Search Results (306)

The immature stages and biology of Neoplinthus tigratus porculus (Fabricius, 1801) (Coleoptera: Curculionidae: Molytinae) associated with common hop (Humulus lupulus L.) are described for the first time. Biological observations show that the species develops mainly within the root collar and roots of Humulus lupulus, where larvae feed internally and older instars overwinter. Infested plants are characterized by swollen and weakened roots, often containing multiple larvae. The species should be considered a potential pest of common hop, an economically important crop; however, the current observations indicate that its populations are generally very low, consistent with the status of several related Molytinae and Cleonini taxa, which are predominantly regarded as rare or locally occurring under contemporary agricultural conditions. Nevertheless, changes in agroecosystem management may significantly alter its abundance, as documented in other weevil taxa, where reductions in plant protection measures have led to local pest outbreak. The morphology and diagnostic characters of mature larvae and pupae are documented and compared with related Molytinae and selected Cleonini (Lixinae). The mature larva generally fits the diagnostic characters of Molytinae larvae but differs in several traits, particularly the very short endocranial line and the relative length of frontal setae (fs_1–5), with fs₄ distinctly shorter than fs₅. Full article

The obligate mutualism between Ficus and its pollinating wasps provides a suitable system to investigate these dynamics because it encompasses two contrasting pollination modes: active and passive. Here we compared pollen traits in an actively pollinated fig tree, Ficus citrifolia, and a passively pollinated species, F. obtusiuscula, examining pollen both at anther presentation and after deposition on the bodies of their pollinating wasps. Pollen morphology, hydration-related behavior, cytology, and reserve composition were characterized using scanning electron microscopy (conventional and modified), light and transmission electron microscopy, histochemical assays, and viability tests. Across species, pollen traits at anthesis showed broad overlap in morphology, viability and major reserve classes, indicating that these characteristics are not consistently predicted by pollination mode alone. In both species, pollen was bicellular, harmomegathic and highly viable at presentation, consistent with resilience during transport. The main divergence emerged after pollen transfer to the pollinator. In the actively pollinated species, pollen recovered from wasp thoracic pockets exhibited pronounced intracellular remodeling, including vacuolization, starch depletion, lipid redistribution and localized cytoplasmic degradation. By contrast, pollen of the passively pollinated species retained a comparatively stable cytological organization after transport despite changes in reserve distribution. These results suggest that the more pronounced cytoplasmic reorganization observed in the pollen of the actively pollinated species after deposition on the wasp body may represent a preparatory phase for rapid germination following pollination, reflecting the stronger dependence of larval development on successful flower fertilization in actively pollinated figs. More broadly, our study provides the first comparative account of pollen structural and cytophysiological dynamics on fig-wasp bodies, linking pollen cell biology to pollinator-mediated dispersal and highlighting how different pollination strategies may impose distinct selective pressures on male gametophytes. Full article

Furuncular myiasis is rarely reported in Southeast/Eastern Europe and may be underrecognized or misdiagnosed in non-endemic settings. We described two imported furuncular myiasis cases diagnosed in Romania following travel to Peru and confirmed the etiologic agent by larval morphology and mitochondrial cytochrome c oxidase subunit I (COI) sequencing. We also conducted a narrative review of published case reports/series from Southeast/Eastern Europe (1900–2025) and summarized case characteristics. A previously healthy 31-year-old woman and 32-year-old man presented with painful furuncle-like lesions on the upper back near the shoulder and the posterolateral upper arm, respectively, associated with pruritus and a sensation of movement. Each lesion had a central punctum with intermittent air bubbles. Occlusion of the breathing pore with petroleum jelly facilitated mechanical extraction of one barrel-shaped larva per lesion. Microscopy showed features consistent with second-instar Dermatobia hominis larvae, and COI sequencing demonstrated 97.14–99.33% identity with reference D. hominis sequences. Literature review identified 25 travel-associated cases, with D. hominis involved mostly after travel to Central/South America. These cases highlight the value of travel history and key diagnostic clues for D. hominis myiasis in travelers that may enable timely diagnosis and minimally invasive management. Greater awareness and reporting are needed to better define epidemiology. Full article

Reliable developmental benchmarks are essential for synchronizing incubation and first-feeding decisions in striped bass (Morone saxatilis) hatcheries, yet existing references are incomplete, outdated, or difficult to apply across variable temperature regimes. We developed contemporary embryo and larval developmental staging guides for striped bass using digital imaging and degree day standardization and paired these guides with measurements of early larval mortality and endogenous energy depletion to provide practical context for hatchery management. Larvae were photographed from hatch through metamorphosis to document key morphological transitions, including yolk absorption, mouth formation, swim bladder inflation, fin differentiation, pigmentation, and diet-related developmental milestones. To place these stages in physiological and survival context, aquarium trials showed there was no clear density-dependent mortality across rearing densities of 1.1–6.8 larvae/mL within the first 72 h post-hatch. Yolk reserves were typically depleted by approximately 4–6 days post-hatch (dph), while lipid droplets persisted longer as secondary endogenous energy stores in unfed larvae through 15 dph. Together, these staging guides provide a transferable developmental framework from fertilization to metamorphosis that links external morphology to endogenous reserve depletion and first feeding, thus supporting standardized hatchery monitoring, improved feeding synchronization, and more consistent assessment of embryo and larval quality. Full article

Soldier beetle larvae are characterised by numerous very small setae on their body surface, giving them a velvety appearance and hydrophobic properties, and paired gland openings on the segments of the thorax and abdomen for defensive purposes. Only recently, such a larva has been recognised in Cretaceous amber. Previously, only two specimens from Baltic amber were known from the fossil record. This provides the impression that such larvae are rare. We report 45 new larval specimens from Eocene Baltic amber and Cretaceous Kachin amber (Myanmar), demonstrating that these fossils are, in fact, more common, but simply not reported. We use the expanded dataset (with fossil and extant larvae and adults, more than 300 specimens) to explore the ontogeny of soldier beetles by quantitatively comparing morphological aspects over time. It appears that there is no major loss in the morphology of adults and larvae. On the contrary, certain larvae known in the modern fauna, so-called pre-larvae, seem absent in the fossil record. Due to the pre-larvae, some modern soldier beetles have certain characteristics of hypermetamorphosis. This type of developmental pattern is also characterised by a distinct change in the direction of the developmental trajectory. However, such a change could not be identified in soldier beetles. Full article

Remote sensing advancements have enhanced defoliation monitoring in forests, but distinguishing insect-specific damage from general canopy stress remains challenging due to overlapping spectral signatures. This study addresses this gap by analyzing multispectral reflectance changes in Eucalyptus dunnii caused by Gonipterus sp. n. 2 larval feeding and artificial defoliation (AD). A randomized complete block design with five replicates tested four treatments: No Damage, Medium (100 larvae/tree) and High (200 larvae/tree) larval inoculation, and AD (80% leaf removal). Twenty potted E. dunnii trees were monitored over 16 days using UAV-based multispectral 10-band imagery. Five multispectral flights were conducted during the experiment. The reduction in visible and near-infrared (NIR) reflectance likely reflects structural changes in canopy composition, namely an increased proportion of mature foliage. Both larval feeding and AD treatments decreased reflectance in these spectral regions, probably due to the removal of young leaves and exposure of older, darker leaves. This explanation is inferred from morphological observations; further biochemical measurements would be required to confirm the underlying mechanisms. Larval feeding and AD reduced chlorophyll-related vegetation indices (CVI, NDRE), decreased anthocyanin-related vegetation indices (mARI, ARI), and also caused a drop in relative carotene content (MTVI, CTRI/RE). The effects were strongest in the AD and peaked soon after the treatment, indicating that these pigment effects can mostly and also be attributed to the older leaves becoming more exposed. Statistically significant interactions between date and treatment were found for the pigment-sensitive indices, the Anthocyanin Reflectance Index (ARI) and the Chlorophyll Vegetation Index (CVI). They displayed opposite reflectance trends—CVI increased while ARI decreased—but followed a consistent pattern aligned with insect feeding. EVI values also exhibited a distinguishable pattern that matched this trend. Due to the inherent difficulty of studying insect feeding in natural settings, AD trials may serve as a practical proxy for assessing the impact of pest-induced damage on vegetation reflectance and physiological indices. Full article

Queen bees form the core of honeybee colonies for reproduction, and their quality is the most critical factor affecting their reproductive and productive performance. In apicultural production, queen rearing requires beekeepers to perform manual larval grafting. This is strongly limited by the beekeepers’ eyesight and technical proficiency and has become a bottleneck restricting the development of modern apiculture. To overcome this long-standing technical challenge, we designed beeswax-based tools for queen rearing without grafting larvae for Apis mellifera. The tools consist of three core components: a single-sided hollow beeswax comb foundation, beeswax larval holders and beeswax queen cells with a hole at the bottom. The holders are paired with the hollows of the beeswax comb foundation and the hole of the beeswax queen cells. Following the construction of the comb by honeybees on the hollow foundation, the queen was confined to lay eggs on the single-sided comb. Subsequently, larval holders containing eggs or larvae were pulled out, assembled with beeswax queen cells, embedded in the buckles of queen-rearing frames, and placed into colonies for queen rearing. In order to verify the feasibility of the tools, a paired comparative experiment was conducted using Apis mellifera, with the tools as the treatment group and manual larval grafting as the control group. We evaluated multiple key indicators, including acceptance rate of queen cells, queen cell length at emergence, emergence rate, weight of newly emerged queen, morphological indices (thorax length/width, forewing width, hindwing length, head width), ovariole number and the relative mRNA expression of four queen development-related genes (Vg, Hex110, Hex70b, Jhamt). No significant differences were observed in queen cell acceptance rate and emergence rate between the two groups. However, compared with the control group, queens reared using the tools exhibited significantly greater queen cell length at emergence, higher emergence weight, superior morphological traits, more ovarioles and significantly upregulated expression of all four assayed genes. In conclusion, the tools can be used to rear high-quality Apis mellifera queens effectively with superior phenotypic and molecular traits compared to conventional grafting, which provides efficient and convenient queen-rearing tools for beekeepers. Full article

The yellow peach moth, Conogethes punctiferalis, is a destructive polyphagous pest and poses a severe threat to the fruit industry and field crops worldwide with its continuously increasing population and expanding host range in recent years. Despite the severe damage caused by C. punctiferalis larvae, their antennae and mouthparts, equipped with abundant sensilla responsible for feeding behavior, have not been investigated in detail. In our study, the antennae, mouthparts, and associated sensilla of first-instar and mature larvae of C. punctiferalis were examined with light and scanning electron microscopy. Our results revealed no obvious morphological differences between the two instars in the basic composition of the antennae and mouthparts, or in the types, distribution, and numbers of sensilla. The antenna is three-segmented, with no sensilla on the scape, three sensilla basiconica and two sensilla chaetica on the pedicel, and three sensilla basiconica and one sensillum styloconicum on the flagellum. The mouthparts of C. punctiferalis are typically mandibulate and consist of a labrum-epipharynx, paired mandibles, a pair of maxillae, a labium, and a hypopharynx. Six types of sensilla were primarily concentrated on the labrum-epipharynx, maxilla, and labial palp, including sensilla chaetica, sensilla basiconica, sensilla styloconica, sensilla digitiformia, sensilla epipharyngea, and sensilla placodea. We conducted a systematic analysis of the characteristics of sensilla and discussed their variation in the context of Lepidoptera phylogeny. The potential functions of the sensilla have also been inferred. The study could advance our understanding of the behavioral ecology of C. punctiferalis and provide potentially useful information on the development of pest control technologies. Full article

Effective integrated pest management (IPM) relies on precise knowledge of pest developmental biology, particularly the identification of larval instars, which is fundamental for predicting population dynamics and timing control interventions. This study established a morphometric framework for the larval staging of a sap beetle pest infesting pear orchards. Specimens were collected and reared under laboratory conditions, with their identity confirmed as Urophorus humeralis through integrated morphological and molecular (COI barcoding) analysis. To determine the number of larval instars, head capsule width (HCW), inter-antennal distance (IAD), and inter-caudal distance (ICD) were measured. Frequency distribution analysis and validation using Dyar’s rule via linear regression revealed three distinct larval instars. Head capsule width was identified as the most reliable and consistent morphological character for instar discrimination. This study reports for the first time the infestation of pear fruits by U. humeralis and provides detailed morphometric criteria for larval staging, delivering essential baseline data for the biology of Nitidulidae and a scientific basis for developing stage-specific pest management strategies. Full article

Endoperoxide-containing molecules based on the antimalarial drug artemisinin have demonstrated various biological properties, including modulation of calcium homeostasis. This study evaluated the toxicity and osteogenic activity of five newly developed tetraoxanes (YB1, YB9, YB11, YB17 and T2), alongside three of their non-peroxidic analogues (IC22, IC26 and IC33), in zebrafish (Danio rerio) larvae. For each compound, LC₅₀ values were first determined. Behavioural responses and morphological alterations were studied as indicators of toxicological impact. The osteogenic activity was assessed through the operculum assay, followed by the analysis of gene expression markers related to calcium homeostasis (atp2a1), oxidative stress (sod1, cat), and osteogenesis (sp7, oc2). All the compounds evaluated induced an inhibition of osteogenic activity. T2, YB11, IC33 and IC26 affected the locomotor function by decreasing swimming activity. IC26 and IC33 induced morphological toxicity, characterized by a curved trunk and alterations in larval body curvature. From all the compounds studied, YB1, YB9, YB17 and IC22 showed selective anti-osteogenic activity, without displaying significant behavioural or morphological toxicity. In conclusion, the presence of a peroxide bond in the molecular structure of the compounds increases the anti-osteogenic activity at lower concentrations. All evaluated compounds exhibited anti-osteogenic activity and can be regarded as anti-osteogenic agents. However, YB17 did not induce transcription alterations in the genes analyzed and may thus represent the most promising compound in conditions where a controlled inhibition of bone formation is desirable. Full article

Early survival of marine fish larvae depends on the timely development of feeding and swimming functions. This study examined ontogenetic changes in relative growth patterns of feeding- and locomotion-related body parts in the mottled spinefoot rabbitfish, S. fuscescens. Larvae and early juveniles were reared under controlled conditions, and morphometric measurements were analyzed using log–log segmented regression. Body length increased gradually during the early larval stage and accelerated after approximately 10 days post-hatching. Three developmental phases were identified, with breakpoints at approximately 5 mm, 7–9 mm, and 17–19 mm body length. In the early larval phase (NL < ~5 mm), eye diameter, upper jaw length, snout length, and caudal peduncle depth showed strong positive allometry, indicating rapid acquisition of feeding and swimming functions. This was followed by a mid-larval phase characterized by near-isometric growth and stabilized body proportions. During the late larval to early juvenile phase, body depth and caudal peduncle depth again exhibited positive allometry, reflecting reorganization toward juvenile morphology. These results reveal a stage-specific growth strategy in S. fuscescens and provide a morphological basis for improving larval rearing and feeding practices. Full article

Last instar larva and pupa of Hypera libanotidis Reitter, 1896 (Curculionidae: Hyperini) are described for the first time and compared with 44 other hyperine taxa. Larval morphology generally matches the diagnostic characters of Hyperini but shows distinctive traits, including thorn-like setae on conspicuous black protuberances, relatively long body setae, and dense spiculate coverings in larvae and pupae. Several unusual pupal characters, such as an atypical mesocoxal seta and a peculiar spiracular covering, further distinguish this species. These characters indicate close morphological affinity with species within the subgenus Eririnomorphus and also the genus Metadonus, suggesting a potentially close phylogenetic relationship. Biological observations confirm typical hyperine traits, including ectophytic larval feeding, cryptic coloration, and cocoon construction prior to pupation. Larval coloration, especially in early instars, partly corresponds with the host plant Libanotis pyrenaica. Larvae pupate in mesh-like cocoons on host plant remains, and no larval parasitism was observed. The species is associated with xerothermic loess grasslands, with adults apparently overwintering. Full article

We report new fossil larval specimens that have characters of the group Megaloptera, i.e., are either megalopteran or megalopteran-like larvae from the Triassic, Cretaceous, or Eocene. Fossils from the latter two times are preserved in amber. One of the new fossils reveals that some earlier reported presumed megalopteran-like fossils, that have been already suspected to be beetles, are indeed more likely beetles of the group Myxophaga. A quantitative morphological comparison supports that most fossil megalopteran (and megalopteran-like) larvae did not differ significantly from extant megalopteran larvae, indicating no major losses of morphology over time. However, two newly reported fossil specimens from Kachin amber indeed separate from the other larvae, representing an extinct morphotype. The morphotype is characterised by a prominent terminal filament, indicating that the specimen is a representative of Sialidae. However, unlike most of the known larvae of this group, it possesses a rather elongate prothorax and strongly curved mandibles. These two characters are more commonly known in larvae of Corydalidae. It seems most likely that the presence of these characters in the new morphotype does not represent a plesisomorphy, but is more likely the product of convergent evolution. Full article

Myrciaria tenella (cambuí) is a native Brazilian fruit traditionally recognized for its sensory attributes and medicinal properties, including antidiabetic, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and gastroprotective activities. This study evaluated the antioxidant activity of unripe and ripe M. tenella fruits using in vitro and in vivo experimental models. Four extracts were prepared: aqueous unripe (VA), aqueous ripe (MA), hydroethanolic unripe (VE), and hydroethanolic ripe (ME). Antioxidant activity was assessed through biochemical assays and cellular models using NIH/3T3 fibroblasts and RAW 264.7 macrophages. In RAW 264.7 cells, oxidative stress modulation was investigated using hydrogen peroxide-induced stress and lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-stimulated nitric oxide (NO) production. In NHI/3T3 cells, wound healing, copper sulphate (CuSO₄)-induced oxidative stress, intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation, and nuclear morphology following DAPI staining were evaluated. Total phenolic content was quantified using the Folin–Ciocalteu method and analyzed by HPLC-DAD. In vivo toxicity and antioxidant protection were assessed using Tenebrio molitor larvae exposed to CuSO₄-induced oxidative stress. Among the extracts, VE exhibited the highest metal-chelating activity (Cu: 78.6%; Fe: 37.7%) and total phenolic content (50.64 mg GAE/mg). HPLC-DAD analysis identified gallic acid in all extracts, kaempferol derivatives in hydroethanolic extracts (VE and ME), and catechin derivatives in aqueous extracts (VA and MA). All extracts were non-cytotoxic and demonstrated protective effects against oxidative stress in vitro. In vivo assays confirmed the absence of toxicity and significant antioxidant protection, with VE resulting in 80% larval survival. Full article

Social wasps, including hornets, are increasingly recognized not only as invasive pests but also as farmed insects; however, their gut microbiota and associated diseases remain poorly characterized. In indoor rearing facilities for the hornet Vespa analis in Dehong, Yunnan, China, we observed recurrent larval disease with weakness, larvae falling from the nests, and high mortality. To identify the causative agent and its effects on the gut community, we isolated bacteria from diseased larvae, characterized them by morphology, biochemical tests, and 16S rRNA gene sequencing, and then established an oral infection model. A red-pigmented isolate, designated YR2, was identified as Serratia marcescens. Oral inoculation with YR2 reproduced disease signs and significantly increased larval mortality, and a phenotypically consistent S. marcescens isolate was reisolated from infected larval guts. Amplicon sequencing showed that healthy larvae harbored gut communities dominated by Proteobacteria, whereas infection was associated with reduced diversity and a dysbiotic shift with enrichment of Enterobacterales. Our results support S. marcescens as a strong candidate pathogen associated with larval disease and mortality in Vespa analis under indoor-rearing conditions. Our findings provide a basis for pathogen surveillance and microbiota management in indoor hornet husbandry, and support improved biosecurity and health monitoring practices. Full article