Journal Description
Insects
Insects
is an international, peer-reviewed, open access journal of entomology published monthly online by MDPI.
- Open Access— free for readers, with article processing charges (APC) paid by authors or their institutions.
- High Visibility: indexed within Scopus, SCIE (Web of Science), PubMed, PMC, PubAg, and other databases.
- Journal Rank: JCR - Q1 (Entomology) / CiteScore - Q2 (Insect Science)
- Rapid Publication: manuscripts are peer-reviewed and a first decision is provided to authors approximately 14.8 days after submission; acceptance to publication is undertaken in 2.9 days (median values for papers published in this journal in the second half of 2022).
- Recognition of Reviewers: reviewers who provide timely, thorough peer-review reports receive vouchers entitling them to a discount on the APC of their next publication in any MDPI journal, in appreciation of the work done.
Impact Factor:
3.141 (2021);
5-Year Impact Factor:
3.286 (2021)
Latest Articles
Functionally Validating Evolutionary Conserved Risk Genes for Parkinson’s Disease in Drosophila melanogaster
Insects 2023, 14(2), 168; https://doi.org/10.3390/insects14020168 (registering DOI) - 09 Feb 2023
Abstract
Parkinson’s disease (PD) is a heterogeneous and complex neurodegenerative disorder and large-scale genetic studies have identified >130 genes associated with PD. Although genomic studies have been decisive for our understanding of the genetic contributions underlying PD, these associations remain as statistical associations. Lack
[...] Read more.
Parkinson’s disease (PD) is a heterogeneous and complex neurodegenerative disorder and large-scale genetic studies have identified >130 genes associated with PD. Although genomic studies have been decisive for our understanding of the genetic contributions underlying PD, these associations remain as statistical associations. Lack of functional validation limits the biological interpretation; however, it is labour extensive, expensive, and time consuming. Therefore, the ideal biological system for functionally validating genetic findings must be simple. The study aim was to assess systematically evolutionary conserved PD-associated genes using Drosophila melanogaster. From a literature review, a total of 136 genes have found to be associated with PD in GWAS studies, of which 11 are strongly evolutionary conserved between Homo sapiens and D. melanogaster. By ubiquitous gene expression knockdown of the PD-genes in D. melanogaster, the flies’ escape response was investigated by assessing their negative geotaxis response, a phenotype that has previously been used to investigate PD in D. melanogaster. Gene expression knockdown was successful in 9/11 lines, and phenotypic consequences were observed in 8/9 lines. The results provide evidence that genetically modifying expression levels of PD genes in D. melanogaster caused reduced climbing ability of the flies, potentially supporting their role in dysfunctional locomotion, a hallmark of PD.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Insect Molecular Biology and Genomics)
►
Show Figures
Open AccessArticle
Growth Regulation in the Larvae of the Lepidopteran Pieris brassicae: A Field Study
Insects 2023, 14(2), 167; https://doi.org/10.3390/insects14020167 - 09 Feb 2023
Abstract
Size and shape are important determinants of fitness in most living beings. Accordingly, the capacity of the organism to regulate size and shape during growth, containing the effects of developmental disturbances of different origin, is considered a key feature of the developmental system.
[...] Read more.
Size and shape are important determinants of fitness in most living beings. Accordingly, the capacity of the organism to regulate size and shape during growth, containing the effects of developmental disturbances of different origin, is considered a key feature of the developmental system. In a recent study, through a geometric morphometric analysis on a laboratory-reared sample of the lepidopteran Pieris brassicae, we found evidence of regulatory mechanisms able to restrain size and shape variation, including bilateral fluctuating asymmetry, during larval development. However, the efficacy of the regulatory mechanism under greater environmental variation remains to be explored. Here, based on a field-reared sample of the same species, by adopting identical measurements of size and shape variation, we found that the regulatory mechanisms for containing the effects of developmental disturbances during larval growth in P. brassicae are also effective under more natural environmental conditions. This study may contribute to better characterization of the mechanisms of developmental stability and canalization and their combined effects in the developmental interactions between the organism and its environment.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Insect Physiology, Reproduction and Development)
►▼
Show Figures

Figure 1
Open AccessArticle
Identifying the Gut Virome of Diaphorina citri from Florida Groves
Insects 2023, 14(2), 166; https://doi.org/10.3390/insects14020166 - 08 Feb 2023
Abstract
Asian citrus psyllid (Diaphorina citri) transmits the bacterial pathogen Candidatus Liberibacter asiaticus (CLas), the putative causative agent of citrus Huanglongbing disease (HLB). Insect-specific viruses can act against insects as their natural enemies, and recently, several D. citri-associated viruses
[...] Read more.
Asian citrus psyllid (Diaphorina citri) transmits the bacterial pathogen Candidatus Liberibacter asiaticus (CLas), the putative causative agent of citrus Huanglongbing disease (HLB). Insect-specific viruses can act against insects as their natural enemies, and recently, several D. citri-associated viruses were discovered. The insect gut plays an important role as not only a pool for diverse microbes but also as a physical barrier to prevent the spread of pathogens such as CLas. However, there is little evidence of the presence of D. citri-associated viruses in the gut and of the interaction between them and CLas. Here, we dissected psyllid guts collected from five growing regions in Florida, and the gut virome was analyzed by high throughput sequencing. Four insect viruses, including D. citri-associated C virus (DcACV), D. citri densovirus (DcDV), D. citri reovirus (DcRV), and D. citri flavi-like virus (DcFLV), were identified, and their presence in the gut, including an additional D. citri cimodo-like virus (DcCLV), were confirmed with PCR-based assays. Microscopic analysis showed that DcFLV infection leads to morphological abnormalities in the nuclear structure in the infected psyllid gut cells. The complex and diverse composition of microbiota in the psyllid gut suggests a possible interaction and dynamics between CLas and the D. citri-associated viruses. Our study identified various D. citri-associated viruses that localized in the psyllid gut and provided more information that helps to evaluate the potential vectors for manipulating CLas in the psyllid gut.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Collection Psyllid Vectors: From Genetics to Pest Integrated Management)
►▼
Show Figures

Figure 1
Open AccessArticle
A Taxonomic Revision of the Assassin Bug Genus, Tympanistocoris (Hemiptera: Reduviidae: Reduviinae)
Insects 2023, 14(2), 165; https://doi.org/10.3390/insects14020165 - 08 Feb 2023
Abstract
The small reduviine genus, Tympanistocoris Miller, is revised. The type species of the genus, T. humilis Miller, is redescribed, and a new species, Tympanistocoris usingeri sp. nov., from Papua New Guinea is described. The illustrations of the antennae, head and pronotum, legs, hemelytra,
[...] Read more.
The small reduviine genus, Tympanistocoris Miller, is revised. The type species of the genus, T. humilis Miller, is redescribed, and a new species, Tympanistocoris usingeri sp. nov., from Papua New Guinea is described. The illustrations of the antennae, head and pronotum, legs, hemelytra, abdomen, and male genitalia, as well as the habitus of the type specimens are also provided. The new species can be separated from the type species of the genus, T. humilis Miller, in the lateral sides of the pronotum with a distinct carina and the posterior margin of the seventh abdominal segment emarginated. The type specimen of the new species is kept in The Natural History Museum, London. The anastomosing veins of the hemelytra and the systematic position of the genus are briefly discussed.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Systematics, Phylogeny, Evolution and Diversity of True Bugs (Hemiptera: Heteroptera))
Open AccessFeature PaperArticle
Can Macrolophus pygmaeus (Hemiptera: Miridae) Mitigate the Damage Caused to Plants by Bemisia tabaci (Hemiptera: Aleyrodidae)?
Insects 2023, 14(2), 164; https://doi.org/10.3390/insects14020164 - 08 Feb 2023
Abstract
Nowadays, in protected vegetable crops, pest management based mainly on biological control represents the most sustainable alternative to pesticide use. The cotton whitefly, Bemisia tabaci, is one of the key pests that negatively impact the yield and quality of such crops in
[...] Read more.
Nowadays, in protected vegetable crops, pest management based mainly on biological control represents the most sustainable alternative to pesticide use. The cotton whitefly, Bemisia tabaci, is one of the key pests that negatively impact the yield and quality of such crops in many agricultural systems. The predatory bug Macrolophus pygmaeus is one of the main natural enemies of the whitefly and is widely used for its control. However, the mirid can sometimes behave as a pest itself, causing damage to crops. In this study, we investigated the impact of M. pygmaeus as a plant feeder, by analyzing the combined impact of the whitefly pest and the predator bug on the morphology and physiology of potted eggplants under laboratory conditions. Our results showed no statistical differences between the heights of plants infested by the whitefly or by both insects compared with noninfested control plants. However, indirect chlorophyll content, photosynthetic performance, leaf area, and shoot dry weight were all greatly reduced in plants infested only by B. tabaci, compared with those infested by both pest and predator or with noninfested control plants. Contrarily, root area and dry weight values were more reduced in plants exposed to both of the insect species, compared with those infested only by the whitefly or compared with noninfested control plants, where the latter showed the highest values. These results show how the predator can significantly reduce the negative effects of B. tabaci infestation, limiting the damage it causes to host plants, though the effect of the mirid bug on the underground parts of the eggplant remains unclear. This information might be useful for a better understanding of the role that M. pygmaeus plays in plant growth, as well as for the development of management strategies to successfully control infestations by B. tabaci in cropping environments.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Physical and Chemical Interactions between Insects and Plants)
►▼
Show Figures

Figure 1
Open AccessArticle
Exploration of Candidate Genes Involved in the Biosynthesis, Regulation and Recognition of the Male-Produced Aggregation Pheromone of Halyomorpha halys
Insects 2023, 14(2), 163; https://doi.org/10.3390/insects14020163 - 08 Feb 2023
Abstract
The aggregation pheromone of the brown marmorated stink bug, Halyomorpha halys (Stål), is produced by adult males, and plays an important role in the behavioral regulation of H. halys. However, information on the molecular mechanisms underlying this pheromone’s biosynthesis is limited. In
[...] Read more.
The aggregation pheromone of the brown marmorated stink bug, Halyomorpha halys (Stål), is produced by adult males, and plays an important role in the behavioral regulation of H. halys. However, information on the molecular mechanisms underlying this pheromone’s biosynthesis is limited. In this study, HhTPS1, a key candidate synthase gene in the aggregation pheromone biosynthesis pathway of H. halys, was identified. Then, through weighted gene co-expression network analysis, the candidate P450 enzyme genes in the biosynthetic downstream of this pheromone and the related candidate transcription factor in this pathway were also identified. In addition, two olfactory-related genes, HhCSP5 and HhOr85b, involved in the recognition of the aggregation pheromone of H. halys, were detected. We further identified the key amino acid sites of HhTPS1 and HhCSP5 that interact with substrates by using molecular docking analysis. This study provides basic information for further investigations into the biosynthesis pathways and recognition mechanisms of aggregation pheromones in H. halys. It also provides key candidate genes for bioengineering bioactive aggregation pheromones necessary for the development of technologies for the monitoring and control of H. halys.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Stink Bugs (Hemiptera: Pentatomidae): Biology, Ecology, Monitoring, and Integrated Pest Management)
►▼
Show Figures

Figure 1
Open AccessArticle
Effects of the Entomopathogenic Fungus Mucor hiemalis BO-1 on the Physical Functions and Transcriptional Signatures of Bradysia odoriphaga Larvae
Insects 2023, 14(2), 162; https://doi.org/10.3390/insects14020162 - 08 Feb 2023
Abstract
Mucor hiemalis BO-1 is an entomopathogenic fungus that infects Bradysia odoriphaga, a destructive root maggot. M. hiemalis BO-1 possesses stronger pathogenicity to the larvae than to other stages of B. odoriphaga, and provides satisfactory field control. However, the physiological response of
[...] Read more.
Mucor hiemalis BO-1 is an entomopathogenic fungus that infects Bradysia odoriphaga, a destructive root maggot. M. hiemalis BO-1 possesses stronger pathogenicity to the larvae than to other stages of B. odoriphaga, and provides satisfactory field control. However, the physiological response of B. odoriphaga larvae to infection and the infection mechanism of M. hiemalis are unknown. We detected some physiological indicators of diseased B. odoriphaga larvae infected by M. hiemalis BO-1. These included changes in consumption, nutrient contents, and digestive and antioxidant enzymes. We performed transcriptome analysis of diseased B. odoriphaga larvae, and found that M. hiemalis BO-1 showed acute toxicity to B. odoriphaga larvae and was as toxic as some chemical pesticides. The food consumption of diseased B. odoriphaga after inoculation with M. hiemalis spores decreased significantly, and there was a significant decrease in total protein, lipid, and carbohydrates in diseased larvae. Key digestive enzymes (protease, α-amylase, lipase, and cellulase) were significantly inhibited during infection. Peroxidase maintained high activity, and the activity of other antioxidant enzymes (catalase, superoxide dismutase, and glutathione S-transferases) first increased and then decreased. Combined with the transcriptional signatures of diseased B. odoriphaga larvae, M. hiemalis BO-1 infection resulted in decreased food consumption, reduced digestive enzyme activity, and altered energy metabolism and material accumulation. Infection was also accompanied by fluctuations in immune function, such as cytochrome P450 and the Toll pathway. Therefore, our results laid a basis for the further study of the interactions between M. hiemalis BO-1 and B. odoriphaga and promoted the genetic improvement of entomopathogenic fungi.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Insect Pest and Vector Management)
►▼
Show Figures

Figure 1
Open AccessArticle
Resistance Allele Frequency of Helicoverpa zea to Vip3Aa Bacillus thuringiensis Protein in the Southeastern U.S.
Insects 2023, 14(2), 161; https://doi.org/10.3390/insects14020161 - 07 Feb 2023
Abstract
Helicoverpa zea is a major target pest of Bt crops expressing Cry and/or Vip3Aa proteins in the U.S.A. Widespread practical resistance of H. zea to the Cry1 and Cry2 proteins makes Vip3Aa the only effective Bt protein against this pest. Understanding the frequency
[...] Read more.
Helicoverpa zea is a major target pest of Bt crops expressing Cry and/or Vip3Aa proteins in the U.S.A. Widespread practical resistance of H. zea to the Cry1 and Cry2 proteins makes Vip3Aa the only effective Bt protein against this pest. Understanding the frequency of resistance alleles against Vip3Aa in field populations of H. zea is crucial for resistance management and the sustainability of Vip3Aa technology. Using a modified F2 screen method by crossing susceptible laboratory female moth with feral male moth of H. zea, we successfully screened a total of 24,576 neonates from 192 F2 families of H. zea collected from Arkansas, Louisiana, Mississippi, and Tennessee during 2019–2020. We found five F2 families containing ≥3rd instar survivors on the diagnostic concentration of 3.0 µg/cm2 Vip3Aa39. Dose-response bioassays confirmed the high levels of Vip3Aa resistance in these F2 families, with an estimated resistance ratio of >909.1-fold relative to the susceptible strain. The estimated resistance allele frequency against Vip3Aa in H. zea for these four southern states is 0.0155 with a 95% CI of 0.0057-0.0297. These data should provide critical information for understanding the risks of Vip3Aa resistance in H. zea and help design appropriate resistance management strategies for the sustainability of the Vip3Aa technology.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Resistance of Pests to Insecticidal Proteins from Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt))
Open AccessArticle
Negative Effects of Phthorimaea absoluta-Resistant Tomato Genotypes on the Zoophytophagous Biocontrol Agent, Orius laevigatus (Fieber) (Hemiptera: Anthocoridae)
Insects 2023, 14(2), 160; https://doi.org/10.3390/insects14020160 - 07 Feb 2023
Abstract
Complex interactions between host plant resistance (HPR) and biological control agents, particularly omnivorous predators, can shape the outcome of an integrated pest management (IPM) program. However, such interactions are seldom explored during plant breeding programs. Therefore, in the present study, we compared the
[...] Read more.
Complex interactions between host plant resistance (HPR) and biological control agents, particularly omnivorous predators, can shape the outcome of an integrated pest management (IPM) program. However, such interactions are seldom explored during plant breeding programs. Therefore, in the present study, we compared the performance of the omnivorous biological control agent Orius laevigatus on six tomato genotypes with different levels of resistance to the tomato leaf miner Phthorimaea absoluta. We found that the O. laevigatus fitness components (i.e., egg deposition, egg hatching rate, and duration of egg, early nymphal, late nymphal stages, and their survival) were inferior on the wild resistant genotypes (LA 716 and LA 1777) in comparison to the resistant domesticated genotype EC 620343 and the susceptible genotypes (EC 705464 and EC 519819). It appears that the adverse effects of tomato genotypes on O. laevigatus are determined mainly by glandular and non-glandular trichome densities on the leaves. Comparison of O. laevigatus response to the tested tomato cultivars to that of P. absoluta revealed significant positive correlations in duration of the egg stages, development time of early and late larval stages, and overall immature mortality in both species. It appears, therefore, that defensive plant traits operate in a similar way on the pest and its predator in the system. Overall, the present study of the tomato-P. absoluta-O. laevigatus system provides experimental evidence for the need to optimize pest management by employing intermediate levels of crop resistance together with biological control agents.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Topic Integrated Pest Management of Crops)
►▼
Show Figures

Figure 1
Open AccessArticle
Three New Eriophyid Mite Species from China (Acari: Eriophyidae)
Insects 2023, 14(2), 159; https://doi.org/10.3390/insects14020159 - 05 Feb 2023
Abstract
►▼
Show Figures
Eriophyid mites (Eriophyidae) are strictly phytophagous and are concentrated in Europe, Eastern Asia, Southeast Asia, Western and Eastern North America, Southern India, and New Zealand. South and southwest China are hot spots for eriophyid mite species diversity and endemism. In this study, we
[...] Read more.
Eriophyid mites (Eriophyidae) are strictly phytophagous and are concentrated in Europe, Eastern Asia, Southeast Asia, Western and Eastern North America, Southern India, and New Zealand. South and southwest China are hot spots for eriophyid mite species diversity and endemism. In this study, we describe two new species, Scolotosus ehretussp. nov. on Ehretia acuminata (Boraginaceae) and Neotegonotus ulmchangussp. nov. on Ulmus changii (Ulmaceae), from south and southwest China (the Oriental Region), and one new eriophyid mite, Leipothrix ventricosissp. nov. on Hosta ventricosa (Asparagaceae), from northeast China (the Palearctic Region). All three new eriophyid mite species are distributed in the temperate region of China. We further provided mitochondrial gene (cox1, 12S rRNA) and nuclear gene (18S rRNA, 28S rRNA) sequences for three new species.
Full article

Figure 1
Open AccessArticle
Four New Species of the Genus Eoneureclipsis (Trichoptera: Psychomyiidae) from China Inferred from Morphology and DNA Barcodes
Insects 2023, 14(2), 158; https://doi.org/10.3390/insects14020158 - 04 Feb 2023
Abstract
Four new species of the genus Eoneureclipsis Kimmins, 1955 from China are described, illustrated, and diagnosed based on male genitalia: Eoneureclipsis jianfenglingensis sp. nov. from Hainan, E. foraminulatus sp. nov. from Guangxi, E. spinosus sp. nov. from Guangxi and Guangdong, and
[...] Read more.
Four new species of the genus Eoneureclipsis Kimmins, 1955 from China are described, illustrated, and diagnosed based on male genitalia: Eoneureclipsis jianfenglingensis sp. nov. from Hainan, E. foraminulatus sp. nov. from Guangxi, E. spinosus sp. nov. from Guangxi and Guangdong, and E. gei sp. nov. from Fujian. A dichotomous key to Chinese adult males of Eoneureclipsis is provided. A distribution map for all Eoneureclipsis species is also presented. The DNA barcodes (partial mtCOI sequences) of E. jianfenglingensis sp. nov., E. gei sp. nov., and E. hainanensis Mey, 2013 have been generated and compared with all existing sequences of Eoneureclipsis species.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue A Themed Issue in Honor of Prof. Dr. Xin-Hua Wang on the Occasion of His 70th Birthday: Diversity, Ecology and Evolution of Aquatic Insects)
Open AccessArticle
Development of Nuclear DNA Markers for Applications in Genetic Diversity Study of Oil Palm-Pollinating Weevil Populations
by
, , , , , , , , , , , and
Insects 2023, 14(2), 157; https://doi.org/10.3390/insects14020157 - 03 Feb 2023
Abstract
The oil palm-pollinating weevil (Elaeidobius kamerunicus Faust) was introduced from Cameroon, West Africa, to Malaysia in 1981, and subsequently, to other oil palm-growing countries as well. This study aims to develop a set of robust E. kamerunicus-specific nuclear DNA markers to
[...] Read more.
The oil palm-pollinating weevil (Elaeidobius kamerunicus Faust) was introduced from Cameroon, West Africa, to Malaysia in 1981, and subsequently, to other oil palm-growing countries as well. This study aims to develop a set of robust E. kamerunicus-specific nuclear DNA markers to directly assess the genetic diversity of the weevil populations. A total of 19,148 SNP and 223,200 SSR were discovered from 48 weevils representing three origins (Peninsular Malaysia, Sabah, and Riau) using RAD tag sequencing. Subsequent filtering steps further reduced these to 1000 SNP and 120 SSR. The selected 220 SNP exhibited a polymorphism information content (PIC) of 0.2387 (±0.1280), and 8 SSR had the PIC of 0.5084 (±0.1928). These markers were found to show sufficient polymorphism, making it possible to assign 180 weevils into three major clusters from Ghana, Cameroon, and Southeast Asia (mainly in Malaysia and Indonesia). These DNA markers successfully confirmed the Cameroon origin of the Southeast Asian cluster. However, the presence of null alleles in the SSR markers, due to limited flexibility of the probe design on the short RAD tags, led to an underestimation of heterozygosity within the populations. Hence, the developed SNP markers turned out to be more efficient than the SSR markers in the genetic diversity assessment of the E. kamerunicus populations. The genetic information provides useful insight into developing guidelines for the genetic monitoring and conservation planning of E. kamerunicus.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Monitoring and Conservation of Pollinators and Their Ecological Interactions)
Open AccessArticle
Not All Field Margins Are Equally Useful: Effects of the Vegetation Structure of Margins on Cereal Aphids and Their Natural Enemies
by
, , , , , and
Insects 2023, 14(2), 156; https://doi.org/10.3390/insects14020156 - 03 Feb 2023
Abstract
Differences in the semi-natural vegetation of field margins will affect the biological control services derived from the presence of these semi-natural habitats adjacent to fields. Of the plant functional traits that are most relevant for insects, plant life forms reflect different aspects of
[...] Read more.
Differences in the semi-natural vegetation of field margins will affect the biological control services derived from the presence of these semi-natural habitats adjacent to fields. Of the plant functional traits that are most relevant for insects, plant life forms reflect different aspects of plant structure and functioning that can help predict the value of marginal vegetation for arthropods in agricultural systems. The aim of this study was to determine the effect of the vegetation structure of field margins on cereal aphids and on some of their natural enemies (parasitoids, hoverflies and ladybugs) in terms of plant life forms. We characterized margin vegetation using the relative cover of each life form and sampled insects in crops along transects parallel to field margins. Our results show that in the studied areas, the abundance of natural enemies was greater near margins dominated by annual plants than in margins dominated by perennial plants. On the other hand, the abundances of aphids and parasitism rates were higher near margins dominated by perennial woody plants than near margins dominated by perennial herbaceous plants. By promoting specific life forms in existing margins, farmers can enhance the conservation biological control and relieve aphid pressure on their crops.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Insect-Plant Interactions in Agricultural Applications)
►▼
Show Figures

Figure 1
Open AccessArticle
Synergistic Behavioral Response Effect of Mixtures of Andrographis paniculata, Cananga odorata, and Vetiveria zizanioides against Aedes aegypti (Diptera: Culicidae)
by
, , , and
Insects 2023, 14(2), 155; https://doi.org/10.3390/insects14020155 - 03 Feb 2023
Abstract
Each binary mixture formulation of Vetiveria zizanioides (L.) Nash (VZ) with Andrographis paniculata (Burm.f.) Wall. ex Nees (AP) or Cananga odorata (Lam.) Hook.f. & Thomson (CO) and AP with CO at 1:1, 1:2, 1:3, and 1:4 ratios (v:v) was
[...] Read more.
Each binary mixture formulation of Vetiveria zizanioides (L.) Nash (VZ) with Andrographis paniculata (Burm.f.) Wall. ex Nees (AP) or Cananga odorata (Lam.) Hook.f. & Thomson (CO) and AP with CO at 1:1, 1:2, 1:3, and 1:4 ratios (v:v) was investigated for behavioral responses on laboratory and field strains of Aedes aegypti. Irritant and repellent activities of each formulation were compared with N,N-diethyl-3-methylbenzamide (DEET) using an excito-repellency test system. The result demonstrated that the mixture of VZ:AP in all combination ratios was the most effective in inducing an irritancy response against the laboratory strain (56.57–73.33%). The highest percentage of escaped mosquitoes exposed to the mixture at a 1:4 ratio (73.33%) was significantly different from DEET (26.67%) (p < 0.05). Against the field strain, the strongest escape response of AP:CO at a 1:1 ratio in the contact trial (70.18%) was significantly different compared with DEET (38.33%) (p < 0.05). There was a weak non-contact escape pattern in all combinations of VZ:CO against the laboratory strains (6.67–31.67%). These findings could lead to the further development of VZ and AP as active ingredients in a repellent that could advance to human use trials.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sterile Insect Technique and Mosquito Control)
►▼
Show Figures

Figure 1
Open AccessArticle
Two Alimentary Canal Proteins, Fo-GN and Fo-Cyp1, Act in Western Flower Thrips, Frankliniella occidentalis TSWV Infection
Insects 2023, 14(2), 154; https://doi.org/10.3390/insects14020154 - 03 Feb 2023
Abstract
Tomato spotted wilt virus (TSWV) is a plant virus that causes massive economic damage to high-valued crops. This virus is transmitted by specific thrips, including the western flower thrips, Frankliniella occidentalis. TSWV is acquired by the young larvae during feeding on infected host
[...] Read more.
Tomato spotted wilt virus (TSWV) is a plant virus that causes massive economic damage to high-valued crops. This virus is transmitted by specific thrips, including the western flower thrips, Frankliniella occidentalis. TSWV is acquired by the young larvae during feeding on infected host plants. TSWV infects the gut epithelium through hypothetical receptor(s) and multiplies within the cells for subsequent horizontal transmission to other plant hosts via the salivary glands during feeding. Two alimentary canal proteins, glycoprotein (Fo-GN) and cyclophilin (Fo-Cyp1), are thought to be associated with the TSWV entry into the gut epithelium of F. occidentalis. Fo-GN possesses a chitin-binding domain, and its transcript was localized on the larval gut epithelium by fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH) analysis. Phylogenetic analysis indicated that F. occidentalis encodes six cyclophilins, in which Fo-Cyp1 is closely related to a human cyclophilin A, an immune modulator. The Fo-Cyp1 transcript was also detected in the larval gut epithelium. Expression of these two genes was suppressed by feeding their cognate RNA interference (RNAi) to young larvae. The RNAi efficiencies were confirmed by the disappearance of the target gene transcripts from the gut epithelium by FISH analyses. The RNAi treatments directed to Fo-GN or Fo-Cyp1 prevented the typical TSWV titer increase after the virus feeding, compared to control RNAi treatment. Our immunofluorescence assay using a specific antibody to TSWV documented the reduction of TSWV in the larval gut and adult salivary gland after the RNAi treatments. These results support our hypothesis that the candidate proteins Fo-GN and Fo-Cyp1 act in TSWV entry and multiplication in F. occidentalis.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Insect Immunity: Evolution, Genomics and Physiology)
►▼
Show Figures

Figure 1
Open AccessFeature PaperArticle
Impacts of Semiochemical Traps Designed for Bruchus rufimanus Boheman 1833 (Coleoptera: Chrysomelidae) on Nontarget Beneficial Entomofauna in Field Bean Crops
Insects 2023, 14(2), 153; https://doi.org/10.3390/insects14020153 - 02 Feb 2023
Abstract
Broad bean weevils (BBWs–Coleoptera: Chrysomelidae) are serious pests of field bean seeds that hamper the promotion of this crop in the diversification of European cropping systems. Recent research has identified different semiochemical lures and trap devices for the development of semiochemical-based control strategies
[...] Read more.
Broad bean weevils (BBWs–Coleoptera: Chrysomelidae) are serious pests of field bean seeds that hamper the promotion of this crop in the diversification of European cropping systems. Recent research has identified different semiochemical lures and trap devices for the development of semiochemical-based control strategies of BBWs. In this study, two field trials were carried out in order to provide necessary information supporting the implementation of sustainable field use of semiochemical traps against BBWs. More particularly, three principal objectives were followed including (i) the identification of the most efficient traps for BBWs capture and the influence of trapping modality on BBWs sex-ratio, (ii) the assessment of eventual collateral effects on crop benefits including aphidophagous and pollinator insects such as Apidae, Syrphidae and Coccinellidae, (iii) the assessment of the crop developmental stage influence on the capture by semiochemical traps. Three different semiochemical lures were tested in combination with two trapping devices across two field trials in early and late flowering field bean crops. The crop phenology and climate parameters were integrated into the analyses to interpret the spatiotemporal evolution of the captured insect populations. A total of 1380 BBWs and 1424 beneficials were captured. White pan traps combined with floral kairomones were the most efficient traps for the capture of BBWs. We demonstrated that the crop phenology (c.f., the flowering stage) exerted strong competition on the attractiveness of semiochemical traps. Community analysis revealed that only one species of BBWs was captured in field bean crops (i.e., Bruchus rufimanus), and no trend was highlighted concerning the sex ratios according to the trapping devices. The beneficial insect community included 67 different species belonging to bees, hoverflies and ladybeetles. Semiochemical traps manifested a strong impact on beneficial insect communities that included some species under extinction threats and need to be further adapted to minimize such collateral effects. Based on these results, recommendations are provided for the implementation of the most sustainable BBWs control method that minimizes the impact on the recruitment of beneficial insects, which is an important ecosystem service for faba bean crops.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Insect Ecology: New Agroecosystem Design and Management for Ecosystem Services)
►▼
Show Figures

Figure 1
Open AccessArticle
Activity Patterns, Population Dynamics, and Spatial Distribution of the Stick Tea Thrips, Dendrothrips minowai, in Tea Plantations
by
, , , , , , , , , and
Insects 2023, 14(2), 152; https://doi.org/10.3390/insects14020152 - 01 Feb 2023
Abstract
The stick tea thrips, D. minowai Priesner (Thysanoptera: Thripidae), is one of the most economically significant thrips pests of tea (Camellia sinensis (L.) O. Ktze.) in China. Here, we sampled D. minowai in tea plantations from 2019 to 2022 to characterize its
[...] Read more.
The stick tea thrips, D. minowai Priesner (Thysanoptera: Thripidae), is one of the most economically significant thrips pests of tea (Camellia sinensis (L.) O. Ktze.) in China. Here, we sampled D. minowai in tea plantations from 2019 to 2022 to characterize its activity patterns, population dynamics, and spatial distribution. A large proportion of D. minowai individuals were caught in traps placed at heights ranging from 5 cm below to 25 cm above the position of tender leaves at the top of the tea plant, and the greatest number of individuals were captured at a height of 10 cm from the position of tender leaves at the top of the tea plant. Thrips were most abundant from 10:00 to 16:00 h in the spring and from 06:00 to 10:00 h and from 16:00 to 20:00 h on sunny days in the summer. The spatial distribution of D. minowai females and nymphs was aggregated on leaves according to Taylor’s power law (females: R2 = 0.92, b = 1.69 > 1; nymphs: R2 = 0.91, b = 2.29 > 1) and Lloyd’s patchiness index (females and nymphs: C > 1, Ca > 0, I > 0, M*/m > 1). The D. minowai population was dominated by females, and male density increased in June. Adult thrips overwintered on the bottom leaves, and they were most abundant from April to June and from August to October. Our findings will aid efforts to control D. minowai populations.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Insect Ecology, Diversity and Conservation)
Open AccessReview
Involvement of an Enhanced Immunity Mechanism in the Resistance to Bacillus thuringiensis in Lepidopteran Pests
Insects 2023, 14(2), 151; https://doi.org/10.3390/insects14020151 - 01 Feb 2023
Abstract
Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) is the safest, economically successful entomopathogen to date. It is extensively produced in transgenic crops or used in spray formulations to control Lepidopteran pests. The most serious threat to the sustainable usage of Bt is insect resistance. The
[...] Read more.
Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) is the safest, economically successful entomopathogen to date. It is extensively produced in transgenic crops or used in spray formulations to control Lepidopteran pests. The most serious threat to the sustainable usage of Bt is insect resistance. The resistance mechanisms to Bt toxins depend not only on alterations in insect receptors, but also on the enhancement of insect immune responses. In this work, we review the current knowledge of the immune response and resistance of insects to Bt formulations and Bt proteins, mainly in Lepidopteran pests. We discuss the pattern recognition proteins for recognizing Bt, antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) and their synthetic signaling pathways, the prophenoloxidase system, reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation, nodulation, encapsulation, phagocytosis, and cell-free aggregates, which are involved in immune response reactions or resistance to Bt. This review also analyzes immune priming, which contributes to the evolution of insect resistance to Bt, and puts forward strategies to improve the insecticidal activity of Bt formulations and manage insect resistance, targeting the insect immune responses and resistance.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Resistance of Pests to Insecticidal Proteins from Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt))
►▼
Show Figures

Graphical abstract
Open AccessArticle
Characterization of Steinernema feltiae (Rhabditida: Steinernematidae) Isolates in Terms of Efficacy against Cereal Ground Beetle Zabrus tenebrioides (Coleoptera: Carabidae): Morphometry and Principal Component Analysis
Insects 2023, 14(2), 150; https://doi.org/10.3390/insects14020150 - 01 Feb 2023
Abstract
One of the most dangerous pests of cereals is Zabrus tenebrioides and, in Poland, it is becoming a serious pest. Entomopathogenic nematodes (EPNs) seem to be a very promising, biological control agent for this pest. Native EPN populations are well adapted to local
[...] Read more.
One of the most dangerous pests of cereals is Zabrus tenebrioides and, in Poland, it is becoming a serious pest. Entomopathogenic nematodes (EPNs) seem to be a very promising, biological control agent for this pest. Native EPN populations are well adapted to local environmental conditions. The current study characterized three Polish isolates of the EPN Steinernema feltiae, which differed in their effectiveness against Z. tenebrioides. In the field, isolate iso1Lon reduced the pest population by 37%, compared with 30% by isolate iso1Dan and 0% by the iso1Obl isolate; the number of plants damaged by Z. tenebrioides in the presence of the different isolates reflected the results in terms of the decrease in pest population size. After incubation in the soil for 60 days, recovered EPN juveniles of all three isolates were able to infect 93–100% of the test insects, with isolate iso1Obl again showing the lowest effectiveness. The juveniles of isolate iso1Obl were also morphometrically distinct from the other two isolates, as revealed by principal component analysis (PCA), which helped to distinguish the EPN isolates. These findings showed the value of using locally adapted isolates of EPNs; two of the three isolates randomly selected from Polish soil outperformed a commercial population of S. feltiae.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Insect Pest and Vector Management)
►▼
Show Figures

Figure 1
Open AccessFeature PaperArticle
Economic Benefits from the Use of Mass Trapping in the Management of Diamondback Moth, Plutella xylostella, in Central America
Insects 2023, 14(2), 149; https://doi.org/10.3390/insects14020149 - 01 Feb 2023
Abstract
The diamondback moth, Plutella xylostella (L.), is a worldwide pest of brassica crops, resistant to a large number of insecticides. As an alternative, the use of pheromone-baited traps has been proposed but farmers are yet to be convinced. In the present study, we
[...] Read more.
The diamondback moth, Plutella xylostella (L.), is a worldwide pest of brassica crops, resistant to a large number of insecticides. As an alternative, the use of pheromone-baited traps has been proposed but farmers are yet to be convinced. In the present study, we aimed to validate the benefits of the use of pheromone-baited traps for monitoring and mass trapping in cabbage production in Central America as means of Integrated Pest Management (IPM) in comparison to calendarized insecticide sprays, which are the farmers’ current practices (FCP). Mass trapping was established in nine selected plots of cabbage in Costa Rica and Nicaragua. Average captures of males/trap/night, plant damage and net profits of these IPM plots were compared to simultaneously evaluated or historically reported FCP plots. The results indicate that in Costa Rica, trap captures did not justify the application of insecticides and average net profits increased by more than 11% when the trapping methods were implemented. In Nicaragua, IPM plots were able to reduce insecticide applications to one third of those in FCP plots. These results confirm the economic and environmental benefits of pheromone-based management of DBM in Central America.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Chemical Communication in Insects: New Advances in IPM Strategies)
►▼
Show Figures

Figure 1

Journal Menu
► ▼ Journal Menu-
- Insects Home
- Aims & Scope
- Editorial Board
- Reviewer Board
- Topical Advisory Panel
- Instructions for Authors
- Special Issues
- Topics
- Sections & Collections
- Article Processing Charge
- Indexing & Archiving
- Editor's Choice Articles
- Most Cited & Viewed
- Journal Statistics
- Journal History
- Journal Awards
- Editorial Office
Journal Browser
► ▼ Journal BrowserHighly Accessed Articles
Latest Books
E-Mail Alert
News
Topics
Topic in
Applied Sciences, Biomolecules, Insects, Molecules, Plants
Frontiers in Chemical Ecology
Topic Editors: Daniel Carrillo, Nurhayat TabancaDeadline: 31 March 2023
Topic in
Animals, Insects, Microbiology Research, Parasitologia, Pathogens, Zoonotic Diseases
Host–Parasite Interactions
Topic Editors: Maurizio Francesco Brivio, David CarmenaDeadline: 30 April 2023
Topic in
Cells, Genes, Insects, IJMS, Molecules
Pheromone Production and Perception: From Genetics to Behaviors
Topic Editors: Jean-François Picimbon, François Verheggen, J.Joe Hull, Alejandro Rooney, Takeshi Sakurai, Takeshi Fujii, Klaus H. HoffmannDeadline: 30 June 2023
Topic in
Agriculture, Animals, Dietetics, Foods, Insects
Edible Insects as Feed and Food: Opportunities and Challenges
Topic Editors: Rifat Ullah Khan, Shabana NazDeadline: 31 July 2023

Conferences
Special Issues
Special Issue in
Insects
Post-Harvest Insect Chemical and Behavioral Ecology
Guest Editors: Thomas W. Phillips, Erin Scully, William MorrisonDeadline: 20 February 2023
Special Issue in
Insects
Insect–Pathogen Interactions in Mass-Reared Insects
Guest Editors: Annete Bruun Jensen, Christina Nielsen-LeRoux, Monique M. van OersDeadline: 28 February 2023
Special Issue in
Insects
Forensic Entomology: Beyond the Bounds of Possibility
Guest Editors: Ian R. Dadour, Paola A. MagniDeadline: 15 March 2023
Special Issue in
Insects
Infectious Diseases in Beneficial Insects: Current Status of Pébrine and Nosema Diseases and Their Progression
Guest Editors: Chisa Yasunaga-Aoki, Yoshinori HatakeyamaDeadline: 31 March 2023
Topical Collections
Topical Collection in
Insects
Biology and Control of the Invasive Red-Necked Longhorn Beetle Aromia bungiiCollection Editors: Eiriki Sunamura, Francesco Nugnes, Etsuko Shoda-Kagaya
Topical Collection in
Insects
Improving IPM of Specialty Crop Pests and Global Food Security
Collection Editors: Muhammad Haseeb, Ashfaq Ahmad Sial, Jawwad A. Qureshi, Youichi Kobori
Topical Collection in
Insects
Vector-Borne Diseases in a Changing World
Collection Editors: Mauro Toledo Marrelli, Andre Barreto Bruno Wilke
Topical Collection in
Insects
The Borderless "Bug" Characterization of Invasive Insect Species: The First Step for Their Control
Collection Editors: Marco Gebiola, Umberto Bernardo