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The effectiveness of the food chemosensory attractants for attraction and angling of wild common carp, Cyprinus carpio by the bottom tackle of two types (carp "boil" device and "makushanka" device) was evaluated in the experiments, done in 2018 in the natural waterbody—the Akhtuba River (polygon of 80 × 30 m). There were 6 types of the bait used: sunflower cake, and boils with flavor of "Strawberry," "Plum," "Tutti-frutti," "Sweet corn" and "Mussel." The wild common carp was attracted to the polygon by dumping into the river the attracting groundbait, combined from sunflower cake, corn, wheat and red clay (ratio 1 : 1 : 1 : 5). In 2–3 days after beginning of the attraction, the number of fish and its daily catch increased sharply and in a week reached the level which stay stable up to the end of experiment, that lasted for 79 days, from June, 19 through September, 5. Total catch was 1048 fish of body weight from 2 to 14 kg, average daily catch was 7.23 ± 2.13 specimens. The catch on the makushanka was stable during the whole time of the experiment and was about 13–15% of the total catch, while the catch on the boils of the different flavor types vary. At the beginning of the experiment the most of wild common carps were landed on the boils having "Mussel" flavor type. Then the catch on this boil type decreased to the middle of July, but the catch on the boil having "Sweet corn" flavor tended to increase up to 70–75% of the total catch on the boils of all types. The maximal catch on the boils with "Sweet corn" flavor correlated with the appearance of many anglers on the river, who used the groundbait with corn for fish attraction. The catch on the boils of fruit and berry flavor vary, but stay relatively low, the minor catch was on the boils with "Strawberry" flavor type. There was no plausible difference in the fish body weight, landed on different baits. The obtained data support the results of other studies showing important role of chemoreception in common carp behavior. We suppose that attraction of the wild common carp to the study polygon was due to the substances released by groundbait and accepted through the olfactory system, while the catch on the particular bait was a function of its smell, taste and textural features. It was found out that effectiveness of the food attractants and flavors can change during relatively short period (summer season), thereafter indicates the plasticity of the fish preferences mediated by chemosensory systems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A study has established a method for the simultaneous determination of diazepam and its metabolites in fish feed and bait using dispersive solid-phase extraction (QuEChERS) coupled with high-performance liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (HPLC-MS/MS). Samples were extracted with ethyl acetate, and the extract was purified with 50 mg of C18 and PSA solid-phase extraction. The extract was concentrated to near dryness under nitrogen at 40 ℃, reconstituted in 1.0 mL of 80% acetonitrile, filtered, and then analyzed using the HPLC-MS/MS method. The target compounds were separated using a Phenomenex Kinetex C18 series chromatographic column (100 mm × 2.1 mm, 2.6 μm) with a gradient elution of 0.1% volume ratio aqueous formic acid and acetonitrile as the mobile phase. Detection was performed in electrospray ionization (ESI+) and selected reaction monitoring (SRM) mode, with a matrix-matched internal standard method for qualitative and quantitative analysis. The results showed that the method had a good linear relationship in the range of 0.5~50.0 μg/kg, with correlation coefficients all greater than 0.999, and the limits of detection and quantification were 0.5 μg/kg and 1.0 μg/kg, respectively. At three different spiking levels, the average recovery rates for diazepam and its metabolites were 82.3%~109.4%, with relative standard deviations of 3.62%~6.33%. The study indicates that this method is rapid, accurate, and highly sensitive, capable of meeting the detection requirements for residues of diazepam and its metabolites in fish feed and bait. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Within the scope of this study, 15 experimental fishing operations were carried out from the beginning of March 2020 until mid-June of the same year, to compare the gill net and trammel nets (16mm gill net, 16mm gill net and 18mm trammel net) used to supply bait to the setline fishing. The results obtained showed that the dominant species for both 16mm gill net and 16mm trammel nets was Chelon auratus. There were no statistically significant differences between the two types of nets in terms of CPUE (number/operation), average length and length distribution (p>0,05). It was determined that 41% of all individuals caught in gill nets and 44% of all individuals caught in trammel nets were bycatch species. When 16mm and 18mm trammel nets were compared with respect to catch composition, the dominant species for these two mesh widths was Chelon auratus, and the difference between the two mesh widths in terms of CPUE was not statistically significant (p>0,05), but the difference was statistically significant in terms of average length and length distribution (p

Akanthomyces dipterigenus is a species of entomopathogenic fungus (Hypocreales: Cordycipitaceae) that has undergone several reclassifications in recent decades. While it has been utilized for biological control, information on its distribution and ecology remains limited. Furthermore, this species has only recently been reported in continental European countries. Our research provides the first report of A. dipterigenus in the Iberian Peninsula. Fungal isolation was achieved via a modified baiting technique featuring Rhopalosiphum padi aphids. Results suggest that the isolation methodologies and ecological traits of the fungus may either aid or hinder its detection. Additional research is necessary to assess its distribution throughout the Peninsula and neighbouring European countries, and to examine its potential as a biological control agent.

Blue swimming crab (Portunus pelagicus) is a type of marine product with high economic value and is popular in society. One of the gear types used in catching blue swimming crab is crab traps. One of the determining factors for the effectiveness of crab trap usage is the selection of suitable bait to enhance catch results. This study aims to assess the impact of using various types of bait on the effectiveness of catching blue swimming crab using foldable crab traps. The research activities were conducted at ten fishing locations in Kendal waters, Central Java, in September 2023. The bait tested in this study included goat skin, salted ponyfish, and salted pufferfish. This study utilized experimental fishing method, where catches were made directly in the natural habitat of blue swimming crab. Data collection and analysis were conducted using a randomized complete block design (RCBD). The results revealed a total catch during the research period of 410 individuals with a total weight of 38,696 grams, involving seven different species. Blue swimming crab dominated the catch results with a percentage of 66.4%, followed by stone crab at 11.9%, and reef crab at 9.2%, as well as other smaller catches. Different bait types were found to affect catch results, with goat skin bait proving to be the most effective in catching blue swimming crab. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

European catfish is a large-bodied apex predator, a key species in native areas, but invasive in others where it negatively impacts local aquatic fauna necessitates catfish regulation. However, traditional ichthyological methods face challenges in capturing it. The study presents a detailed description of the efficient long-line method, refined through 48 sampling campaigns across twelve European water bodies. This method proves cost-effective and technically undemanding, requiring an average of 5.6 bait fish to catch one European catfish per day. The long-lines outperform other techniques, with the highest Biomass per unit effort (BPUE) of 6.205 kg of catfish per man-hour and minimal by-catch (0.276 kg per man-hour). In contrast, fyke nets, the second most efficient method, achieve a BPUE of 0.621 kg of catfish per man-hour with 3.953 kg of by-catch per man-hour. To optimize long-line catches, a 15 m distance between branch lines and regular relocation is recommended. Live fish is the most effective bait with no significant differences observed among species. However, earthworms, a less controversial alternative, are also efficient, especially for smaller catfish. Our recapture approach using various ichthyological methods revealed no hook avoidance behavior by catfish after a previous catch or avoidance by a certain part of the population. The long-line method is suitable for population regulation, scientific research, and conservation efforts and is the most effective means of capturing live European catfish.

Background: The threat posed by mosquito-borne diseases continues to increase globally. The increase of pesticide resistance is impacting vector control and public health globally. The development and testing of new pesticides faces several challenges, e.g., time for development, high cost, and regulatory hurdles. Adapting pesticides that are currently used within integrated vector management can help alleviate these challenges. Methoprene has demonstrated reduction of larval populations and fecundity in adult mosquitoes. The objective of the study was to demonstrate the efficacy of ProVector Entobac with methoprene (Entobac M) on mosquito populations in rural sites in Southeastern Georgia. Methods: ProVector® Military Camouflage Tubes with ProVector Entobac M pesticide were placed in a grid at test sites. A positive control test site and a negative control site were used to compare results statistically. Mosquito diversity and evenness among sites were measured using Shannon Diversity Index and Equitability. Results: Deployment of ProVector® Military Camouflage Tubes with ProVector Entobac M pesticide was effective in reducing total mosquito populations. The mosquito species shared among the test sites and positive control site were similar, and the negative control site was least similar in diversity and evenness. There was variation of control within Aedes, Anopheles, and Culex genera. Discussion: The aim of the study was to demonstrate the efficacy of the ProVector Military Camouflage Tube delivery of Entobac with methoprene (Entobac M) on mosquito populations. Mosquito-borne diseases are an increasing threat to communities around the world due to invasive species and global warming. In previous studies, ProVector® Entobac™ has been validated in laboratory and field studies to control both adult and larval mosquitoes in the United States and several other countries. Application of ecofriendly and target specific pesticides with no-resistance is critical in reducing mosquito populations and the risk of vector-borne diseases. Our study demonstrated a significant decrease in adult mosquito populations due to the utilization of a target specific mosquito larvicide that has been adapted to kill adult mosquitoes.

Controlling invasive species is imperative due to their significant roles in spreading diseases, preying on threatened species, and diminishing biodiversity. Crewed aircraft are proficient at dispersing toxic bait across vast expanses to combat small pest mammals such as possums and rats. However, their utility diminishes significantly in small, remote areas typified by rugged terrain due to impracticality and prohibitive costs. Similarly, while ground control operations are effective in compact, easily reachable locations, they encounter formidable obstacles like costly labour expenses, safety hazards, and the peril of worker injuries while navigating treacherous landscapes. An innovative approach to address these limitations is to use uncrewed aerial systems that are unhampered by the terrain to deploy bait at precise locations. Our team engineered a purpose-built system designed specifically for deploying bait using innovative bait pods. Two field trials were conducted in New Zealand to validate our systems’ efficacy, assessing deployment precision and accuracy against predefined ground targets. While the initial trial yielded mixed results, significant improvements were observed in the subsequent trial, featuring enhancements to the bait pod design. The median deployment accuracy achieved was 1.91 m from the target (n = 63), with no statistically significant difference in deployment accuracy between open and forested areas (p = 0.76). This advanced system permits the precise placement of bait pods to any location, facilitating effective pest control within complex landscapes, challenging terrain, and dense vegetation. With its smart functionality and adaptability, this system can be utilised across various aircraft and autopilot systems to ensure maximum accuracy and efficiency in delivering bait pods for pest control operations. Therefore, this innovative tool possesses tremendous potential for managing small mammalian invasive species, particularly in specialised environments such as reserves, gullies, and islands, complementing existing pest control strategies to expedite the restoration of ecosystems and safeguard biodiversity.

Detection of animals is influenced by species traits, environment, season and the methods used. Analytical techniques can address imperfect detection, such as false absences, but data limitations hinder accurate density estimation. Identifying field survey methods that optimize detectability is therefore a high research priority, especially for species of conservation concern. We consider a model species, the sugar glider Petaurus notatus, to evaluate how optimizing detections can affect survey outcomes. A literature meta‐analysis found little innovation in baiting approaches for sugar gliders over four decades. Honey‐based baits prevailed, despite emerging evidence of opportunistic carnivory. We compared sugar glider detection probabilities using honey and fish‐based baits in a spatially explicit capture‐recapture study. Fish bait increased detections 33‐fold, and density estimation (0.12 ha−1) was only possible using the fish‐baited data – detections were too sparse using honey‐bait to facilitate analysis. Other factors that influence detectability include trap height and habitat connectivity, which were top moderators in our meta‐analysis, but these may be secondary to the bait or lure used. By using (i) species‐specific bait that accounts for the biology of the target species, and (ii) analytical tools to account for imperfect detection and heterogeneous movement of animals, we achieved good enough detection probabilities to undertake detailed analysis of the spatial ecology of sugar gliders. Compared to honey‐based baits (the prevailing approach of other studies on this species), the high detection probability attained with fish‐based baits provides an improvement on conventional practices. Our study is an important reminder that accounting for the biology of the target species during survey effort may mean the difference between collecting enough data for analysis or not. In the context of species conservation, optimizing detection likelihoods is critical for answering ecological questions about cryptic species, and our results demonstrate the need to reappraise generic approaches when better information is available. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

An accurate and rapid detection is a high demand to identify the river crab and bait in underwater complex environments. In this study, an improved YOLOv5s was proposed to detect the river crab and bait for the high precision, speed and simple modeling. GhostNet and GhostBottleneck structure were used to rapidly extract the network features of the model. The inference and detection speed were improved with the less complexity and amount of model computation. The model was deployed on the Android, in order to meet the needs of mobile application scenarios for river crab detection. The BiFPN structure was applied in the neck network of YOLOv5s. The fusion ability of the model was enhanced for different scale targets, the robustness of the model, and especially the detection performance of the network for small targets. A lightweight attention mechanism was used in the backbone feature extraction of the YOLOv5s network. The CA attention mechanism module was employed to improve the detection probability of the target region. The relevant feature information was matched with the target channel. The invalid information was suppressed to strengthen the network attention to river crab and bait. The lightweight YOLOv5s-GhostNet model was compared with the YOLOv5s, ShuffleNetv2-YOLOv5s, and MobileNetV3- YOLOv5s models. The results showed that the target average precision of YOLOv5s-GhostNet model was reduced by only 4.6 percentage points, compared with YOLOv5s. The lightweight network was effectively maintained the detection precision of the model for the higher detection speed of river crabs and bait. Ablation experiments were carried out to verify the backbone feature extraction network, feature fusion network BiFPN, and CA attention mechanism. The computational amount was reduced by 48.7%, whereas, the detection speed increased by 27.2%, after improving the backbone feature extraction network with GhostNet. The model complexity was reduced to elevate the detection speed. The BiFPN structure was used to compensate for the loss of mAP that caused by the lightweight network, particularly for the detection rate of river crabs and bait. The addition of CA attention mechanism was improved the anti-interference and feature extraction, while the mAP also increased. River crab and bait datasets were established using laboratory and actual crab pond environments. The improved model was achieved in an average precision of 96.9% and a computational volume of 8.5 GFLOPs, which was higher in the detection precision and smaller in computational volume, compared with the current mainstream single-level target detection algorithms for anchor boxes (e.g., SSD and YOLOv3). The average precision of the model was improved by 2.2 percentage points, while the computation and model memory were reduced by more than 40%, compared with YOLOv5s. The model before and after improvement was deployed to Android phone for testing. It was found that the improved model shared the average detection speed of 148ms/frame on Android phone, which increased by 20.9%, and maintained the better detection, compared with the original. The detection rates of river crabs and bait in the improved model increased by 4.6 and 5.8 percentage points, respectively, which was effectively improved the detection rates than before. Therefore, the improved model can be expected to balance the performance requirements of Android phone for model detection precision and speed. The finding can provide the guidance for the precise determination of baiting amount in river crab culture. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: Both field and laboratory studies showed that 0.0125% fipronil bait is repellent against S. invicta workers; therefore, higher concentrations of fipronil should be avoided in fire ant bait production. In future studies evaluating the effectiveness of fire ant baits, we suggest considering the effect of active ingredients and their concentrations on bait acceptance. The red imported fire ant, Solenopsis invicta Buren, is a severe pest with agricultural, ecological, and medical significance. The baiting treatment is one of the main methods to control S. invicta. However, few studies have evaluated the acceptance of fire ant bait. Here, field and laboratory studies were conducted to investigate the foraging behaviors of S. invicta responding to fire ant baits containing different concentrations of active ingredients (fipronil, abamectin, or indoxacarb). Field studies showed that S. invicta transported significantly less 0.0125% fipronil bait than control bait (without toxicant) and 0.0001% fipronil bait. The number of foraging ants significantly decreased with an increase in fipronil concentration. Our previous study showed that S. invicta usually buries the food treated with repellent chemicals, and interestingly, significantly more soil particles were transported into tubes containing 0.0001% fipronil bait than tubes containing control bait or 0.0125% fipronil bait. In addition, S. invicta transported significantly less 0.0005% abamectin bait than control bait, and significantly fewer ants were found in tubes containing 0.0125% abamectin bait than control bait. However, there was no significant difference in bait transport, number of foraging ants, and weight of soil particles relocated in tubes containing different concentrations of indoxacarb bait. In addition, laboratory studies showed that S. invicta transported significantly less 0.0125% fipronil bait than control bait and bait containing abamectin (0.0025% or 0.0125%) or indoxacarb (0.0125% or 0.0625%). In addition, the transport speed for the 0.0125% fipronil bait was the slowest. These results show that specific concentrations of some active ingredients may negatively affect bait acceptance for S. invicta, and should be avoided in fire ant bait production. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BACKGROUND: The Asian needle ant, Brachyponera chinensis, is an invasive ant currently spreading in urban and natural habitats throughout the eastern United States. Recent studies have documented the negative impact of B. chinensis on native ecosystems and human health, yet effective control strategies are lacking. Control difficulties are, in part, due to the unique biology of B. chinensis, which is a predatory ant and a termite specialist. Given that subterranean termites are an important nutritional resource for B. chinensis, the current study evaluated the potential of termite cuticular extract to improve the target‐specificity and efficacy of commercial bait used for B. chinensis control. RESULTS: The efficacy of bait augmented with termite cuticular extracts was evaluated in laboratory and field trials. In laboratory assays, B. chinensis colonies were offered granular bait treated with termite cuticular extract. Results demonstrated that the acceptance of commercial bait is significantly increased by the addition of termite cuticular extract or synthetic (Z)‐9‐pentacosene, a major component of termite cuticular extract. Foraging activity of Asian needle ants was significantly greater on baits augmented with termite cuticular extract or (Z)‐9‐pentacosene relative to standard bait. Furthermore, bait augmented with termite cuticular extract worked substantially faster relative to standard bait. To evaluate population effects, field studies were conducted in forested areas invaded by B. chinensis. Bait treated with termite cuticular extract scattered on the forest floor provided rapid control of B. chinensis and ant densities throughout the treated plots declined by 98% within 14 days. CONCLUSION: The incorporation of termite cuticular extracts and individual cuticular hydrocarbons such as (Z)‐9‐pentacosene into traditional baits used for B. chinensis control may offer a novel tool to manage this increasingly problematic invasive ant. © 2023 The Author. Pest Management Science published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of Society of Chemical Industry. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The objective of this study was to evaluate the bait preference of three selected bait types by local dogs and the induced immunogenicity of the oral rabies vaccine strain SPBN GASGAS in Morocco. The vaccine strain, combined with different bait types, has been tested in many different settings, but not yet in northern Africa. Overall, bait consumption and preference were similar in other studies using the same materials (bait type and sachet). The intestine bait had the highest acceptance rate (97.6%, 95%CI: 87.4–99.9), followed by the egg bait (83.0%, 95%CI: 69.2–92.4). Only 52% (95%CI: 37.4–66.3) of the dogs showed an interest in the fish meal bait. However, considering the successful release of the contents of the sachet (blue-dyed water) into the oral cavity, the egg bait (65.7%, 95%CI: 47.8–80.9) scored better than the intestine bait (51.7%, 95%CI: 32.5–70.6). The dogs selected for the immunogenicity study were offered the egg bait containing a sachet filled with SPBN GASGAS (3.0 mL, 107.5 FFU/mL) or were given the same dose by direct oral administration (d.o.a.). In addition, several dogs were vaccinated by the parenteral route (s.c.) using a commercially available inactivated rabies vaccine. Unfortunately, due to the COVID-19 pandemic and subsequent travel restrictions, it was not possible to collect blood samples directly after vaccination. The blood samples were collected pre-vaccination and on five occasions between 450 and 1088 days post vaccination. The seroconversion rate, as determined for rabies-virus-neutralizing antibodies by the FAVN test, was significantly lower than that found for binding antibodies, as determined by ELISA, for all blood samples collected post vaccination. No treatment effect (bait, d.o.a., s.c.) could be seen in the seroconversion rate. At 15 months post vaccination, 84.2% of the dogs offered vaccine bait still tested sero-positive in ELISA. Only after 3 years was a clear drop in the seroconversion rate observed in all three treatment groups. This study confirms the long-term immunogenicity of the oral rabies vaccine SPBN GASGAS in dogs under field conditions.

Purpose: To report a patient with a unilateral presentation of glaucoma, pain, and acute iris transillumination syndrome simulating iris melanoma. Observations: A 53-year-old male presented with blurred vision and pain in his right eye several weeks following a respiratory sinus infection managed by oral azithromycin. Examination of the right eye was notable for elevated intraocular pressure of 46 mm Hg, an irregular mid-dilated pupil, and diffuse iris transillumination with pigmentary seeding on the iris surface, in the anterior chamber angle, and on the sclera, suspicious for diffuse iris melanoma with glaucoma and extrascleral extension. Ultrasound biomicroscopy (UBM) of the right eye revealed circumferential anterior chamber angle and trabecular meshwork involvement by an infiltrative process corresponding to the pigmented cells noted clinically, while the ciliary body was unremarkable. Following enucleation, histopathology showed extensive necrosis of the iris pigment epithelium, sphincter, and dilator muscles with melanophagic infiltration in the anterior chamber angle and episclera, mild chronic non-granulomatous iridocyclitis, and no evidence of a melanocytic neoplasm. Although immunohistochemical studies for herpes simplex virus (HSV) types 1 and 2, varicella-zoster virus, and cytomegalovirus were negative, qualitative real-time polymerase chain reaction on paraffin-embedded tissue detected HSV-1 DNA. The combined clinical, pathologic, and molecular findings were compatible with unilateral acute iris transillumination syndrome, likely HSV-1 associated. Conclusion and Importance: Unilateral acute iris transillumination syndrome with diffuse iris pigment epithelial loss can simulate iris melanoma. Prompt herpes viral studies may be informative.

Rabbit haemorrhagic disease virus (RHDV) is established as a landscape-scale biocontrol that assists the management of invasive European rabbits and their impacts in both Australia and New Zealand. In addition to this, it is also available to land managers to augment rabbit control efforts at a local scale. However, current methods of deploying RHDV to rabbits that rely on the consumption of virus-treated baits can be problematic as rabbits are reluctant to consume bait when there is abundant, green, protein-rich feed available. We ran a suite of interrupted time-series experiments to compare the duration of infectivity of two conventional (carrot and oat baits) and two novel (meat bait and soil burrow spray) methods of deploying RHDV to rabbits. All methods effectively killed exposed rabbits. Soil burrow spray and carrot baits resulted in infection and mortality out to 5 days post their deployment in the field, and meat baits caused infection out to 10 days post their deployment. In contrast, oat baits continued to infect and kill exposed rabbits out to 20 days post deployment. Molecular assays demonstrated high viral loads in deployed baits beyond the duration for which they were infectious or lethal to rabbits. Based on our results, we suggest that the drying of meat baits may create a barrier to effective transmission of RHDV by adult flies within 10 days. We therefore hypothesise that fly larvae production and development on infected tissues is critical to prolonged viral transmission from meat baits, and similarly from carcasses of RHDV mortalities, via mechanical fly vectors. Our study demonstrates that meat baits and soil spray could provide additional virus deployment options that remove the need for rabbits to consume baits at times when they are reluctant to do so. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Wireworms cause considerable damage to a wide range of crops, including maize which is susceptible to attack from emergence to the 10 to 12 leaf stages. One control strategy involves limiting the exposure of young maize were performed with granulated cereal-based baits. Then, this work was subsequently pursued and intensified with experiments based on the use of trap plants. These experimental works provided a description of the implementation conditions, e.g. choice of trap plant species, density, and positioning relative to maize seedlings—in which these trap plants can be used for the protection of maize crops against wireworm attacks. The technique that gave the more promising results in our experiments was based on the use of a mixture of wheat and maize as bait plants. Thus, the protection of maize against wireworm attacks has an efficacy of 55 to 60%, close to the level of protection of the chemical products currently available in Europe. This easy-to-use and effective strategy could help farmers reduce the use of insecticides in the future. Our work also allows us to identify the current benefits and weaknesses of this strategy and to propose research directions to optimise its effectiveness and facilitate its implementation by farmers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The fishing industry needs alternative baits that are not based on resources available for human consumption. In order to develop artificial baits, first the preferred baits should be determined, and then their biochemical and physiological composition should be identified. The aim of this study was to determine bluefish bait preferences and reveal the biochemical composition and physical characteristics of the preferred baits. In this study, keeled mullet, leaping mullet, and sardine species were found to have the highest catch, respectively. The highest texture hardness and whiteness colour values were found in keeled mullet, which had the highest catch efficiency for bluefish fishing. The highest palmitoleic acid content was found in keeled mullet at 25.86% (16.93% in leaping mullet and 17.05% in sardine). However, the highest PUFA content was found in sardine (15.56%), followed by leaping mullet (13.97%), and then keeled mullet (11.32%). As for the amino acid compositions, it was determined that glutamic acid and serine content, which are known to have positive effects on feed intake, were higher in keeled mullet. In regard to volatile components, mullet species were especially rich in total alcohol, aldehyde, ketone, and amines, while sardines were rich in hydrocarbons and furans. Hexanal and heptanal compounds, known as fish aroma, were determined at high rates in keeled mullet. It can be concluded that these components may be attractive to bluefish. The data presented in this study may be useful for the production of artificial bait. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The impact of the southern Gulf of St. Lawrence American lobster (Homarus americanus) fishery on species bycatch is currently unknown. The composition of the incidental catch, both nonharvestable lobster (by fisheries regulations) and nonlobster species, was systematically collected over the 2015 spring and summer fishing seasons. A total of 51 948 (7147 were nonlobster taxa) individual organisms weighing 13 987.60 kg (1223.91 kg of nonlobster taxa) were captured as bycatch during 73 fishing trips. By weight per trip, the most common lobster bycatch were undersized male and females, and the highest nonlobster species catch were Atlantic rock crab (Cancer irroratus). A semiquantitative assessment of injury and vitality was applied to bycatch as a proxy for discard mortality. The majority of the individuals assessed for visible injury were deemed uninjured (98% both fish and invertebrates); however, postrelease mortality was not measured. A smaller study in 2019 corroborated the 2015 catches and supported current assumptions that the passive gear type, the low diversity of bycatch, and the rapid hand-sorting of the trap minimize the impact of the lobster fishery on incidentally captured taxa. Further scientific monitoring is recommended to better account for all sources of mortality in stock assessments and rebuilding plans.

American mink (Neovison vison) represents a threat to both biodiversity and economy in various regions of the world, including Patagonia. This invasive species has been successfully removed from many areas of Europe. In Chile and Argentina there have been only patchily distributed attempts of local control to date and large-scale removal has been considered unfeasible. We analyzed available scientific information, to determine best-fit strategies and improved methodologies that increase efficiency (capture per unit of effort) in American mink control. We reviewed published papers about programs that aimed at local control, functional or total eradication of minks in the Web of Science (WoS) database. Based on accessible information, the influence of some field variables on capture efficiency was determined through a General Lineal Model. From 1525 results in the WoS search, 51 papers refer to mink control action carried out in 28 areas of Europe and South America since 1992. Trapping has been the most used and efficient capture method. Short trapping periods that cover larger lineal distances per control program, and the use of attractants, specifically pheromones, have led to improved control efficiency. Chilean, Scottish and English experiences showed among the highest trapping efficiency values. We identify areas of research needed on mink ecology and behavior and trapping techniques that could improve trapping efficiency. A control program that incorporates the outcomes of this data assessment has the potential to improve feral mink removal. But further research is required to ensure that these efficiency measures result in cost-effective control in Patagonia.

Fish catch captured by fishers is slightly low, it cause fishers not able to cover their daily needs. Improvement is required to increase dragon trap productivity, one of the ways is using bait. This study aims to describe the dragon traps fishing unit, counting species caught in dragon traps using bait and without bait, and counting the revenue of the dragon traps fishing business. This research was in bondet coastal fishing port (PPP) waters from March to April 2022. Research method was experimental fishing with 20 repetitions (trips) using trash fish namely goldstripe sardinella (Sardinella gibbosa) and pony fish (Leighnatus equulus) as bait. Results show that the 20 dragon traps used in the research have size (50 cm Î 37 cm Î 35 cm) with a length trap of 10 m. Dragon trap without bait catch 82.53 kg (672 fish) from 11 species, meanwhile total catch of dragon traps with bait was 131.721 kg (904 fishes) from 11 species. Based on profit analysis that calculated the dragon trap fishing business deserves to be continued. Because dragon traps with bait catch more fish than dragon traps without bait, trash fish can be used as a suitable technology applied for dragon traps. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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The leech Whitmania pigra is well known in traditional Chinese medicine for promoting human blood circulation and alleviating blood stasis. To evaluate its suitability as bait for this neonate leech, we investigate the reproductive efficiency of the snail Radix plicatula under laboratory conditions. Furthermore, the effects of the size of R. plicatula on the growth of newborn W. pigra were evaluated. Wild snails laid eggs in mid-March with body weight >0.223 g and peaked at the beginning of April to early May. The accumulated number of eggs was 1489.70 ± 895.98 and 2145.67 ± 694.47 separately for individual and paired snails (P = 0.083). The time elapsed up to the hatching of the first egg in the four collected egg masses ranged from 12 to 18 days, and the hatching percentage ranged from 97-% to 100-%. The predation rate of the newborn W. pigra was significantly higher when feeding on small snails than on medium and large snails (P < 0.01). Furthermore, increased snail size resulted in decreased leech growth and survival rates. The investigations demonstrated that the snail R. plicatula could serve as a suitable living bait in the rearing of W. pigra to help alleviate the scarcity of leech on the market. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Glucose aversion in the German cockroach, Blattella germanica (L.), results in behavioral resistance to insecticidal baits. Glucose-averse (GA) cockroaches reject foods containing glucose, even in relatively low concentrations, which protects the cockroaches from ingesting lethal amounts of toxic baits. Horizontal transfer of baits and the resulting secondary mortality have been documented in German cockroaches, including in insecticide resistant strains. However, the effects of the GA trait on secondary mortality have not been investigated. We hypothesized that ingestion of insecticide baits that contain glucose or glucose-containing disaccharides would result in behaviorally relevant glucose levels in the feces, possibly deterring coprophagy by GA nymphs. We fed adult female cockroaches hydramethylnon baits rich in either glucose, fructose, sucrose, or maltose and compared secondary mortality of GA and wild-type (WT) nymphs via coprophagy. When adult females were fed baits containing glucose, sucrose, or maltose and their feces offered to nymphs, secondary mortality was significantly lower in GA nymphs than in WT nymphs. However, survival of GA and WT nymphs was similar on feces generated by adult females fed fructose bait. Analysis of feces indicated that disaccharides in baits were hydrolyzed into glucose, some of which was excreted in the feces of females that ingested the bait. Based on these results, we caution that baits containing glucose or glucose-containing oligosaccharides may impede cockroach interventions; while GA adults and large nymphs avoid ingesting such baits, first instars reject the glucose-containing feces of any WT cockroaches that consumed the bait. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Field trials are reported in this paper on a new bait containing 1% norbormide. Two separate field trials were recently completed on commercial chicken farms in South Auckland, New Zealand. Norway rats were abundant both inside the farm sheds and around the surrounding farmland. Monitoring undertaken before toxic baiting recorded high levels of rat activity. Post-treatment monitoring found no rat paw prints in any of the tracking tunnels from Site 1, and in only one tunnel at Site 2. The decrease of 100% and 96%, respectively, represented a marked reduction in the Norway rat population at both sites.

Longline fishery targeting tunas and tuna-like species is known to produce a significant amount of catch not only for the target species, but also for ecologically related species like sharks, marine turtles, sea birds and marine mammals. Recognizing this seriousness, tuna related regional fisheries management organizations (t-RFMOs) have established conservation and management measures (CMMs) to reduce bycatch and/or interaction with ecosystem vulnerable species including sea turtles and are obliged to implement bycatch mitigation measures and guidelines on safe release to their member countries. Along with development and strengthening of those measures, various case studies have been conducting to verify the effectiveness of bycatch mitigation for ecologically related species. This study examines the background and progress on developing CMMs of t-RFMOs and regulation programs of the United States related to sea turtles, which have recently become one of the main issues, and reviews case studies on sea turtle bycatch mitigation measures to find out the effectiveness of reducing bycatch rate and impacts to the fisheries. In order to respond the consultation process on certification determination with the United States, it was confirmed the current status of implementation on related measures conducted by Korean tuna longline fishery based on scientific observer data and survey for captains. Even though all Korean tuna longline fleets belong to the deep-set longline fishery (100–300 m), which is not subject to the obligation of those mitigation measures, they are voluntarily implementing both measures, use of circle hook and whole finfish bait, regardless of which RFMO’s Convention area they operate. And the national regulatory and management programs for sea turtle bycatch prevention adopted by Republic of Korea seems to be comparable in effectiveness to that of the United Stated. However, Korea needs to take preemptive measures in establishing sustainable fisheries, including the protection of the marine ecosystem and environment, as stronger requests are anticipated to be made by the international community on this matter.

Inflammatory events with highly variable clinical features have been reported with the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic, which has affected the whole world. Only one case of COVID-19–associated bilateral acute iris transillumination (BAIT) syndrome has been reported in the literature. We present a case series in which we hypothesize that the immune response to severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) may have a mechanism similar to the common viruses that cause BAIT, the etiology of which is still unknown.

This study was aimed to determine the effects of different bait types on the efficiency of fyke-nets and traps in catching narrow-clawed crayfish (Pontastacus leptodactylus (Eschscholtz, 1823)). The study was carried out in Atikhisar reservoir, Çanakkale, between July 2020 and March 2021. In the study, 12 traditional fyke-nets (“D” inlet, 5 rigid rings and a leader net) and 12 traps (double inlet) were used. Fyke-nets and traps were rigged with 34 mm stretched mesh that are commonly used in crayfish fishing in Türkiye. Three different bait types including fish, chicken and bread and a control treatment with no bait were allocated to each gear type. Baits were distributed randomly to each gear before fishing trials. The baits were placed in small bags corresponding to 1% of total trap volume. The results of 24 trials showed 68.8% (1940 crayfish) of the total catch was caught with fyke nets and 31.20% (880 crayfish) with traps. The highest average CPUEN values for both trap types were observed in those baited with the chicken meat which were 7.89±1.02 n/fyke net/day and 5.07±0.88 n/trap/day.. The mean length of the crayfish caught by the fyke nets was significantly smaller than those caught by the traps (p

Small cetacean bycatch in artisanal fisheries and deep-sea fishing operations is a serious and persistent threat to conservation in coastal communities in Ghana. We assessed the bycatch and management of small cetaceans in four coastal communities by administering 73 questionnaires to fishers and recording their catches. Our findings show that dolphin feeding habits, gear attributes and habitat use of targeted finfish species were the main factors driving bycatch of small cetaceans in Ghana. Gear damage and reduced catches were among the effects of bycatch reported by fishers. In addition to direct consumption of small cetacean meat, fishers use them as bait in shark-fishing activities. Our results suggest the livelihood of over 70% of fishers will be threatened if management measures are implemented. Fishers were unaware of the Wildlife Division that manages small cetaceans in Ghana. We recommended that a co-management approach between the government and locals should be adopted when developing and implementing measures for the conservation of small cetaceans. A community awareness programme should be carried out to raise awareness about threats facing these species and the importance of conservation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Artikel ini membahas salah satu tradisi baru dalam penulisan puisi Indonesia sesudah kemerdekaan, yakni puisi balada yang diperkenalkan W.S. Rendra sekira tahun 1960-an. Hal ini berhubungan erat dengan satuan kebahasaan kalimat dan paragraf dalam prosa yang sejajar dengan satuan kebahasaan larik dan bait dalam membangun teks puisi balada. Karena itu, pendekatan wacana digunakan untuk membahas satuan kebahasaan larik dan bait sebagai kode teks puisi balada. Harapannya, karakteristik teks dalam puisi balada dapat ditempatkan dalam wawasan estetika puisi Indonesia baru sesudah kemerdekaan secara dialektis, baik dalam semasa maupun lintas masa.

The red imported fire ant, Solenopsis invicta Buren, is a severe pest with agricultural, ecological, and medical significance. The baiting treatment is one of the main methods to control S. invicta. However, few studies have evaluated the acceptance of fire ant bait. Here, field and laboratory studies were conducted to investigate the foraging behaviors of S. invicta responding to fire ant baits containing different concentrations of active ingredients (fipronil, abamectin, or indoxacarb). Field studies showed that S. invicta transported significantly less 0.0125% fipronil bait than control bait (without toxicant) and 0.0001% fipronil bait. The number of foraging ants significantly decreased with an increase in fipronil concentration. Our previous study showed that S. invicta usually buries the food treated with repellent chemicals, and interestingly, significantly more soil particles were transported into tubes containing 0.0001% fipronil bait than tubes containing control bait or 0.0125% fipronil bait. In addition, S. invicta transported significantly less 0.0005% abamectin bait than control bait, and significantly fewer ants were found in tubes containing 0.0125% abamectin bait than control bait. However, there was no significant difference in bait transport, number of foraging ants, and weight of soil particles relocated in tubes containing different concentrations of indoxacarb bait. In addition, laboratory studies showed that S. invicta transported significantly less 0.0125% fipronil bait than control bait and bait containing abamectin (0.0025% or 0.0125%) or indoxacarb (0.0125% or 0.0625%). In addition, the transport speed for the 0.0125% fipronil bait was the slowest. These results show that specific concentrations of some active ingredients may negatively affect bait acceptance for S. invicta, and should be avoided in fire ant bait production.

The use of food grade wild-captured species as bait for other fisheries questions the sustainability of food production. In pot fisheries, bait is an important factor determining the effectiveness of the gear. In snow crab (Chionoecetes opilio) fishery, the pots are normally baited with squid (Illex sp.) and herring (Clupea harengus). This fishery uses substantial amounts of bait for each pot deployment, and it constitutes one of the largest expenses for operating the pots along with costs for fuel. Furthermore, reliance on bait that originates from wild-capture fisheries questions economic and environmental sustainability, and involves additional use of fuel for capture and transportation of the bait which increases the carbon footprint of the industry. Therefore, the use of alternative bait sources is needed. One such alternative bait source can be originating from processed by-products from commercial fisheries. However, for the new bait to be acceptable for the fishery, it must provide comparable catch efficiency as the traditional bait. Therefore, this study aimed at comparing the performance of a new experimental bait against the traditionally used squid bait in the Barents Sea snow crab fishery. The results showed no statistically significant difference in catch efficiency of target-sized snow crab. Specifically, a formal uncertainty estimation based on nested bootstrapping showed that there was no significant difference in efficiency between bait types for target-sized individuals for soak times typically employed in the fishery. Thereby this shows a potential to increase sustainability in food production and a positive effect on the size selectivity by additionally demonstrating a reduced capture of undersized individuals.

Recreational fishing gear continues to evolve, and factors such as anatomical hooking location may change over time due to technology creep. We revisited studies conducted in 1996 by re‐examining hooking location in experiments where hard‐bodied and soft plastic lures were presented to stripey (Lutjanus carponotatus) and wire netting cod (Epinephelus quoyanus) either with or without application of a synthetic fish attractant. These data were compared to those of fish hooked on organic bait using circle or J‐style hooks. Lure type and application of attractant both significantly affected hooking location. Addition of attractant to hard‐bodied lures reduced foul hooking of both species. For L. carponotatus, soft plastic lures both with and without attractant tended to be taken deeper than hard‐bodied lures. For E. quoyanus captured on soft plastic lures coated with attractant, hooking locations were similar to those using organic baits on circle hooks. However, deepest hooking of both species occurred using organic bait on J‐style hooks. The use of soft plastic lures with an effective fish attractant may result in deeper hooking, which could potentially influence post‐release survival and increase fishing power. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Allegheny woodrats Neotoma magister are an imperiled small mammal species most associated with emergent rock habitats in the central Appalachian Mountains and the Ohio River Valley. The monitoring of populations and their spatiotemporal distributions typically has relied on labor-intensive livetrapping. The use of remote-detecting cameras holds promise for being an equally or more effective method to determine species presence, although trap-based captures permit the estimation of other parameters (e.g., survival, population size, site fidelity). In 2017, 2018, and 2020 we compared standard livetrapping with paired cameras for determining site occupancy of Allegheny woodrats in the central Appalachian Mountains of western Virginia. We further examined the influence of baited vs. unbaited cameras at several sites of confirmed occupancy in 2019. We observed that the detection probability using cameras was approximately 1.7 times that of live traps. Also, detection probability at baited camera traps was 1.3–2.0 times that of unbaited camera traps. Estimates of occupancy ranged from 0.44 to 0.49. Our findings suggest that the use of baited remote-detecting cameras provides a more effective method than livetrapping for detecting Allegheny woodrats. Our study provides a framework for the development of a large-scale, long-term monitoring protocol of Allegheny woodrats with the goals of identifying changes in the distribution of the species and quantifying local extinction and colonization rates at emergent rock outcrops and caves throughout the species' known distribution. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Toxic baits are a potential control mechanism for nuisance carps, but rotenonebased baits for grass carp Ctenopharyngodon idella have been ineffective. Failures have been attributed to the palatability of rotenone because innocuous training pellets are readily consumed prior to provision of piscicide baits. Several studies suggest antimycin A, a common alternative piscicide, typically applied directly to water, may be suitable as an ingested bait. The oral toxicity of antimycin A is not well described. We evaluated the oral toxicity of antimycin A in two carriers (ethanol and corn oil) on grass carp and black carp Mylopharyngodon piceus, administered via gavage. Doses ranged from 1-16 mg/kg. Lethal dose estimates for 50% of treated fish (LD50) were calculated, and the observed treatment levels resulting in complete mortality are reported at 24- and 96-hours post-treatment. Ethanol was a more effective carrier than corn oil with lower LD50 estimates and observed treatment levels with complete mortality. Antimycin A in corn oil produced only partial mortality of black carp even 96 hours from treatment and at the highest dose administered. Results document ingested doses required for mortality of grass carp and black carp that may be used for future development of species-selective antimycin A baits. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Corporate economic performance and its association with carbon emissions has been the subject of extensive research within the last few decades. The present study examines the economic performance of green firms as reflected in the Financial Times Stock Exchange Environmental Opportunities Index Series (FTSE EO) and its association with carbon emissions, incorporating the role of two more indices, namely the Baltic Clean Tanker Index (BAIT) and EUR/USD exchange rate. The methodology employed is the Bayesian Vector Autoregression Model (BVAR). Our findings confirm the interlinkages among the variables studied. More specifically, based on impulse response analysis, the direction of causality is two-way. The response of carbon emissions to a shock in the other variables is negative for the case of the EUR/USD exchange rate and Baltic Clean Tanker Index (BAIT) (an index representing the conventional energy sources), while it is positive for a shock in the FTSE EO. However, the most important finding is the return to the steady state after nine or ten periods. This result is very significant since the global environmental agreements along with the global economic conditions and the energy resources may well lead to limitations in carbon emissions within a framework of a well-organized and targeted climate change mitigation strategy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Rabbit haemorrhagic disease virus (RHDV) is established as a landscape-scale biocontrol that assists the management of invasive European rabbits and their impacts in both Australia and New Zealand. In addition to this, it is also available to land managers to augment rabbit control efforts at a local scale. However, current methods of deploying RHDV to rabbits that rely on the consumption of virus-treated baits can be problematic as rabbits are reluctant to consume bait when there is abundant, green, protein-rich feed available. We ran a suite of interrupted time-series experiments to compare the duration of infectivity of two conventional (carrot and oat baits) and two novel (meat bait and soil burrow spray) methods of deploying RHDV to rabbits. All methods effectively killed exposed rabbits. Soil burrow spray and carrot baits resulted in infection and mortality out to 5 days post their deployment in the field, and meat baits caused infection out to 10 days post their deployment. In contrast, oat baits continued to infect and kill exposed rabbits out to 20 days post deployment. Molecular assays demonstrated high viral loads in deployed baits beyond the duration for which they were infectious or lethal to rabbits. Based on our results, we suggest that the drying of meat baits may create a barrier to effective transmission of RHDV by adult flies within 10 days. We therefore hypothesise that fly larvae production and development on infected tissues is critical to prolonged viral transmission from meat baits, and similarly from carcasses of RHDV mortalities, via mechanical fly vectors. Our study demonstrates that meat baits and soil spray could provide additional virus deployment options that remove the need for rabbits to consume baits at times when they are reluctant to do so.

Biomarkers have been used to quantify consumption of toxicants and other pharmaceutical baits by free ranging wildlife populations. Previous research has tested the efficacy and persistence of Rhodamine B (RB) as a biomarker in invasive wild pigs. However, little information is available about effects of RB on palatability of baits meant for invasive wild pigs, and studies have shown that the addition of RB to otherwise palatable baits reduces consumption by some species. HOGGONE® has been identified as an effective sodium nitrite-based oral toxicant for invasive wild pigs in trials conducted in captive pen trials. We simultaneously conducted five separate 2-choice tests to examine potential differences in consumption between HOGGONE® placebo paste (standard placebo) and HOGGONE® placebo paste containing 0.5% RB (RB placebo) in five groups of three invasive wild pigs. Each group was simultaneously presented with equal amounts of standard placebo and RB placebo paste for one night and monitored with remote cameras. Remaining bait was weighed and subtracted from the initial weight of both feed types to calculate consumption. There were no differences in the total amount of bait consumed or the time spent feeding between the two bait types across all five groups. Results of this study suggest that the addition of RB does not negatively impact consumption of HOGGONE® placebo paste by groups of invasive wild pigs. Thus, we provide more evidence that RB will be a useful tool for research on wild pigs, such as estimating proportions of free-ranging populations consuming baits that contain toxins or pharmaceuticals.

The feral hog is an invasive species that inflicts billions of dollars in agricultural damage every year in the U.S. Hog-specific baits have shown promise in reducing feral hog abundance but require species-specific feeders to exclude domestic animals and non-target wildlife. Four feeder types were tested during 2016 and 2017 field studies, including commercial feeders, prototype feeders, and a new species-specific feral hog feeder. Commercial feeders with 2.3 kg, 4.5 kg, and 6.8 kg weighted doors were used in 2016 and raccoons were observed on camera opening doors 10 times out of 164 camera observed visitations (6.1%). No other non-target species were observed entering the feeders. The following year, new feeders with 7.7 kg double-sided guillotine doors were used in a field study and no raccoons opened doors during 153 camera-observed visitations. Out of over 1,600 non-target camera images recorded, only one mouse was observed inside the feeders. Results of this study suggest the new hog feeder may provide reduced-risk to non-target species and a promising tool for controlling hog populations.

On the southern coast of South Korea, dark-banded rockfish, sea bass, and red seabream are caught by single-line fishing. In particular, red seabream and sea bass are caught in the Jeollanam-do region using gear with attached fishing hooks, such as long-line and single-line gear, with live shrimp as bait. The objective of this study was to compare the catch efficiency of two types of live shrimp (naturally grown Shiba shrimp [Metapenaeus joyneri] and cultured whiteleg shrimp [Litopenaeus vannamei]) used as bait. The investigation included interviews, on-board surveys, and water tank experiments. Interviews were conducted with relevant parties to determine the preference for live shrimp as bait, and the results showed a greater preference for cultured whiteleg shrimp. Further, an on-board survey was conducted to compare catch efficiency between these two types of live shrimp bait for single-line fishing. The on-board investigations were conducted once or twice a month between June and October. In total, the amounts of fish caught using naturally grown Shiba shrimp and cultured whiteleg shrimp were 56 and 52, respectively. Of these, the numbers of sea bass, the primary target fish species, caught using naturally grown Shiba shrimp and cultured whiteleg shrimp were 43 and 40, respectively. Thus, the results showed that there was almost no difference in the number of fish caught based on the bait used. However, according to a water tank experiment, cultured whiteleg shrimp survived longer than naturally grown Shiba shrimp.

As a major threat to New Zealand’s biodiversity, feral cats (Felis catus) are the subject of planned eradications on a number of offshore islands, including Rakiura Stewart Island. We used camera traps to estimate population density of feral cats on the north-east coast of Rakiura, and to investigate their movement behaviour and detection probability. We also used camera footage to compare the consumption of two types of non-toxic sausage baits (chicken and rabbit) with a view to future use of toxic baits. Population density of feral cats was likely between 1 and 2 cats per km². Non-target species (rats and possums) removed more than half the baits, greatly reducing bait availability for feral cats. Deer and birds (including kiwi) encountered baits but did not eat them. Cats had an apparent preference for chicken over rabbit baits, although small sample sizes prevent firm conclusions. Both bait types appeared to decline rapidly in palatability, and no baits were consumed by cats more than 5 days after deployment. Future trials and baiting regimes should consider ways to improve bait availability. Increased bait density, exclusion of rats and possums and/or more frequent replacement of baits will likely increase encounter rates by feral cats. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Monitoring is an important element in management programs for Drosophila suzukii (Matsumura), helping users to avoid prophylactic treatments. Factors such as attractiveness, sensitivity, selectivity, longevity, and ease of use must be considered when developing a trap and lure system for monitoring and thresholds. We examined various baits and lures over a 5-yr period in sweet cherry orchards in the semiarid climate of eastern Washington. Using a jar trap, the attractants were evaluated for attractiveness (maximum capture), selectivity for D. suzukii (vs. other Drosophila species), and sex ratio of captured D. suzukii. We examined the relative performance of the attractants during periods of low (≈1 D. suzukii per trap per week) and high (232 D. suzukii per trap per week) density over the course of the growing season, which usually corresponded to mid-summer and autumn temperatures, respectively. The Scentry lure was consistently the most attractive lure, capturing the highest numbers of adult D. suzukii over the series of tests, but also had the highest levels of by-catch. Recipe-based baits (yeast, wine-vinegar, and apple cider vinegar) captured fewer D. suzukii overall, although the commercial baits Dros'Attract and Suzukii Trap were comparable to the Scentry lure in late season tests. The Trécé lures were consistently the most selective of the attractants, but had generally lower D. suzukii captures. Sex ratio varied widely among and within the tests, but with no consistent pattern among the various attractants. All attractants were successful in capturing flies, and the choice of attractant depends on the constraints and goals of the user. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article is dedicated to the analysis of stable verse forms in the poetry of great Armenian poet Yeghishe Charents (1897-1937), introducing the structural opportunities for the development of the theme and the idea with some philosophical logic. It has long been criticized that the structure of these verse forms has a clear logic, the roots of which come from ancient and medieval ritual art. Many of the stable forms of Roman poetry (sonnet, triolet, rondel, rondeau, etc.) arose from widespread national dance songs that were popular in medieval Europe, inheriting the lengthy stanza of three parts typical to them, which, in its turn, is associated with the triad often encountered in antique tragedies and odas (strophe, antistrophe and epode). Triolet, sonnet and rondeau resemble ancient superstrophe in their structure, showing the same logic of the development of the theme. Stable forms from Eastern poetry (ruba'i, ghazal, mukhammaz, etc.) also have sound principles of structure and rhyme, which contribute to the expression of their philosophical content. The poetry of Yeghishe Charents, rich in stable verse forms, provides a vast opportunity to demonstrate the philosophical conception of the connection between their form and content. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Various types of hydrogel compounds have recently been developed for controlling invasive and pest ants in a range of environmental settings including agricultural, urban and natural areas. The current study evaluated the potential of sodium polyacrylate (ACR) hydrogels to effectively deliver liquid baits to Argentine ants., Results: Relative to standard polyacrylamide (PAM) hydrogels, individual ACR hydrogel particles were approximately five-fold heavier; this may affect how ants interact with the bait particles, and further influence bait uptake and efficacy. Additionally, ACR hydrogels had significantly higher water absorption capacity and significantly slower rate of water loss, especially during the first 2 h. The efficacy of ACR hydrogel bait containing 0.005% fipronil and various attractants was evaluated on laboratory colonies. Results demonstrated that ACR hydrogel acceptance is significantly increased by the addition of feeding attractants. In addition, a field trial was performed in a nature reserve invaded by Argentine ants to evaluate the efficacy of ACR hydrogel bait. The field trial demonstrated that ACR hydrogel bait containing 0.005% fipronil with various attractants is highly effective and that ant densities throughout the baited plots declined by >99% within 7 days., Conclusions: The results of this study demonstrate that: (i) fipronil is highly effective for Argentine ant control in natural areas when used in low concentrations (0.005%); (ii) ACR hydrogels are an effective tool for delivering liquid baits to Argentine ants; and (iii) hydrogel baits augmented with various attractants including salt, protein and pheromone are highly attractive to Argentine ants. © 2024 The Author(s). Pest Management Science published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of Society of Chemical Industry., (© 2024 The Author(s). Pest Management Science published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of Society of Chemical Industry.)

European catfish is a large-bodied apex predator, a key species in native areas, but invasive in others where it negatively impacts local aquatic fauna necessitates catfish regulation. However, traditional ichthyological methods face challenges in capturing it. The study presents a detailed description of the efficient long-line method, refined through 48 sampling campaigns across twelve European water bodies. This method proves cost-effective and technically undemanding, requiring an average of 5.6 bait fish to catch one European catfish per day. The long-lines outperform other techniques, with the highest Biomass per unit effort (BPUE) of 6.205 kg of catfish per man-hour and minimal by-catch (0.276 kg per man-hour). In contrast, fyke nets, the second most efficient method, achieve a BPUE of 0.621 kg of catfish per man-hour with 3.953 kg of by-catch per man-hour. To optimize long-line catches, a 15 m distance between branch lines and regular relocation is recommended. Live fish is the most effective bait with no significant differences observed among species. However, earthworms, a less controversial alternative, are also efficient, especially for smaller catfish. Our recapture approach using various ichthyological methods revealed no hook avoidance behavior by catfish after a previous catch or avoidance by a certain part of the population. The long-line method is suitable for population regulation, scientific research, and conservation efforts and is the most effective means of capturing live European catfish., Competing Interests: The authors declare that they have no known competing financial interests or personal relationships that could have appeared to influence the work reported in this paper., (© 2024 The Authors.)

Ants form an important insect group in many terrestrial ecosystems. The research of ant species diversity is a relevant line of ecological and faunistic studies to completely reveal the biodiversity. Particular attention is given to Protected Areas where a high level of ant species diversity is known. The study of ant fauna and ant community structure was carried out in the Mordovia State Nature Reserve in 2014–2020. Material has been obtained using hand collecting, on census routes, and using carbohydrate and protein baits. The annotated list of ants in the Mordovia State Nature Reserve includes 42 species belonging to 11 genera and three subfamilies. Of them, 17 species are reported for the first time in this Protected Area. Most ant species belong to the genera of Formica, Lasius, and Myrmica, which amount to approximately 75% of the ant species richness in the Mordovia State Nature Reserve. The zoogeographical analysis of the ant fauna demonstrated seven geographical range types with a predominance of the European-West-Siberian and North-Palaearctic ranges. The ant diversity was analysed using the Renyi diversity profile based on census route data. The spatial distribution of ant species was estimated using detrended correspondence analysis. We found a high level of ant species diversity, conditioned by the effect of species evenness in the Mordovia State Nature Reserve. The most species-specific habitats were pine (Pinus sylvestris) forests with Convallaria majalis predominance in herb layer, linden (Tilia cordata) forests with participation of Betula pendula and Picea abies, dry Poa pratensis-dominated meadows, and moist meadows with predominance of Lupinus polyphyllus. The differences between the studied habitats were determined by microclimate conditions for specific ant species. On the model plots, the ant species density was about 7 species per 100 m2 in average.

Astaxanthin is a carotenoid with antioxidant properties due to its special chemical structure. Biosynthesis and chemical synthesis are the most commonly used methods for astaxanthin synthesis, natural astaxanthin can be extracted from yeast and algae. In aquatic animals, β -carotene can be converted into astaxanthin through multiple metabolic processes. At present, natural astaxanthin and synthetic astaxanthin have been widely used in practical production and life, such as medicine, food, animal husbandry and other fields. The application of astaxanthin in aquatic animal bait can improve immunity and growth performance and improve body color. The article reviews the production, synthesis and biological metabolism of astaxanthin, the distribution of organisms and its application value in production, to provide references for related research and applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Siniperca chuatsi feeds on live fry throughout their life. The sustainable development of its farming industry has urgently necessitated the development of artificial diets to substitute live baits. It has been demonstrated that gut microbiota assists in feed adaptation and improves the feed conversion rate in fish. Therefore, this study aimed to understand the potential role of intestinal microorganisms in the domestication of S. chuatsi with a compound diet. Accordingly, we performed 16S rRNA sequencing of the gut microbial communities in S. chuatsi groups that were fed a compound diet (including large and small individuals) and live baits. A total of 2,471 OTUs were identified, and the large individual group possessed the highest number of unique OTUs. The α-diversity index of the gut microbiota in groups that were fed a compound diet was significantly higher (p < 0.05) than that in the live bait group. There were no significant differences in the α-diversity between the large and small individual groups. However, relatively higher numbers of Lactococcus , Klebsiella , and Woeseia were observed in the intestines of the large individual group. Prediction of the metabolic function of the microbiota among these three fish groups by Tax4Fun revealed that most metabolic pathways, such as glycan metabolism and amino acid metabolism, were typically more enriched for the larger individuals. The results indicated that certain taxa mentioned above exist in large individuals and may be closely related to the digestion and absorption of compound diets. The present study provides a basis for understanding the utilization mechanism of artificial feed by S. chuatsi. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The red imported fire ant, Solenopsis invicta Buren, was first discovered in Japan in 2017. As this ant remains at the early invasion stage, efforts in establishing a rapid-response framework, such as evaluating available control methods, are urgently needed. Despite the presence of numerous household insecticides against invasive/household pest ants in Japan, the effects of these products on fire ants remain poorly understood. This study assessed the efficacy of two bait products designed to target common household ant pests in Japan on S. invicta through under laboratory and field conditions in Taiwan. The two baits are Arino-su-korori (AK), a granule-formulated bait product with hydramethylnon as an active ingredient (A.I.), and Hyper Arino-su-korori (HAK), a paste-formulated bait with fipronil as A.I., respectively. We showed that both AK and HAK resulted in more than 99% mortalities of fire ant within 8 wk under laboratory conditions and significantly reduce fire ants' foraging activities in the field. AK generally performed slightly better than HAK in terms of the time required to achieve total laboratory colony elimination and also long-term suppression of field fire ants. Such differences most likely are attributable to the active ingredient's mode of action and/or formulation and their interactions with fire ant biology. This study demonstrates the feasibility of the two bait products in effectively controlling laboratory and field fire ants, thus representing a promising candidate pest management tool to cope with ongoing/future fire ant invasions in Japan. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The western yellow jacket, Vespula penyslvanica (Saussare), is a serious seasonal pest of outdoor venues in the western United States. In the spring, queens and low numbers of workers were captured in heptyl-butyrate-baited traps until early July, when the number of foragers dramatically increased. Microsatellite data suggest that 18 colonies were actively foraging within the park in 2012. Foragers from 11 different colonies were collected at one trap site. In 2012 and 2013, sufficient numbers of foragers were not captured until early August when baiting trials were initiated. Baits were prepared with canned chicken mixed with fipronil for a final concentration of 0.025%. In 2012, a single baiting provided >96% reduction of foragers for at least two months. A second baiting late in the season provided >80% reductions. In 2013, one baiting trial resulted in a 74% and a 93% reduction. A bait acceptance study was conducted in 2014 to test a bait consisting of the juices from canned chicken and 0.025% fipronil incorporated into a hydrogel, and provided a much longer lasting bait in the field.