Insects

41 pages, 16103 KB

Open AccessArticle

Species Delimitation in the Bark Louse Genus Neostenopsocus Liang & Liu, 2024 (Psocodea: Stenopsocidae) Based on DNA Barcoding

by Feiyang Liang, Wei Zeng, Sheng Li and Xingyue Liu

Insects 2025, 16(11), 1147; https://doi.org/10.3390/insects16111147 (registering DOI) - 9 Nov 2025

Abstract

The family Stenopsocidae exhibits a rich biodiversity in China, yet species identification based on morphological characters remains problematic due to insufficient study and absent molecular data. DNA barcoding has been widely employed for rapid species identification in insects, particularly through standardized COI gene [...] Read more.

The family Stenopsocidae exhibits a rich biodiversity in China, yet species identification based on morphological characters remains problematic due to insufficient study and absent molecular data. DNA barcoding has been widely employed for rapid species identification in insects, particularly through standardized COI gene sequencing. In this study, we conducted species delimitation for Neostenopsocus in China based on the morphological characters and DNA barcodes, comprising 20 morphological species with 110 barcodes. We redescribed 13 species from China and proposed 39 new synonyms. This study supports the applicability of DNA barcoding for species identification in Neostenopsocus. The K2P distance between the morphological species of Neostenopsocus ranges from 0.0051 to 0.2040, with most exceeding 0.10. The maximum intraspecific divergence reaches 0.0778 in N. nepalensis. The external morphology of Neostenopsocus shows considerable structural uniformity, and the genitalia provide limited diagnostic value for species identification. Instead, the marking patterns of the head and forewing are considered to be useful for species identification. Therefore, delimiting closely related species demands an integrated taxonomy approach that combines extensive geographical sampling, detailed morphological analysis, and nuclear DNA data. Full article

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

14 pages, 722 KB

Open AccessArticle

Assessing the Chronic Effects of Dietary Aluminum on Fitness Traits, Acetylcholinesterase Activity and Locomotion in Lymantria dispar L. Larvae

by Milena Vlahović, Dragana Matić, Dajana Todorović, Branka Petković, Larisa Ilijin, Marija Mrdaković and Vesna Perić-Mataruga

Insects 2025, 16(11), 1146; https://doi.org/10.3390/insects16111146 (registering DOI) - 9 Nov 2025

Abstract

Lymantria dispar larvae were used as a model to study the effects of sublethal chronic dietary aluminum exposure at concentrations of 50, 250, 500, and 1000 μg Al/g dry food (T1, T2, T3, and T4, respectively) on fitness traits, acetylcholinesterase (AChE) activity, and [...] Read more.

Lymantria dispar larvae were used as a model to study the effects of sublethal chronic dietary aluminum exposure at concentrations of 50, 250, 500, and 1000 μg Al/g dry food (T1, T2, T3, and T4, respectively) on fitness traits, acetylcholinesterase (AChE) activity, and locomotion. At the lowest concentration, the greatest reduction in mass and AChE activity, as well as an increase in travel distance and time in movement, was observed relative to the control group. Strong positive correlations between larval mass and time in movement were observed in T1. AChE activity correlated positively with larval mass and relative growth rate (RGR) and negatively with locomotion parameters. An increase in relative growth rate led to a decrease in locomotion parameters (250, 500, and 1000 μg Al/g dry food). As the amount of metal increased, there was a trend towards a decrease in locomotion, and the value was observed to approach the control value. This study suggests that aluminum has an influence on the fitness characteristics, AChE activity, and locomotion of L. dispar larvae. The results obtained allow us to better understand the toxicity of aluminum and, at the same time, underline the need for further studies involving insects. Full article

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

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18 pages, 3389 KB

Open AccessArticle

Orientation and Oviposition by Female Plodia interpunctella (Lepidoptera: Pyralidae) in Response to Volatiles from Varieties of Peanuts

by Xi Zhu, Dianxuan Wang, Fangfang Zeng, Liang Chen, Chen Wang, Sijia Shang and Zixin Guo

Insects 2025, 16(11), 1145; https://doi.org/10.3390/insects16111145 (registering DOI) - 8 Nov 2025

Abstract

Some special volatile organic compounds (VOCs) that significantly induce female oviposition preferences may be utilized to disrupt oviposition behavior and to enhance trapping strategies; such approaches offer a promising avenue for reducing insect infestations in stored commodities. Based on the significant differences in [...] Read more.

Some special volatile organic compounds (VOCs) that significantly induce female oviposition preferences may be utilized to disrupt oviposition behavior and to enhance trapping strategies; such approaches offer a promising avenue for reducing insect infestations in stored commodities. Based on the significant differences in the oviposition preference of P. interpunctella among six normal-oleic varieties (NOPs), the key VOCs involved were further explored. Seventeen VOCs that may contribute the oviposition preference and that exhibited a high content in the peanut varieties were measured through electroantennogram (EAG) response measurements of female moths. The VOCs that produced significant EAG responses by the females were further assayed for behavioral responses by the Y-tube olfactometer method, wind tunnel tests, and a multiple-choice device for female oviposition. Heptanal, acetophenone, nonanal, hexanal, benzaldehyde, octanal, hexanoic acid, decanal, phenylacetaldehyde, and 1-octen-3-ol from peanuts elicited strong antennal EAG responses. These VOCs (especially heptanal, nonanal, hexanal, octanal, and decanal) attracted more females in both Y-tube olfactometer and wind tunnel assays and increased oviposition rates in oviposition tests. The results indicate that heptanal, decanal, octanal, nonanal, and hexanal may be utilized to develop oviposition attractants for female moths further. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Ecology, Behaviour, and Monitoring of Stored Product Insects)

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17 pages, 2006 KB

Open AccessArticle

Effects of Host Plant on the Bacterial Community of the Leafhopper Scaphoideus titanus

by Andrea Arpellino, Aya M. A. Elsayed, Elena Gonella and Alberto Alma

Insects 2025, 16(11), 1144; https://doi.org/10.3390/insects16111144 (registering DOI) - 8 Nov 2025

Abstract

The Nearctic leafhopper Scaphoideus titanus is the primary vector of Flavescence Dorée, a severe grapevine disease in Europe. This insect can complete its life cycle on both cultivated Vitis vinifera and American Vitis species, including rootstock-derived plants that have gone wild. While the [...] Read more.

The Nearctic leafhopper Scaphoideus titanus is the primary vector of Flavescence Dorée, a severe grapevine disease in Europe. This insect can complete its life cycle on both cultivated Vitis vinifera and American Vitis species, including rootstock-derived plants that have gone wild. While the movement of S. titanus between wild and cultivated vines is well documented, its biological implications remain unclear, particularly regarding the role of the insect-associated microbiome. In this study, we investigated how rearing S. titanus nymphs on different host plants, including American Vitis and several V. vinifera cultivars, affects its bacterial community. 16S rRNA metabarcoding revealed that the bacterial microbiome was dominated by two obligate symbionts, namely ‘Candidatus Karelsulcia’ and ‘Candidatus Cardinium’, with moderate but significant differences in microbial diversity among host plants and developmental stages. When these dominant symbionts were excluded, variability in the remaining bacterial community increased, indicating a modulation of minor taxa according to the plant offered. These findings suggest that host plant species influence the microbiome structure, potentially affecting the insect performance and the microbial exchange between wild and cultivated vines in the field, contributing to disease dynamics. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Biology, Ecology and Management of Sap-Sucking Pests)

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12 pages, 958 KB

Open AccessArticle

Comparative Evaluation of Benchtop and Portable Near-Infrared Spectrometers for Predicting the Age and Blood Feeding History of Aedes aegypti

by Ayako Takahashi, Elvis Aquino Flores, Rafael Maciel-de-Freitas, Tharanga Kariyawasam and Maggy T. Sikulu-Lord

Insects 2025, 16(11), 1143; https://doi.org/10.3390/insects16111143 (registering DOI) - 7 Nov 2025

Abstract

This study is a comparative assessment of a more affordable handheld spectrometer (NIRvascan) with the traditional Labspec 4i spectrometer for predicting the chronological age and blood feeding history of female Aedes aegypti mosquitoes reared in the lab. Three separate cohorts of laboratory-reared Ae. [...] Read more.

This study is a comparative assessment of a more affordable handheld spectrometer (NIRvascan) with the traditional Labspec 4i spectrometer for predicting the chronological age and blood feeding history of female Aedes aegypti mosquitoes reared in the lab. Three separate cohorts of laboratory-reared Ae. aegypti mosquitoes were reared and collected at three age groups (1-, 10- and 17-days old). A model developed using Artificial Neural Networks (ANN) with spectra collected by the Labspec 4i NIR spectrometer predicted the age of Ae. aegypti, classifying them into two groups (< or ≥ 10 days) with a predictive accuracy of 94% (N = 366) whereas an ANN model developed using spectra collected by the NIRvascan spectrometer predicted the age of Ae. aegypti mosquitoes, classifying them into the same age group with a predictive accuracy of 90% (N = 290). ANN models developed for predicting the blood feeding history of mosquitoes were 82.8% (N = 308) and 71.4% accurate (N = 300) when Labspec 4i and NIRvascan were used, respectively. This is the first study to demonstrate that a handheld NIR instrument operated by a smart phone could potentially be used for predicting entomological parameters of mosquitoes. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Challenges in Mosquito Surveillance and Control)

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21 pages, 1545 KB

Open AccessArticle

Vector Potential of Nosema-Infected Drones in Honey Bees

by Adrian Perez and Brian R. Johnson

Insects 2025, 16(11), 1142; https://doi.org/10.3390/insects16111142 - 7 Nov 2025

Abstract

Despite the advantages associated with social living, one of the main costs of sociality is an increased exposure to pathogens. For honey bees, these costs are artificially inflated in the unnatural and densely crowded apiary environments common to commercial operations. Modern beekeeping practices [...] Read more.

Despite the advantages associated with social living, one of the main costs of sociality is an increased exposure to pathogens. For honey bees, these costs are artificially inflated in the unnatural and densely crowded apiary environments common to commercial operations. Modern beekeeping practices have not only exacerbated these problems but have also led to the introduction of novel parasites. One newly introduced parasite of honey bees is Nosema ceranae, a unicellular, spore-forming gut parasite that has achieved a cosmopolitan distribution in recent decades. N. ceranae is widely considered a dangerous pathogen for both individual bees and colonies as a whole. The parasite can infect every member of the honey bee colony; however, it remains to be understood whether there are asymmetrical contributions to spreading N. ceranae spores by particular castes. Here, we test the long-held suspicion that honey bee drones may be important for driving pathogen transmission between colonies in modern apiary settings. Although we find sparse evidence that N. ceranae infection causes enhanced transmission by changing drone or worker behavior, we do confirm that infected drones drift at high rates and are accepted by foreign colonies. Our results thus present a grim picture for enhanced diseases transmission by males in crowded apiaries. Full article

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

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17 pages, 2157 KB

Open AccessArticle

Insecticidal Activity of Eupatorium fortunei Essential Oil Against Schizaphis graminum and Its Effects on Detoxification Enzymes

by Guochang Wang, Dongbiao Lü, Xing Ge, Ziyue Zhang, Fanning Meng, Liuping Chen, Kassen Kuanysh, Xinan Li, Baizhong Zhang, Sarsekova Dani and Hongliang Wang

Insects 2025, 16(11), 1141; https://doi.org/10.3390/insects16111141 - 7 Nov 2025

Abstract

Schizaphis graminum is the most important pest of wheat, and its feeding harm not only affects photosynthesis but also causes diseases, posing a serious threat to wheat production. We measured the contact killing and fumigation activities, population changes, enzyme activities, and nanoemulsion physicochemical [...] Read more.

Schizaphis graminum is the most important pest of wheat, and its feeding harm not only affects photosynthesis but also causes diseases, posing a serious threat to wheat production. We measured the contact killing and fumigation activities, population changes, enzyme activities, and nanoemulsion physicochemical property of Eupatorium fortune essential oil (EFEO) and pyrethrin against S. graminum and its natural enemy (Harmonia axyridis). Toxic effects of EFEO and pyrethrin increased with increasing concentration. After 24 h of contact killing, the LD₅₀ of S. graminum were 9.23 and 0.02 μg/head, respectively. Harmonia axyridis were 36.71 and 0.07 μg/head. The fumigation of EFEO LD₅₀ on S. graminum was 9.779 mg/L (y = 2.88x − 2.852). EFEO contains 28 chemical components, including l-Caryophyllene, Lily aldehyde, α-Terpineol, and Cineole. EFEO LD₅₀ significantly reduced the adult longevity, nymph production, and nymph production duration of the F0 S. graminum, while there were no significant differences in various parameters of offspring. The activity of acetylcholinesterase, glutathione-S-transferase, and carboxylesterase is significantly affected. The population decline rate of EFEO nanoemulsion is significantly higher than that of EFEO. This research aims to clarify the toxic effect of EFEO on S. graminum, providing a scientific basis for developing new plant essential oil preparations and nano preparations. Full article

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

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16 pages, 3863 KB

Open AccessArticle

Alpine Grassland Ecological Restoration Approaches Shape Insect Trophic Guild Diversity: A Multi-Dimensional Assessment from Alpha to Dark Diversity

by Kuanyan Tang, Hongru Yue, Haijuan Qu, Yifang Xing, Bingshuang Qin, Aosheng Wang, Kejian Lin, Kun Shi and Ning Wang

Insects 2025, 16(11), 1140; https://doi.org/10.3390/insects16111140 - 7 Nov 2025

Abstract

The severe degradation of alpine grasslands on the Qinghai–Tibet Plateau poses a significant threat to regional ecological security. While insects are critical for ecosystem functions, their responses to restoration measures in these fragile habitats are poorly documented. This study assessed the initial impacts [...] Read more.

The severe degradation of alpine grasslands on the Qinghai–Tibet Plateau poses a significant threat to regional ecological security. While insects are critical for ecosystem functions, their responses to restoration measures in these fragile habitats are poorly documented. This study assessed the initial impacts of four restoration approaches—grazing exclusion fencing (FE), no-till reseeding (FR), planting grass (GC), and grazing control (CK)—on insect trophic guilds (herbivores, predators, saprophagous, and omnivores) in the Qilian Mountains. Using a multi-dimensional indicator (alpha, zeta, and dark diversity), we systematically assessed community assembly and recovery potential. The results revealed the following: (1) FE supported the highest insect abundance, dominated by phytophagous insects. FR significantly enhanced species’ richness and diversity across multiple functional groups (p < 0.05). GC significantly increased the richness of omnivorous insects, but caused a significant decrease in the Shannon–Wiener index for saprophagous insects (p < 0.05). (2) Zeta diversity revealed stable, widespread-species-dominated communities under FR and FE, while CK and GC favored rare-species-driven succession. Dark diversity analysis indicated high recovery potential for phytophagous insects under FR and FE, while GC enhanced saprophagous latent diversity. However, we emphasize that mechanistic interpretations require further validation. Our findings highlight no-till reseeding as a promising initial strategy, though longer-term studies are essential to evaluate successional trajectories and establish definitive management protocols for alpine grassland restoration. Full article

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

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22 pages, 5495 KB

Open AccessArticle

Odorant Receptor OR45a Mediates Female-Specific Attraction to cis-Linalool Oxide in Bactrocera dorsalis

by Bibi Liang, Xianli Lu, Lu Xiao, Wang Miao, Shuchang Wang, Fengqin Cao and Jian Wen

Insects 2025, 16(11), 1139; https://doi.org/10.3390/insects16111139 - 7 Nov 2025

Abstract

Bactrocera dorsalis Hendel is a devastating invasive pest that costs billions of dollars in agricultural losses worldwide. Current control strategies rely heavily on male-specific attractants such as methyl eugenol, which are less effective against females, underscoring the need for female-targeted control approaches. Here, [...] Read more.

Bactrocera dorsalis Hendel is a devastating invasive pest that costs billions of dollars in agricultural losses worldwide. Current control strategies rely heavily on male-specific attractants such as methyl eugenol, which are less effective against females, underscoring the need for female-targeted control approaches. Here, we investigated the molecular mechanisms underlying female attraction to cis-linalool oxide by functionally characterizing the odorant receptor OR45a, identifying it as a molecular target for female-oriented pest management. We conducted spatiotemporal expression analysis of OR45a in response to cis-linalool oxide, followed by RNAi and behavioral assays. Phylogenetic analysis of OR45a orthologs from 10 Dipteran species, combined with structural topology prediction and solvent-accessible surface area (ASA) analysis, helped identify functional domains and residues. Site-directed mutagenesis and two-electrode voltage clamp (TEVC) recordings validated receptor–ligand interactions. Results showed that OR45a was specifically upregulated in antennae, with peak expression at 10 days post-eclosion, coinciding with oviposition periods. RNAi significantly reduced OR45a transcript levels and female behavioral responses to cis-linalool oxide. Phylogenetic analysis showed that OR45a is highly conserved within Tephritidae but diverges from Drosophilidae, with closest similarity to Anastrepha ludens, indicating ecological specialization. Structural modeling predicted a canonical seven-transmembrane architecture with three extracellular loops forming the ligand-binding pocket. Among five key residues identified, Leu122 and Ile146 were essential for ligand recognition, while Tyr107 contributed to protein stability. These findings reveal a female-specific odorant receptor mechanism in B. dorsalis and provide molecular targets for OR45a-based attractants, addressing a critical gap in female-focused pest management. Full article

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

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15 pages, 728 KB

Open AccessArticle

Efficiency Enhancement Technology of Dastarcus helophoroides (Coleoptera: Bothrideridae) for Controlling Monochamus alternatus (Coleoptera: Cerambycidae): Drilling Optimization and Biological Collaboration

by Jiale Li, Min Zhang, Zhilan Li, Xiaohui Li, Yong Peng, Wenxiu Zhou, Zhengping Zhao and Xuewu Yan

Insects 2025, 16(11), 1138; https://doi.org/10.3390/insects16111138 - 7 Nov 2025

Abstract

Dastarcus helophoroides Fairmaire, a parasitic natural enemy widely used in the biological control of Monochamus alternatus Hope, possesses strong abilities to search for hosts and prey. To enhance the biological control efficacy of D. helophoroides against M. alternatus, this study systematically evaluated [...] Read more.

Dastarcus helophoroides Fairmaire, a parasitic natural enemy widely used in the biological control of Monochamus alternatus Hope, possesses strong abilities to search for hosts and prey. To enhance the biological control efficacy of D. helophoroides against M. alternatus, this study systematically evaluated the effectiveness of enhancing control through methods such as drilling holes in lure logs and introducing D. helophoroides carrying Pyemotes zhonghuajia or Beauveria bassiana under controlled indoor conditions. The results showed that: (1) Releasing D. helophoroides eggs (after 30 days) and releasing adults (after 120 days) were both effective in controlling M. alternatus, with the best control effects achieved when 50 eggs/m and 3 adults/m were released. The release of adults took longer to show effects but had better results than the release of eggs in the later stages. (2) The location and number of holes drilled in lure logs significantly influenced the efficiency of D. helophoroides in searching for and parasitizing M. alternatus, while the diameter of the holes was not significant. Considering the highest control efficacy and minimizing damage to the tree, the optimal conditions were releasing D. helophoroides adults 2 cm above M. alternatus fecal holes, with 0.4 cm in diameter and 2 holes/m release density, which significantly promoted the invasion of D. helophoroides adults into the borer tunnels and increased the M. alternatus mortality rate. (3) Releasing D. helophoroides adults carrying P. zhonghuajia or B. bassiana significantly improves the control efficacy against M. alternatus. The higher the number of D. helophoroides adults released per log segment and the greater the quantity of P. zhonghuajia or B. bassiana that they carry, the higher the mortality rate of M. alternatus. After 60 days of release, the highest mortality rate of M. alternatus was observed in treatments where D. helophoroides (released at densities of 3 adults per meter of log segment) carried P. zhonghuajia (0.6 million/m) or were sprayed with B. bassiana (3 g/m). The synergistic effect of carrying P. zhonghuajia was evident, but the overall control efficacy of spraying B. bassiana was limited. In summary, optimizing drilling techniques and combining biological release strategies under laboratory conditions can significantly enhance the control efficacy against M. alternatus, providing data support for D. helophoroides future application in forest pest control. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue The 15th Anniversary of Insects—Advances in Insect Pest and Vector Management)

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10 pages, 513 KB

Open AccessArticle

Development of Thrips Repellents, and Their Combined Application with Aggregation Pheromones in a Push–Pull Strategy to Control Frankliniella occidentalis

by Xiaowei Li, Yiming Pan, Yunxu Wang, Yaru Wang, Zhijun Zhang and Yaobin Lu

Insects 2025, 16(11), 1137; https://doi.org/10.3390/insects16111137 - 7 Nov 2025

Abstract

Western flower thrips, Frankliniella occidentalis (Pergande), is a serious pest of horticultural and agronomic crops. Using plant-released semiochemicals to control thrips is one eco-friendly control method for their management. In this study, to develop repellents and an attractant–repellent push–pull strategy for F. occidentalis [...] Read more.

Western flower thrips, Frankliniella occidentalis (Pergande), is a serious pest of horticultural and agronomic crops. Using plant-released semiochemicals to control thrips is one eco-friendly control method for their management. In this study, to develop repellents and an attractant–repellent push–pull strategy for F. occidentalis, we investigated the effects of α-pinene and eucalyptol on their oviposition on pepper plants in cage experiments and evaluated the control efficiency of repellents on them in pepper fields. The control efficacy of a combination of aggregation pheromone attractants and plant volatile repellents was also investigated. The results showed that spraying eucalyptol (at the dose of 200 μL) and α-pinene (at the dose of 100 μL) significantly reduced the oviposition behavior of F. occidentalis in cage experiments. Field results showed that the application of eucalyptol and α-pinene could significantly reduce the population of F. occidentalis in the field, with the highest control efficacy of 80.96% and 66.66%, respectively. Furthermore, a push–pull strategy combining thrips-repellent eucalyptol and aggregation pheromone lures was an effective strategy to suppress a population of thrips in the field, with the highest control efficacy of 81.95%. The repellents and push–pull strategy developed here provided an effective method for the eco-friendly control of F. occidentalis. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Invasive Pests: Bionomics, Damage, and Management)

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13 pages, 2756 KB

Open AccessArticle

Life History and the Relation Between Population Dynamics and Meteorological Factors of Hyphantria cunea (Lepidoptera: Erebidae: Arctiidae) in Shanghai, China

by Siqi Tang, Zichun Li, Guangyu Huang, Yangyang Han and Dejun Hao

Insects 2025, 16(11), 1136; https://doi.org/10.3390/insects16111136 - 6 Nov 2025

Abstract

The fall webworm Hyphantria cunea (Lepidoptera: Erebidae) is a globally invasive species that causes serious damage to agriculture and forestry. Since the first invasion reported in Liaoning Province, China, it has spread extensively southward and was found in Shanghai in 2019. Owing to [...] Read more.

The fall webworm Hyphantria cunea (Lepidoptera: Erebidae) is a globally invasive species that causes serious damage to agriculture and forestry. Since the first invasion reported in Liaoning Province, China, it has spread extensively southward and was found in Shanghai in 2019. Owing to the climatic and environmental differences between these regions, the biology and population dynamics of H. cunea may have undergone changes in its newly invaded areas. In this study, we investigated the biology of H. cunea in Shanghai and monitored the population dynamics using sex-pheromone-baited traps. We analyzed the relationships between population dynamics and local meteorological factors, including temperature, precipitation, and sunshine duration. Our result indicates high temperatures and large diurnal temperature ranges have significant effects (R² = 0.723, p < 0.001) on the survival and development of H. cunea. Consequently, they play an important role in shaping its population dynamics. These findings enhance our understanding of how H. cunea responds to Shanghai’s environmental conditions, provide a scientific basis for local pest management, and contribute to predicting its population trends. Full article

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

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16 pages, 4062 KB

Open AccessArticle

Composition of the Gut Microbiome and Its Response to Rice Stripe Virus Infection in Laodelphax striatellus (Hemiptera: Delphacidae)

by Zhipeng Huang, Lu Zhang, Yu Tian, Jiayi Gao, Fang Liu and Yao Li

Insects 2025, 16(11), 1135; https://doi.org/10.3390/insects16111135 - 6 Nov 2025

Abstract

The small brown planthopper (SBPH), Laodelphax striatellus, transmits rice stripe virus (RSV), a devastating pathogen that causes significant yield losses in rice. The components of the gut microbiota in SBPH and the effects of RSV infection on gut microorganisms are unclear. In [...] Read more.

The small brown planthopper (SBPH), Laodelphax striatellus, transmits rice stripe virus (RSV), a devastating pathogen that causes significant yield losses in rice. The components of the gut microbiota in SBPH and the effects of RSV infection on gut microorganisms are unclear. In this study, high-throughput sequencing of 16S rRNA was utilized to evaluate the composition of gut microorganisms in SBPH. The gut microbiota of SBPH was primarily composed of Proteobacteria, Firmicutes and Bacteroidetes at ratios of 94.79%, 3.04% and 1.39%, respectively; furthermore, the composition of bacteria in the gut microbiota was relatively conserved with differences at the genus level. To elucidate the response of the SBPH gut microbiota to RSV infection, we compared its composition and abundance in viruliferous and naïve SBPH. Interestingly, RSV infection was associated with increased diversity in the SBPH gut microbiota. Comparative analysis demonstrated that RSV infection elevated the relative abundance of Proteobacteria while reducing that of Firmicutes. Population counts demonstrated that RSV infection reduced the gut loads of Stenotrophomonas, Brevundimonas, and Brevibacillus, whereas the gut load of Staphylococcus was significantly increased. Further functional predictive assays revealed that RSV infection enhanced the functions of the SBPH gut microbiota in terms of metabolism, cellular processes, genetic and environmental information processing, and organismal systems. Our results indicate that RSV reshapes the composition, abundance, and functions of the SBPH gut microbiota, offering insights into virus–host–microbiome interactions. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Insect Microbiome and Immunity—2nd Edition)

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21 pages, 2305 KB

Open AccessArticle

Bottom-Up and Top-Down Dynamics in the Management of Rosy Apple Aphid

by Ammar Alhmedi, Tim Belien and Dany Bylemans

Insects 2025, 16(11), 1134; https://doi.org/10.3390/insects16111134 - 6 Nov 2025

Abstract

Effective control of the rosy apple aphid, Dysaphis plantaginea, is crucial for maintaining apple orchard productivity. Understanding plant-mediated bottom-up and parasitoid-driven top-down interactions is critical for developing optimized pest management strategies. We investigated how host plant diversity and interactions between two parasitoids, [...] Read more.

Effective control of the rosy apple aphid, Dysaphis plantaginea, is crucial for maintaining apple orchard productivity. Understanding plant-mediated bottom-up and parasitoid-driven top-down interactions is critical for developing optimized pest management strategies. We investigated how host plant diversity and interactions between two parasitoids, Aphidius matricariae and Aphidius ervi, shape aphid suppression across seedlings from ten apple cultivars. Mummy counts, parasitism rate, emergence rate, and sex ratio measurements were used to assess the parasitoid preference and performance. Results revealed significant interactions between host plant identity and parasitoid performance. Mixed parasitoid releases outperformed single-species treatments. Alone, A. ervi achieved significantly higher parasitism rates than A. matricariae. Host plant effects were pronounced; Cripps Pink enhanced A. matricariae performance, while Golden Delicious and Red Delicious improved A. ervi metrics. Emergence rates and sex ratios varied by plant origins, with Elstar enhancing A. ervi and Granny Smith enhancing A. matricariae. Choice tests indicated cultivar-specific parasitoid preferences, and heatmap analysis revealed apparent competition among aphids mediated by parasitoids, with Braeburn and Gala acting as key parasitoid sources. Study findings indicate that managing apple cultivar diversity and exploiting complementary parasitoid interactions can improve D. plantaginea biocontrol in orchards. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Research on Parasitoids for Biological Control of Agricultural Pests)

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37 pages, 9927 KB

Open AccessArticle

Morphological Changes in Thoracic Internal Structures of Asiophrida xanthospilota (Coleoptera: Chrysomelidae) During Pupal Period

by Irfan Haider, Le Zong, Wenjie Li, Youyou Yang, Zulong Liang, Xinyi Zhou, Yanting Wang, Sipei Liu and Siqin Ge

Insects 2025, 16(11), 1133; https://doi.org/10.3390/insects16111133 - 5 Nov 2025

Abstract

The thorax, which serves as the primary center of locomotion for insects, consists of a highly intricate skeletomuscular system. The thoracic morphological transformations during the pupal stage reveal the developmental formation of locomotor systems. Asiophrida xanthospilota is not only capable of flight but [...] Read more.

The thorax, which serves as the primary center of locomotion for insects, consists of a highly intricate skeletomuscular system. The thoracic morphological transformations during the pupal stage reveal the developmental formation of locomotor systems. Asiophrida xanthospilota is not only capable of flight but is also an exceptional jumper. In this study, we employed micro-CT and 3D reconstruction to document the thoracic internal anatomy of this species on pupal days 1, 2, 4, 6, 8, 10, and 12, with the goal of achieving a more comprehensive understanding of their locomotion mechanisms. In A. xanthospilota, a membrane connecting the occiput and metaphragma is present from pupal days 2 to 8, serving as the attachment site for the notal muscles. Morphological changes in some endoskeletal structures during development result in corresponding shifts in the origins or insertions of associated muscles. On the first day, most muscles are present in the pro- and mesothorax, while the metathorax contains comparatively few, a pattern likely linked to the primary reliance on jumping locomotion of the species. Some muscles that appear only during the early and middle pupal stages might function in structural support. Muscular morphology undergoes diverse changes that are difficult to generalize. On day 4, the muscles show a comparatively small relative volume, which might reflect experimental error or other underlying factors. In addition, the gut and nerve remain largely unchanged. It should be noted that the stroma within the thoracic cavity might have hindered the precise identification of muscles. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Beetles in Integrative Entomology: Biology, Taxonomy, and Conservation)

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20 pages, 5223 KB

Open AccessArticle

Effect of Bt-Cry1Ab Maize Commercialization on Arthropod Community Biodiversity in Southwest China

by Limei He, Ling Wang, Yatao Zhou, Wenxian Wu, Shengbo Cong, Yanni Tan, Wei He, Gemei Liang and Kongming Wu

Insects 2025, 16(11), 1132; https://doi.org/10.3390/insects16111132 - 5 Nov 2025

Abstract

Transgenic Bt maize commercialization has become a critical pest management strategy against lepidopteran insects in southwest China, but its ecological impact on arthropod biodiversity remains insufficiently characterized. This two-year field investigation (2023–2024) conducted in Bazhong City, Sichuan Province utilized systematic field monitoring to [...] Read more.

Transgenic Bt maize commercialization has become a critical pest management strategy against lepidopteran insects in southwest China, but its ecological impact on arthropod biodiversity remains insufficiently characterized. This two-year field investigation (2023–2024) conducted in Bazhong City, Sichuan Province utilized systematic field monitoring to compare arthropod community dynamics between conventional maize and Bt-Cry1Ab maize (DBN9936) cultivation systems. This study documented 575,970 arthropod specimens representing 80 species/types across 45 families and 17 orders. Analysis of variance revealed significant differences (p < 0.05) between non-Bt and Bt maize in the abundance and species richness of target herbivorous pests, non-target herbivorous pests, and natural enemy insects. Field investigations revealed a notable absence of Macrocentrus cingulum, a key larval parasitoid of Ostrinia furnacalis, in Bt-maize plots compared to conventional counterparts. The populations of non-target herbivorous pests and natural enemies such as Aphididae, Chrysoperla sinica, Frankliniella tenuicornis, and Orius sauteri were higher in Bt maize fields than in non-Bt maize fields, while the populations of target herbivorous pests including O. furnacalis and Mythimna loreyi were lower than those in non-Bt maize fields. However, no significant differences (p > 0.05) were observed in arthropod abundance, species richness, or in a suite of ecological indices including the Simpson diversity index, Shannon–Wiener diversity index, Pielou evenness index, McIntosh diversity index, and community stability indices (N_n/N_p, N_d/N_p, and S_d/S_p). Redundancy analysis identified maize growth stages (6.75% variance explained) and interannual variations (2.44%) as principal drivers of arthropod community dynamics, with maize genotype contributing minimally (1.53%). These findings demonstrate that Bt-Cry1Ab maize (DBN9936) cultivation maintains functional arthropod community structure while effectively controlling target pests, providing substantial empirical evidence to support its sustainable deployment in southern China’s agricultural landscapes. Full article

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

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11 pages, 1025 KB

Open AccessArticle

Dispersal Ecology of the Beet Armyworm in the Florida Panhandle: Implications for Outbreaks and Insecticide Resistance Spread

by Eduardo Soares Calixto, João Gabriel Tardin de Moraes, Ethan Carter, Isaac L. Esquivel and Silvana V. Paula-Moraes

Insects 2025, 16(11), 1131; https://doi.org/10.3390/insects16111131 - 5 Nov 2025

Abstract

Beet armyworm (BAW), Spodoptera exigua (Hübner), is a polyphagous and migratory lepidopteran pest that causes damage to a broad range of host plants, including row crops and vegetables, with increasing reports of insecticide-resistant populations. Understanding its movement ecology is essential for integrated pest [...] Read more.

Beet armyworm (BAW), Spodoptera exigua (Hübner), is a polyphagous and migratory lepidopteran pest that causes damage to a broad range of host plants, including row crops and vegetables, with increasing reports of insecticide-resistant populations. Understanding its movement ecology is essential for integrated pest management (IPM) and insect resistance management (IRM) programs. We investigated the population dynamics and migratory origins of BAW during the 2024 cropping season in two counties of the Florida Panhandle, USA. Larval sampling and adult pheromone trapping were conducted in commercial peanut fields, and hydrogen stable isotopes were used to infer the probable geographic origins of moths. Across the season, the presence of BAW accounted for 7.1% of all individuals collected, with infestation occurring only in July and August. Moth captures were significantly higher in the eastern Florida panhandle than in the western Florida Panhandle. Stable isotope analysis revealed four distinct migratory patterns, with most BAW likely originating from South Florida, the Caribbean, or the central and southern United States, indicating northward movement. Our findings provide critical insights into the movement ecology of BAW and highlight its implications for outbreak forecasting, resistance management, and regional IPM/IRM strategies in the southeastern United States. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Travelers on the Wind: Migratory Insects as Emerging Research Models)

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11 pages, 17113 KB

Open AccessArticle

Two New Species of Mesochorista (Insecta, Mecoptera, Permochoristidae) from the Guadalupian Yinping Formation of Chaohu, Eastern China

by Xinneng Lian, Chenyang Cai, Zhuo Feng and Diying Huang

Insects 2025, 16(11), 1130; https://doi.org/10.3390/insects16111130 - 5 Nov 2025

Abstract

Permochoristidae is a megadiverse mecopteran group that has mainly been reported from Russia and Australia, whereas records from China remain scarce. In this report, two new species of Mesochorista are described and illustrated from the Guadalupian Yinping Formation, Eastern China. Mesochorista tillyardi Lian [...] Read more.

Permochoristidae is a megadiverse mecopteran group that has mainly been reported from Russia and Australia, whereas records from China remain scarce. In this report, two new species of Mesochorista are described and illustrated from the Guadalupian Yinping Formation, Eastern China. Mesochorista tillyardi Lian and Huang, sp. nov. is characterized by the forewing covered with dense oval spots, and Sc₁ closely approximal to R₁ and connected by a short sc-r crossvein. Mesochorista yinpingensis Lian and Huang, sp. nov. is characterized by the forewing covered with dense irregularly colored patches, Sc₁ devoid of expanded area, and M with only five branches. Based on a detailed discussion of the type species and other co-occurring species of Mesochorista and Permochorista, in light of the new insights into Sc₃, we support that Permochorista is a junior synonym of Mesochorista. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Fossil Insects: Diversity and Evolutionary History)

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13 pages, 593 KB

Open AccessArticle

Toxicity Profiling Validates Trajectory Modeling for Identifying Sogatella furcifera Migration Sources in Southern China

by Jian Zhu, Pengqi Quan, Yan Wu, Chao Li and Mingyong Ma

Insects 2025, 16(11), 1129; https://doi.org/10.3390/insects16111129 - 4 Nov 2025

Abstract

Sogatella furcifera (Horváth) is a major migratory rice pest, yet accurate source attribution for this insect remains a persistent challenge. To assess the accuracy of trajectory modeling in determining the source areas of S. furcifera, we examined an early-season migration event [...] Read more.

Sogatella furcifera (Horváth) is a major migratory rice pest, yet accurate source attribution for this insect remains a persistent challenge. To assess the accuracy of trajectory modeling in determining the source areas of S. furcifera, we examined an early-season migration event into HN in May 2024. Backward trajectories were simulated from 15 sites in HN, and insecticide toxicity assays were conducted to determine LC₅₀ values for pymetrozine and nitenpyram in 26 field populations collected from HN and GX. Trajectory analyses indicated that northwestern HN populations were traced primarily to western GX and northern Vietnam, central HN populations to central/southern GX, western GD, and northern Vietnam, and southeastern HN populations to northeastern/southeastern GX and western GD. Critically, toxicity tests confirmed the trajectory predictions. In particular, no statistically significant differences in LC₅₀ values were detected between HN populations and their identified source areas for either insecticide, while significant differences occurred in comparisons with non-source regions for both insecticides. These findings demonstrate that combining trajectory modeling with toxicity testing effectively identifies S. furcifera source areas during early migration. This study confirms the utility of trajectory analyses and provides an actionable strategy for monitoring and early warning systems targeting migratory pests. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Travelers on the Wind: Migratory Insects as Emerging Research Models)

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