Insects

15 pages, 580 KiB

Open AccessReview

Gene Disruption Technologies Have the Potential to Transform Stored Product Insect Pest Control

by Lindsey C. Perkin, Sherry L. Adrianos and Brenda Oppert^*

Center for Grain and Animal Health Research, Agricultural Research Service, USDA, 1515 College Avenue, Manhattan, KS 66502, USA

Insects 2016, 7(3), 46; https://doi.org/10.3390/insects7030046 - 19 Sep 2016

Cited by 36 | Viewed by 12094

Abstract

Stored product insects feed on grains and processed commodities manufactured from grain post-harvest, reducing the nutritional value and contaminating food. Currently, the main defense against stored product insect pests is the pesticide fumigant phosphine. Phosphine is highly toxic to all animals, but is [...] Read more.

Stored product insects feed on grains and processed commodities manufactured from grain post-harvest, reducing the nutritional value and contaminating food. Currently, the main defense against stored product insect pests is the pesticide fumigant phosphine. Phosphine is highly toxic to all animals, but is the most effective and economical control method, and thus is used extensively worldwide. However, many insect populations have become resistant to phosphine, in some cases to very high levels. New, environmentally benign and more effective control strategies are needed for stored product pests. RNA interference (RNAi) may overcome pesticide resistance by targeting the expression of genes that contribute to resistance in insects. Most data on RNAi in stored product insects is from the coleopteran genetic model, Tribolium castaneum, since it has a strong RNAi response via injection of double stranded RNA (dsRNA) in any life stage. Additionally, Clustered Regularly Interspaced Short Palindromic Repeats (CRISPR) technology has been suggested as a potential resource for new pest control strategies. In this review we discuss background information on both gene disruption technologies and summarize the advances made in terms of molecular pest management in stored product insects, mainly T. castaneum, as well as complications and future needs. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Alternatives to Chemical Control of Stored-Product Insects)

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11 pages, 871 KiB

Open AccessCommunication

Impact of an Invasive Insect and Plant Defense on a Native Forest Defoliator

by Claire M. Wilson¹, Justin F. Vendettuoli¹, David A. Orwig²

and Evan L. Preisser^1,*

¹ Department of Biological Sciences, University of Rhode Island, Kingston, RI 02881, USA

² Harvard Forest, Harvard University, Petersham, MA 01366, USA

¹ Phillip Alampi Beneficial Insect Laboratory, New Jersey Department of Agriculture, Division of Plant Industry, Trenton, NJ, USA

¹ Department of Plant Sciences and Entomology, College of the Environment and Life Science, The University of Rhode Island, Kingston, RI, USA

¹ Department of Biological Sciences, College of the Environment and Life Science, The University of Rhode Island, Kingston, RI, USA

Insects 2016, 7(3), 45; https://doi.org/10.3390/insects7030045 - 13 Sep 2016

Cited by 10 | Viewed by 5667

Abstract

Eastern hemlock (Tsuga canadensis [L.] Carriére) in the United States is threatened by the invasive hemlock woolly adelgid (Adelges tsugae Annand). The native hemlock looper (Lambdina fiscellaria Guenée) also appears to have played a role in previous population declines of [...] Read more.

Eastern hemlock (Tsuga canadensis [L.] Carriére) in the United States is threatened by the invasive hemlock woolly adelgid (Adelges tsugae Annand). The native hemlock looper (Lambdina fiscellaria Guenée) also appears to have played a role in previous population declines of this conifer. Although these two insects co-occur in much of the adelgid’s invaded range, their interactions remain unstudied. We assessed looper performance and preference on both uninfested and adelgid-infested foliage from adelgid-susceptible hemlocks, as well as on uninfested foliage from an eastern hemlock that is naturally adelgid-resistant. Larvae reared on uninfested foliage from adelgid-susceptible hemlocks experienced 60% mortality within the first two weeks of the experiment, and pupated at a lower weight than larvae fed adelgid-infested foliage. Despite differences in foliage source, this first look and strong pattern suggests that the hemlock looper performs better (pupates earlier, weighs more) on adelgid-infested foliage. In addition, trends suggested that larvae reared on foliage from the adelgid-resistant tree survived better, pupated earlier, and weighed more than in the other treatments. Larvae preferred adelgid-resistant over adelgid-susceptible foliage. Our results suggest that looper perform slightly better on adelgid-infested foliage and that plant resistance to xylem-feeding adelgid may increase susceptibility to foliar-feeding looper larvae. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Invasive Insect Species)

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15 pages, 247 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Efficacy of Controlled Atmosphere Treatments to Manage Arthropod Pests of Dry-Cured Hams

by Md. Mahbub Hasan^1,2, Michael J. Aikins¹, Wes Schilling³ and Thomas W. Phillips^1,*

¹ Department of Entomology, Kansas State University, 123W. Waters Hall, Manhattan, KS 66506, USA

² Department of Zoology, Rajshahi University, Rajshahi 6205, Bangladesh

³ Department of Food Science, Nutrition and Health Promotion, Mississippi State University, Starkville, MS 39762, USA

Insects 2016, 7(3), 44; https://doi.org/10.3390/insects7030044 - 2 Sep 2016

Cited by 15 | Viewed by 5360

Abstract

Research here explored the use of controlled atmospheres (CA) for managing arthropod pests that infest dry-cured hams. Experiments were conducted with low oxygen (O₂) achieved with low pressure under a vacuum, high carbon dioxide (CO₂), and ozone (O₃ [...] Read more.

Research here explored the use of controlled atmospheres (CA) for managing arthropod pests that infest dry-cured hams. Experiments were conducted with low oxygen (O₂) achieved with low pressure under a vacuum, high carbon dioxide (CO₂), and ozone (O₃). Results showed that both low O₂ and high CO₂ levels required exposures up to 144 h to kill 100% of all stages of red-legged ham beetle, Necrobia rufipes (De Geer) (Coleoptera: Cleridae) and ham mite Tyrophagus putrescentiae (Schrank) (Sarcoptiformes: Acaridae) at 23 °C. In addition, both low O₂ and high CO₂ had no significant mortality against the ham beetle and ham mites at short exposures ranging from 12 to 48 h. Ham beetles were more tolerant than ham mites to an atmosphere of 75.1% CO₂ and low pressure of 25 mm Hg, which imposed an atmosphere estimated at 0.9% O₂. Both low O₂ and high CO₂ trials indicated that the egg stages of both species were more tolerant than other stages tested, but N. rufipes eggs and pupae were more susceptible than larvae and adults to high concentration ozone treatments. The results indicate that O₃ has potential to control ham beetles and ham mites, particularly at ≈166 ppm in just a 24 h exposure period, but O₃ is known from other work to have poor penetration ability, thus it may be more difficult to apply effectively than low O₂ or high CO₂. would be. CA treatment for arthropod pests of dry-cured hams show promise as components of integrated pest management programs after methyl bromide is no longer available for use. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Alternatives to Chemical Control of Stored-Product Insects)

10 pages, 1268 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Impact of Ground-Applied Termiticides on the Above-Ground Foraging Behavior of the Formosan Subterranean Termite

by Gregg Henderson^*, Bal K. Gautam and Cai Wang

Department of Entomology, Louisiana State University Agricultural Center, 404 Life Sciences Building, Baton Rouge, LA 70803, USA

Insects 2016, 7(3), 43; https://doi.org/10.3390/insects7030043 - 26 Aug 2016

Cited by 10 | Viewed by 5309

Abstract

We conducted a laboratory study to determine the impact of ground-applied termiticides on the above-ground foraging behavior of Coptotermes formosanus. Two concentrations (1 and 10 ppm) each of three termiticides, viz. fipronil, imidacloprid and chlorantraniliprole, were tested. After one month post-treatment (fipronil [...] Read more.

We conducted a laboratory study to determine the impact of ground-applied termiticides on the above-ground foraging behavior of Coptotermes formosanus. Two concentrations (1 and 10 ppm) each of three termiticides, viz. fipronil, imidacloprid and chlorantraniliprole, were tested. After one month post-treatment (fipronil 10 ppm was run for 12 days only and all other treatments were run for one month), fipronil had the lowest percentage of survival (3%–4%) at both concentrations. Termite survival ranged from 31% to 40% in the case of imidacloprid treatments and 10 ppm chlorantraniliprole. However, 1 ppm chlorantraniliprole did not cause significant mortality compared to the controls. Foraging on the bottom substrate was evident in all replicates for all chemicals initially. However, a portion of the foraging population avoided the ground treatment toxicants after several days of bottom foraging. Only the slower-acting non-repellents created this repellent barrier, causing avoidance behavior that was most likely due to dead termites and fungus buildup on the treated bottom substrate. Fipronil appeared more toxic and faster acting at the concentrations tested, thus limiting this repellent effect. Suggestions by the pest control industry in Louisiana that some non-repellents can create a repellent barrier stranding live termites above ground are supported by this laboratory study. Full article

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14 pages, 1278 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Improving Efficacy of Beauveria bassiana against Stored Grain Beetles with a Synergistic Co-Formulant

by Clare Storm^1,*, Freya Scoates¹, Adam Nunn¹, Olivier Potin² and Aoife Dillon¹

¹ Exosect Ltd., Leylands Business Park, Colden Common, Winchester SO21 1TH, UK

² Agrauxine, 18 Route De Mauvieres, Loches 37600, France

Insects 2016, 7(3), 42; https://doi.org/10.3390/insects7030042 - 26 Aug 2016

Cited by 23 | Viewed by 6095

Abstract

The potential of a dry powder co-formulant, kaolin, to improve the control of storage beetles by the entomopathogenic fungus Beauveria bassiana, isolate IMI389521, was investigated. The response of Oryzaephilus surinamensis adults to the fungus when applied to wheat at 1 × 10 [...] Read more.

The potential of a dry powder co-formulant, kaolin, to improve the control of storage beetles by the entomopathogenic fungus Beauveria bassiana, isolate IMI389521, was investigated. The response of Oryzaephilus surinamensis adults to the fungus when applied to wheat at 1 × 10¹⁰ conidia per kg with and without kaolin at 1.74 g per kg wheat was assessed. Addition of kaolin increased control from 46% to 88% at day 7 and from 81% to 99% at day 14 post-treatment. Following this the dose response of O. surinamensis and Tribolium confusum to both kaolin and the fungus was investigated. Synergistic effects were evident against O. surinamensis at ≥0.96 g of kaolin per kg of wheat when combined with the fungus at all concentrations tested. For T. confusum, adult mortality did not exceed 55%, however, the larvae were extremely susceptible with almost complete suppression of adult emergence at the lowest fungal rate tested even without the addition of kaolin. Finally, the dose response of Sitophilus granarius to the fungus at 15 and 25 °C, with and without kaolin at 1 g per kg of wheat, was examined. Improvements in efficacy were achieved by including kaolin at every fungal rate tested and by increasing the temperature. Kaolin by itself was not effective, only when combined with the fungus was an effect observed, indicating that kaolin was having a synergistic effect on the fungus. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Alternatives to Chemical Control of Stored-Product Insects)

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10 pages, 1613 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Evidence of Subterranean Termite Feeding Deterrent Produced by Brown Rot Fungus Fibroporia radiculosa (Peck) Parmasto 1968 (Polyporales, Fomitopsidaceae)

by Nadia Nuraniya Kamaluddin¹

, Akiko Nakagawa-Izumi^1,*, Shota Nishizawa¹, Ayuko Fukunaga¹, Shuichi Doi¹, Tsuyoshi Yoshimura² and Sakae Horisawa³

¹ Graduate School of Life and Environmental Sciences, University of Tsukuba, Tsukuba 305-0872, Japan

² Research Institute for Sustainable Humanosphere, Kyoto University, Uji, Kyoto 611-0011, Japan

³ School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Kochi University of Technology, Kami, Kochi 782-8502, Japan

Insects 2016, 7(3), 41; https://doi.org/10.3390/insects7030041 - 18 Aug 2016

Cited by 9 | Viewed by 4933

Abstract

We found that decayed wood stakes with no termite damage collected from a termite-infested field exhibited a deterrent effect against the termite Reticulitermes speratus, Kolbe, 1885. The effect was observed to be lost or reduced by drying. After identification, it was found [...] Read more.

We found that decayed wood stakes with no termite damage collected from a termite-infested field exhibited a deterrent effect against the termite Reticulitermes speratus, Kolbe, 1885. The effect was observed to be lost or reduced by drying. After identification, it was found that the decayed stakes were infected by brown rot fungus Fibroporia radiculosa (Peck) Parmasto, 1968. In a no-choice feeding test, wood blocks decayed by this fungus under laboratory condition deterred R. speratus feeding and n-hexane extract from the decayed stake and blocks induced termite mortality. These data provided an insight into the interaction between wood-rot fungi and wood-feeding termites. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Management of Wood-Attacking Insects)

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11 pages, 1724 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Flood Stress as a Technique to Assess Preventive Insecticide and Fungicide Treatments for Protecting Trees against Ambrosia Beetles

by Christopher M. Ranger^1,2,*, Peter B. Schultz³, Michael E. Reding^1,2, Steven D. Frank⁴ and Debra E. Palmquist⁵

¹ Horticultural Insects Research Lab, USDA-Agricultural Research Service, 1680 Madison Ave., Wooster, OH 44691, USA

² Department of Entomology, Ohio Agricultural Research and Development Center, The Ohio State University, 1680 Madison Ave., Wooster, OH 44691, USA

³ Hampton Roads Agricultural Research and Extension Center, Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University, Virginia Beach, VA 23455, USA

⁴ Department of Entomology, North Carolina State University, Campus Box 7613, Raleigh, NC 27965, USA

⁵ USDA-Agricultural Research Service-Midwest Area, 1815 N. University St., Peoria, IL 61604, USA

Insects 2016, 7(3), 40; https://doi.org/10.3390/insects7030040 - 18 Aug 2016

Cited by 26 | Viewed by 5012

Abstract

Ambrosia beetles tunnel into the heartwood of trees where they cultivate and feed upon a symbiotic fungus. We assessed the effectiveness of flood stress for making Cercis canadensis L. and Cornus florida L. trees attractive to attack as part of insecticide and fungicide [...] Read more.

Ambrosia beetles tunnel into the heartwood of trees where they cultivate and feed upon a symbiotic fungus. We assessed the effectiveness of flood stress for making Cercis canadensis L. and Cornus florida L. trees attractive to attack as part of insecticide and fungicide efficacy trials conducted in Ohio and Virginia. Since female ambrosia beetles will not begin ovipositing until their symbiotic fungus is established within the host, we also assessed pre-treatment of trees with permethrin, azoxystrobin, and potassium phosphite on fungal establishment and beetle colonization success. Permethrin reduced attacks on flooded trees, yet no attacks occurred on any of the non-flooded trees. Fewer galleries created within flooded trees pre-treated with permethrin, azoxystrobin, and potassium phosphite contained the purported symbiotic fungus; foundress’ eggs were only detected in flooded but untreated trees. While pre-treatment with permethrin, azoxystrobin, and potassium phosphite can disrupt colonization success, maintaining tree health continues to be the most effective and sustainable management strategy. Full article

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9 pages, 213 KiB

Open AccessReview

Lariophagus distinguendus (Hymenoptera: Pteromalidae) (Förster)—Past, Present, and Future: The History of a Biological Control Method Using L. distinguendus against Different Storage Pests

by Steffi Niedermayer, Marie Pollmann and Johannes L. M. Steidle^*

Institute of Zoology/Animal Ecology 220c, Hohenheim University, Garbenstr. 30, Stuttgart 70599, Germany

Insects 2016, 7(3), 39; https://doi.org/10.3390/insects7030039 - 1 Aug 2016

Cited by 16 | Viewed by 6359

Abstract

Legal requirements and consumer demands for residue-free products pose a big challenge for pest control in grain stores. One possible alternative to chemical insecticides is biological pest control with the pteromalid wasp Lariophagus distinguendus against the weevils Sitophilus granarius, S. oryzae (Coleoptera: [...] Read more.

Legal requirements and consumer demands for residue-free products pose a big challenge for pest control in grain stores. One possible alternative to chemical insecticides is biological pest control with the pteromalid wasp Lariophagus distinguendus against the weevils Sitophilus granarius, S. oryzae (Coleoptera: Dryophtoridae), and many other storage pest beetles. The use of this wasp as a biocontrol agent was already suggested in 1919 by Prof. Dr. Hase [1]. Despite many studies on host-finding and behavioral biology, the applied aspect was neglected until 1994. Nowadays the wasps are commercially available and can now even be reared on-site, facilitating their use tremendously. This review highlights the milestones in L. distinguendus research, gives insights in current studies, and ventures a glimpse into the future. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Alternatives to Chemical Control of Stored-Product Insects)

14 pages, 4958 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Nest-Gallery Development and Caste Composition of Isolated Foraging Groups of the Drywood Termite, Incisitermes minor (Isoptera: Kalotermitidae)

by S. Khoirul Himmi^1,2,*

, Tsuyoshi Yoshimura¹, Yoshiyuki Yanase³, Masao Oya⁴, Toshiyuki Torigoe⁵, Masanori Akada⁶ and Setsuo Imadzu⁶

¹ Research Institute for Sustainable Humanosphere (RISH), Kyoto University, Gokasho, Uji, Kyoto 611-0011, Japan

² Research Center for Biomaterials, Indonesian Institute of Sciences (LIPI), Jl. Raya Bogor km. 46 Cibinong, Bogor 16911, Indonesia

³ Graduate School of Agriculture, Kyoto University, Sakyo-ku, Kyoto 606-8502, Japan

⁴ Oya Shiroari Giken, 438-1 Oaza-ichiya, Nachikatsuura-cho, Higashimuro-gun, Wakayama 649-5141, Japan

⁵ Nara National Museum, 50 Noborioji-cho, Nara 630-8213, Japan

⁶ Kyushu National Museum, 4-7-2 Ishizaka, Dazaifu, Fukuoka 818-0118, Japan

Insects 2016, 7(3), 38; https://doi.org/10.3390/insects7030038 - 22 Jul 2016

Cited by 12 | Viewed by 6722

Abstract

An X-ray computed-tomographic examination of nest-gallery development from timbers naturally infested by foraging groups of Incisitermes minor colonies was conducted. This study documents the colonization process of I. minor to new timbers and how the isolated groups maintain their nest-gallery system. The results [...] Read more.

An X-ray computed-tomographic examination of nest-gallery development from timbers naturally infested by foraging groups of Incisitermes minor colonies was conducted. This study documents the colonization process of I. minor to new timbers and how the isolated groups maintain their nest-gallery system. The results suggested that development of a nest-gallery within a suitable wood item is not random, but shows selection for softer substrate and other adaptations to the different timber environments. Stigmergic coordinations were expressed in dynamic changes of the nest-gallery system; indicated by fortification behavior in sealing and re-opening a tunnel approaching the outer edge of the timber, and accumulating fecal pellets in particular chambers located beneath the timber surface. The study also examines the caste composition of isolated groups to discover how I. minor sustains colonies with and without primary reproductives. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Management of Wood-Attacking Insects)

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6 pages, 852 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Subterranean Termite Resistance of Polystyrene-Treated Wood from Three Tropical Wood Species

by Yusuf Sudo Hadi^*, Muh Yusram Massijaya and A. Arinana

Bogor Agricultural University, Bogor, Jawa Barat 16680, Indonesia

Insects 2016, 7(3), 37; https://doi.org/10.3390/insects7030037 - 21 Jul 2016

Cited by 26 | Viewed by 5877

Abstract

The objective of this work was to investigate the resistance of three Indonesian wood species to termite attack. Samples from sengon (Falcataria moluccana), mangium (Acacia mangium), and pine (Pinus merkusii) were treated with polystyrene at loading levels [...] Read more.

The objective of this work was to investigate the resistance of three Indonesian wood species to termite attack. Samples from sengon (Falcataria moluccana), mangium (Acacia mangium), and pine (Pinus merkusii) were treated with polystyrene at loading levels of 26.0%, 8.6%, and 7.7%, respectively. Treated and untreated samples were exposed to environmental conditions in the field for 3 months. Untreated specimens of sengon, mangium, and pine had resistance ratings of 3.0, 4.6, and 2.4, respectively, based on a 10-point scale from 0 (no resistance) to 10 (complete or near-complete resistance). Corresponding resistance values of 7.8, 7.2, and 8.2 were determined for specimens treated with polystyrene. Overall weight loss values of 50.3%, 23.3%, and 66.4% were found for untreated sengon, mangium, and pine samples, respectively; for treated samples, the values were 7.6%, 14.4%, and 5.1%, respectively. Based on the findings in this study, overall resistance to termite attack was higher for treated samples compared to untreated samples. Full article

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9 pages, 911 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Effects of Decompression Treatment for Controlling the Powderpost Beetle, Lyctus africanus Lesne, (Coleoptera: Lyctinae)

by Kazushi Nakai^1,*,†

, Tatsuya Hiraku^1,†, Izumi Fujimoto^2,† and Tsuyoshi Yoshimura^2,†

¹ Production Engineering and Procurement Department, Yamaha Corporation, 283 Aoya-cho, Minami-ku, Hamamatsu 435-8567, Japan

² Research Institute for Sustainable Humanosphere, Kyoto University, Uji Campus, Kyoto 611-0011, Japan

^† These authors contributed equally to this work.

Insects 2016, 7(3), 36; https://doi.org/10.3390/insects7030036 - 15 Jul 2016

Viewed by 5135

Abstract

The efficacy of decompression treatment as a non-destructive method to control larvae of the powderpost beetle, Lyctus africanus Lesne, was evaluated in the laboratory using various combinations of two pressure levels, 1.1 kPa and 40 kPa, and three temperature levels, 20, 25, and [...] Read more.

The efficacy of decompression treatment as a non-destructive method to control larvae of the powderpost beetle, Lyctus africanus Lesne, was evaluated in the laboratory using various combinations of two pressure levels, 1.1 kPa and 40 kPa, and three temperature levels, 20, 25, and 40 °C. Larval mortality generally depended on weight reduction while decreases in the oxygen level had relatively little effect. The lower pressure, 1.1 kPa, significantly affected mortality, and no larvae survived after 12 h of this pressure treatment, at 25 °C. The average body weight was reduced with treatment time and temperature, and the reduction rate at 25 °C was higher than that at the lower temperature, 20 °C. Effects on larvae of the higher pressure treatment, 40 kPa, with a CO₂ gas purge, were tested to determine the feasibility of decompression treatment in the manufacturing process. Although higher pressure resulted in low mortality, the body weight was dramatically decreased using the CO₂ purge. These results present important information on the possibility of using decompression treatment for wood products. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Management of Wood-Attacking Insects)

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13 pages, 1242 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Repellent Activity of Botanical Oils against Asian Citrus Psyllid, Diaphorina citri (Hemiptera: Liviidae)

by Emily H. Kuhns¹, Xavier Martini^1,2, Angel Hoyte¹ and Lukasz L. Stelinski^1,*

¹ Citrus Research and Education Center, Entomological and Nematology Department, University of Florida, 700 Experimentation road, Lake Alfred, FL 33850, USA

² North Florida Research and Education Center, Entomological and Nematology Department, University of Florida, 155 Experiment Road, Quincy, FL 32351, USA

Insects 2016, 7(3), 35; https://doi.org/10.3390/insects7030035 - 14 Jul 2016

Cited by 18 | Viewed by 6660

Abstract

The Asian citrus psyllid, Diaphorina citri Kuwayama, is the insect vector of the pathogen causing huanglongbing. We selected three botanical oils to evaluate behavioral activity against D. citri. In laboratory olfactometer assays, fir oil was repellent to D. citri females, while litsea [...] Read more.

The Asian citrus psyllid, Diaphorina citri Kuwayama, is the insect vector of the pathogen causing huanglongbing. We selected three botanical oils to evaluate behavioral activity against D. citri. In laboratory olfactometer assays, fir oil was repellent to D. citri females, while litsea and citronella oils elicited no response from D. citri females. In choice settling experiments, D. citri settled almost completely on control plants rather than on plants treated with fir oil at a 9.5 mg/day release rate. Therefore, we conducted field trials to determine if fir oil reduced D. citri densities in citrus groves. We found no repellency of D. citri from sweet orange resets that were treated with fir oil dispensers releasing 10.4 g/day/tree as compared with control plots. However, we found a two-week decrease in populations of D. citri as compared with controls when the deployment rate of these dispensers was doubled. Our results suggest that treatment of citrus with fir oil may have limited activity as a stand-alone management tool for D. citri and would require integration with other management practices. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Plant Extracts as Insecticides in Pest Control)

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10 pages, 1218 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Functional Responses of Three Neotropical Mirid Predators to Eggs of Tuta absoluta on Tomato

by Joop C. Van Lenteren^1,5,*, Lia Hemerik², Juracy C. Lins^3,4

and Vanda H. P. Bueno^4,5

¹ Laboratory of Entomology, Wageningen University, P.O. Box 16, Wageningen 6700 EH, The Netherlands

² Biometris, Department of Mathematical and Statistical Methods, Wageningen University, P.O. Box 16, Wageningen 6700 AA, The Netherlands

³ Laboratory of Entomology, University Center of Várzea Grande, Várzea Grande MT 78118-900, Brazil

⁴ Laboratory of Biological Control, Department of Entomology, Federal University of Lavras, P. O. Box 3037, Lavras MG 37200-000, Brazil

⁵ Laboratory Chemical Ecology and Insect Behavior, Department of Entomology and Acarology, Escola Superior de Agricultura Luiz de Queiroz (ESALQ/USP), Piracicaba SP 13418-900, Brazil

Insects 2016, 7(3), 34; https://doi.org/10.3390/insects7030034 - 12 Jul 2016

Cited by 59 | Viewed by 8026

Abstract

Tuta absoluta (Meyrick) has quickly developed into a significant tomato pest worldwide. While the recently found mirid predators Macrolophus basicornis (Stal), Engytatus varians (Distant) and Campyloneuropsis infumatus (Carvalho) of this pest are able to establish and reproduce on tomato, biological knowledge of these [...] Read more.

Tuta absoluta (Meyrick) has quickly developed into a significant tomato pest worldwide. While the recently found mirid predators Macrolophus basicornis (Stal), Engytatus varians (Distant) and Campyloneuropsis infumatus (Carvalho) of this pest are able to establish and reproduce on tomato, biological knowledge of these mirids is still limited. Here we describe the functional response of the three mirid predators of the tomato pest T. absoluta when offered a range of prey densities (four, eight, 16, 32, 64, 128 and 256 eggs) during a 24 h period inside cylindrical plastic cages in the laboratory. Engytatus varians and M. basicornis showed a type III functional response, whereas C. infumatus showed a type II functional response. At the highest prey densities, C. infumatus consumed an average of 51.0 eggs, E. varians 91.1 eggs, and M. basicornis 100.8 eggs. Taking all information into account that we have collected of these three Neotropical mirid species, we predict that M. basicornis might be the best candidate for control of the tomato borer in Brazil: it has the highest fecundity, the largest maximum predation capacity, and it reacts in a density-dependent way to the widest prey range. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Biological Control of Invertebrate Pests)

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7 pages, 182 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Methodology for Evaluating the Insect Growth Regulator (IGR) Methoprene on Packaging Films

by Frank H. Arthur

Center for Grain and Animal Health Research, Agricultural Research Service, USDA, 1515 College Avenue, Manhattan, KS 66502, USA

Insects 2016, 7(3), 33; https://doi.org/10.3390/insects7030033 - 7 Jul 2016

Cited by 12 | Viewed by 5545

Abstract

The insect growth regulator methoprene can be mixed into the matrix used to comprise bags and other packaging materials. Different methodologies were utilized to evaluate the efficacy of different types of methoprene-treated packaging towards Tribolium castaneum (Herbst), the red flour beetle, and T. [...] Read more.

The insect growth regulator methoprene can be mixed into the matrix used to comprise bags and other packaging materials. Different methodologies were utilized to evaluate the efficacy of different types of methoprene-treated packaging towards Tribolium castaneum (Herbst), the red flour beetle, and T. confusum Jacquelin duVal, the confused flour beetle, two common insect species that infest stored products. Tests were conducted by creating arenas in which larvae were exposed on the packaging surface along with a flour food source, and assessments were made on adults emerging from the exposed progeny. Tests were also done by exposing adults, again with a flour food source, removing the adults after one week, and assessing adult emergence of progeny from those parental adults. In tests with larvae exposed on methoprene-treated birdseed bags, the outside surface had more activity compared to the inside surface, especially on T. confusum. In other studies with different types of packaging materials, there was generally 100% inhibition of adult emergence of exposed larvae or of progeny adults when parental adults were exposed on the methoprene-treated packaging. The best technique for evaluation was to expose late-stage larvae as the test life stage. Results show the potential of using methoprene-treated packaging for bagged storage of processed grains and grain products. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Alternatives to Chemical Control of Stored-Product Insects)

11 pages, 610 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Pickleworm (Diaphania nitidalis Cramer) Neonate Feeding Preferences and the Implications for a Push-Pull Management System

by Rosalie Leiner and Helen Spafford^*

Department of Plant and Environmental Protection Sciences, University of Hawaii, Manoa, 3050 Maile Way, Honolulu, HI 96822, USA

Insects 2016, 7(3), 32; https://doi.org/10.3390/insects7030032 - 5 Jul 2016

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 4665

Abstract

Push-pull cropping approaches for pest management target the oviposition behavior of adult females. However, insect larvae may move from the natal host and undermine the effectiveness of this approach. We investigated the longevity and feeding preference of pickleworm neonates (Diaphania nitidalis Cramer [...] Read more.

Push-pull cropping approaches for pest management target the oviposition behavior of adult females. However, insect larvae may move from the natal host and undermine the effectiveness of this approach. We investigated the longevity and feeding preference of pickleworm neonates (Diaphania nitidalis Cramer (Lepidoptera: Crambidae)) in relation to a potential push-pull cropping approach incorporating squash as a trap crop (pull) and watermelon as a deterrent intercrop (push) to protect a main crop of cantaloupe. Neonates could survive between 24 to 64 h without food, indicating they have some initial energy reserves to keep alive while in search of a suitable feeding site. To assess neonate feeding preferences, naive neonates were given the choice of five foods; leaves of squash, cantaloupe, watermelon, bean, and a pinto bean-based artificial diet. To assess if previous feeding experience influences neonate food source preference, neonates were allowed to feed on one of the five foods for 24 h and then given the same choice of the five food sources. The neonates, with or without previous feeding experience, did not appear to have a significant preference for any of the cucurbits: squash, cantaloupe, or watermelon, but they did prefer a cucurbit to the bean leaf or artificial diet. Feeding experience on one of these non-host foods made neonates more accepting of these food sources in the choice arena even when host plant food sources became available. It appears that neonate feeding preferences of pickleworm would neither hinder nor enhance the potential success of the proposed cucurbits to be used in a potential push-pull cropping approach for pickleworm management. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Integrated Pest Management)

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13 pages, 1790 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Estimation of Median Lethal Concentration of Three Isolates of Beauveria bassiana for Control of Megacopta cribraria (Heteroptera: Plataspidae) Bioassayed on Solid Lygus spp. Diet

by Maribel Portilla^1,*, Walker Jones², Omaththage Perera¹

, Nick Seiter³, Jeremy Greene⁴

and Randall Luttrell¹

¹ Southern Insect Management Research Unit, Agricultural Research Service (ARS), USDA, 141 Experiment Station Road, Stoneville, MS 38776, USA

² National Biological Control Laboratory, Agricultural Research Service (ARS), USDA, 59 Lee Road, Stoneville, MS 38776, USA

³ Southeast Research and Extension Center, Division of Agriculture Sciences and Natural Resources, University of Arkansas, P.O. Box 3508, Monticello, AR 71656, USA

⁴ Department of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences, College of Agriculture, Forestry, and Life Sciences, Clemson University, Edisto Research and Education Center, 64 Research Road, Blackville, SC 29817, USA

Insects 2016, 7(3), 31; https://doi.org/10.3390/insects7030031 - 30 Jun 2016

Cited by 12 | Viewed by 4982

Abstract

The kudzu bug, Megacopta cribraria (F.), is an urban nuisance and significant agricultural pest. The median lethal concentrations of three strains of Beauveria bassiana (Balsamo), including the Mississippi Delta native strain (NI8) isolated from Lygus lineolaris (Palisot de Beauvois), the commercial strain BotaniGard [...] Read more.

The kudzu bug, Megacopta cribraria (F.), is an urban nuisance and significant agricultural pest. The median lethal concentrations of three strains of Beauveria bassiana (Balsamo), including the Mississippi Delta native strain (NI8) isolated from Lygus lineolaris (Palisot de Beauvois), the commercial strain BotaniGard^® (GHA) (Victor, NY, USA), and the B. bassiana strain isolated from M. cribraria (KUDSC), were estimated on kudzu bug adults. A technique developed to evaluate B. bassiana against L. lineolaris was used. Younger adults (eight days after collection) were treated with NI8 and GHA and older adult (50 days after collection) were treated with NI8, GHA and KUDSC. Higher concentrations (n × 10⁶, n × 10⁷) of NI8 and GHA caused kudzu bug mortality two days after treatment in younger adults and similar concentrations of NI8, GHA, and KUDSC caused mortality one day after treatment in older adults. Lower concentrations (n × 10⁴, n × 10⁵) were not significantly different in mortality between strains. LS₅₀ values of the KUDSC were significantly lower than NI8 and GHA values in older adults. This is the first available information on median lethal concentration of B. bassiana on kudzu bug adults bioassayed on artificial diet. It was determined that B. bassiana (KUDSC and NI8) are highly effective for young adults at very low doses (LC₅₀ 1.98–4.98 viable spores per mm²). Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Biological Control of Invertebrate Pests)

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11 pages, 2124 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Beneficial Insect Attraction to Milkweeds (Asclepias speciosa, Asclepias fascicularis) in Washington State, USA

by David G. James^*

, Lorraine Seymour, Gerry Lauby and Katie Buckley

Department of Entomology, Washington State University, Prosser, WA 99350, USA

Insects 2016, 7(3), 30; https://doi.org/10.3390/insects7030030 - 29 Jun 2016

Cited by 7 | Viewed by 13255

Abstract

Native plant and beneficial insect associations are relatively unstudied yet are important in native habitat restoration programs for improving and sustaining conservation biological control of arthropod pests in agricultural crops. Milkweeds (Asclepias spp.) are currently the focus of restoration programs in the [...] Read more.

Native plant and beneficial insect associations are relatively unstudied yet are important in native habitat restoration programs for improving and sustaining conservation biological control of arthropod pests in agricultural crops. Milkweeds (Asclepias spp.) are currently the focus of restoration programs in the USA aimed at reversing a decline in populations of the milkweed-dependent monarch butterfly (Danaus plexippus); however, little is known of the benefits of these plants to other beneficial insects. Beneficial insects (predators, parasitoids, pollinators) attracted to two milkweed species (Asclepias speciosa, Asclepias fascicularis) in central Washington State, WA, USA were identified and counted on transparent sticky traps attached to blooms over five seasons. Combining all categories of beneficial insects, means of 128 and 126 insects per trap were recorded for A. speciosa and A. fascicularis, respectively. Predatory and parasitic flies dominated trap catches for A. speciosa while parasitic wasps were the most commonly trapped beneficial insects on A. fascicularis. Bees were trapped commonly on both species, especially A. speciosa with native bees trapped in significantly greater numbers than honey bees. Beneficial insect attraction to A. speciosa and A. fascicularis was substantial. Therefore, these plants are ideal candidates for habitat restoration, intended to enhance conservation biological control, and for pollinator conservation. In central Washington, milkweed restoration programs for enhancement of D. plexippus populations should also provide benefits for pest suppression and pollinator conservation. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Biological Control of Invertebrate Pests)

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10 pages, 375 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Elucidating the Common Generalist Predators of Conotrachelus nenuphar (Herbst) (Coleoptera: Curculionidae) in an Organic Apple Orchard Using Molecular Gut-Content Analysis

by Jason M. Schmidt^1,2,*, Zsofia Szendrei¹ and Matthew Grieshop¹

¹ Department of Entomology, Michigan State University, 578 Wilson Rd., East Lansing, MI 48824, USA

² Department of Entomology, University of Georgia, 2360 Rainwater Rd., Tifton, GA 31793, USA

Insects 2016, 7(3), 29; https://doi.org/10.3390/insects7030029 - 24 Jun 2016

Cited by 6 | Viewed by 5188

Abstract

Conotrachelus nenuphar (Herbst) (Coleoptera: Curculionidae), plum curculio, is a serious direct pest of North American tree fruit including, apples, cherries, peaches and plums. Historically, organophosphate insecticides were used for control, but this tool is no longer registered for use in tree fruit. In [...] Read more.

Conotrachelus nenuphar (Herbst) (Coleoptera: Curculionidae), plum curculio, is a serious direct pest of North American tree fruit including, apples, cherries, peaches and plums. Historically, organophosphate insecticides were used for control, but this tool is no longer registered for use in tree fruit. In addition, few organically approved insecticides are available for organic pest control and none have proven efficacy as this time. Therefore, promoting biological control in these systems is the next step, however, little is known about the biological control pathways in this system and how these are influenced by current mechanical and cultural practices required in organic systems. We used molecular gut-content analysis for testing field caught predators for feeding on plum curculio. During the study we monitored populations of plum curculio and the predator community in a production organic apple orchard. Predator populations varied over the season and contained a diverse assemblage of spiders and beetles. A total of 8% of all predators (eight Araneae, two Hemiptera, and six Coleoptera species) assayed for plum curculio predation were observed positive for the presence of plum curculio DNA in their guts, indicating that these species fed on plum curculio prior to collection Results indicate a number of biological control agents exist for this pest and this requires further study in relation to cultural practices. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Biological Control of Invertebrate Pests)

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Insects, Volume 7, Issue 3 (September 2016) – 18 articles

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