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Orosanga japonica Melichar (Hemiptera: Ricaniidae) is an invasive polyphagous pest in Iran. The planthopper damaged host plants by sap-sucking and egg laying on new twigs. This study aimed to determine the life table parameters of O. japonica on Rubus ulmifolius Schoot (elm leaf blackberry) and Melia azedarach L. (chinaberry) under field conditions in Rudsar (North of Iran) during 2019–2020. The collected life history data were analyzed based on age-stage, two-sex life table theory. The results showed that the incubation period of O. japonica was too long (≈ 270 days) on both host plants. The nymphs emerged from mid-May 2020. The planthopper had five nymphal stages under field conditions. The nymphal duration was 41.39 ± 0.56 days and 38.13 ± 0.62 days on R. ulmifolius and M. azedarach, respectively. The total preadult survival rates were 53.2% and 51.7% on R. ulmifolius and M. azedarach, respectively. Based on the results, a significant shorter total developmental time was observed on M. azedarach. When adults emerged in late July, they laid eggs after 26.05 days and 26.75 days on R. ulmifolius and M. azedarach, respectively. The fecundity on M. azedarach (131.69 egg/female) was significantly higher than that on R. ulmifolius. However, the life table parameters were all not significantly different on the two host plants. The intrinsic rate of increase (r) were 0.0097 ± 0.0005 day−1 and 0.0105 ± 0.0006 day−1 on R. ulmifolius and M. azedarach, respectively. Generally, these findings could be helpful to establish an efficient management strategy for this exotic pest.

The humoral and cellular defenses are crtitical in insects’ immunity. In the present study we focused on individual haemocyt types of mulberry pyralid, Glyphodes pyloalis Walker (Lep.; Pyralidae) and examined them for the first time by light, differential interference contrast, scanning and transmission electron microscopy. Like many lepidopterous insects five types of haemocytes were identified; prohaemocytes, plasmatocytes, granulocytes, oenocytoids and spherulocytes. The small, rounded to ovoid cells with homogenous cytoplasm and large nuclei compared to cytoplasm were designated as prohaemocyts. The plasmatocytes were polymorphic and variable in sizes. The oval to spherical cells, with plenty of rough endoplasmic reticula, mitochondria, and microtubules in the cytoplasm were designated as the granulocytes. The oenocytoids were round or spherical with elongated eccentric nucleus and cytoplasm with small mitochondria and few rough endoplasmic reticula. Total haemocyte counts in different larval instars showed that THC increases as the larval age increase. Differential counts of haemocytes revealed the plasmatocytes and granulocytes as the most abundant haemocyte types in comparison with other types.

Plant essential oils may serve as safe alternatives to detrimental synthetic pesticides due to relatively lower side effects on the environment and non-targeted organisms. The current study was conducted to investigate the ovicidal toxicity and physiological disruptions of six medicinal plant essential oils, including Artemisia annua L., Lavandula angustifolia Mill., Origanum vulgare L., Rosmarinus officinalis Spenn., Satureja hortensis L., and Thymus vulgaris L., on elm leaf beetle Xanthogaleruca luteola (Mull.). The LC50 (Lethal Concentration to kill 50% of tested insects) values of 122.8, 287.5, 152.8, 180.6, 315.9, and 1366.2 ppm were recorded for T. vulgaris, L. angustifolia, A. annua, S. hortensis, R. officinalis, and O. vulgare, respectively, 72 h after treatment of 3-day-old eggs of the pest. Significant decreases in the amounts of glucose, protein, and triglyceride macromolecules were also observed after treatment. The application of essential oils derived from T. vulgaris, A. annua, and S. hortensis at 400 ppm revealed 100% ovicidal activity. Accordingly, tested essential oils, particularly the essential oil of T. vulgaris, have been promising potential as biorational insecticides in the management of X. luteola.

Development and demography of Adalia decempunctata L. were studied under laboratory conditions at seven constant temperatures (12, 16, 20, 24, 28, 32 and 36°C). First instar larvae failed to develop to second instar at 12°С and no development occurred at 36°C. The total developmental time varied from 47.92 days at 16°C to 15.94 days at 28°C and increased at 32°C. The lower temperature thresholds of 11.05 and 9.90°C, and thermal constants of 290.84 day-degree and 326.34 day-degree were estimated by traditional and Ikemoto- Takai linear models, respectively. The lower temperature threshold (Tmin) values estimated by Analytis, Briere-1, Briere-2 and Lactin-2 for total immature stages were 11.99, 12.24, 10.30 and 10.8°C, respectively. The estimated fastest developmental temperatures (Tfast) by the Analytis, Briere-1, Briere-2 and Lactin-2 for overall immature stages development of A. decempunctata were 31.5, 31.1, 30.7 and 31.7°C, respectively. Analytis, Briere-1, Briere-2 and Lactin-2 measured the upper temperature threshold (Tmax) at 33.14, 36.65, 32.75 and 32.61°C. The age-stage specific survival rate (sxj) curves clearly depicted the highest and lowest survival rates at 16 and 32°C for males and females. The age-specific fecundity (mx) curves revealed higher fecundity rate when fed A. gossypii at 24 and 28°C. The highest and lowest values of intrinsic rate of increase (r) were observed at 28 and 16°C (0.1945 d–1 and 0.0592 d–1, respectively). Also, the trend of changes in the finite rate of increase (λ) was analogous with intrinsic rate of increase. The longest and shortest mean generation time (T) was observed at 16 and 28°C, respectively and the highest net reproductive rates (R0) was estimated at 24 and 28°C. According to the results, the most suitable temperature seems to be 28°C due to the shortest developmental time, highest survival rate, and highest intrinsic rate of increase.

Helicoverpa armigera (Hubner) (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae), is one of the most important pests of various agricultural crops with global distribution. Influence of four concentrations of gibberellic acid (GA3) (100, 200, 400, 800 mg/kg diet) on life table parameters of H. armigera was studied at 26 ± 1 °C, 65 ± 5% RH and a photoperiod of 16 L: 8 D h. Data were analyzed based on the age-stage, two-sex life table theory. The results demonstrated significant differences among various treatments on the development time of different stages and fecundity of H. armigera. The highest mean development time of fifth and sixth instars was observed at 800 mg GA3/kg diet but was not significantly different with either control, 100 or 200 mg GA3/kg diet. According to the results obtained, life table parameters were affected by GA3. The lowest finite and intrinsic rates of increase of H. armigera were observed with 800 mg GA3/kg diet. The net reproductive rate of H. armigera on five treated diets varied from 486.21 ± 98.22 to 1269.02 ± 218.97 offspring, being lowest at 800 mg GA3/kg diet treated diet and highest in control. Different concentrations of GA3 significantly influenced mean generation time, the longest at 800 mg GA3/kg diet (49.71 ± 0.31 days) and the shortest in control (43.80 ± 0.25 days). The data obtained in this study indicate that GA3 treatment has notable effects on the development, reproduction, and survival of H. armigera particularly at higher concentrations tested.

The overuse of synthetic pesticides in plant protection strategies has resulted in numerous side effects, including environmental contamination, food staff residues, and a threat to non-target organisms. Several studies have been performed to assess the pesticidal effects of plant-derived essential oils and their components, as partially safe and effective agents, on economically important pests. The essential oils isolated from Satureja species are being used in medicinal, cosmetic, and food industries. Their great potential in pest management is promising, which is related to high amounts of terpenes presented in this genus. This review is focused on the acute and chronic acaricidal, insecticidal, and nematicidal effects of Satureja essential oil and their main components. The effects of eighteen Satureja species are documented, considering lethality, repellency, developmental inhibitory, and adverse effects on the feeding, life cycle, oviposition, and egg hatching. Further, the biochemical impairment, including impairments in esterases, acetylcholinesterase, and cytochrome P450 monooxygenases functions, are also considered. Finally, encapsulation and emulsification methods, based on controlled-release techniques, are suggested to overcome the low persistence and water solubility restrictions of these biopesticides. The present review offers Satureja essential oils and their major components as valuable alternatives to synthetic pesticides in the future of pest management.

Helicoverpa armigera Nucleopolyhedrovirus (HearNPV) (genus: Alphabaculovirus, incertae sedis: Baculoviridae) has been used to control Helicoverpa armigera (Hübner). A reproducible and susceptible cell line was prepared from the hemocytes of Ephestia kuehniella in Grace and Ex-Cell 420 media. The population doubling time of these cloned cell cultures during the logarithmic phase were about 2.3 and 3.7 d for Ex-Cell 420 and Grace’s media, respectively. When 60% confluence occurred, cells were infected by viral inoculums. All biochemical compounds were significantly changed relevant to cellular metabolism due to HearNPV infection. In order to improve its stability, two polymer formulations were used, i.e., formulation A (sodium alginate, gelatin, starch, and molasses) and formulation B (cottonseed kernel extract, Bran, glycerol, boric acid, egg white, and sugar). Formulant A provided high photostability by exhibiting 83.2 ± 3% efficacy and 88.66 ± 2.1% original activities remaining after 72 h UV exposure. Percentage original activity remaining of unformulated HearNPV and formulated mixture of B was 38.66 ± 2.6% and 9.33 ± 1.3%, respectively, after 72 h UV-irradiation. The virulence of the HearNPV proliferated from the Ex-Cell medium was similar to the virulence of wild-type HearNPV with LC50 of 7.7×105 OBs/ml. Formulant A, revealed only 20.0 ± 1% reduction in efficacy while the unformulated virus and formulant B faced a reduction of 90.0 ± 3% and 64.0 ± 2% after 72 h of UVA irradiation. Formulant A thus showed a high potential to protect HearNPVs microparticles against UV-inactivation suggesting a new platform for more efficient biological-management of cotton bollworm (specific name Helicoverpa armigera, genus: Helicoverpa, Lepidoptera: Noctuidae) in vivo.

The effects of Ajwain essential oil and its major constituents were investigated against newly fourth instar larvae of Tuta absoluta, a major pest of tomato cropping in Iran and other parts of the world. The study included individual efficacy of each compound and determination of their synergistic or antagonistic efficacy. We also determined the activities of detoxifying enzymes in treated insects. According to the results, the Ajwain essential oil and thymol showed the highest toxicity against T. absoluta larvae (LC50 = 6.14 and 7.72 μL/mL, respectively, and LC30 = 3.05 and 3.57 μL/mL, respectively). The ɤ-terpinene and p-cymene had lesser toxicity compared to other compounds. The larvicidal potency increased by binary mixtures of active constituents, such as thymol + p-cymene and thymol + ɤ-terpinene. On the other hand, ɤ-terpinene + p-cymene mixture demonstrated antagonistic effect on the larvae. The esterases and glutathione S-transferases were significantly increased in all treatments. Finally, our results revealed a significant inhibition of AChE activity in the treated larvae by all treatments except for ɤ-terpinene + p-cymene. In vitro experiments representing AChE inhibition with IC50 values were recorded 0.370, 0.457, 0.528, 1.094 and 1.323 μL/mL for thymol + p-cymene, thymol + ɤ-terpinene, thymol, ɤ-terpinene and p-cymene, respectively. Thymol demonstrated significant potential as a controlling agent of T. absoluta larvae, both larvicidal, compatible with other compounds with strong AChE inhibition properties. These finding could pave the way for development of new botanicals based on EO constituents which should be completed with preparation of an efficient formulation and field trials.

Botanical extracts are an important source of bio-pesticides and are generally considered safe to the environment. Artemisia annua L, a medicinal plant, well known for its antimalarial potential, was evaluated as a source of a type of essential oil collected during vegetative growth stage against Glyphodes pyloalis Walker. The main chemical components of the essential oil at vegetative stage of Artemisia annua was analyzed by GC- MS and contained 1,8-cineole (18.68%), Camphor (11.4%), α-Pinene (9.3%) and 3-Carene (6.3%). The LC50 of this plant oil was estimated to be 0.652% W/V and 2.585 μL/L air incorporated orally and fumigation, respectively. The digestive enzymes such as α-amylases, Proteases, Lipases and α- and β-glucosidases were considereably inhibited in treated larvae compared with controls. Similarly, the amount of protein, glucose, and triglyceride were decreased in the treated larvae by methods used. The lower hemocyte numbers, nodule formation and activity of phenoloxidases after injection of Beauveria bassiana and latex beads showed its EO effect on immunity. The anatomy of the larval midgut after treatment showed degeneration in digestive cells. Emerging adult's ovaries showed significant changes in the ovarian sheath and lack of yolk spheres. The present investigation in accordance with our previous studies may ultimately lead to a formulation in controlling this notorious pest especially in mulberry orchards where the use of conventional chemicals is restricted.

The Glyphodes pyloalis Walker, is considered as the most destructive insect pest of mulberry. The current study incorporated Artemisia annua essential oils loaded mesoporous materials including pure silica MCM-41 and clinoptilolite zeolite. The procedure prolonged the stability and fumigant toxicity compared to crude essential oil by 23 days. A nanoemulsion of A. annua essential oil with tween 80 and water via ultrasonication showed moderate larvicidal activity. The estimated LC50 values of 0.380% and 0.511% W/V in oral toxicity and 3.043 and 4.034 μL/L air in fumigant toxicity were recorded. The fumigant toxicity constancy of this formulation from essential oil was observed for up to 20 days. The current results are indicative of valuable potential of A. annua essentials oil in controlling the lesser mulberry pyralid based on environmentally friendly points.

Elm leaf beetle, Xanthogaleruca luteola Müller (Col.: Chrysomelidae) a pest of ornamental elms. Thyme, Thymus vulgaris (Lamiaceae) is an important medicinal. In this study, effect of Thymus vulgaris L. essential oil was tested on X. luteola in laboratory. The LC 30 and LC 50 values were estimated by leaf dipping method to third instar larvae (LC30 =2.065 and LC50 =4.237% W/V). The feeding efficiency was significantly reduced in treated larvae except the approximate digestibility (94.82 in control and 98.23 in treatment). The treated larvae showed a significant reduction key biochemicals. Reduced glucose and uric acid but increased protein level was seen. Severe reduction in ovarian texture both morphologically and histologically was observed which depicts a prolonged effect of the used EO on survivors. We believe that the thyme EO has the potential to be formulated for smaller scale trial to meet the needs of an environmental friendly compound.

The effect of monoterpenoid 1,8-cineol on the toxicity and physiology of elm leaf beetle, Xanthogaleruca luteola Müller under laboratory conditions (26 ± 1°C, 65 ± 10% RH and 16L : 8D h) was investigated. Initially, LC30 and LC50 values of the constituent were estimated to be 23.5 ppm and 31.9 ppm for the last instar larvae after 48 h, respectively. Significant changes were observed in the values of relative growth rate (RGR), efficiency of conversion of ingested food (ECI), efficiency of conversion of digested food (ECD), approximate digestibility (AD) and consumption index (CI) between control and treated larvae with 1,8-cineol. The amounts of protein, glucose and urea decreased in the treated larvae in comparison with control. Similar findings were observed in the activities of alkaline phosphatase and lactate dehydrogenase while the activities of glutathione S-transferase and esterase significantly increased in the treated larvae using CDNB and α-naphtyl acetates as the substrates. Morphological and histological changes brought about by 1,8-cineol in the present study are indicative of growth inhibition targeting specific organs such as those of reproduction. We believe that 1,8-cineol can be considered as a safe and environmentally friendly compound.

Plant lectins could reduce insect populations by imposing imbalances in biology and physiology. Here, an agglutinin was extracted from Polygonum persicaria L. (PPA; Polygonales: Polygonaceae) and its effects were investigated on life table parameters and antioxidant system of Helicoverpa armigera Hübner (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae). PPA significantly changed demographic parameters showing adverse effects on age-stage survival rate (Sxj), age-specific survival rate (lx), age-specific fecundity rate (mx), age stage specific fecundity (fxj), and life expectancy (exj). Also, life table parameters including net reproduction rate (R0) (Offspring/female), intrinsic rate of population increase (rm) (days-1), finite rate of increase (λ) (days-1), gross reproduction rate (GRR) (Offspring/female) significantly decreased in the PPA-treated H. armigera compared to control except for mean generation time (T) (days). Activities of antioxidant enzymes including superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CA), peroxidase (POX), glutathione S-transferase (GST) and glucose 6-phosphate dehydrogenase (GPDH) increased statistically in the PPA-treated larvae compared to control while no significant difference was observed in the activity of ascorbate peroxidase (APOX) activity. Moreover, ratio of RSSR/RSH and concentration of malondialdehyde (MDA) were found to be statistically higher in PPA-treated larvae than control. The current results clearly showed that PPA not only had a negative impact on demography of H. armigera but also induced antioxidant raise by releasing free radicals. These released radicals, together with impaired digestion and absorption observed in our previous report, could be considered as a reason for reducing biological fitness of H. armigera.

A lectin extracted from Polygonom persicaria (PPA) was mixed with the artificial diet provided to the larvae of Helicoverpa armigera at various concentrations. Although the PPA significantly prolonged larval duration but, decreased pupal weight and larval survival. Nutritional indices such as approximate digestibility, efficiency of conversion of digested food and efficiency of conversion of ingested food were significantly decreased in the PPA-fed larvae. Activities of digestive enzymes in the PPA-fed larvae, such as α-amylase, α-glucosidase, lipase, trypsin, elastase and exopeptidases, were significantly lower than control except for β-glucosidase and chymotrypsin. PPA-fed larvae showed lower amounts of total protein and glycogen compared to control.

The bacterial flora of flour moth and their role in the physiology of Ephestia kuehniella (Zeller) (Lepidoptera: Pyralidae) were investigated. The gut flora of E. kuehniella was isolated on Luria Bertani Agar (LBA), followed by incubation at 28 °C respectively for 48–72 h. The isolates were identified using 16S rRNA sequencing. Altogether five bacterial species of different genera were identified as Bacillus infantis, Streptomyces cacaoi, Janibacter sp., Stenotrophomonas sp. and Acinetobacter sp. The fourth instar larvae reared on artificial diet without any antibiotic showed higher efficiency of conversion of digested food (ECD) and efficiency of conversion of ingested food (ECI) (16.068 ± 0.568% and 14.455 ± 0.448%), respectively. Approximate digestibility (AD) and Consumption index (CI) of the fourth instars larvae were higher on artificial diets containing tetracycline. The higher activity of alpha-amylase and general proteases were observed in the midgut of larvae reared on artificial diet containing antibiotic chloramphenicol. Total protein and lipid value were higher respectively in larvae that were reared on artificial diet containing streptomycin sulfate and artificial diet containing tetracycline. It seems that antibiotics had no significant effect on enzymatic activities of E. kuehniella. The larvae performed well in tetracycline treatment as per larval developmental duration compared with other treatments. Therefore, the gut bacteria do not seem to play a crucial role in the survival and development of the E. kuehniella. However, the question of adaptation of this pest species to hosts rich in protease inhibitors, such as flour has to be examined and ascertained.

Toxicity and physiological effects of the two components within garlic essential oil, diallyl sulfide, and diallyl disulfide, were studied against the larvae of Tuta absoluta. The larvae treated by dially sulfide showed the LC50 of 0.518% while it was observed 0.390% in those treated by diallyl disulfide. The LT50 values of diallyl sulfide and diallyl disulfide were calculated 9.65 and 7.18 h, respectively. The binary mixture of the given compounds in the different ratios revealed the higher expected mortality than the observed one implying antagonistic interaction against the larvae of T. absoluta. Diallyl sulfide and diallyl disulfide in both LC30 and LC50 concentrations significantly decreased the activities of larval α-amylase, glucosidases, and lipase. The LC50 concentration of diallyl sulfide caused the lower activity of general protease than LC30 concentration but the least activity of general protease was recorded in the larvae treated by both concentrations of diallyl disulfide. Treatment of T. absoluta larvae by both concentrations of dially sulfide and diallyl disulfide significantly decreased the activities trypsin, chymotrypsin, and elastase as well as amino- and carboxypeptidases compared to control. The larval treatment with two concentrations of diallyl sulfide and diallyl disulfide significantly decreased the activity of acetylcholine esterase compared to control in both in vivo and in vitro assays. Diallyl sulfide and diallyl disulfide significantly decreased the activity of alanine aminotransferase compared to control while the highest activity of aspartate aminotransferase was recorded in the larvae treated by LC50 concentration of diallyl disulfide. Dially sulfide and diallyl disulfide significantly decreased the amounts of triglyceride, glycogen, and protein as storage macromolecules compared to control.

Neuropeptides synthesized by insect neurosecretory cells are engaged in several physiological process like immunity, feeding and reproduction so they deserve to be undertaken in subsequent experiments for discovery and manipulation regarding applied objectives. Due to importance of insect ability to utilize plant tissues, the present study was conducted to extract brain peptides in the fifth instar larvae of Pieris brassicae via High performance liquid chromatography and to identify their role in induction of digestive enzyme syntheses. Five peaks were determined and named as fractions 1, 2, 3, 4 and 5. The midguts of starved fifth larval instars were treated by each fraction of brain extract in vitro. The highest activities of α-amylase and lipase were found in the midgut treated by fractions 4 and 1, respectively while the fraction number 5 imposed the highest activities of glucosidases. Fraction 2 led to the highest activities of trypsin, chymotrypsin and elastase as the given serine proteinases as well as the two exopeptidases namely amino- and carboxypeptidases. Moreover, midgut treatments by different concentrations of TLCK (N-p-Tosyl-l-lysine methyl ester hydrochloride), TPCK (Tosyl phenylalanyl chloromethyl ketone), AEBSF (4-(2-Aminoethyl) benzenesulfonyl fluoride hydrochloride) and Acarbose significantly decreased the activities of α-amylase, trypsin, chymotrypsin and elastase by the calculated IC50 values of 0.287, 0.439, 0.288 and 0.361 mM, respectively. The findings demonstrated that different neuropeptides would be engaged in enzymatic release of P. brassicae hence, manipulation of peptide receptors can change physiological process of insects and opens a selective strategy to pest control.

Hyphantria cunea (Drury) has colonized many countries outside its native range of North America and has become a model species for studies of the colonization and subsequent adaptation of agricultural pests. Molecular genetic analyses can clarify the origin and subsequent adaptations to non-native habitats. Using the mitochondrial COI gene, we examined the genetic relationships between invasive populations (China, Iran, Japan, and Korea) and native populations (i.e., the United States). The Jilin (China) and Guilan (Iran) populations showed nine previously unknown haplotypes that differed from those found in the south–central United States, suggesting multiple colonization events and different regions of invasion. A dominant mtDNA haplotype in populations in the United States was shared by all of the populations investigated, suggesting that H. cunea with that haplotype have successfully colonized China, Iran, Japan, and Korea.

There is a rapid growth in the screening of plant materials for finding new bio-pesticides. In the present study, the essential oils of E. oleosa and E. torquata leaves were extracted using a Clevenger apparatus and their chemical profiles were investigated by Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry (GC-MS). Among identified compounds, the terpenes had highest amount for both essential oils; 93.59% for E. oleosa and 97.69% for E. torquata. 1,8-Cineole (31.96%), α-pinene (15.25%) and trans-anethole (7.32%) in the essential oil of E. oleosa and 1,8-cineole (28.57%), α-pinene (15.74%) and globulol (13.11%) in the E. torquata essential oil were identified as the main components. The acaricidal activity of the essential oils of E. oleosa and E. torquata were examined using fumigation methods against the adult females of Tetranychus urticae Koch. The essential oils have potential acaricidal effects on T. urticae. The essential oil of E. oleosa with LC50 value of 2.42 µL/L air was stronger than E. torquata. A correlation between log concentration and mite mortality has been observed. Based on the results of present study, it can be stated that the essential oils of E. oleosa and E. torquata have a worthy potential in the management of T. urticae.

This study attempted to identify a suitable host plant for rearing hybrid 31*32 silkworms. Four varieties of mulberry leaves including Ichinose, Kenmochi, Kines, and local were supplied to hybrid 31*32 of silkworm and their performance was assessed. Variables measured included nutrition, biochemistry, and economic parameters of silkworm. Number of cocoons, individual and total cocoon weight, cocoon shell weight, and cocoon yield/10,000 per larvae were significantly greater on the Kines variety compared with the others. Similarly, nutritional indices including efficiency of conversion of ingested food (ECI), efficiency of conversion of digested food (ECD), relative growth rate (RGR), and consumption index (CI) were greater for the larvae fed on Kines. Digestive and antioxidant enzyme activity of the larvae differed with variety. Our results suggest that Kines could be considered as an appropriate host plant for rearing of silkworms based on the study parameters.

In the present study, the toxicity and physiological disorders of the essential oil isolated from Artemisia annua flowers were assessed against one of the main insect pests of mulberry, Glyphodes pyloalis Walker, announcing one of the safe and effective alternatives to synthetic pesticides. The LC50 (lethal concentration to kill 50% of tested insects) values of the oral and fumigant bioassays of A. annua essential oil were 1.204 % W/V and 3.343 μL/L air, respectively. The A. annua essential oil, rich in camphor, artemisia ketone, β-selinene, pinocarvone, 1,8-cineole, and α-pinene, caused a significant reduction in digestive and detoxifying enzyme activity of G. pyloalis larvae. The contents of protein, glucose, and triglyceride were also reduced in the treated larvae by oral and fumigant treatments. The immune system in treated larvae was weakened after both oral and fumigation applications compared to the control groups. Histological studies on the midgut and ovaries showed that A. annua essential oil caused an obvious change in the distribution of the principal cells of tissues and reduction in yolk spheres in oocytes. Therefore, it is suggested that the essential oil from A. annua flowers, with wide-range bio-effects on G. pyloalis, be used as an available, safe, effective insecticide in the protection of mulberry.

The larvae of Ectomyelois ceratoniae Zeller were reared on the artificial diets containing 2% of Citrullus colocynthis L. (Cucurbitaceae) lectin and control to find any changes in gene expression of caspases. Specific primers were designed to amplify genes of six found caspases including Caspase 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 and 6. RNA of both treatments were extracted and cDNA molecules were synthesized prior to gene expression. Results of quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction revealed that expression of all caspases in the fed larvae by 2% of lectin increased in comparison with control except for caspase 1 as 2.99, 5.7, 17.13, 23.18, 10.44-fold. These results are consistent with our previous studies on the lower activities of digestive enzymes that are due to death of midgut cells followed by binding of lectin molecule.

In this study larvae of Helicoverpa armigera (Hubner) were reared on artificial diet in controlled room. Extract of Artemisia annua L. a medicinal plant was incorporated into diet in various concentrations (i.e. 12, 14, 16, 18, 20 and 22 g/g of artificial diet). The LC10, LC30 and LC50 values after 48 h treatment were estimated to be 12.4, 16.12 and 19.32 g/g of diet, respectively. The major constituents of the extract of A. annua were determined by GC-Mass. The results of present study confirm the earlier findings on this plant species as a potential medicinal plant in the possible control of several insect pests of crops.

Cicada orni Linnaeus, 1758 is an abundant and common cicada across Europe, North Africa, and western Asia including Iran. The male cicada produces a loud calling song for attraction of females from a long distance. The calling songs are known often to be species-specific and to function in part for species recognition. The present study compares variations in calling song of C. orni in Iran with those reported from other areas and also signifies the importance of calling song in species identification. C. orni were collected in Mazandaran, Iran during summer 2010. Four features were used: echeme duration, echeme period, interecheme interval, number of echeme/s and dominant frequency. Findings of present study showed some resemblance in time and frequency domains in the calling song among the populations of C. orni from Iran and those investigated in Greece, Iberian Peninsula and Turkey. The parameters of calling song showed maximal resemblance with species of Kosmas (Greece). The present results do not support C. orni from Iran as an independent subspecies. Thus, it is concluded that every feature of calling song can be effective in species recognition as is the case for several other parameters.

Effects of two purified agglutinins from Rhizoctonia solani Kuhen (Rhizoctonia solani agglutinin) were determined on larval intermediary metabolism of Pieris brassicae L. Two concentrations of Rhizoctonia solani agglutinin (RSA; 1 and 2 mg ml−1) significantly decreased activities of both alanine and aspartate aminotransferases, but no significant activity was observed on γ-glutamyl transferase. However, activity of aldolase decreased in the treated larvae by both concentrations of RSAs, but lactate dehydrogenase showed the highest activity when the larvae fed on 2 mg ml−1 of RSAs. Activities of acid- and alkaline phosphatases significantly decreased followed by feeding on the diets containing RSAs. Similar results were observed in the amounts of high-density lipoprotein and low-density lipoprotein. The amounts of protein and triacylglycerol significantly decreased in the treated larvae, while glycogen significantly increased in the larvae fed on RSAs-containing diets. Gene expression analyses of glycerol-3-phosphate in the control and treated larvae revealed significant expression in the larvae fed on RSAI in comparison with other treatments. These results demonstrated intervening effects of RSAs on intermediary metabolism of P. brassicae larvae, further confirming their entomotoxic effects.

Lectins are widespread proteins found in plants, fungi, bacteria, and vertebrates, and they play the critical roles in many physiological functions. Two lectin molecules (namely, RSAI and RSAII) were extracted from Rhizoctonia solani Kuhn and their effects on Pieris brassicae L. larvae were determined by larval survival rate, body mass, nutritional indices, digestive enzyme activities, and caspase-3 gene expression. The highest mortality caused by RSA treatment was recorded up to 80%, the larval weight decreased to 0.05 g and Similarly, RSAs significantly decreased nutritional indices including conversion efficiency of ingested food (ECI), conversion efficiency of digested food (ECD), approximate digestibility (AD), relative consumption rate (RCR), and relative growth rate (RGR) in a dose-dependent manner. Activities of α-amylase and α- and β-glucosidases significantly decreased in the larvae fed with RSA-treated diets. Also, activities of TAG-lipase and proteases significantly reduced after feeding with different concentrations of RSAs. Gene expression analysis of caspase-3 in control and treated larvae revealed significant increment of its expression in the larvae fed with RSAI and RSAII, respectively, 9.52- and 1.47-fold compared to control. These results clearly demonstrated insecticidal effects of R. solani lectins on P. brassicae via several physiological pathways, thus rendering RSA as a good target for furthering our knowledge and suggesting new strategies to overcome pesticide side effects.

Chemical composition of Achillea mellifolium essential oil was investigated by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry and its acaricidal activity was estimated using leaf dipping and fumigation bioassays against Tetranychus urticae. Terpenic compounds, such as piperitone (12.79%), ρ-cymene (10.60%), bornyl acetate (8.58%) and p-menth-2-en-1-ol (8.35%) were identified as main components. The essential oil has potential toxicity on T. urticae and a correlation between log concentration and mite mortality in both bioassays has been achieved. The findings indicated that the essential oil of A. mellifolium as a well-known medicinal plant may be useful in the search of effective natural material as Acaricide.

There is no study implying the effect of plant lectins on insect immune elements in both challenged and non-challenged conditions with entomopathogenic agents. Lectins may bind to immune receptors on the surface of insect hemocytes, thus inducing or even disabling common immune functions including hemocyte counts, nodulation/encapsulation, phenoloxidase activity, and synthesis of antimicrobial peptides. In the present study, effect of Polygonum persicaria L. agglutinin (PPA) on immune responses of Helicoverpa armigera Hubner was investigated by feeding artificial diet treated to the larvae. Subsequently hemocyte count and expression of some immune-related genes were considered for analyses. The two groups of larvae including control and PPA-treated (1%) were divided into four subgroups of intact, Tween-80 injected, latex-bead injected and Beauveria bassiana-injected. Except for intact larvae, the highest numbers of total and differential hemocyte counts were recorded 12 hr postinjection, however, the PPA-fed larvae showed a significantly lower hemocyte counts compared to control. The number of nodules in PPA-fed larvae was significantly lower than control, but the injected larvae of both control and PPA showed the highest nodulation 24 hr postinjection. Although the highest activity of phenoloxidase was observed 12 and 24 hr postinjection but its activity significantly decreased in PPA-fed larvae compared to control. Gene expression of antimicrobial peptides including attacin, cecropin, and peptidoglycan receptor proteins were significantly decreased in artificial diet-fed larvae containing PPA and then injected by B. bassiana spores and latex bead compared to control. These results clearly indicate adverse effects of PPA on immune responses in H. armigera.

The green oak leaf roller, Tortrix viridana L., is one of the most destructive pests, causing damages to various species of oak, feeding on different host plants including Quercus infectoria Oliv, Q. branti Lindl, and Q. libani Oliv. Nutritional indices, activity of enzymatic and non-enzymatic compounds of T. viridana were studied under laboratory conditions. In addition, chemical components were analysed in the leaves of the three host plants. Fourth instar larvae reared on Q. branti showed the highest values of relative consumption rate (RCR), approximate digestibility, and consumption index (48.73±6.22; 90.45±1.06 and 97.45±12.44 respectively), while the lowest values were observed on Q. libani. Efficiency of conversion of ingested food in the fourth instar larvae was the highest (3.17±0.661) on Q. libani and the lowest (1.53±0.164) on Q. branti. The fifth instar larvae fed on Q. libani had the highest RCR (15.64±2.51). The highest amounts of triglycerides, uric acid, glucose, protein and the lowest activity of alkaline phosphatase were observed in the fifth instar larvae reared on Q. libani. The leaves of Q. libani highlighted the highest amounts of total nitrogen, total protein, water, potassium, magnesium and total carbohydrate. The present research suggested that the nutritional quality of the host plants have crucial effects on T. viridana larvae.

The essential oil of Artemisia annua L., a weed collected from northern Iran, was studied for its toxicity and physiological aspects on 4th instar larva of the cotton bollworm Helicoverpa armigera Hübner in controlled conditions (26±1°C, 65±10% RH and 16 L : : 8 D h). The artificial diet was used as a medium for investigating the toxicity and the effect of LC10, LC30, LC50, and LC90on the feeding efficiency of 4th instar larva. The essential oil in doses of LC10, LC30, LC50, and LC90were estimated to be 2.01%, 3.86%, 6.07%, and 18.34%, respectively. The activity of α-amylase, protease, lipase, general esterases, and glutathione S-transferase and protein, triglyceride, glucose for treated larva were measured. The results showed that all of these parameters were decreased compared with the control. Hence, A. annua essential oil is suggested as a botanical for controlling this important pest of field crops.

A Castanea crenata agglutinin (abbreviated as CCA) was extracted and purified from bitter apple, Citrullus colocynthis L., to determine its effects on the demographic parameters of Apomyelois ceratoniae Zeller. Two groups of first larval instars were reared on an artificial diet containing 2% (w/w) of CCA and control diets until emergence of adults. Two Sex MS-chart life table software was used to analyze data and calculate life table parameters. Developmental times of larvae in control and CCA diets showed statistical differences for male, female except for third and fourth larval instars. It was found that A. ceratoniae larvae fed on control had a survival of 18 days but individuals fed on CCA diet survived for 12 days. The highest fecundity values of individuals fed on control and CCA diets were obtained at the age of 30 and 27 days, respectively. Adult longevity, pre-oviposition period, oviposition period and mean fecundity of A. ceratoniae fed on control were higher than those of individuals fed on CCA diet. The probabilities of a newborn egg surviving to age 28 days were 0.42 and 0.3 for control and CCA, respectively. Each female started egg laying on day 22 for control and 25 for CCA. Life expectancies of a newly laid egg were 29 days for control and 26 days for CCA treatment. Life table parameters except for mean generation time showed statistical differences between control and CCA treatments. These results demonstrated the negative effects of CCA on life table parameters of A. ceratoniae that might lead to a promising and alternative way to suppress population increase and damage caused by A. ceratoniae.

Efficient control of Chilo suppressalis Walker is always controversial due to highly economic damage, resistance to insecticides and environmental pollutions. So, combination of safe pest controls e.g. biocontrol agents and insect growth regulators seems to be promising via integrated pest management program. Bioassay of hexaflumuron on 4th larval instars revealed concentrations of 44.34, 179.74 and 474.94µg/ml as LC10-50 values. Numbers of total hemocytes, plasmatocytes and granulocytes as well as phenoloxidase activity increased in the different time intervals following treatment by hexaflumuron. Combined effects of hexaflumuron and Beauveria bassiana Vuillemin also increased hemocyte numbers and phenoloxidase activity at different time intervals using all concentrations. Activities of general esterases assayed by α- and β-naphtyl acetate and glutathione S-transferase using CDNB and DCNB increased 1-12h post-treatment. Activities of aspartate aminotransferase, alanine aminotransferase, γ-glutamyl transferase and aldolase increased in the larvae treated by hexaflumuron. However enhanced activity of lactate dehydrogenase was only obtained by treating 180 and 470µg/ml concentrations of hexaflumuron. Activities of ACP and ALP were found to be higher than control for all time intervals even 1-12h post-treatment. The amounts of HDL and LDL increased in the highest concentrations of hexaflumuron after 12-24h of post-treatment. Amount of triglyceride was higher than that of control after 1 and 3h but it was lower in other time intervals. Amounts of glycogen and protein were lower than those of control for all time intervals except for 6 and 12h of post-treatment in case of protein. Results of the current study revealed negative effects of hexaflumuron on intermediary metabolism of Chilo suppressalis but it increased the number of hemocytes and activity of phenoloxidase which are responsible for spore removal from hemolymph. It can be concluded that hexaflumuron is able to decrease survival and biological performance of C. suppressalis via intervening in intermediary metabolism but the given results showed incompatibility of the IGR with possible microbial control.

The effects of pyriproxyfen were determined on the cellular immunity and phenoloxidase activity in the 4th instar larvae of Chilo suppressalis Walker. The bioassay results revealed the effective concentrations of: 10L : 18C, 30L : 72C and 50L : 190C μg · ml−1. The sole effect of 18 and 72 μg · ml−1 concentrations at intervals of 1–3 h caused a higher number of total hemocytes in the treated larvae than the control, but the reverse results were observed after 6–24 h. The number of plasmatocytes was lower than that of the control for intervals of 3–24 h but the number of granulocytes was higher than the control after 1–3 h although no significant differences were observed at the other times. In the treated larvae, the activities of phenoloxidase were higher and lower than those of the control after 1–3 h and 6–24 h, respectively. The combined effects of pyriproxyfen and the entomopathogenic fungus, Beauveria bassiana isolate B3 caused higher numbers of total hemocytes, plasmatocytes, and granulocytes in the treated larvae by use of the three concentrations of pyriproxyfen, at intervals of 6 and 12 h. Although the numbers of nodules in the larvae treated with concentrations of 18 μg · ml−1 were higher than those of other treatments, the overall numbers were lower than those of the control. Finally, the activity of phenoloxidase in the treated larvae was higher than that of the control, at intervals of 6 and 12 h post-treatment. Findings of the current study indicate an intervening role of pyriproxyfen in the cellular immunity of C. suppressalis to entomopathogenic objects.

Lesser mulberry pyralid, Glyphodes pyloalis Walker, is a monophagous pest of mulberry and has recently been reported from northern Iran. The effect of four varieties of mulberry Morus alba L. (Ichinose, Shin Ichinose, Kenmochi and Mahalii) on the life table parameters and biological characteristics of G. pyloalis Walker, was studied at 24 ± 1 °C, relative humidity of 75 ± 5% and a photoperiod of 16: 8 (L: D) h. The developmental time of immature stages was longest on Kenmochi being 37.6 days. The intrinsic rate of increase ( r m ) was significantly affected by various mulberrys being the highest on Mahalii (0.160) and the lowest on Kenmochi (0.127). The highest and lowest finite rates of increase ( λ ) were observed on Mahalii 1.174 and Kenmochi 1.136, respectively. The highest amount of gross reproductive rate and the lowest mean generation time ( T ) was observed on Mahalii. The results obtained in this study indicated that Mahalii appeared to be the most susceptible host to G . pyloalis among the tested varieties.

Upfront problems about the use of synthetic insecticides such as damage to the environment and human health and pests’ resistance have brought about interest in natural compounds. In the last few years, more studies have been published for the insecticidal effects of essential oils from several plant families such as Apiaceae, Asteraceae, Cupressaceae, Lamiaceae, Lauraceae, Myrtaceae, Poaceae, Piperaceae, Rutaceae and Zingiberaceae. The present article emphases on the effects of essential oils against Coleopteran insect pests by highlighting on their extraction, chemical insecticidal properties, mode of action on insect, commercialization and safety.

Feeding indices and enzymatic activities of Ectomyelois ceratoniae (Zeller) were studied in a growth chamber under controlled conditions (29 ± 2 � C, relative humidity of 70 ± 5% and a photoperiod of 16:8 (L:D) hours) on two commercial Pistachio cultivars (Akbari and Kalequchi) and an artificial diet. Feeding indices of E. ceratoniae larvae differed significantly on three hosts (P < 0.05). The relative consumption rate was calculated to be 5.36 ± 0.009, 11.10 ± 1.49 and 10.631 ± 0.599 (mg/mg/day) on artificial diet, Akbari and Kalequchi cultivars, respectively. Carob moth larvae reared on Akbari cultivar showed the highest efficiency of conversion of digested food (ECD) (5.64 ± 0.43). The highest amount of efficiency of conversion of ingested food (ECI) was obtained on artificial diet but approximate digestibility (AD) was the lowest on this diet. The high- est enzymatic activities of alpha-amylase, general proteases and lipase were observed in the midgut of larvae reared on artificial diet. Total protein and lipid value were highest in larvae that were reared on artificial diet. a 2013 Production and hosting by Elsevier B.V. on behalf of King Saud University.

Rose sawfly Arge rosae (Hym; Argidae) is the most serious pest of the flowers of Rosaceae family. In order to evaluate the potential of entomopathogenic fungi for controlling this pest, fourth instar larvae were maintained under controlled conditions and exposed to entomopathogenic fungi, Beauveria bassiana . The bioassay was carried out by immersion method with concentrations 2 × 10 4 , 2 × 10 5 , 2 × 10 6 , 2 × 10 7 , and 2 × 10 8 conidia/ml of Tween-80 solution (0.03%) in distilled water. Each concentration was replicated four times with ten insects in each replicate. The results showed relatively high efficacy of these isolates on this insect pest. In case of IRAN 403C isolate, values of LC 50 and LT 50 were obtained as 5.54 × 10 5 conidia/ml and 3.92 days at 2 × 10 8 conidia/ml, respectively. Results showed that IRAN 403C isolate caused the highest mortality in larvae in comparison with other isolates with a mean of 70% mortality using 10 7 conidia/ml.

Inspite of well-established potentiality of plant essential oils as biopesticides, their environmentally low persistence is considered as a hindering obstacle for its commercialization. In the present study, chemical composition and toxicity of essential oils isolated from leaves of Thymus eriocalyx and Thymus kotschyanus were evaluated against two-spotted spider mite, Tetranychus urticae. The chemicals present in the crude oil were found to be thymol (28.83%), oleic acid (11.51%), palmitic acid (8.60%), borneol (5.72%), ρ-cymene (3.60%), and 1,8-cineole (3.57%) in the essential oil of T. eriocalyx, and camphene (35.59%), linalyl acetate (20.47%), linalool (14.75%), α-terpineol (13.87%), and geranyl acetate (3.07%) in the essential oil of T. kotschyanus. The essential oils had strong fumigant toxicity on the adult females of Te. urticae and their fumigation persistence was prolonged until 6 and 5 d, respectively, for T. eriocalyx and T. kotschyanus. Loading of essential oils in MCM-41 increased their stability and persistence was extended up to 20 and 18 d for T. eriocalyx and T. kotschyanus. Further, mite mortality increased from 80 to 203 mites by T. eriocalyx and from 58 to 186 mites by T. kotschyanus nanoencapsulated essential oils. Based on these results, nanoencapsulation of T. eriocalyx and T. kotschyanus essential oils in MCM-41 may be a useful method for their application in the management of Te. urticae.

Third-instar larvae of Helicoverpa armigera Hübner (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae) were exposed to 12.5, 25, and 50 mg/kg concentrations of cadmium (Cd). The third-instar larvae were also exposed to 25, 50, and 100 mg/kg concentration of copper (Cu), and 25, 50, and 100 mg/kg concentrations of zinc (Zn). The heavy metal concentrations were each introduced separately into the artificial diet of the third-instar larvae. The third-instar larvae were 24 h old at the start of the treatment. The larvae were maintained in controlled conditions (26±1°C, 65±10% RH and 16L : 8D h) for 7 days. The feeding indices and the level of total protein, glycogen, cholesterol, and triglyceride were measured after the treatments. The results showed that high concentrations of Cd significantly increased approximate digestibility (AD). The relative growth rate (RGR) was significantly enhanced with a 25 mg/kg concentration of Cu. Efficiency of conversion of the ingested food (ECI%) increased significantly with lower concentrations of copper (25 and 50 mg/kg). The amount of cholesterol was also enhanced with 12.5 and 25 mg/kg concentrations of cadmium while the amount of triglyceride was significantly reduced in all Cd treatments. Glycogen, protein, and cholesterol were significantly enhanced in all Cu treatments. The amount of triglycerides at 25 and 50 mg/kg of Cu was significantly increased. Glycogen in all Zn treatments was significantly increased. Protein and cholesterol levels showed significant reduction with a 25 and 50 mg/kg concentration of zinc while triglyceride was enhanced with a 50 mg/kg concentration of Zn. It is clear from the present results that the presence of such heavy metals in the environment has an intense impact on H. armigera as far as food consumption and biochemical indices are concerned. Therefore, a need is shown for a more comprehensive study on the life table and immunology of this insect, under the presence of heavy metals.

Ectomyelois ceratoniae is one of the key constraints in the production of pomegranate and pistachio in Iran. Since there is little knowledge on digestive lipases of insects, the current study aimed to purify and characterize the enzyme in the midgut of E. ceratoniae. Purification by ammonium sulfate, Sephacryl G-100 and Di-ethyl-amino-ethanol (DEAE)–cellulose fast flow revealed an enzyme with a specific activity of 0.4 U mg–1 protein, 29.62 of recovery, 28.57 of purification fold and 25 kDa of molecular weight. The purified lipase showed the highest activities at pH 7 and a temperature of 30°C. The enzyme was stable for 3 h at 30°C. Different concentrations of phenylmethylsulfonyl fluoride (PMSF) and ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid (EDTA) were used to find possible inhibition of the purified lipase. It was observed that different concentrations of EDTA had no inhibitory effects but different concentrations of PMSF significantly decreased activity of the purified lipase. Since long chain unsaturated fatty ...

Because of the problem of resistance and high residual levels by pesticides, the use of natural insecticides has long been touted as an attractive alternative to synthetic chemical insecticides. In this context, toxicity and biological effects of essential oil of Zhumeria majdae was evaluated against the larvae of Tribolium castaneum. Analysis of essential oil by GC-MS revealed that linalool (58.3 %) and camphor (25.9 %) were the main components and the essential oil had strong toxicity on Tribolium castaneum larvae with LC50of 13.77 % which was dose-dependent. Study on the effect of essential oil on energy macro molecules like protein, lipid and carbohydrate contents demonstrated a decreasing tendency. The activity of two detoxifying enzymes namely; esterase and glutathione S-transferase were investigated to study the involved metabolic mechanisms. Their activity level was increased in larvae when exposed to Z. majdae essential oil.

The essential oils of Thymus vulgaris L. and Origanum vulgare L. were investigated for their toxicity and physiological aspects on the lesser mulberry pyralid Glyphodes pyloalis Walker in controlled condition (24±1°C, 75±5% RH and 16L : 8D). The leaf disc method was used to study acute toxicity, the effect of LC10, LC30, and LC50 on the feeding efficiency of 4th instar larva, and biochemical indices. The essential oil doses of LC10, LC30 and LC50 were estimated to be 0.107%, 0.188% and 0.279% for T. vulgaris, and 0.67%, 1.173% and 1.728% for O. vulgare, respectively. The results showed that T. vulgaris was more toxic than O. vulgare. The essential oil sublethal dose LC30 affected the nutritional indices of 4th instar larvae of G. pyloalis. The essential oils reduced total protein, carbohydrate, and lipid. Some concentrations of essential oils changed the activity level of α-amylase, protease, lipase, general esterases, and glutathione S-transferase (GST) but others showed no effect on these enzymes. It was concluded that the used essential oil concentrations were both toxic to G. pyloalis and showed irreversible effects on key metabolic processes, therefore, the used essential oil concentrations may be considered as alternatives to the classic pest control agents.

A trypsin-like proteinase was purified and characterized in the midgut of Ectomyelois ceratoniae. A purification process that used Sepharyl G-100 and DEAE-cellulose fast flow chromatographies revealed a proteinase with specific activity of 66.7 μmol/min/mg protein, recovery of 27.04 and purification fold of 23.35. Molecular weight of the purified protein was found to be 35.8 kDa. Optimal pH and temperature were obtained 9 and 20°C for the purified trypsin proteinase, respectively. The purified enzyme was significantly inhibited by PMSF, TLCK, and SBTI as specific inhibitors of trypsins in which TLCK showed the highest inhibitory effect. Trypsin proteinase inhibitors were extracted from four varieties of pomegranate including Brait, Torsh-Sabz, May-Khosh, and Shirin by ion exchange chromatography. It was found that fractions 17-20 of Brait; fractions 18 and 21-26 of Torsh-Sabz; fractions 1-7, 11-17, and 19-21 of May-Khosh and fraction 8 for Shirin showed presence of trypsin inhibitor in these host. Comparison of their inhibitory effects on the purified trypsin proteinase of E. ceratoniae demonstrated that fractions from May-khosh variety had the highest effect on the enzyme among other extracted fractions. Characterization of serine proteinases of insects mainly trypsins is one of the promising methods to decrease population and damages via extracting their inhibitors and providing resistant varieties.

The major constituents of the oil of Lavandula angustifolia Mill were estimated as borneoll (8.57%), alpha terpinene (6.22%), linolool (4.91%) geranyl proprionate (3.76%), butanoic acid hexyl ester (2.99%) and caryophyllene oxide (2.72%). LC 10 , LC 30 and LC 50 were estimated as 0.31%, 0.705% and 1.24% respectively. The sublethal concentration (LC 30 ) of essential oil affected the nutritional indices of 4th instar larvae of Glyphodes pyloalis . The essential oil reduced total protein, carbohydrate and lipid when compared with the control. All concentrations (0.25%, 0.5%, 1%, and 2%) of essential oil affected the major macromolecules and activities of key enzyme in G. pyloalis .

Digestive proteolytic activities were studied in the larval midgut of Papilio demoleus by using azocasein, specific substrates and inhibitors regarding enzymatic allocation in the alimentary canal. The highest proteolytic activity was found in the midgut rather than foregut and hindgut that highest proteolytic activity was observed in soluble fraction. All specific proteases were almost equally distributed in both the anterior and posterior midgut except for trypsin- and chymotrypsin-like proteases, which showed the highest activity in the anterior midgut. Two peaks were observed in alkaline and acidic pHs when general proteolytic activities were assayed using azocasein in soluble and membrane-bound fractions. Specific substrates revealed the presence of trypsin-like, chymotrypsin-like, elastase, cathepsins B and L as well as two exopeptidases. These findings were confirmed using specific inhibitors including PMSF, TLCK, TPCK, SBTI, cystatin, DTT, E-64, EDTA and phenanthroline. Determination and characterization of the insect’s digestive proteases will enable development of pest control by designing protease inhibitors. This procedure will help us to designate an efficient pest control method with the lowest impact on the environment.

The striped rice-stem borer, Chilo suppressalis (Walker) is one of the most important pest of rice worldwide. In this study, a proteinaceous extract from Citrullus colocynthis L. shows various degrees of inhibition to digestive α-amylases of C. suppressalis. Digestive α-amylases of larvae were inhibited by different concentrations (approximately 50%) of C. colocynthis amylase inhibitor (CCAI). One of the isozymes totally disappeared and the sharpness of another decreased on native-PAGE electrophoresis. The pH dependency of inhibition revealed that the enzyme was inhibited in a wide range of pH from 7-10, and the optimal pH of the enzyme occurred in lepidopteran larvae. The highest inhibition of α-amylase by CCAI was observed at 25°C; the temperature near the optimal temperature of amylolytic activity. A time-course experiment demonstrated that enzymatic activity was the highest, 30 min after the onset of the experiment, when the highest inhibition occurred. The enzyme kinetic studies using Lineweaver-Burk analysis, revealed a mixed inhibition of CCAI on α-amylase activity. The current study is the first basic one using α-amylase inhibitor against C. suppressalis. This study opens the way for transgenic rice varieties containing inhibitors

Synthetic organic compounds and those of plant origin used in insect pest control are known to affect digestive enzymes and biochemical compounds. The lesser mulberry pyralid Glyphodes pyloalis Walker is a monophagous and dangerous pest of mulberry that has been recently observed in Guilan province, northern Iran. In this study the effect of the neem formulation, Achook (0.03% azadirachtin) was studied on nutritional physiology and gut enzyme activity of the lesser mulberry pyralid G. pyloalis. The LC25, LC50, and LC90 values on 4th instar larvae were estimated as 113.6, 256.84, and 1,210.02 ppm, respectively. The neem insecticide exhibited a significant antifeedant activity when used at the highest concentration. When G. pyloalis larvae were provided with mulberry leaves treated with the neem extract, all nutritional indices, except approximate digestibility, decreased. Neem was found to affect digestive enzyme activities in the midgut of treated larvae. When larvae were fed on treated leaves, biochemical compounds in the hemolymph, such as protein, lipid, and glucose decreased but the amount of uric acid increased compared with the control

This study was carried out to evaluate toxicological and haematological effects of essential oils from Callistemon viminalis and Ferula gummosa against Ephestia kuehniella larvae through fumigant and topical exposure. The results indicated that fumigant LC10, LC30 and LC50 values were 8.42, 15.86 and 24.60 μl/l air for C. viminalis oil and 38.51, 57.75 and 76.44 μl/l air for F. gummosa, respectively. Also, topical LD values were measured to be 4.28, 9.64 and 16.91 μg insect −1 for C. viminalis oil and 1.28, 3.39 and 6.65 μg insect−1 for F. gummosa oil, respectively. Haematological observations showed that in comparison to fumigation, topical application of tested oils caused a drastic reduction in total hemocyte count of treated larvae in a dose-dependent manner at all time intervals. Also, it is shown that plasmatocytes and granulocytes were the most sensitive hemocytes of E. kuehniella larvae to the tested oils after topical application. So, it is concluded that topical application of essential oils of ...

The biological characteristics and life table parameters of Apomyelois ceratoniae on the three commercial cultivars of pomegranate including Malas daneh siah, Gabri and Shahvar were determined. Larvae were reared on three cultivars in the laboratory at 30 ± 1 °C, 70 ± 5% RH and 16:8 (L:D) h photoperiod. The highest value of the finite rate of increase (λ) were observed in Shahvar cultivar. The intrinsic rate of increase (r m) values was 0.079 ± 0.004, 0.088 ± 0.003 and 0.105 ± 0.003 on Malas daneh siah, Gabri and Shahvar cultivars, respectively and highest value was recorded on Shahvar cultivar. The net reproductive rate (R 0) value varied from 26.71 ± 4.1 female offspring on Malas daneh siah to 51.01 ± 6.4 female offspring on Gabri. The highest amounts of the gross reproductive rate of A. ceratoniae were observed on Shahvar. The lowest mean generation time (T) was observed on Shahvar and there were not significant differences between Gabri and Malas daneh siah.