Insects

13 pages, 3764 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Population Genomics and Morphology Provide Insights into the Conservation and Diversity of Apis laboriosa

by Ri Liu, Xuntao Ma, Longfu Zhang, Kang Lai, Changbin Shu, Bin Wang, Mingwang Zhang and Mingxian Yang

Insects 2025, 16(5), 546; https://doi.org/10.3390/insects16050546 - 21 May 2025

Abstract

In recent decades, honeybee populations have declined, dramatically owing to destructive honey harvesting practices and the loss of foraging grounds and nesting sites. Among them, Apis laboriosa Smith, 1871 (Hymenoptera, Apidae), an important pollinator species found in the Himalayan region, holds significant economic [...] Read more.

In recent decades, honeybee populations have declined, dramatically owing to destructive honey harvesting practices and the loss of foraging grounds and nesting sites. Among them, Apis laboriosa Smith, 1871 (Hymenoptera, Apidae), an important pollinator species found in the Himalayan region, holds significant economic and ecological value. However, conservation efforts and intraspecific taxonomic studies regarding it have been rather limited, and thus its full geographic range remains elusive. This study is the first to research A. laboriosa in Sichuan. Through a systematic study integrating morphological feature analysis and genomic data, the following conclusions are drawn. Whole-genome resequencing data analysis reveals that the Sichuan population forms a new monophyletic group (Bootstraps = 100). In the past ten thousand years, the population sizes of A. laboriosa in four different regions of China have been decreasing rapidly. Measures should be taken to protect them across the entire distribution range, especially the populations in Tibet and Sichuan, due to their relatively large genetic differences and low intra-population genetic diversity. Based on the significant difference analysis, the following four wing vein morphological features with extremely significant differences were identified: the width of the right forewing (FB), the cubital index a/b (Ci), the forewing vein angle (E9), and the forewing vein angle (K19). These findings are expected to offer a valuable reference for future A. laboriosa conservation endeavors, particularly in protecting populations with a high level of genetic differentiation. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Social Insects and Apiculture)

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22 pages, 8361 KiB

Open AccessArticle

RDW-YOLO: A Deep Learning Framework for Scalable Agricultural Pest Monitoring and Control

by Jiaxin Song, Ke Cheng, Fei Chen and Xuecheng Hua

Insects 2025, 16(5), 545; https://doi.org/10.3390/insects16050545 - 21 May 2025

Abstract

Due to target diversity, life-cycle variations, and complex backgrounds, traditional pest detection methods often struggle with accuracy and efficiency. This study introduces RDW-YOLO, an improved pest detection algorithm based on YOLO11, featuring three key innovations. First, the Reparameterized Dilated Fusion Block (RDFBlock) enhances [...] Read more.

Due to target diversity, life-cycle variations, and complex backgrounds, traditional pest detection methods often struggle with accuracy and efficiency. This study introduces RDW-YOLO, an improved pest detection algorithm based on YOLO11, featuring three key innovations. First, the Reparameterized Dilated Fusion Block (RDFBlock) enhances feature extraction via multi-branch dilated convolutions for fine-grained pest characteristics. Second, the DualPathDown (DPDown) module integrates hybrid pooling and convolution for better multi-scale adaptability. Third, an enhanced Wise-Wasserstein IoU (WWIoU) loss function optimizes the matching mechanism and improves bounding-box regression. Experiments on the enhanced IP102 dataset show that RDW-YOLO achieves an mAP@0.5 of 71.3% and an mAP@0.5:0.95 of 50.0%, surpassing YOLO11 by 3.1% and 2.0%, respectively. The model also adopts a lightweight design and has a computational complexity of 5.6 G, ensuring efficient deployment without sacrificing accuracy. These results highlight RDW-YOLO’s potential for precise and efficient pest detection in sustainable agriculture. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Insect Pests Management: Securing Food Security, Human Health, and Natural Resources)

15 pages, 3200 KiB

Open AccessArticle

20-Hydroxyecdysone Modulates Bmp53-Mediated Apoptosis Regulation by Suppressing Mdm2-like-Dependent Ubiquitination in Silkworm, Bombyx mori

by Meixian Wang, Dingding Han, Luyang Xiang, Jiahao Wang, Benteng Luo and Xingjia Shen

Insects 2025, 16(5), 544; https://doi.org/10.3390/insects16050544 - 21 May 2025

Abstract

In the silkworm, 20-hydroxyecdysone (20E) induces apoptosis and autophagy, driving larval organ degeneration and remodeling. This mechanism may be a potential target for eco-friendly strategy for insect pests. However, a major challenge in harnessing this approach lies in the insufficient understanding of 20E’s [...] Read more.

In the silkworm, 20-hydroxyecdysone (20E) induces apoptosis and autophagy, driving larval organ degeneration and remodeling. This mechanism may be a potential target for eco-friendly strategy for insect pests. However, a major challenge in harnessing this approach lies in the insufficient understanding of 20E’s regulatory process in such a cell death mechanism. Our previous research has identified Bmp53 as a crucial gene in promoting the development of Bombyx mori during the pupal stage by inducing apoptosis, and has predicted the potential apoptotic regulatory network of Bmp53, wherein Mdm2-like ubiquitinating structural protein serves as a key component of this network. This study demonstrates that Mdm2-like acts as a ubiquitination regulatory protein, controlling its apoptosis-inducing activity via interaction with Bmp53. Moreover, co-expression of Mdm2-like and Bmp53 indirectly affects gene expression in the 20E-mediated apoptosis pathway. Further investigation revealed that Mdm2-like suppresses 20E-induced apoptosis by downregulating Bmp53 expression. This study reveals that the ubiquitination-mediated Mdm2-like/Bmp53 apoptosis pathway is a novel mechanism regulating silkworm apoptosis, with 20E playing a crucial role in this process. These findings enhance our understanding of the genetic mechanisms underlying tissue degradation during the metamorphic stage of the Bombyx mori. Additionally, these insights provide a theoretical reference for the development of environmentally friendly, hormone-based control strategies targeting protein modification as a means of managing lepidopteran pests. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Insect Molecular Biology and Genomics)

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17 pages, 2072 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Mitogenomic Characterization and Comparative Analysis of Three Egg Parasitoid Wasps Parasitizing Nilaparvata lugens (Stål)

by Wei He, Tingting Li, Liyang Wang, Hongxuan Wu, Jie Wang and Qiang Zhou

Insects 2025, 16(5), 543; https://doi.org/10.3390/insects16050543 - 20 May 2025

Abstract

This study reports the first complete mitochondrial genomes of three egg parasitoid wasps parasitizing Nilaparvata lugens—Pseudoligosita nephotetticum, Anagrus frequens, and Anagrus nilaparvatae. Genome sizes ranged from 15,429 to 15,889 bp, with all three mitogenomes displaying strong A + [...] Read more.

This study reports the first complete mitochondrial genomes of three egg parasitoid wasps parasitizing Nilaparvata lugens—Pseudoligosita nephotetticum, Anagrus frequens, and Anagrus nilaparvatae. Genome sizes ranged from 15,429 to 15,889 bp, with all three mitogenomes displaying strong A + T bias, standard gene content, and characteristic strand asymmetries. While A. frequens and A. nilaparvatae exhibited conserved gene orders, extensive gene rearrangements, including multiple inversions in both protein-coding genes (PCGs) and tRNAs, were observed in P. nephotetticum. Codon usage analyses revealed a preference for codons ending in A or U. The non-synonymous (Ka) to synonymous (Ks) substitution ratio analysis identified signs of positive selection in multiple PCGs, particularly in atp8, nad6, and nad3, suggesting possible adaptive evolution related to host-searching behavior. Secondary structure analyses showed the loss of trnL1 in all Anagrus species, while trnS1 and trnR lacked the DHU arm, indicating possible derived traits in Mymaridae. Phylogenetic analysis was the first time to describe the relationship of the genus Anagrus within Mymaridae from the perspective of 13 protein genes. Furthermore, the grouping of (Pseudoligosita + Megaphragma) + Trichogramma was supporting the distinct evolutionary lineage of Pseudoligosita. This work provides new molecular resources and phylogenetic insight for Chalcidoidea, with implications for parasitoid evolution and biological control strategies. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Insect Molecular Biology and Genomics)

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13 pages, 535 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Adulticidal and Repellent Activity of Essential Oils from Three Cultivated Aromatic Plants Against Musca domestica L

by Gabriela Antonieta Oyarce, Patricia Loyola, Michelle Iubini-Aravena, Álvaro Romero, J. Concepción Rodríguez-Maciel, José Becerra and Gonzalo Silva-Aguayo

Insects 2025, 16(5), 542; https://doi.org/10.3390/insects16050542 - 20 May 2025

Abstract

The house fly, Musca domestica L., is a pest of great medical and agricultural importance, serving as a vector for various diseases and undermining the quality of agricultural products. Traditionally, synthetic insecticides have been the primary means of control; however, their efficacy has [...] Read more.

The house fly, Musca domestica L., is a pest of great medical and agricultural importance, serving as a vector for various diseases and undermining the quality of agricultural products. Traditionally, synthetic insecticides have been the primary means of control; however, their efficacy has declined over time, and they are now less preferred due to their safety and environmental concerns. This study evaluated the insecticidal and repellent properties of essential oils from Eucalyptus globulus, Foeniculum vulgare and Salvia officinalis against M. domestica. All EOs exhibited insecticidal activity: eucalyptus achieved 100% fumigant mortality at 34 µL L⁻¹ air and showed the lowest LC₅₀ (18.1 µL L⁻¹ air), while fennel and sage required 50 µL L⁻¹ air. In contrast, fennel showed the highest contact toxicity (100% mortality at 150 µL L⁻¹). Repellency exceeded 87% for all EOs, with sage being the most repellent at the lowest concentration tested (94% at 5 µL L⁻¹). These results highlight the potential use of essential oils and their constituents as environmentally friendly alternatives for the control of M. domestica. However, further field validation and studies on individual components and their synergistic combinations are needed to understand their efficacy and fully optimize their use. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Medical and Livestock Entomology)

21 pages, 4714 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Morphotype-Specific Antifungal Defense in Cacopsylla chinensis Arises from Metabolic and Immune Network Restructuring

by Jiayue Ji, Xin Gao, Zengli Hu, Ruiyan Ma and Longlong Zhao

Insects 2025, 16(5), 541; https://doi.org/10.3390/insects16050541 - 20 May 2025

Abstract

Pear psylla (Cacopsylla chinensis), a major pear tree pest widely distributed in China, is increasingly affecting the productivity of orchards. This species exhibits seasonal polyphenism with two distinct forms, namely, a summer form and a winter form. Through topically applying Beauveria [...] Read more.

Pear psylla (Cacopsylla chinensis), a major pear tree pest widely distributed in China, is increasingly affecting the productivity of orchards. This species exhibits seasonal polyphenism with two distinct forms, namely, a summer form and a winter form. Through topically applying Beauveria bassiana conidial suspensions to the abdominal cuticle of C. chinensis, we demonstrated that the entomopathogenic fungus B. bassiana exhibits significant yet phenotypically divergent virulence against these two forms. Using PacBio SMRT sequencing and Illumina RNA-seq, we analyzed transcriptomic changes post-infection, revealing form-specific immune responses, with 18,232 and 5027 differentially expressed genes identified in summer- and winter-form pear psylla, respectively, and a total of 3715 DEGs shared between the two seasonal phenotypes. In summer-form individuals, B. bassiana infection disrupted oxidative phosphorylation and downregulated immune recognition genes, cellular immune-related genes, and signaling genes, along with the upregulation of the immune inhibitor serpin, indicating immunosuppression. Conversely, in winter-form individuals, immune-related genes and glycolytic rate-limiting enzymes were upregulated after infection, suggesting that the winter-form immune system normally responds to B. bassiana infection and supports efficient defense through metabolic reprogramming to fuel energy-demanding defenses. These findings advance our understanding of C. chinensis/B. bassiana interactions, providing a basis for elucidating immune regulation in seasonally polymorphic insects. The results also inform strategies to optimize B. bassiana-based biocontrol, contributing to sustainable pear psylla management. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Insect Pest and Vector Management)

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19 pages, 5512 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Nature-Identical Safranal and Dihydrocoumarin from Ageratina adenophora ((Spreng., 1970) King and H. Rob.) Target Energy Metabolism to Control Solenopsis invicta Buren, 1972 (Hymenoptera: Formicidae)

by Mingqi Wu, Rongchao Luo, Mehboob Hussain, Wenmei Wu, Shini Li, Zijun Guo, Boyu Jia, Gaofeng Bi, Xi Gao, Guoxing Wu and Deqiang Qin

Insects 2025, 16(5), 540; https://doi.org/10.3390/insects16050540 - 20 May 2025

Abstract

The bio-prospecting of bioactive phytochemicals from invasive flora presents a sustainable paradigm for the ecologically conscious management of major invasive pest S. invicta. Ageratina adenophora, while recognized for its allelopathic insecticidal properties, exhibits poorly characterized toxicological profiles and mechanistic underpinnings against [...] Read more.

The bio-prospecting of bioactive phytochemicals from invasive flora presents a sustainable paradigm for the ecologically conscious management of major invasive pest S. invicta. Ageratina adenophora, while recognized for its allelopathic insecticidal properties, exhibits poorly characterized toxicological profiles and mechanistic underpinnings against S. invicta, warranting systematic investigation to elucidate its mode of action. This study elucidates the bioactive insecticidal compounds of A. adenophora and their toxicological impacts on S. invicta, including behavioral, metabolic, and enzymatic perturbations, via liquid chromatography–mass spectrometry (LC-MS) profiling. The ethanol extracts of the roots, stems, and leaves of A. adenophora have shown control effects on S. invicta, with an LC₅₀ (50% lethal concentration) of 331.847, 188.256, and 166.253 mg/mL at 48 h, respectively. Metabolite profiling of A. adenophora revealed that safranal and dihydrocoumarin are relatively high in plant leaves, and they showed significant insecticidal activity and behavioral inhibitory effects on S. invicta with LC₅₀ 349.042 mg/L and 118.336 mg/L at 48 h, respectively. Notably, these two bioactive compounds disrupted the normal energy production through glucose metabolism and the citrate cycle, which eventually led to the death of S. invicta. Further, these two compounds also activated the detoxification metabolic pathway of S. invicta. These findings provide a theoretical basis for the use of these bioactive compounds in the integrated management of S. invicta and may lead to the development of a new biopesticide. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Insect Pest and Vector Management)

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20 pages, 8549 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Ultrastructural Characterization of Developmental Stages and Head Sensilla in Portici okadai, Vector of Thelazia callipaeda

by Da Sun, Yang Luo, Yikang Wang, Hongle Cui, Yanting Gou, Juan Zhou, Bo Luo, Hui Liu, Rong Yan and Lingjun Wang

Insects 2025, 16(5), 539; https://doi.org/10.3390/insects16050539 - 20 May 2025

Abstract

Phortica okadai, a vector of Thelazia callipaeda, is associated with an increasing incidence of thelaziasis. The complex habitat and chemosensory system of P. okadai are critical for its proliferation and expansion. However, ultrastructural data across developmental stages remain limited. This study [...] Read more.

Phortica okadai, a vector of Thelazia callipaeda, is associated with an increasing incidence of thelaziasis. The complex habitat and chemosensory system of P. okadai are critical for its proliferation and expansion. However, ultrastructural data across developmental stages remain limited. This study used scanning electron microscopy to examine the ultrastructure of P. okadai developmental stages, with a focus on head sensilla. The results showed that the eggs of P. okadai are dark brown and cylindro-oval. The larvae are vermiform, divided into 11 segments. The pupae are marked by a conspicuous respiratory tubercle, and the posterior spiracle contains three distinct spiracular slits. Among five types of sensilla (trichoid, intermediate, chaetica, coeloconic, and basiconic), coeloconic, intermediate, and trichoid sensilla were predominantly found on the antennae, while basiconic and chaetica sensilla were distributed on both the antennae and the maxillary palps of P. okadai. The analysis revealed that the absence of dorsal appendages on the eggs distinguishes P. okadai from D. melanogaster. Males have longer antennae and exhibit sexual dimorphism in the length of sensilla (ChII, TB, and LB). This study provides the first comprehensive ultrastructural characterization of P. okadai developmental stages and head sensilla, laying a foundation for species identification and olfactory system research. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Insect Physiology, Reproduction and Development)

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16 pages, 3687 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Filling the Spring Gap in Southern Australia: Seasonal Activity of Four Dung Beetle Species Selected to Be Imported from Morocco

by Hasnae Hajji, Abdellatif Janati-Idrissi, Alberto Zamprogna, José Serin, Jean-Pierre Lumaret, Nassera Kadiri, Saleta Pérez Vila, Patrick V. Gleeson, Jane Wright and Valérie Caron

Insects 2025, 16(5), 538; https://doi.org/10.3390/insects16050538 - 20 May 2025

Abstract

Dung beetles are important ecosystem engineers, as they utilize the excrement produced by animals. For nearly 60 years, several species of dung beetle have been introduced to Australia to help mitigate the problems caused by the accumulation of livestock dung. The twenty-three successfully [...] Read more.

Dung beetles are important ecosystem engineers, as they utilize the excrement produced by animals. For nearly 60 years, several species of dung beetle have been introduced to Australia to help mitigate the problems caused by the accumulation of livestock dung. The twenty-three successfully established species directly contribute to reducing the environmental impacts from dung accumulation, providing improvements to soil health, pasture productivity and pest fly reduction. Despite this success, there are still geographical and seasonal gaps in dung beetle activity, causing dung to remain on the soil surface. The continued importation of new dung beetle species is warranted to fill these gaps. One of the significant remaining gaps is during spring in southern Australia. Four spring-active dung species from Morocco were selected for a new importation program (2018–2022): Euonthophagus crocatus, Onthophagus vacca, Onthophagus marginalis subsp. andalusicus and Gymnopleurus sturmi. These species were surveyed at four sites in Morocco on an altitudinal gradient to assess their seasonal activity. The four species were found at all sites during spring, but in varying abundances, with different species dominating different sites. This is most likely due to differences in local conditions such as soil type. Seasonal activity varied depending on elevation. Gymnopleurus sturmi was found to be active later in the season and should be considered as a summer species. The four species selected will be, if they establish, a useful addition to the already introduced and established dung beetle fauna in Australia. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Insect Ecology, Diversity and Conservation)

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15 pages, 2156 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Molecular Characterization and Expression of the Ecdysone Receptor and Ultraspiracle Genes in the Wheat Blossom Midge, Sitodiplosis mosellana

by Qitong Huang, Linqing Meng, Yuhan Liu, Keyan Zhu-Salzman and Weining Cheng

Insects 2025, 16(5), 537; https://doi.org/10.3390/insects16050537 - 19 May 2025

Abstract

20-hydroxyecdysone (20E) is essential for insect development and diapause. Ecdysone receptor (EcR) and ultraspiracle (USP) proteins are crucial regulators of 20E signaling. To explore their potential roles in the development of Sitodiplosis mosellana, a major wheat pest that undergoes obligatory diapause as [...] Read more.

20-hydroxyecdysone (20E) is essential for insect development and diapause. Ecdysone receptor (EcR) and ultraspiracle (USP) proteins are crucial regulators of 20E signaling. To explore their potential roles in the development of Sitodiplosis mosellana, a major wheat pest that undergoes obligatory diapause as a larva, one SmEcR and two SmUSPs (SmUSP-A and SmUSP-B) from this species were isolated and characterized. The deduced SmEcR and SmUSP-A/B proteins contained a conserved DNA-binding domain with two zinc finger motifs that bind to specific DNA sequences. Expression of SmEcR and the SmUSPs was developmentally controlled, as was 20E induction. Their transcription levels increased as the larvae entered pre-diapause, followed by downregulation during diapause and upregulation during the shift to post-diapause quiescence, which is highly consistent with ecdysteroid titers in this species. Topical application of 20E to diapausing larvae also elicited a dose-dependent expression of the three genes. Expression of SmEcR and SmUSPs decreased markedly during the pre-pupal stage and was higher in adult females compared to males. These findings suggested that 20E-induced expression of SmEcR and SmUSPs has key roles in diapause initiation and maintenance, post-diapause quiescence, and adult reproduction, while the larval–pupal transformation may be associated with a decrease in their expression levels. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Insect Molecular Biology and Genomics)

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12 pages, 4074 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Phylogenetic Analysis of the Family Lepidostomatidae (Trichoptera: Integripalpia) Using Whole Mitochondrial Genomes

by Xinyu Ge, Jingyuan Wang, Zhen Deng, Lu Chai, Wei Cao, Wenbin Liu, Jiwei Zhang and Chuncai Yan

Insects 2025, 16(5), 536; https://doi.org/10.3390/insects16050536 - 19 May 2025

Abstract

Lepidostomatidae is a relatively large family of the infraorder Plenitentoria (Integripalpia), comprising four fossil genera and seven extant genera. Lepidostomatid adults exhibit pronounced sexual dimorphism and have thus been referred to as the ‘cabinet of curiosities’ within Trichoptera. However, only five annotated mitogenomes [...] Read more.

Lepidostomatidae is a relatively large family of the infraorder Plenitentoria (Integripalpia), comprising four fossil genera and seven extant genera. Lepidostomatid adults exhibit pronounced sexual dimorphism and have thus been referred to as the ‘cabinet of curiosities’ within Trichoptera. However, only five annotated mitogenomes of Lepidostoma have been recorded in the GeneBank database, and some of these mitogenomes are incomplete. To better understand the structure of mitogenome and phylogenetic relationships of Lepidostomatidae, we present mitogenomes of 13 Lepidostoma species and one Paraphlegopteryx species for the first time. We combined these new mitogenomes with previously published data for a comparative analysis. The results showed that the structure of mitogenome was relatively conserved, the nucleotide composition was significantly AT biased, and the control region showed the highest A + T content. Evolutionary rate analysis showed that all protein-coding genes underwent purification selection. The phylogenetic relationships supported the monophyly of Lepidostomatidae and restored the taxonomic positions of the two subfamilies. Meanwhile, two monophyletic branches (Lepidostoma ferox branch and Lepidostoma hirtum branch) within the genus Lepidostoma were also strongly supported. These findings significantly advance our understanding of the mitogenome and phylogeny of Lepidostomatidae. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Insect Systematics, Phylogeny and Evolution)

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17 pages, 3057 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Complete Mitochondrial Genome Characterization and Phylogenomics of the Stingless Bee, Heterotrigona itama (Apidae: Meliponini)

by Orawan Duangphakdee, Pisit Poolprasert and Atsalek Rattanawannee

Insects 2025, 16(5), 535; https://doi.org/10.3390/insects16050535 - 19 May 2025

Abstract

With increasing demand for stingless bee honey, meliponiculture has gained widespread attention. Heterotrigona itama is one of the most economically important species. However, excessive exploitation for commercial purposes has led to population declines, and the species is now considered vulnerable in Thailand. Despite [...] Read more.

With increasing demand for stingless bee honey, meliponiculture has gained widespread attention. Heterotrigona itama is one of the most economically important species. However, excessive exploitation for commercial purposes has led to population declines, and the species is now considered vulnerable in Thailand. Despite its ecological and economic significance, genomic and taxonomic information on H. itama remains limited. In this study, we sequenced and characterized the complete mitochondrial genome (mitogenome) of H. itama to explore its genome structure and phylogenetic position. The circular mitogenome is 15,318 bp in length and consists of 13 protein-coding genes (PCGs), 22 transfer RNA (tRNA) genes, and 2 ribosomal RNA (rRNA) genes. The genome exhibits a strong A+T bias (75.41%), which affects codon usage and amino acid composition. Isoleucine, methionine, and phenylalanine were the most commonly encoded amino acids. Gene arrangement was highly conserved and closely resembled that of Tetragonula species. Phylogenetic analyses confirmed that H. itama clusters with other stingless bees and is more closely related to bumblebees than to honeybees. Several gene rearrangements suggest a high degree of mitogenomic plasticity. This study provides essential genomic resources for future studies in systematics, phylogenetics, population genetics, and conservation of stingless bees in the Meliponini tribe. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Insect Mitogenome, Phylogeny, and Mitochondrial Genome Expression)

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14 pages, 1039 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Taxonomic Revision of Vampire Moths of the Genus Calyptra (Lepidoptera: Erebidae: Calpinae) in Chinese Fauna

by Asad Bashir, Yuqi Cui, Yanling Dong and Zhaofu Yang

Insects 2025, 16(5), 534; https://doi.org/10.3390/insects16050534 - 19 May 2025

Abstract

Calyptra Ochsenheimer, 1816 is an important genus of fruit piercers and blood feeders with 18 described species worldwide. Both sexes of all Calyptra species pierce fruit. Adults feed upon and damage soft-skinned (e.g., Rubus and Vitis) and thicker-skinned fruits (e.g., Ficus and [...] Read more.

Calyptra Ochsenheimer, 1816 is an important genus of fruit piercers and blood feeders with 18 described species worldwide. Both sexes of all Calyptra species pierce fruit. Adults feed upon and damage soft-skinned (e.g., Rubus and Vitis) and thicker-skinned fruits (e.g., Ficus and Citrus) in subtropical and tropical Asia. These moths are rare examples of a lepidopteran lineage that uses its fruit-piercing mouthparts to pierce the skin of vertebrate animals occasionally. In China, 10 species of this genus have been reported. Here, we identified seven species of the genus Calyptra Ochsenheimer, 1816 from Chinese fauna, including C. gruesa, C. thalictri, C. hokkaida, C. albivirgata, C. orthograpta, C. fletcheri, and C. lata. Detailed illustrations of male and female external morphology and genital structures are provided. A comprehensive worldwide checklist of the genus Calyptra is also included. This study highlights significant taxonomic revisions and morphological features for this genus within Chinese fauna. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Revival of a Prominent Taxonomy of Insects)

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12 pages, 1446 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Effect of Pyrethroids on the Colony Growth and Metabolic Activity of Entomopathogenic Fungi of the Beauveria Genus

by Anna Majchrowska-Safaryan, Sylwia Różalska, Cezary Tkaczuk and Monika Nowak

Insects 2025, 16(5), 533; https://doi.org/10.3390/insects16050533 - 18 May 2025

Abstract

Pyrethroids are chemical insecticides used on a large scale in agriculture, horticulture, and forest protection. In order to reduce their use in IPM, alternative methods of controlling insect pests are introduced, such as the use of biopesticides based on entomopathogenic fungi (EPF). Species [...] Read more.

Pyrethroids are chemical insecticides used on a large scale in agriculture, horticulture, and forest protection. In order to reduce their use in IPM, alternative methods of controlling insect pests are introduced, such as the use of biopesticides based on entomopathogenic fungi (EPF). Species of the Beauveria genus are characterized by a very broad spectrum of action, which is why they are often used to produce preparations based on EPF. The aim of the study was to determine the effect of different doses of tested pyrethroids on the colony growth and metabolic activity of EPF from the Beauveria genus. In vitro, the effect of three pyrethroids (deltamethrin, λ-cyhalothrin, and α-cypermethrin) added to SDA medium at a dose 10 times lower than the recommended field dose (A), the recommended field dose (B), and 10 times higher than the recommended field dose (C) on colony growth and metabolic activity of B. bassiana and B. brongniartii was tested. The research carried out showed that pyrethroid insecticides used in the experiment showed various toxic effects towards the tested EPF of the genus Beauveria. The studies conducted showed that on the 20th day of the observation, λ-cyhalothrin used in the recommended field dose limited the growth of B. bassiana to the least extent in relation to the other tested pyrethroids. However, with respect to the fungus B. brongniartii, no toxic effect of this pyrethroid was found. Based on the results obtained, it was found that λ-cyhalothrin used in the recommended field dose and 10 times lower than recommended significantly increased the metabolic activity of B. bassiana. In relation to the B. brongniartii strain, detlamethrin used in each of the tested concentrations significantly affected its viability. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable Management of Arthropod Pests in Agroecosystems)

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10 pages, 1307 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Differential Characterization of Midgut Microbiota Between Bt-Resistant and Bt-Susceptible Populations of Ostrinia furnacalis

by Juntao Zhang, Ziwen Zhou, Xiaobei Liu, Yongjun Zhang and Tiantao Zhang

Insects 2025, 16(5), 532; https://doi.org/10.3390/insects16050532 - 18 May 2025

Abstract

Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) is an efficacious biocontrol bacterium known for producing various toxins, such as crystal toxins, which disrupt the midgut epithelium of pest larvae, leading to larval mortality. However, the development of resistance to Bacillus thuringiensis in pests poses a significant threat [...] Read more.

Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) is an efficacious biocontrol bacterium known for producing various toxins, such as crystal toxins, which disrupt the midgut epithelium of pest larvae, leading to larval mortality. However, the development of resistance to Bacillus thuringiensis in pests poses a significant threat to the widespread application of Bt corn. Consequently, we employed high-throughput sequencing of the midgut bacterial 16S ribosomal RNA to characterize the midgut bacteria in four Bt-resistant strains. Specifically, Bt-resistant strains (ACB-FR and ACB-AcR) exhibited lower bacterial diversity compared to ACB-AbR and ACB-IeR. Multivariate analyses and statistical evaluations further demonstrated that the microbiota communities in Bt-resistant pests (AbR, AcR, IeR, and FR) were distinct from those in Bt-susceptible strains. Notably, the genus Klebsiella predominated in BtS, whereas Enterococcus was the genus with peak enrichment in AbR, AcR, IeR, and FR. Bioassays subsequently revealed that Enterococcus enhances the Cry1Ab resistance of ACB larvae. Our investigations indicate that treatment with Bt protein alters the midgut microbiota community of O. furnacalis, and these microbiota differences may potentially modulate the Bt-induced lethality mechanism. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Corn Insect Pests: From Biology to Control Technology)

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10 pages, 215 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Dual Role of Sitophilus zeamais: A Maize Storage Pest and a Potential Edible Protein Source

by Soledad Mora Vásquez and Silverio García-Lara

Insects 2025, 16(5), 531; https://doi.org/10.3390/insects16050531 - 16 May 2025

Abstract

Maize (Zea mays) is a critical staple crop whose post-harvest losses, predominantly due to infestations by the maize weevil, Sitophilus zeamais, threaten food security. This study explores the possibility of utilizing S. zeamais, traditionally known as a pest, as [...] Read more.

Maize (Zea mays) is a critical staple crop whose post-harvest losses, predominantly due to infestations by the maize weevil, Sitophilus zeamais, threaten food security. This study explores the possibility of utilizing S. zeamais, traditionally known as a pest, as an alternative protein source by assessing its nutritional profile and food safety attributes. Cultured under controlled conditions, S. zeamais specimens were processed into flour, which was subsequently analyzed for microbiological safety, protein content, and amino acid composition. Microbiological assays confirmed that the flour met established food safety standards, with aerobic mesophilic bacteria, fungi, and yeast present at negligible levels and no detection of coliforms, Salmonella spp., or Escherichia coli. Protein quantification revealed a high total protein content (48.1 ± 0.3%), although the salt-soluble fraction constituted only 13.7% of the total. The amino acid profile exhibited elevated levels of isoleucine, valine, and threonine, while deficiencies in leucine, lysine, sulfur amino acids, and tryptophan were noted. These findings suggest that, despite certain limitations, S. zeamais flour represents a viable protein source. Integrating targeted insect harvesting for protein into pest management strategies could help reduce post-harvest losses and contribute to improved food security and nutritional availability. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Corn Insect Pests: From Biology to Control Technology)

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61 pages, 29845 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Ameletus Mayflies (Ephemeroptera: Ameletidae) of the Eastern Nearctic

by David H. Funk

Insects 2025, 16(5), 530; https://doi.org/10.3390/insects16050530 - 16 May 2025

Abstract

Fourteen Ameletus species are recognized in the eastern Nearctic (south of the Artic zone), including six described as new. Keys to adult males and full-grown larvae are provided. Taxonomic decisions were based on morphologic and genetic evidence. Their justification is discussed in depth [...] Read more.

Fourteen Ameletus species are recognized in the eastern Nearctic (south of the Artic zone), including six described as new. Keys to adult males and full-grown larvae are provided. Taxonomic decisions were based on morphologic and genetic evidence. Their justification is discussed in depth and four species groups are proposed. The vast majority of Ameletus encountered in the eastern Nearctic are members of one of three triploid, clonal parthenogenetic species, at least two of which are of hybrid origin. Bisexual progenitors of the parthenogens were inferred using a combination of mitochondrial and nuclear genetic markers. The parthenogens likely arose during the Late Pleistocene when glacial advances brought previously allopatric species/populations into contact, and as glaciers retreated the parthenogens rapidly expanded their range while the sexual lineages remained in presumed glacial refugia. Although parthenogenesis is relatively common in Ephemeroptera, these Ameletus represent the first known cases of polyploidy and hybrid origin. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Aquatic Insects Biodiversity and eDNA Monitoring)

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17 pages, 4732 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Preliminary Development of Global–Local Balanced Vision Transformer Deep Learning with DNA Barcoding for Automated Identification and Validation of Forensic Sarcosaphagous Flies

by Yixin Ma, Lin Niu, Bo Wang, Dianxin Li, Yanzhu Gao, Shan Ha, Boqing Fan, Yixin Xiong, Bin Cong, Jianhua Chen and Jianqiang Deng

Insects 2025, 16(5), 529; https://doi.org/10.3390/insects16050529 - 16 May 2025

Abstract

Morphological classification is the gold standard for identifying necrophilous flies, but its complexity and the scarcity of experts make accurate classification challenging. The development of artificial intelligence for autonomous recognition holds promise as a new approach to improve the efficiency and accuracy of [...] Read more.

Morphological classification is the gold standard for identifying necrophilous flies, but its complexity and the scarcity of experts make accurate classification challenging. The development of artificial intelligence for autonomous recognition holds promise as a new approach to improve the efficiency and accuracy of fly morphology identification. In our previous study, we developed a GLB-ViT (Global–Local Balanced Vision Transformer)-based deep learning model for fly species identification, which demonstrated improved identification capabilities. To expand the model’s application scope to meet the practical needs of forensic science, we extended the model based on the forensic science practice scenarios, increased the database of identifiable sarcosaphagous fly species, and successfully developed a WeChat Mini Program based on the model. The results show that the model can achieve fast and effective identification of ten common sarcosaphagous flies in Hainan, and the overall correct rate reaches 94.00%. For the few cases of identification difficulties and suspicious results, we have also constructed a rapid molecular species identification system based on DNA Barcoding technology to achieve accurate species identification of the flies under study. As the local fly database continues to be improved, the model is expected to be applicable to local forensic practice. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Forensic Entomology: From Basic Research to Practical Applications)

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27 pages, 1679 KiB

Open AccessReview

Insect Pest Control from Chemical to Biotechnological Approach: Constrains and Challenges

by Stefano Civolani, Massimo Bariselli, Riccardo Osti and Giovanni Bernacchia

Insects 2025, 16(5), 528; https://doi.org/10.3390/insects16050528 - 15 May 2025

Abstract

The large growth in the global population requires new solutions for the control of harmful insects that compete for our food. Changing regulatory requirements and public perception, together with the continuous evolution of resistance to conventional insecticides, also require, in addition to innovative [...] Read more.

The large growth in the global population requires new solutions for the control of harmful insects that compete for our food. Changing regulatory requirements and public perception, together with the continuous evolution of resistance to conventional insecticides, also require, in addition to innovative molecules with different modes of action, new non-chemical control strategies that can help maintain efficient integrated pest management programs. The last 30 years have inaugurated a new era characterised by the discovery of new mechanisms of action and new chemical families. Although European programs also promote a green deal in the crop protection sector, the existing thorough regulations slow down its spread and the adoption of new products. In light of these changes, this review will describe in more detail the dynamics of discovery and registration of new conventional insecticides and the difficulties that the agrochemical industries encounter. Subsequently, the different innovative control strategies alternative to conventional insecticides based on natural substances of different origin, entomopathogenic microorganisms, semiochemical and semiophysical compounds, and classical and augmentative biological control will be described. The advantages of these green strategies will be illustrated and also the constrains to their diffusion and commercialisation. Finally, the main biotechnological discoveries will be described, from transgenic plants to symbiotic control, classical genetic control, and, more recently, control based on insect genomic transformation or on RNAi. These new biotechnologies can revolutionise the sector despite some constrains related to the regulatory restrictions present in different countries. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Chemical Toxicology and Insecticide Resistance on Insect Pests)

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