects of pesticides at various life stages, optimal release strategies and role of functional diversity on its maintenance and conservation.

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DOI: 10.3897/bull.insectology.155814

Authors: Dantje Tarore, Vivi Bernadeth Montong, Jusuf Manueke, Yermia Semuel Mokosuli, Lucia Cecilia Mandey

Abstract: This study investigates the efficacy of the entomopathogenic fungus Beauveria bassiana (Bals.) Vuill. (Ascomycota: Hypocreales) in controlling Necrobia rufipes (De Geer) (Coleoptera: Cleridae), a significant pest responsible for economic losses in copra production, aiming to determine the effective concentration required to achieve substantial mortality and reduce copra damage in storage systems. Employing a completely randomized design with five treatments and three replications, the research assessed B. bassiana concentrations (10%, 15%, 20%, 25%, and 30%) on N. rufipes mortality and copra weight loss across pest population sizes ranging from 8 to 24 adults, with mortality recorded weekly over one month and weight loss measured after one month. Data analysis using analysis of variance, followed by a least significant difference test and probit analysis, revealed mortality rates from 14.67% (±2.31%) at 10% concentration to 69.33% (±3.79%) at 30%, with an LC50 of 23.611% (±1.12%), while copra weight loss increased from 1.33 g (±0.15 g) with 8 adults to 6.87 g (±0.42 g) with 21 adults, strongly correlating with pest density. These findings demonstrate that B. bassiana effectively reduces N. rufipes populations, with higher concentrations enhancing control, and the identified LC50 provides a practical application threshold, underscoring the influence of pest population size on copra weight loss and the need for timely intervention. This approach offers a sustainable, biological strategy to protect copra, potentially minimizing economic losses in tropical storage systems.

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DOI: 10.3897/bull.insectology.154143

Authors: Csaba Nagy, Emre Şen, Balázs Kiss

Abstract: Our study reports the first occurrence of Zaprionus indianus Gupta, 1970 (Diptera: Drosophilidae) in Hungary, representing the northernmost European record of this thermophilic species. Specimens were captured in October 2023 during a large-scale Drosophila suzukii (Matsumura, 1931) (Diptera: Drosophilidae) monitoring program conducted in sweet cherry orchards in north-central Hungary. A total of five individuals (one female and four males) were caught at two different orchards 1 km apart, using modified pan and bottle traps baited with apple cider vinegar-based lures. No specimens were detected in the previous year (2022) or the following year (2024), which may indicate a transient population, though further monitoring would be required to confirm the lack of establishment. Although the overwintering of the species appears unlikely in Hungary, climate change may facilitate its future range expansion. Our findings highlight the importance of continuous monitoring of invasive drosophilids in Central Europe for better understanding their establishment potential and agricultural risks.

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DOI: 10.3897/bull.insectology.149344

Authors: Alessia De Luigi, Francesco Poggi, Alberto Alma

Abstract: The Eastern Palearctic typhlocybine leafhopper Arboridia kakogawana, feeding on Vitaceae, is recorded for the first time in Italy. In May 2024, adults were detected on yellow sticky traps in three vineyards (Vitis vinifera) in Grugliasco, Chieri and Montalto Dora, province of Turin (Piedmont region). This species, through its trophic activity, causes chlorosis on vine leaves that produce negative effects on the maturation of grapes. However, there are no reports that these insects can transmit phytoplasmas or other pathogens affecting Vitis. The male genital characters useful for its identification are depicted, together with those, for comparison, of Arboridia adanae, the other ampelophagous Arboridia species occurring in Italy.

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DOI: 10.3897/bull.insectology.152894

Authors: Mehran Rezaei, Mohammad Mehrabadi, Ali Asghar Talebi, Maryam Atapour

Abstract: To better understand the biology of Compsilura concinnata (Meigen) as a potential biological control agent, it is necessary to determine suitability for potential hosts. In this study, laboratory tests were performed to investigate the acceptance and suitability of two key insect pests, e.g. Pieris rapae (L.) and Spodoptera litura (Fabricius) as host species for C. concinnata. In the first experiment, no significant difference was found for larval and pupal development duration, male and female puparium weight, female longevity period, sex ratio, adult yield, and fecundity of C. concinnata between P. rapae and S. litura. However, the parasitism rate and the host larval mortality were significantly higher for S. litura (58.37% and 65.82%, respectively) than for P. rapae (54.21% and 62.26%, respectively), but the values were very close between the two pests. In the second experiment, it was found that the ability of the parasitoid to locate between the hosts was insignificant. Nevertheless, the mean time to deposit two C. concinnata larvae was significantly longer for S. litura than P. rapae (third experiment). Overall, this finding indicates that C. concinnata could effectively contribute to lowering the population size of P. rapae and S. litura. Further studies must be done to apply C. concinnata successfully against these two host species in field and semi-field conditions.

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DOI: 10.3897/bull.insectology.152754

Authors: Jacques Lasnier, Charles-Henri de Coussergues, Alain Baril, Charles Vincent

Abstract: Japanese beetles (Popillia japonica Newman 1841 – Coleoptera: Scarabaeidae) were detected in early 2000’s at L’Orpailleur, a commercial vineyard located in Dunham, Quebec. Canada. As their levels of damage increased significantly since 2014, a research project was conducted to document the abundance of Japanese beetle adults on foliage of vines and its parasite, the winsome fly Istocheta aldrichi (Mesnil) (Diptera: Tachinidae). From 2019 to 2023, the abundance of Japanese beetle adults was visually assessed in plots (3 × 24 m of grapevine rows) on foliage of each Vidal and Seyval Blanc cultivars. The abundance of Japanese beetle adults with at least one Istocheta aldrichi egg on their pronotum was also visually assessed. From 2019 to 2023, cages positioned near the vineyard allowed to overwinter I. aldrichi pupae to determine the first date of emergence of I. aldrichi adults. Cumulative day-degrees (>10 °C, starting April 1st) were used to report the events related to P. japonica adults, I. aldrichi, and the date of occurrence of phenological stages of grapevines (cultivar Seyval Blanc). In the monitored plots, the seasonal total number of P. japonica adults counted on Seyval Blanc foliage varied from 1955 in 2019 to 513 in 2023, while it varied from 2151 in 2019 to 496 in 2023 on Vidal foliage. From 2019 to 2023, during the period of oviposition of I. aldrichi, the seasonal average % of P. japonica adults showing at least one I. aldrichi egg on its pronotum varied from 7.6 in 2020 to 41.7% in 2023 on the cultivar Seyval Blanc, while it varied from 10.6 in 2020 to 35.5% in 2023 on the cultivar Vidal. Having discussed the agronomic context and factors involved at l’Orpailleur, we conclude that I. aldrichi had a major impact on P. japonica populations, thus providing a non-insecticidal and sustainable tactic to manage this insect.

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