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Objective To analyze the incidence trends and spatiotemporal distribution characteristics of dengue fever in China based on the data from the China Disease Control Information System and the "National Statutory Infectious Disease Epidemic Overview" published by the National Health Commission of the People's Republic of China, and to provide a scientific basis for the prevention and control of dengue fever epidemics. Methods The incidence rates and monthly case numbers of dengue fever in China from 2015 to 2023 were collected. Provinces were classified according to the severity of the epidemic and the distribution status of the Aedes vector. The incidence trends, seasonal distribution, and spatial aggregation of dengue fever in China were statistically analyzed. Results The top five provinces with the highest average annual incidence rates from 2015 to 2023 were Yunnan (6.16/100 000), Guangdong (1.70/100 000), Hainan (1.13/100 000), Fujian (1.13/100 000), and Chongqing (0.74/100 000). The average annual incidence rate of dengue fever in China increased by 70.79% from 2015 to 2019 (AAPC=70.79, P=0.045). In Class I regions, the incidence of Guangxi and Hainan showed a linear regression trend, with average annual increases of 844.73% (AAPC=844.73, P=0.021) and 516.51% (AAPC=516.51, P=0.013), respectively. In Class II regions, except for Shanghai, the incidence of other provinces showed a linear regression trend, with Jiangxi having the highest average annual increase of 610.16% (AAPC=610.16, P=0.021), followed by Chongqing at 345.12% (AAPC=345.12, P=0.038). In Class III regions, the incidence of Hebei, Shanxi, and Liaoning had a linear regression trend, with average annual increases of 80.67% (AAPC=80.67, P=0.028), 202.31% (AAPC=202.31, P=0.001), and 70.19% (AAPC=70.19, P=0.031), respectively. The epidemic of dengue fever showed no obvious seasonality in 2021, strict seasonality in 2022, and strong seasonality in the rest of the years. The epidemic peak days were mostly concentrated in the middle and late September to early October of each year, and the epidemic peak periods were mainly concentrated in August-early November. From 2015 to 2018, the incidence rate had no spatial aggregation nationwide, and the incidence rate in 2019 had spatial aggregation nationwide. In 2015-2019 and 2023, there were no high-low gathering areas in the country, and high-high gathering areas appeared in 2018 (Fujian, Hainan) and 2019 (Guangxi). Conclusions The situation of dengue fever prevention and control in China is grim. High-risk epidemic areas of dengue fever will no longer be limited to Class I provinces, and the risk of expansion to Class II provinces is increasing. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Plectris aliena (Coleoptera, Melolonthidae) Chapin is a species already recorded causing serious damage to various cultures in North America and Australia. Although its occurrence has recently been reported in Brazil, information about its distribution, taxonomy, and biology is limited. Thus, this study aims to report this new occurrence of P aliena in Deodápolis (Mato Grosso do Sul, Brazil), as well as to present bioecological and morphological aspects of this species. In this way, the seasonal distribution and the life cycle was studied in the years 2017 and 2018. The larvae were sampled through trenches made in the soil and reared in the laboratory. Adults were captured using "Luiz de Queiroz" light traps. Adults have body with dense white hairs, antennae with 10 antenomeres; they measure approximately 12 mm in length, and their antennal lamellae are larger for males than females. The larvae reach 30 mm in length in the third stage and pupae show about 19 mm in length. The life cycle of this species is univoltine. Due to the great diversity of Plectris and the scarce information available about this species in South America, this study will facilitate its identification in the field and indicate the best time for monitoring in sugarcane crop. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the face of butterfly species extinction on Seychelles and Mascarene archipelagos, there is an urgent need of increasing our knowledge about species, especially those which have been extinct from one island. Here, we focus on Antanartia borbonica (Oberthür, 1880), a threatened Mascarene butterfly, extinct from Mauritius and considered locally endangered (EN) on Réunion by the French IUCN committee. On Réunion, we investigated the way A. borbonica distribution changes throughout the year depending on elevation and temperature. We confirm previous observations suggesting a seasonal displacement along the elevational gradient: A. borbonica spends the winter in low-elevation areas and moves to higher ones during summer. This biological trait implies conservation actions considering the restoration of suitable habitats for this species along the elevational gradient. The priority, to ensure the long-term conservation of this species, is to create refuges especially in urban and secondary habitats located in lowland areas where relatively preserved ecosystems no longer exist. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Several sexually selected traits exhibit positive allometry. One of the explanations for this pattern suggests that positive allometry should be expected only for "pure" threat male signals, whilst isometry and negative allometry should occur in "pure" courtship signals. Wing pigmentation (WP) is a sexually selected trait exhibited by the males of several damselfly taxa (Odonata Zygoptera), which has been the focus of a number of studies of allometry. Whilst WP tends to exhibit positive allometry in many taxa, the pattern is not general. Previous studies have shown that in Hetaerina vulnerata, a territorial species in which WP is used as a "pure" threat signal, positive allometry is common. However, little attention has been paid to the seasonal variation in the allometry of WP in this species. To address this research gap, we collected data from a full reproductive season, from a natural population of H. vulnerata located in Central Mexico. Our results suggest that, first, male WP and body size generally increase throughout the season. Second, WP increases as the end of the season approaches, independently of body size. Finally, WP tends to be either not related to body size, or to exhibit isometry during the first half of the season (April–June), and positive allometry during the second half of the season (July–October). We suggest that our results may be explained by (i) the availability of resources critical to the development of larvae, as well as the duration of development, and (ii) an increase in the number or larger males towards the end of the season, which may favour the exaggeration of WP. Furthermore, the opportunity for sexual selection may vary, so that WP may be more relevant to male mating success towards the end of the reproductive season. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The rapid development of tourism in Pangandaran causes various problems such as environmental degradation, environmental pollution and waste problems. Environmental changes can be detected using the foraminifera community. The reasearch aims to analyze seasonal distribution of foraminifera in Pangandaran waters. This research uses the survey method and descriptive data analysis. Ecological factors (salinity, temperature, sediment, depth, pH, DO, clarity, waves and currents) have affected their distribution. Temperature values ranged between 26 to 30 °C. Salinity values ranged between 15.6 to 31°. The pH ranged from 5.47 to 8.75. The DO concentration varied between 5.43 and 9.7 ppm. The average clarity of Pangandaran waters in the west season ranges from 56 to 104.5 cm. In Pangandaran waters, the abundance of the Rotaliina sub-order reaches between 75% to 86.5%, Miliolina 11.6% to 19%, and Textulariina 0.05% to 13.4%. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Honeybees (Apis mellifera) and bumblebees (Bombus spp.) often undergo exploitative competition for shared floral resources, which can alter their foraging behaviour and flower choice, even causing competitive exclusion. This may be strongest in summer, when foraging conditions are most challenging for bees, compared to other times of the year. However, the seasonal dynamics of competition between these major pollinator groups are not well understood. Here, we investigate whether the strength of exploitative competition for nectar between honeybees and bumblebees varies seasonally, and whether competitive pressure is greatest in summer months. We carried out experimental bee exclusion trials from May to late September, using experimental patches of lavender, variety Grosso, in full bloom. In each trial, we compared the numbers of honeybees (HB) foraging on patches from which bumblebees had been manually excluded (bumblebee excluded, BBE) versus control (CON) patches, HB(BBE-CON). This measure of exploitative competition varied significantly with season. As expected, mean HB(BBE-CON) was significantly greater in summer trials than in spring or autumn trials. This was despite high nectar standing crop volumes in BBE patch flowers in spring and autumn trials. Mean HB(BBE-CON) was not different between spring and autumn trials. Our results show that nectar competition between honeybees and bumblebees varies seasonally and is stronger in summer than spring or autumn, adding to current understanding of the seasonality of resource demand and competition between bee species. This information may also help to inform conservation programs aiming to increase floral resources for bees by showing when these resources are most needed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study focused on the spirurid nematode Mastophorus muris in water voles (Arvicola amphibius) trapped in three regions in southern Sweden during spring and fall 2013. The collection of water voles formed part of a larger project (EMIRO) on the cestode Echinococcus multilocularis in rodents. The voles' stomach contents were examined for the presence of M. muris. Prevalence, mean abundance and mean intensity of infection were calculated. A generalized linear model model was used to examine the effects of sex, functional group, season and region on the number of M. muris individuals in each vole. Forty-seven of 181 (26%) voles were infected with M. muris , with up to 74 worms each. The overall mean intensity (worms per infected vole) was 15 (95% CI 10–21), and abundance (mean number of worms in all voles) was 4 (95% CI 2–6). Model output indicated a significant effect of season and region with respect to abundance of nematode infection, which was independent of sex and functional group of the investigated host. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Polar fraction of A. annua demonstrated remarkable hepatoprotective, antihyperglycemic and antioxidant activities in animal models. • Five quinic acid derivatives; were isolated for the first time from the polar fraction. • The content of quinic acid derivatives in A. annua leaves was determined by HPLC using 3-feruloylquinic acid as marker substance. • Seasonal variation of quinic acid derivatives using HPLC showed that the early summer leaves have the highest content. Genus Artemisia is widely known to have various therapeutic applications and chemical constituents. A. annua L. (commonly known as sweet wormwood or Qinghao) is an annual herb native to China, traditionally used for treating fever and malaria, and as a source of artemisinin. In the present study, a bio-guided fractionation of the 70% ethanolic extract of the leaves of A. annua cultivated in Egypt produced a bioactive polar fraction. Daily doses of this fraction (100 mg/kg b.wt) for 4 weeks substantially reduced the level of the CCl 4 -mediated increase in the liver enzymes; AST, ALT and ALP. Similarly, daily doses of the polar fraction (100 mg/kg) significantly reduced the blood glucose level in alloxan-induced diabetic by 32.1% in the second week and 46.9% in the fourth week, relative to that demonstrated by metformin (66.2%), and significantly (p < 0.01) restored to normal the blood glutathione level (35.2 ± 1.3 mg/dL), almost identical to that shown by vitamin E. Further purification of the bioactive fraction led to the isolation of 5 quinic acid derivatives; 3-feruloylquinic acid, 3,5-dicaffoeylquinic acid, 4,5-dicaffoeylquinic acid, 3,4-dicaffoeylquinic acid, and 3,4-dicaffoeylquinic acid methyl ester. The isolated compounds are reported here for the first time in A. annua , leaves cultivated in Egypt and suggested to be responsible, at least in part, to the biological activities of the polar fraction. Seasonal variation in the content of quinic acid derivatives in the leaves of A. annua L. was investigated during four harvest seasons (March, May, July "pre-flowering stage" and August-September "flowering stage") using RP-HPLC. The content of 3-feruloylquinic acid varied greatly throughout the year. It was found to be the lowest (0.036% w/w) in March "leaf stage" but increased through the warmer months from May to June (0.61% w/w), and reached the highest (1.34% w/w) in leaves harvested in July "early summer". Then-after, gradual decline in the content of quinic acid derivatives was evident in leaves collected during flowering stage in late summer "August-September" (0.84% w/w). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Alien species have invaded worldwide and altered native biodiversity and ecosystem functions. In Lake Biwa, Japan, Micrasterias hardyi—considered an endemic species in Australia—has become one of the major dominant species since 2016. To evaluate long-term and seasonal variations in M. hardyi, we analyzed 20 years of plankton samples from the northern basin of Lake Biwa. The presence of this species was first confirmed in February 2015, and increased for long periods from November 2015 (4.2 cells cm−2) to December 2016 (2.3 × 105 cells cm−2) and from September 2017 (2.0 × 102 cells cm−2) to January 2019 (5.7 × 104 cells cm−2). Particles similar to chytrid zoosporangia were observed and attached to M. hardyi cells. However, the infection rate was low (up to 22.5%), and the infection did not seem to be a major lethal factor. We estimated that M. hardyi was introduced in the early 2000s by simple linear regression of abundance. This result indicates the existence of long time lag from introduction to detection. Moreover, as the propagule pressure to nearby water systems has been high, it is highly probable that M. hardyi has spread to other lakes and ponds via Lake Biwa. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Environmental factors that affect Aedes sp. mosquitoes should be considered to optimize control. The study assessed the association between the abundance of Aedes aegypti (L. 1762) (Diptera: Culicidae) and temperature, rainfall, and relative humidity of the State of Baja California Sur, Mexico. Total Mosquito eggs collected each week for 3 years from ovitraps at La Paz and Los Cabos was 3,129,203; mean number of eggs, ovitrap positivity index, and egg density index were calculated, showing the three entomological indices were greater at La Paz than at Los Cabos (P < 0.005). The means of eggs per month differed statistically only at La Paz (P < 0.0001), with less abundance in January and March but more in October. Although monthly differences were not detected from January to December at Los Cabos, increase occurred from September to November during the 3 years. Results showed statistical association between egg abundance and minimum temperature at both locations during the 3 years of study; more activity was observed during the summer and fall when more precipitation and thus greater relative humidity occurred, but they were statistically associated only with precipitation at La Paz (P < 0.01). The number of eggs was statistically significant with minimum temperatures at both locations (P < 0.01) and with rainfall only at La Paz (P < 0.01). Therefore, management should be more intense during winter-spring when insects were less abundant and hence management strategies used would be more effective. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

1. Species interactions in tightly bound ecological mutualisms often feature highly specialised species' roles in which competitive exclusion may preclude multi‐species coexistence. Among the 800 fig (Ficus) species, it was originally considered that each was pollinated by their own wasp (Agaonidae). However, recent investigations show that this 'one‐to‐one' rule often breaks down, as fig species regularly host multiple agaonids but in ways suggesting that competitive processes still mediate biodiversity outcomes. 2. A phenological survey was conducted of the fig–fig wasp pair, Ficus microcarpa and its associated pollinating wasp, alongside its sister species, the cheating wasp, in Xishuangbanna, China. 3. Reproductive output underwent extreme seasonal variation. Seed and pollinator production fell markedly during cooler, drier months, although high levels of fig production continued. However, this resource was predominantly utilised by the cheater species, which offers no pollination services. Pollinators and cheaters rarely co‐occur, suggesting that temporal coexistence is constrained by competition for access to figs. 4. The overall findings indicate periodic rearrangements of mutualism dynamics, probably resulting from a strongly seasonal environment. Sympatric co‐occurrence may result from a window of opportunity for a functionally divergent agaonid, potentially due to constraints on the main pollinator in adapting to variable year‐round conditions that prevent competitive exclusion. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Locomotor activity rhythms of Orchestia montagui and Orchestia gammarellus were investigated in populations collected from Bizerte lagoon banks. The locomotor rhythm of these two species was recorded in individual animals under continuous light and constant darkness over four seasons. Results revealed that the mortality was higher under continuous light than constant darkness. Whatever the season and species, a great variability of locomotor rhythm ranging from unimodal patterns to multimodal patterns via bimodal patterns was observed. In addition, double-plotted actograms obtained for the two species showed the presence of a clear drift to the right. This drift was more important under continuous light than constant darkness, lengthening thus the circadian period. Furthermore, the ultradian component was observed. Whatever the season, circadian rhythmicity was shorter under continuous light than constant darkness. Individuals of O. montagui were less active under continuous light than constant darkness whatever the season; whereas, those of O. gammarellus were more active under continuous light than constant darkness, especially in summer and autumn. The seasonal locomotor activity pattern variability of these sympatric species will be discussed as an adaptive strategy to cope with environmental conditions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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Theory predicts that within‐population differences in the pace‐of‐life can lead to cohort splitting and produce marked intraspecific variation in body size. Although many studies showed that body size is positively correlated with fitness, many argue that selection for the larger body is counterbalanced by opposing physiological and ecological selective mechanisms that favour smaller body. When a population split into cohorts with different paces of life (slow or fast cohort), one would expect to detect the fitness–size relationship among and within cohorts, that is, (a) slower‐developing cohort has larger body size and higher fitness than faster‐developing cohort, and (b) larger individuals within each cohort show higher fitness than smaller individuals. Here, we test these hypotheses in capture–mark–recapture field surveys that assess body size, lifespan, survival and lifetime mating success in two consecutive generations of a partially bivoltine aquatic insect, Coenagrion mercuriale, where the spring cohort is slower‐developing than the autumn cohort. As expected, body size was larger in the slow‐developing cohort, which is consistent with the temperature‐size rule and also with the duration of development. Body size seasonal variation was greater in slow‐developing cohort most likely because of the higher variation in age at maturity. Concordant with theory, survival probability, lifespan and lifetime mating success were higher in the slow‐developing cohort. Moreover, individual body size was positively correlated with survival and mating success in both cohorts. Our study confirms the fitness costs of fast pace‐of‐life and the benefits of larger body size to adult fitness. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

While fireflies are most renowned for their bioluminescent signals, several species also have been shown to possess UV and blue-induced fluorescence. In a field study, we used a sentinel prey approach to investigate whether this trait might serve as an aposematic function in chemically defended fireflies. We also examined and provide the first detailed description of green and red patterns of blue light-induced fluorescence in the adults and larvae of Ellychnia corrusca (L.) (Coleoptera: Lampyridae). We placed artificial prey models with and without fluorescent markings in a forested area of Belmont, Massachusetts, USA, where they were exposed to natural predators. Clay models were styled to resemble Photinus fireflies, the most common firefly genus in this area, and a close relative of Ellychnia. The field study was conducted from Oct through May in Belmont, Massachusetts; this is the period when adults of the diurnal non-luminescent firefly E. corrusca are overwintering on trees. We observed considerable seasonal variation in attack rates, and marks on the clay models indicated they were attacked by avian, mammal, and arthropod predators. However, no difference was seen between fluorescent and non-fluorescent models in predator attack rates. This suggests that fireflies' fluorescent markings do not serve as an aposematic signal, at least for the predator guild active in New England woodlands. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Few studies on the effects of rainy/dry cycle and interannual variation in parasites of Amazonian fish have been carried out. We investigated the influence of interannual variation and seasonality on the community structure and infracommunities of parasites in Hemibrycon surinamensis in a tributary of the Amazon River, in northern Brazil. Materials and methods: The fish were examined for the presence of ectoparasites and endoparasites. Results: In 2011, 9 parasite species were found (2 Protozoa, 2 Monogenea, 1 Digenea, 2 Nematoda and 2 Crustacea), and in 2016, 10 parasite species (3 Protozoa, 2 Monogenea, 1 Digenea, 3 Nematoda and 1 Pentastomida). No qualitative or quantitative dissimilarity in the component communities of parasites was observed between 2011 and 2016, but Brillouin Diversity Index, species richness and evenness were higher in 2016, while Berger–Parker dominance was higher in 2011. In both years, Ichthyophthirius multifiliis and Piscinoodinium pillulare were predominated. Some few species of parasites had interannual (P. pillulare and Genarchella genarchella) and seasonal (Trichodina sp., I. multifiliis, P. pillulare and J. hexops) variation patterns. Species richness of parasites was higher in the dry season, but Brillouin diversity, evenness and Berger–Parker dominance were similar between the seasons. Such seasonal variations were due to the host's the availability of infectious stages of parasites with direct life cycle. Conclusions: Variations due to seasonal dry/rainy cycle, which influenced the availability of infective stages of parasites, and host size are the factors causing the changes interannual. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To determine the causes of the variation in the seasonal dynamics of Harmonia axyridis (Pallas) in Central Europe, numbers of adults and larvae of this invasive species were recorded on trees (Acer, Betula, Tilia) throughout the growing seasons from 2011 to 2016. Each year beetles were collected every two weeks, using a standardized sweeping method. The seasonal dynamics was expressed as plots of abundance (number of individuals per 100 sweeps) against time (Julian day) and these plots (seasonal profiles) were compared in terms of their size (area under the seasonal profile curve), range, timing and height of the mode (maximum abundance). Timing and size of seasonal profiles varied among hostplants, years and sites. Abundance of larvae paralleled aphid occurrence and peak abundance of adults followed that of larvae 10 to 20 days later. Population dynamics before and after the peak were determined by dispersal. Adults arrived at sites before the start of aphid population growth and persisted there long after aphid populations collapsed. The abundance of H. axyridis decreased from 2011 to 2013 and then increased, achieving the previous levels recorded in 2015 and 2016. The variation in seasonal profiles revealed that H. axyridis, in terms of its response to environmental conditions, is a plastic species and this fl exibility is an important factor in its invasive success. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The life histories of ammonites and the life strategies they employed are difficult to assess without robust modern analogues but placing constraints on ammonite growth rates provides a fundamental first step to understanding this abundant, but poorly understood, fossil group. Here we interpret periodic variations in carbon and oxygen stable isotope profiles from Campanian and Maastrichtian ammonites (Baculites) as seasonally driven and use these records to determine their rate of shell precipitation. Several of these samples are housed in museums and were originally prepared using sealants for display and preservation but testing of these sealants indicated no alteration of the isotopic values of treated carbonate. Diagenetic alteration, as determined by shell microstructure, affected the preservation of isotopic signals, resulting in the loss of seasonal variation in less well‐preserved specimens, and the δ13C signal is more robust than δ18O. The periodicity of isotopic profiles from Baculites shells presented here suggest that these organisms grew at rapid rates (c. 340 mm per year), which may imply an r‐type life strategy in which the animals reach maturity quickly, spawn large quantities of progeny, and die at a young age. Because of the potential mobility of Baculites, reconstructing palaeoenvironmental conditions from these isotopic records is challenging and should be conducted cautiously. Unfortunately, well‐preserved Baculites shells much longer than 350 mm are rarely recovered, which complicates the statistical treatment of potential periodicity in isotopic profiles. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Although Cacopsylla pyri Forster and Cacopsylla pyricola Linnaeus have long been considered as more significant pests of pear trees around the world, Cacopsylla permixta Burckhardt and Hodkinson is the most significant pest in some parts of Iran, especially in pear gardens of Karaj. Current control strategies against this pest in Iran generally involve five or six insecticide treatments each year, despite unsatisfactory results are reported at many localities. So, it is crucial to know the most susceptible generation of the pest to apply a good strategy for its control. The aim of this study was to explore the seasonal variation in susceptibility of C. permixta to four commonly used insecticides. The results showed that winter forms (February) were 2.71‐fold, 4.58‐fold, 3.26 fold and 3.38‐fold more tolerant to diazinon, imidacloprid, acetamiprid and abamectin, respectively, compared with summer forms. Also, Esterase, GST and P450 monooxygenase activity was highest during February. Moreover, the content of lipid, carbohydrate, glycogen and protein was significantly higher in February compared with other months. Based on these results, the best period for insecticide treatment for efficient control is treatment against the first generation, at the time when eggs are laid by females as well as during the egg hatching and the larvae appearance. At this time of year, psylla are more susceptible, which would likely lead to better results and the reduction in damage during the next summer. However, further studies are needed to test this in farm settings, and to whether this holds true for other psylla species. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The diversity, similarity and seasonal variation of metazoan parasite communities in Calophysus macropterus in the Acre and Iaco rivers, in the western Amazon (Brazil), was investigated. Parasites from 13 taxa were collected from C. macropterus in both rivers: four species of monogeneans, four nematodes, two cestodes, one digenean, one crustacean and one pentastomid. In hosts from the Acre river, Cucullanus pinnai predominated; while in hosts in the Iaco river, Monticellia amazonica predominated. The component communities of the parasites among the hosts in the two rivers presented high similarity (100%). Prevalence of Alinema amazonicum was higher in hosts in the Acre river; while the prevalence of C. pinnai was higher in hosts in the Iaco river and the mean prevalence and abundance of M. amazonica were higher in fish from the Iaco river. Regarding C. macropterus from the Acre river, infection levels by A. amazonicum were higher during the rainy season, while Demidospermus pinirampi only occurred in the dry season and Procamallanus (Spirocamallanus) inopinatus only occurred in the rainy season. In hosts from the Iaco river, infections by larvae of Anisakidae gen. sp. were higher during the dry season, while infection by Rudolphiella piracatinga and Sebekia sp. only occurred in the rainy season. However, P. (S.) inopinatus, Ergasilus callophysus, Ameloblastella unapi, Demidospermus luckyi, Demidospermus macropteri and D. pinirampi only occurred in the dry season. High similarity of the component communities of the parasite was observed between the rainy and dry seasons. These results suggest that factors other than location and seasonality were influencing the communities and infracommunities of the parasites found. Lastly, C. macropterus is a new host for almost 50% of the parasite species found. In addition, the results from the present study have expanded the geographical range of these 13 species of parasites to the western Amazon region. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

For honey bees (Apis mellifera), colony maintenance and growth are highly dependent on worker foragers obtaining sufficient resources from flowering plants year round. Despite the importance of floral diversity for proper bee nutrition, urban development has drastically altered resource availability and diversity for these important pollinators. Therefore, understanding the floral resources foraged by bees in urbanized areas is key to identifying and promoting plants that enhance colony health in those environments. In this study, we identified the pollen foraged by bees in four developed areas of the U.S., and explored whether there were spatial or temporal differences in the types of floral sources of pollen used by honey bees in these landscapes. To do this, pollen was collected every month for up to one year from colonies located in developed (urban and suburban) sites in California, Texas, Florida, and Michigan, except during months of pollen dearth or winter. Homogenized pollen samples were acetolyzed and identified microscopically to the lowest taxonomic level possible. Once identified, each pollen type was classified into a frequency category based on its overall relative abundance. Species richness and diversity indices were also calculated and compared across states and seasons. We identified up to 64 pollen types belonging to 39 plant families in one season (California). Species richness was highest in CA and lowest in TX, and was highest during spring in every state. In particular, “predominant” and “secondary” pollen types belonged to the families Arecaceae, Sapindaceae, Anacardiaceae, Apiaceae, Asteraceae, Brassicaceae, Fabaceae, Fagaceae, Lythraceae, Myrtaceae, Rhamnaceae, Rosaceae, Rutaceae, Saliaceae, and Ulmaceae. This study will help broaden our understanding of honey bee foraging ecology and nutrition in urban environments, and will help promote the use of plants that serve the dual purpose of providing aesthetic value and nutritious forage for honey bee colonies placed in developed landscapes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article focuses on migration behavior of the cotton bollworm, Helicoverpa armigera (Hübner)(Lepidoptera: Noctuidae). Topics discussed include morphology, flight capability, and reproductive performance, Northward H. armigera migrants thus possess an advantageous morphologythat benefits habitat colonization and resource exploitation, and aerobiology.

General insights in sexual selection can be enhanced by the addition of data from under-studied species. Understanding the natural history of these species is acritical first step. Here, we report detailed field observations of Tetragnatha straminea Emerton, 1884, a long-jawed orb weaver common in riparian meadows. Relatively little is known about this spider, in which the elongate chelicerae of males lock with those of females during copulation. We assessed courtship, mate-guarding, intrasexual competition and predictors of female receptivity to mating. As inter-sexual fang-lock is critical to successful mating, we also examined male and female cheliceral allometry. Finally, we observed patterns of aggregative clustering during peak-mating periods, as this may indicate elevated levels of intra-sexual aggression. Overall, females were polyandrous, and it was not possible to predict female receptivity based on the number of males present or female aggressive behavior towards males. Courtship was not evident prior to mating attempts, although some males remained in close proximity to females for extended periods. Towards the middle-to-end of the mating season, multiple females would aggregate in clusters, where elevated intra-sexual aggression and frequent copulations occurred. Our observations suggested that fang-lock clasping may be important in intra-sexual agonistic interactions as well as mating, particularly during mid-season web aggregations. Consistent with this, morphological data suggest a trend towards larger chelicerae in males rather than females. Tetragnatha straminea may be ideal for testing hypotheses regarding effects of seasonal variation in sexual selection, and the evolution of structures that serve more than one sexually-selected function. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Biomarkers (CAT, SOD, GPx, and AChE) were investigated in hepatopancreas and soft tissues of mussels (Mytilus galloprovincialis) and clams (Tapes decussatus) in response to metal and pesticide pollutions in Homa Lagoon. Mussel and clam samples were seasonally collected in January, May, August and November 2015. According to the results, higher metal concentrations determined in the soft tissues of both species in January. Hepatopancreas was found to accumulate higher levels of metals than soft tissue. Metal deposition potential in clams were higher than mussels. Pesticide levels were below detection limits in clams. In mussels, only 4,4′-DDE was detected in soft tissues and hepatopancreas in November. Highest AChE, CAT, SOD and GPx activities in mussels were determined in January. On the other hand, maximum AChE and CAT activities in clams were found in November. Seasonal variations of metals and biomarker levels might be related to species-specific physiology and environmental conditions. Highlights • Seasonal variations of biomarker responses to metals and pesticides levels investigated in mussel and clam. • Maximum AChE, CAT, SOD and GPx activities in mussels were found in January. • Maximum AChE and CAT activities in clams were detected in November. • Highest metal concentrations were generally observed in January. • Only 4,4′-DDE was found in mussels. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Seasonal changes in the epiphyte flora of an invasive species, Codium fragile subsp. fragile (Suringar) Hariot 1889, along the coast of the Çanakkale Strait (Dardanelles) are reported. Samples were collected between December 2011 and November 2012 from depths of 0-1 m. The whole thallus was examined for epiphytes and 48 taxa epiphytes were identified (27 taxa Rhodophyta, 7 taxa Ochrophyta and 14 taxa Chlorophyta). The most common epiphytes were Ceramiales (Rhodophyta), Ectocarpales (Ochrophyta) and Ulvales (Chlorophyta) in this order. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Oak wilt is a lethal disease caused by the invasive fungus Bretziella fagacearum, which is transmitted belowground via root grafts and aboveground by sap beetles (Nitidulidae). Attempts to limit spread and impact of B. fagacearum emphasize limiting harvesting and pruning to periods of vector inactivity. However, there is limited information on sap beetle activity periods, responses to temperature, and phoresy frequencies of fungi. We sampled two major vectors in Wisconsin, Colopterus truncatus and Carpophilus sayi, for 2 yr to quantify their seasonal and geographic abundances. Trapping was performed in 12 oak stands, and beetles were assayed for B. fagacearum. C. truncatus was captured from March until November, peaking during April and May. C. sayi was captured from April until November, peaking in May and July. Relative abundances (N = 15,980) were 59.3% C. truncatus and 40.7% C. sayi. C. sayi was more abundant in southern Wisconsin, whereas C. truncatus was more evenly distributed. Both species were present at asymptomatic sites. All sites with oak wilt centers yielded beetles with viable fungal propagules, with the frequency of association ranging from 1 to 50%. Sites asymptomatic for oak wilt contained both beetle species, but no vector-borne viable pathogen. Degree-day models were constructed to improve the generality of these results and estimate cumulative emergences across a latitudinal range over the previous 10-yr means and extremes. Because activity by C. truncatus and C. sayi spans the seasonal activities of oak wilt vectors, these results can help guide oak management practices. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The brown planthopper Nilaparvata lugens (Stål) (Hemiptera: Delphacidae) is a major, regionally migratory pest of rice crops in Asia. Despite intensive studies, the seasonal pattern of migration in this species remains largely unknown, especially in northern China. Analysis of monitoring data of light trapping at Beihuang island in northern China showed that brown planthopper migrants could be found at the island in any month from July to October. However, the daily number of brown planthopper migrants varied considerably from day to day, month to month, and year to year. Most of migrants were caught from July to September, with fewer in October. Simulation of backward trajectories showed that there was temporal variation in the source areas of brown planthopper migrants trapped at Beihuang. A majority of migrants trapped at Beihuang in July came from south of Beihuang. In contrast, migrants caught in August and September could be from any direction around the island. Results suggested that the brown planthopper migrants likely traveled northward in July, and Multidirectionally in August and September in northern China. Some of brown planthopper in northeastern China could escape the 'Pied Piper effect' and migrate southward in September. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We studied quantitatively the seasonal variation in prevalence, parasite load, and mean intensity of two species of ectoparasites in free ranging populations of Kuhl's bat, Pipistrellus kuhlii in western Iran. In total, 348 live bats (230 males and 118 females) were collected using mist net during May to November 2013. All bats identified as to sex and the number of ectoparasite species in each bat was counted. On 348 P. kuhlii captured, 5355 ectoparasites were observed. Two species of ectoparasites belonging to Argas vespertilionis (Argasidae) and Steatonyssus sp. (Macronyssidae) were identified. In late May and at the beginning of June, the peaks of ectoparasite load in bats were recorded and then dropped during June to November. The number of ectoparasites in pregnant female bats in May-June during pregnancy was significantly higher than non-pregnant females (p = 0.05). A significant correlation was found between ectoparasite load and the ratio of body mass to the length of forearm (W/FA), as an index of body condition, indicating that parasite load has apparent impact on bat's health. Our findings indicated that parasite loads correlate with season, sex and reproductive condition of the host. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: The aim of this work was to study the distribution of Phlebotominae (Diptera: Psycodidade) abundance in time and space in an area in northeastern Argentina with vector transmission of visceral and tegumentary leishmaniasis. For this, 51 households were selected using a ‘worst scenario’ criterion where one light trap was set during two consecutive nights in peridomiciles in the transitions between the four seasons, and the environment was surveyed simultaneously. The relationships of phlebotomine assemblage structure and the most abundant species with seasonality and environmental variables were evaluated using a canonical correspondence analysis and generalized linear mixed models, respectively. A total of 5110 individuals were captured. Lutzomyia longipalpis (Lutz & Neiva, 1912) and Nyssomyia whitmani (Antunes & Coutinho, 1939) were the most abundant species captured in all samplings (98.3% of the total capture). The period of highest abundance of Lu. longipalpis was early autumn, and it was distributed in the most urbanized areas. Nyssomyia whitmani occupied mainly the less urbanized areas, showing peaks of abundance in early spring and summer. Other species were captured in low numbers and showed seasonal−spatial variations similar to those of Ny. whitmani. We confirmed Leishmania spp. vector persistence throughout the year in spatial patches of high abundance even during the less favorable season. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Seasonal distribution and abundance of four species of earthworms belonging to three families-Rhinodrilidae (Pontoscolex corethrurus), Megascolecidae (Megascolex konkanensis and Metaphire houlleti) and Octochaetidae (Karmiella karnatakensis)-were studied in three habitats (residential, agricultural and forest) along with edaphic factors around Udupi Power Corporation Limited (UPCL), Karnataka, India between September 2014 and August 2016. Among the four species, P. corethrurus was collected throughout the year and was most abundant in residential habitats such as colacasia garden, coconut and banana pits. M. konkanensis was collected from coconut plantations, banana plantations and forest soil during monsoon and post-monsoon periods. M. houlleti was collected from manure heaps, coconut and banana pits of residential habitat, coconut plantations and forest soil. K. karnatakensis was collected from garden soil in residential habitat during the post-monsoon period, coconut plantations and soil mixed with forest leaf litter during monsoon and post-monsoon periods. The soil temperature differ significantly during different seasons in residential (P= 0.01) and agricultural (P=0.03) habitats whereas moisture shows highly significant difference in agricultural habitat (P=0.00037) during different seasons. P. corethrurus showed positive correlation with organic carbon during pre-monsoon and C/N ratio during monsoon in the residential habitat. It shows negative correlation with pH during the monsoon period. M. houlleti showed positive correlation with organic carbon in residential habitat during the pre-monsoon and in forest habitat during monsoon periods. M. konkanensis showed positive correlation with electrical conductivity in agricultural habitats during monsoon period. K. karnatakensis showed positive correlation with moisture during monsoon and with C/N ratio during post-monsoon period in forest habitats. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Based on previous investigations, adult Australian plague locusts are believed to migrate on warm nights (with evening temperatures >25 °C), provided daytime flight is suppressed by surface winds greater than the locusts' flight speed, which has been shown to be 3.1 m s. Moreover, adult locusts are believed to undertake briefer 'dispersal' flights on nights with evening temperature >20 °C. To reassess the utility of these conditions for forecasting locust flight, contingency tests were conducted comparing the nights selected on these bases (predicted nights) for the months of November, January, and March and the nights when locust migration were detected with an insect monitoring radar (actual nights) over a 7-year period. In addition, the wind direction distributions and mean wind directions on all predicted nights and actual nights were compared. Observations at around 395 m above ground level (AGL), the height at which radar observations have shown that the greatest number of locusts fly, were used to determine the actual nights. Tests and comparisons were also made for a second height, 990 m AGL, as this was used in the previous investigation. Our analysis shows that the proposed criteria are successful from predicting migratory flight only in March, when the surface temperature is effective as a predicting factor. Surface wind speed has no predicting power. It is suggested that a strong daytime surface wind speed requirement should not be considered and other meteorological variables need to be added to the requirement of a warm surface temperature around dusk for the predictions to have much utility. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Blackflies are an important medical and veterinary group of small blood-sucking insects. Ninety-three blackfly species have been reported in Thailand. However, information on their biodiversity and population dynamics in each region is lacking. The main aim of this study was to assess the regional biodiversity, seasonal abundance and distribution of blackflies in six eco-geographically different regions in the country. Methods: Blackfly larvae and pupae were sampled monthly from 58 sites between May 2011 and April 2013. Diversity parameters, seasonal abundance, regional distribution and frequency of species occurrence in stream sites were analyzed. Results: A total of 19,456 mature larvae representing 57 species, and belonging to six subgenera in the genus Simulium Latreille (s.l.), were found. The five predominant taxa were S. fenestratum (8.6%), the S. asakoae complex (8.3%), S. nakhonense (7.5%), the S. siamense complex (7.4%) and the S. doipuiense complex (6.7%). The most frequent taxa at all sites were the S. asakoae complex (84.5%), followed by S. fenestratum (82.8%), the S. siamense complex (75.9%), S. decuplum (60.3%), S. nakhonense (58.6%) and the S. tani complex (48.3%). The richness of regional species was highest (40 species) in the north and predominated in the cold season. However, blackflies in the south predominated during the hot season. The highest numbers of blackflies collected from central, northeastern, eastern and western regions of the country were observed in the rainy season. Overall, the mean number of blackflies collected across the six regions during the rainy and cold season had no statistically significant difference, but it differed significantly in the hot season. Conclusions: Blackflies in Thailand were surveyed in all three seasons across six geographical regions. These findings demonstrated that blackfly communities at each stream site varied with seasonality, and the regional relative abundance of blackflies differed markedly in the hot season. It was also found that the occurrence and distribution of blackflies in each region were associated strongly with elevation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We examined seasonal prevalence in avian haemosporidians ( Plasmodium and Haemoproteus) in migrant and resident birds in western Himalaya, India. We investigated how infection with haemosporidians in avian hosts is associated with temporal changes in temperature and mosquito abundance along with host abundance and life-history traits (body mass). Using molecular methods for parasite detection and sequencing partial cytochrome b gene, 12 Plasmodium and 27 Haemoproteus lineages were isolated. Our 1-year study from December 2008 to December 2009 in tropical Himalayan foothills revealed a lack of seasonal variation in Plasmodium spp. prevalence in birds despite a strong correlation between mosquito abundance and temperature. The probability of infection with Plasmodium decreased with increase in temperature. Total parasite prevalence and specifically Plasmodium prevalence showed an increase with average avian body mass. In addition, total prevalence exhibited a U-shaped relationship with avian host abundance. There was no difference in prevalence of Plasmodium spp. or Haemoproteus spp. across altitudes; parasite prevalence in high-altitude locations was mainly driven by the seasonal migrants. One Haemoproteus lineage showed cross-species infections between migrant and resident birds. This is the first molecular study in the tropical Himalayan bird community that emphasizes the importance of studying seasonal variation in parasite prevalence. Our study provides a basis for further evolutionary study on the epidemiology of avian malaria and spread of disease across Himalayan bird communities, which may not have been exposed to vectors and parasites throughout the year, with consequential implications to the risk of infection to naïve resident birds in high altitude. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Insecticide resistance is the major emerging challenge facing the malaria vector control programmes in Tanzania. Proper monitoring and detection is of paramount importance guiding the vector control programmes. This paper presents the effect of mosquito aging on insecticide resistance status in Anopheles arabiensis populations in dry and rainy seasons in northern Tanzania. Methods: Anopheles gambiae s.l. larvae were sampled from rice fields in both dry and rainy seasons and reared in the insectary to adults. The emerged females in batches of 2, 3, 5, and 10 days old were exposed to six insecticides (deltamethrin, permethrin, lambda-cyhalothrin, DDT, bendiocarb and pirimiphos-methyl) to see the effects of age on insecticide resistance. Mosquitoes were exposed to insecticides using WHO standard susceptibility test kits. Knockdown was recorded during the 1-h exposure, while mortality and resistance ratio were recorded 24 h later. Mosquito specimens were identified to species level using the polymerase chain reaction (PCR) method. Results: Among the 326 specimens processed by PCR, 323 (99.1%) were identified as Anopheles arabiensis. There was reduced mortality (ranging from 61 to 97.7%) when adults reared from larvae were exposed to all pyrethroids and bendiocarb in both dry and rainy seasons, while they were fully susceptible to DDT and pirimiphos-methyl. There was a significant increase in mortality rate with increase in mosquito's age in both dry and rainy seasons following exposure to pyrethroids (DF = 1, P < 0.05). Mosquitoes showed significantly higher mortality rates in the rainy season than in the dry season after being exposed to pyrethroids (DF = 1, P < 0.05). Higher mortality rates (94.0-99.8%) were observed in all ages and seasons when mosquitoes were exposed to bendiocarb compared with pyrethroids. Pirimiphos-methyl was only tested in the rainy season so no comparison with dry season mosquitoes could be made. Conclusions: Results showed that An. arabiensis were resistant to pyrethroids in both seasons and that the young age groups exhibited higher levels of resistance compared with the older age groups. Mosquitoes were full susceptible to DDT and pirimiphos-methyl irrespective of the season and age. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Records of selected species of Lepidoptera from the Scottish Vice-counties of Stirlingshire (VC 86), West Perthshire (VC 87) and Dunbartonshire (VC 99) are updated and reviewed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Dermacentor reticulatus is a tick species of high medical and veterinary importance, emerging in several parts of Europe. Up to now most studies focusing on zoonotic rickettsiae in D. reticulatus were based on ticks collected in a limited part of the questing period, and did not take into account the potential seasonal variations in the rate of infection with tick-borne rickettsiae. The aim of the present study was to investigate the latter phenomenon, i.e. to screen D. reticulatus adults, collected monthly in two urban habitats of Budapest, for the presence of three zoonotic Rickettsia spp. Altogether 852 D. reticulatus adults were collected, which showed significantly similar seasonal activity in the two evaluated habitats. Among the 413 molecularly analysed ticks, R. helvetica-infected D. reticulatus were only collected during autumn in habitat-1, in contrast to habitat-2. The overall prevalence of R. raoultii in D. reticulatus adults was significantly higher in habitat-1 than in habitat-2. In addition, the seasonal distribution of R. raoultii-infected ticks was different between the two habitats (in habitat-2 significantly more R. raoultii-infected ticks were collected in the autumn, in comparison with winter and spring). Rickettsia slovaca was not detected in any of the molecularly analysed ticks. The results clearly indicate that a single-time or seasonally biased collection of D. reticulatus adults and their subsequent molecular analysis may not be informative on the real prevalence of rickettsiae. This is because the availability/ activity of infected ticks shows significant seasonal fluctuations, both within and between habitats. Instead, for screening D. reticulatus-borne rickettsiae, it is important to collect monthly samples and then to assess seasonal prevalence and actual habitat-associated eco-epidemiological risks. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The composition of water bug communities from 32 springs located in the central part of Montenegro was investigated. Twenty five species were identified, including 13 reported as new to Montenegro. The most common species were Hydrometra stagnorum and Velia sp. (Gerromorpha). Our study in the central part of Montenegro revealed that environmental and faunistic classification of karstic springs based on water bug communities may not correspond with each other. According to environmental characteristics, springs were divided into three groups indicating anthropogenic impact on the spring habitats. Water bug communities divided springs into four groups. There are differences in species richness between these four types of water bug assemblages and among the studied spring types. Results of CCA analysis revealed spring size as the main driver of biotic diversity of aquatic bugs in springs. Our study showed that community groups of water bugs specified in the biotic classification of spring habitats are much better defined than assemblages distinguished in the environmental site classification. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The white-backed planthopper, Sogatella furcifera (Horváth), is a destructive migratory pest in east and southeast Asia. Huge populations stemming from annual migrations by this insect have caused a series of devastating losses to rice production. There have been numerous early immigrations in five of the past 10 yr but few early immigrations in the others. The annual fluctuation in early immigration is evident, but the mechanism behind these annual fluctuations is unclear. This research aimed to determine the underlying causes for the annual fluctuations in early immigration. We used trajectory analysis to explore the source areas and investigated the meteorological conditions to determine the reason for the annual fluctuations. The results showed that 1) the source areas of S. furcifera are mainly located west of Guangdong and east of Guangxi; 2) the annual fluctuations of the immigrant population size is significantly correlated with the frequency of prevailing winds; and 3) early immigration is influenced by both winter and spring temperatures in the south central Indochina peninsula. These results indicated that an allopatric prediction and sustainable management of rice planthoppers would be difficult to implement within one country. International cooperation and information exchange about this pest between China and other countries in Southeast Asia should be implemented. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Para evaluar la riqueza, abundancia y distribución estacional de los coleópteros escarabaeoideos establecidos en los bosques tropicales de la Reserva de la Biosfera de Calakmul, Campeche, se realizaron colectas de junio de 2012 a diciembre de 2013. Se obtuvieron 1,212 ejemplares que representan a 37 géneros y 62 especies de Melolonthinae, Rutelinae, Dynastinae, Cetoniinae, Scarabaeinae, Ceratocanthinae, Trogidae, y Passalidae, 30 de las cuales se registran por primera vez para el estado de Campeche. Se encontraron cinco especies de Phyllophaga entre las que predominó Ph. pallidicornis. Las especies más abundantes fueron Canthon vazquezae (28.3%), C. cyanellus (17.1%), Phyllophaga pallidicornis (11.9%), Enema endymion (7.8%), Megasoma elephas (3.2%), y Gymnetis chevrolat (2.7%). La fenología de las 62 especies abarca casi todo el año, pero la mayor abundancia ocurre entre mayo y agosto. La fauna de Calakmul tiene mayor similitud con la de Tzucacab-Conkal, Yucatán (fito-saprófagos), y Los Tuxtlas, Veracruz (copro-necrófagos). Species richness, abundance, and seasonal distribution of Coleoptera Scarabaeoidea were evaluated in the tropical forests located at Biosphere Reserve of Calakmul, Campeche, Mexico, from June 2012 to December 2013, by means of diurnal and nocturnal collections. One-thousand, two-hundred twelve specimens were obtained, representing 35 genera and 62 species of Melolonthinae, Rutelinae, Dynastinae, Cetoniinae, Scarabaeinae, Ceratocanthinae, Trogidae, y Passalidae of those 30 species are recorded for the first time for the state of Campeche. The richest genus was Phyllophaga with five species. The dominant species were Canthon vazquezae (28.3%), C. cyanellus (17.1%), Phyllophaga pallidicornis (11.9%), Enema endymion (7.8%), Megasoma elephas (3.2%), and Gymnetis chevolat (2.7%). The adult activities of 62 species were recorded during the complete year, but greatest abundance occurred during May to August. Scarab fauna of Calakmul is similar to that found at Tzucacab-Conkal, Yucatan (phytosaprophagous), and with Los Tuxtlas, Veracruz (copro-necrophagous) biosphere reserves of Mexico. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The invasive brown marmorated stink bug, Halyomorpha halys (Stål) (Heteroptera: Penatomidae), is a major pest of agricultural crops in the Mid-Atlantic States. Here we report the seasonal abundance, host preference, and injury potential of H. halys on tomato, bell pepper, green bean, sweet corn, eggplant, and okra in a small-scale, diversified vegetable farm setting. Life-stage densities, feeding injury, and crop phenology were monitored throughout the growing season in each crop. Populations consisted of both overwintered adults and F1 progeny and encompassed almost two generations over the growing season. H. halys preferred host plants with reproductive structures for feeding and was more abundant and capable to reproduce on vegetable crops that had extended periods of fruiting. Sweet corn, okra, and bell pepper had significant higher abundances of adults and nymphs compared with green bean, eggplant, and tomato. Results showed significant differences in the reproductive suitability of the host plants, as evident by the relative proportion of nymphal stages to adults. Eggplant, okra, and bell pepper were the most suitable host plants for reproduction and development, as evident by higher proportions of nymphs, with abundance trends indicating progressive development to adult eclosion. Crop loss potential due to H. halys feeding injury varied significantly among vegetable host plants. Sweet corn, okra, bell pepper, and tomato were very susceptible and experienced the highest injury rate per stink bug. The implications of these findings with respect to sampling and management of H. halys in vegetable production are discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We report the results of a large-scale (six orchards) and long-term (5-yr) study on seasonal population fluctuations of fruit flies (Diptera Tephritidae) in mango (2005–2009) and cashew (2007–2009) orchards in the Borgou Department, Benin. During the five consecutive years of mango fruit fly monitoring, 25 tephritid species were captured including three species of Bactrocera, 11 of Ceratitis, and 11 of Dacus, which is represented by 2,138,150 specimens in mango orchards. We observed significant differences in Bactrocera dorsalis (Hendel) counts between "high" and "low" mango production years from 2005 to 2008 but not in Ceratitis cosyra (Walker) counts. The native species, C. cosyra, the most abundant species during the dry season, peaked beginning of May, while the exotic species, B. dorsalis, the most abundant species during the rainy season, peaked in June. Preliminary results underlined the role of nine species of wild hosts and seven species of cultivated ones around mango orchards that played an important role in maintaining B. dorsalis in this Sudan zone all year round. The presence of C. cosyra stretched over 9 mo. During the first 14 wk of tephritid monitoring on cashew orchards situated near mango orchards, most flies (62%) were captured in traps positioned in cashew orchards, showing the strong interest of an early fly control on cashew before the mango season. According to these results, in the Sudan zone, effective and compatible control methods as proposed by the IPM package validated by the West African Fruit Fly Initiative project against mango fruit flies are proposed for a large regional tephritid control program in same zones ofWest Africa. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The black cutworm, Agrotis ipsilon (L.) (Hufnagel), is a worldwide pest infesting >30 crops. Previous studies on its migration in East Asia have been mostly carried out in the regions where it could safely overwinter; however, it's still unknown what pattern of seasonal migration this species exhibits across different climate zones (i.e., in north of East Asia). Our study determines combination of searchlight trapping and ovarian dissection on a small island in the center of the Bohai Strait during 2003-2014, providing direct evidence that A. ipsilon undertakes regular migration across the sea every year. The results of ovarian dissection indicated that the ovarian developmental level, the proportion of sexually mature females, mating rate, mating frequency, and sex ratio decreased from spring to autumn. Some degrees of ovarian development and relatively higher proportion of mated females suggest that A. ipsilon is not completely bound by "oogenesis-flight syndrome" and "autumn reproductive diapause." The results of population dynamics, ovarian development level, and mating rate showed three different types of periods--1 May to 2 July, 14 July to 3 September, and 4 September to 25 October--for the migration of A. ipsilon. Our results may be fruitful for improving the forecasting system of A. ipsilon. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The richness and abundance of ground-dwelling arthropods were investigated by a space-for-time substitution approach from spring to autumn of 2012 in the Hexi Corridor region, Gansu Province, to understand the effects of grassland salinization on the temporal distribution of the ground-dwelling arthropod community. The results showed that: 1) grassland salinization had a serious damage to the ground-dwelling arthropod community. The magnitude of the decrease was spring > summer > autumn, resulting in obvious change on seasonal distribution pattern of the ground-dwelling arthropod community; 2) the abundance of predators, herbivores and decomposers decreased significantly in all three seasons with salinization development, with greater effects in spring than in summer and autumn; 3) with salinization development, the most abundant taxon was Formicidae. However, the second dominant family changed over the time of the study. For example, in the lightly salinized grassland, the second dominant families were Lycosidae in spring and autumn, they were gradually replaced by Tenebrionidae in spring and Gnaphosidae in autumn in the severely salinized grassland; and 4) changes in the ground-dwelling arthropod community were largely related to changes in the physical environment and resource availability during the process of grassland salinization. Our results suggest that plant density, vegetation cover and fine particles content played important roles in structuring the ground-dwelling arthropods during the process of grassland salinization. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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The accepted normal range of the funereal duskywing skipper, Erynnis funeralis (Hesperiidae), is generally considered to be the southwestern United States, Mexico, Central America, and western South America from Colombia to northern Argentina and Chile. According to various records, however, adult funeralis have been observed in a variety of locations throughout the eastern half of central North America, sometimes thousands of kilometers outside its accepted range. These individuals are usually conceptualized as non-reproductive strays, but different lines of evidence (e.g. the observations of both males and females, the fresh condition of most adults, the recurrence of observations in the same locations at similar times of year in different years) suggest that funeralis regularly establishes seasonal breeding populations in the eastern half of central North America. To test this hypothesis, I examined reports of observations of funeralis throughout this region for evidence of 1) regular as opposed to random presence in the East, 2) eastern as opposed to western eclosion, 3) regular as opposed to random expansion throughout the East, and 4) reproductive activity. The results revealed evidence of all four phenomena. Consequently, I concluded that instead of being conceptualized as an irregular, non-reproducing stray, funeralis should be conceptualized as a regular seasonal immigrant that establishes temporary breeding populations in the eastern half of central North America during the warmer months of the year. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A study spanning 3.7 years on the butterflies of Gibbon Wildlife Sanctuary GWS (21km2), a semi-evergreen forest, in Jorhat District of Assam, northeastern India revealed 211 species of butterflies belonging to 115 genera including 19 papilionids and seven 'rare' and 'very rare' species as per Evans list of the Indian sub-continent (Great Blue Mime Papilio paradoxa telearchus; Brown Forest BobScobura woolletti; Snowy Angle Darpa pteria dealbatahas; Constable Dichorragia nesimachus; Grey Baron Euthalia anosia anosia; Sylhet Oakblue Arhopala silhetensis; Branded Yamfly Yasoda tripunctata). The butterflies showed a strong seasonality pattern in this forest with only one significant peak during the post monsoon (September-October) when 118 species were in flight inside the forest which slowly declined to 92 species in November-December. Another peak (102 species) was visible after winter from March to April. Species composition showed least similarity between pre-monsoon (March-May) and post-monsoon (October-November) seasons. The number of papilionid species were greater from July to December as compared from January to June. The findings of this study suggest that the pattern of seasonality in a semi-evergreen forest in northeastern India is distinct from that of the sub-tropical lowland forest in the Himalaya. Favourable logistics and rich diversity in GWS points to its rich potential in promoting 'butterfly inclusive ecotourism' in this remnant forest. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Blowflies are insects of forensic interest as they may indicate characteristics of the environment where a body has been laying prior to the discovery. In order to estimate changes in community related to landscape and to assess if blowfly species can be used as indicators of the landscape where a corpse has been decaying, we studied the blowfly community and how it is affected by landscape in a 7,000 km2 region during a whole year. Using baited traps deployed monthly we collected 28,507 individuals of 10 calliphorid species, 7 of them well represented and distributed in the study area. Multiple Analysis of Variance found changes in abundance between seasons in the 7 analyzed species, and changes related to land use in 4 of them (Calliphora vomitoria, Lucilia ampullacea, L. caesar and L. illustris). Generalised Linear Model analyses of abundance of these species compared with landscape descriptors at different scales found only a clear significant relationship between summer abundance of C. vomitoria and distance to urban areas and degree of urbanisation. This relationship explained more deviance when considering the landscape composition at larger geographical scales (up to 2,500 m around sampling site). For the other species, no clear relationship between land uses and abundance was found, and therefore observed changes in their abundance patterns could be the result of other variables, probably small changes in temperature. Our results suggest that blowfly community composition cannot be used to infer in what kind of landscape a corpse has decayed, at least in highly fragmented habitats, the only exception being the summer abundance of C. vomitoria. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The life cycle of Amblyomma dubitatum was described based on the seasonal distribution of all parasitic stages and the development periods of engorged ticks under different conditions of photoperiod and temperature. All stages were found active along the entire year in the study area. Larvae peaked from May to July, nymphs peaked from July to October, and females peaked from November to March. This pattern represents a life cycle with one generation per year with most of the ticks reaching adulthood during the warmest months. The analysis of the effect of the photoperiod on the development of A. dubitatum showed no indication of morphogenetic diapause. Exposure of ticks to field conditions indicates a delay in metamorphosis of immature stages, in the oviposition of females and in the incubation of eggs, which were associated with low winter temperatures. The results indicate that though A. dubitatum has a one year life cycle, more than one cohort can co-exist within the same population in a certain interval of time. Finally, the potential role of small rodents as hosts for larvae and nymphs of A. dubitatum is confirmed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]