Abstract The corn cropping system can influence the natural enemy identity and the number of Spodoptera frugiperda J.E. Smith, 1797 (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae) individuals infesting the cartridge, ear and stem of this plant. The objectives were to identify the S. frugiperda natural enemies and differences in the number of individuals infesting the cartridge, ear and stem of corn plants under conventional and organic cropping systems, in Brazil after an initial collection of adult males through semiochemical traps. We also evaluated key morphometrical parameters of the larva and factors contributing with the viability of S. frugiperda. A total of 16 and 136 adult males was trapped, and 1,124 and 1,112 larvae was recovered from conventional and organic systems with 4.7 and 6.7% of them parasitized by dipteran and hymenopteran, respectively. Most of the parasitoids recovered had occurrence in both cropping systems, except Cremastinae and Ophion flavidus Brullé, 1846 (Hymenoptera: Ichneumonidae), which were recorded only in organic and Campoletis sp. (Hymenoptera: Ichneumonidae) only in conventional corns. The number of parasitoids recovered was similar in corn plant samples between both cropping systems. A total of 152 and 31 larvae was recovered from corn ears under conventional and organic systems, respectively. Doru luteipes (Scudder, 1876) (Dermaptera: Forficulidae) was recovered from all samples under conventional system. The larva length was overall similar between cropping systems. Parasitism by dipteran and hymenopteran, infection by microorganisms, larva mortality by undetermined causes, and differences in viability of S. frugiperda stages were factors contributing with the supression of this pest. The new associations and parasitoids reported represent possibilities of expanding the biological control strategies to manage S. frugiperda in corn crops.

Abstract: An essential topic in ecology is to understand how the structure of the habitat and its changes in space and time (i. e., habitat heterogeneity) affect the frequency and interactions between cohabiting species. Here, we assessed the effect of the biotic and abiotic components that configure the microhabitat heterogeneity and its temporal shifts (dry and rainy seasons), on the frequency (total and by sex) of two congeneric species, Peromyscus difficilis and P. melanotis, that co-occurs in a temperate forest of Central Mexico. To address this, an experimental plot composed of 120 sampling stations was placed within a temperate forest in the National Park Desierto de los Leones, Mexico City. In each sampling station, we set Sherman traps to capture mice of two syntopic Peromyscus, and we also evaluated six variables related to the spatial heterogeneity of the habitat during two rainy seasons. Our results revealed differential effects of habitat heterogeneity on the frequency of each species. Moreover, habitat heterogeneity also had a different effect on male and female frequencies of each Peromyscus species. While P. difficilis was captured more frequently in sampling stations with high presence and coverage of logs in the soil, P. melanotis was regularly captured in sampling stations with high vegetation cover and plant species richness. Thus, it seems that the different requirements and habitat preferences of these two Peromyscus species facilitate their spatial and temporal coexistence in this mid-latitude temperate forest. In general, we provide evidence of the importance of studying the heterogeneity of the habitat to better understand the interactions between syntopic species, offering new insights into the spatial and temporal mechanisms that could determine its coexistence at local scale.

Resumen: Un tema fundamental en ecología, es comprender cómo la estructura del hábitat y sus cambios en el espacio y tiempo (i. e., heterogeneidad del hábitat) afectan la frecuencia y las interacciones entre especies que cohabitan. En este estudio, evaluamos el efecto de los componentes bióticos y abióticos que configuran la heterogeneidad del microhábitat y sus cambios temporales (temporada seca y lluviosa), sobre la frecuencia (total y por sexo) de dos especies congenéricas, Peromyscus difficilis y P. melanotis, que ocurren en un bosque templado del centro de México. Para este fin, una parcela experimental compuesta por 120 estaciones de muestreo fue colocada dentro un bosque templado en el Parque Nacional Desierto de los Leones, Ciudad de México. En cada estación de muestreo, colocamos trampas Sherman para capturar ratones de los dos Peromyscus sintópicos, y también evaluamos seis variables relacionadas a la heterogeneidad espacial del hábitat durante dos temporadas lluviosas. Nuestros resultados revelaron efectos diferenciales de la heterogeneidad de hábitat sobre la frecuencia de cada especie. Más aún, la heterogeneidad del hábitat también tuvo un efecto diferente sobre las frecuencias de machos y hembras de cada especie de Peromyscus. Mientras que P. difficilis fue capturado con mayor frecuencia en estaciones de muestreo con alta presencia y cobertura de troncos en el suelo, P. melanotis fue capturado con mayor regularidad en estaciones de muestreo con alta cobertura vegetal y riqueza de especies de plantas. Por lo tanto, parece que los diferentes requerimientos y preferencias de hábitat que tienen estas dos especies de Peromyscus, facilitan su coexistencia espacial y temporal en este bosque templado de latitud media. En general, demostramos la importancia de estudiar la heterogeneidad del hábitat para comprender mejor las interacciones entre especies sintópicas, ofreciendo nuevos conocimientos sobre los mecanismos espaciales y temporales que podrían determinar su coexistencia a escala local.

ABSTRACT Introduction: COVID-19 and pregnancy is a new intercurrence in risk assessment for the care of the pregnant woman. Since the beginning of the pandemic in the country, cases have been increasing. The first case attended at the San Bartolomé Hospital was on April 12. Since the first reports of COVID+ pregnant women in China, to date, there is more important information on epidemiology and perinatal results for the management of the COVID+ pregnant woman. Objective: To determine the epidemiology and maternal perinatal outcomes of COVID-19 in pregnant women at the Hospital Nacional Docente Madre Niño San Bartolomé, Lima, Peru. Methods: Observational cross-sectional study, from April to July 2020. All the pregnant women who arrived at the obstetric emergency at Hospital San Bartolomé were included, and they underwent an immunochromatography test for IgM / IgG, to determine the seroprevalence of COVID-19. Obstetric and perinatal variables were collected in a data sheet upon admission to the emergency room. Results: Rapid test for SARS-CoV-19 was performed in 345 pregnant women who were hospitalized for delivery care. The average age was 27 years, with 10% adolescents and 16% over 35 years; 60% had 2 to 4 pregnancies, 38% of deliveries were vaginal, 15% of them preterm; 1.2% of the pregnant women were symptomatic and 0.2% were admitted to the intensive care unit. 61% of the newborns weighed between 2 500 and 3 500 g, 53% were male, 94% had an Apgar score greater than 7 at one minute, 3.3% with a positive swab within the first 24 hours. There were 3% fetal deaths. 48% of the pregnant women came from the Northern Cone of the city of Lima. Conclusions: Almost 100% of the pregnant women were asymptomatic and only 0.2% had respiratory complications. The mode of delivery by cesarean section was low in relation to other publications, all had obstetric indication. A small number of neonates had a positive swab. There was a higher incidence of fetal deaths in July 2020. The highest percentage of patients came from the Northern Cone of Lima.

RESUMEN Introducción . El COVID-19 y la gestación es una nueva intercurrencia en la valoración de riesgos para la atención de la gestante. Desde el inicio de la pandemia en el país, los casos han ido en aumento. El primer caso atendido en el Hospital San Bartolomé fue el 12 de abril. Desde los primeros reportes de gestantes COVID+ en China, a la fecha, se tiene cada vez mayor información, siendo importante para fines del manejo de la gestante COVID+ que se conozca su epidemiología y los resultados perinatales. Objetivo . Determinar la epidemiología y resultados materno perinatales de COVID-19 en las gestantes del Hospital Nacional Docente Madre Niño San Bartolomé, Lima, Perú. Método . Estudio observacional de corte transversal, en los meses de abril a julio 2020. Se incluyó a todas las gestantes que llegaron a la emergencia obstétrica del Hospital San Bartolomé, a las cuales se les realizó una prueba de inmunocromatografía para IgM/IgG, para determinar la seroprevalencia de COVID-19. Las variables obstétricas y perinatales fueron recolectadas en una ficha de datos al ingreso a la emergencia. Resultados . Se realizó prueba rápida para SARS-CoV-19 a 345 gestantes que se hospitalizaron para atención de parto. La edad promedio fue 27 años, con 10% de adolescentes y 16% de mayores de 35 años; 60% tenía 2 a 4 embarazos, 38% de los partos fue vaginal, 15% de ellos pretérmino; 1,2% de las gestantes fue sintomática y 0,2% ingresó a la unidad de cuidados intensivos. El 61% de los recién nacidos pesó entre 2 500 y 3 500 g, 53% fue sexo masculino, 94% tuvo Apgar mayor de 7 al minuto, 3,3% con hisopado positivo dentro de las primeras 24 horas. Se presentaron 3% de óbitos. El 48% de las gestantes provino del Cono Norte de la ciudad de Lima. Conclusiones . Casi 100% de las gestantes fue asintomática y solo 0,2% tuvo complicaciones respiratorias. La culminación del parto por vía cesárea fue baja en relación a otras publicaciones; el motivo de cesárea fue por indicación obstétrica. Escaso número de neonatos tuvo hisopado positivo. Hubo mayor incidencia de óbitos en julio 2020. El mayor porcentaje de pacientes provino del Cono Norte de Lima. Palabras clave. Embarazo, Infecciones por coronavirus, SARS-CoV-19, COVID-19, óbito fetal, Lima, Perú.

Abstract: The distribution patterns of individuals together with mechanisms that maintain them have significant implications for population-level processes. Sex-specific differences in home-range may strongly influence the spatial distribution of individuals, while the differential use of space by the sexes can yield insights into the mating system and the life history of the species. Sexual differences in the use of space could be due to different habitat requirements during the breeding season. This is interesting because the males and females likely are interacting with operational sex ratios and mating strategies. Here, we evaluated for ten months of the year 2014, the spatial patterns of ecological distribution in males and females of two species of deer mice (Peromyscus difficilis and P. melanotis) that coexist in a temperate forest. Also, we assessed the variation in the use of space by males and females in both Peromyscus species and we analyze the intensity of positive association or repulsion between males and females. During drought and rain seasons, males and females of both Peromyscus were captured. The sex and reproductive status of each were identified. To analyze the spatial patterns of ecological distribution, we used the Nearest Neighbor Analysis. Kernel spatial analysis was performed to evaluate the variation in the use of space of males and females between seasons. The Ripley’s K bivariate function was carried out to assess the positive association or repulsion between males and females in each season. We found a different use of space between sexes. Our evidence shed light on the respective life histories of these species and provides information on possible factors that they may be using to coexist successfully among them. We conclude that in this temperate coniferous forest: 1) use of space by P. difficilis and P. melanotis, is influenced by both sex and by the reproductive season, and that this pattern varies, according to shifts on ecological conditions that promote variation and availability of resources during the two pluvial seasons; 2) there are interspecific differences in the use of space with conspicuous intraspecific differences in females and males of P. difficilis (e. g., males are more territorial, and both sexes only become more clustered during the breeding season), while both sexes of P. melanotis are more gregarious; and 3) there is a clear differentiation in the reproductive seasons of both species that could be related to resources availability, such as shelters and food.

Resumen: Los patrones de distribución de los individuos junto con los mecanismos que los mantienen, tienen implicaciones significativas en los procesos que ocurren a nivel poblacional. Las diferencias sexo-especificas en el ámbito hogareño pueden influenciar fuertemente la distribución espacial de los individuos, mientras que el uso diferencial del espacio por los sexos puede ayudar a comprender los sistemas de apareamiento y la historia de vida de las especies. Las diferencias sexuales en el uso del espacio por las especies podría deberse a los distintos requerimientos de hábitat que tienen los individuos durante su época reproductiva, esto es especialmente interesante por que los machos y las hembras probablemente están interactuando con proporciones de sexo operacionales y distintas estrategias de apareamiento. Aquí, evaluamos durante diez meses del año 2014, los patrones espaciales de distribución ecológica en los machos y las hembras de dos especies de “ratones ciervos” (Peromyscus difficilis y P. melanotis) que coexisten en un bosque templado. También, evaluamos la variación en el uso del espacio por parte de ambos sexos en las dos especies de Peromyscus y analizamos la intensidad de asociación positiva o repulsión entre los machos y las hembras. Durante las épocas de secas y lluvias del año 2014, capturamos a individuos machos y hembras de ambos Peromyscus así como identificamos el estado reproductivo de cada individuo. Para analizar los patrones espaciales de distribución ecológica, usamos el “análisis del vecino más cercano”. El análisis espacial de Kernels fue utilizado para evaluar la variación en el uso del espacio de machos y hembras entre épocas. Mientras que la función bivariada K de Ripley fue usada para evaluar la asociación positiva o repulsión entre machos y hembras en cada época. Los resultados demostraron el uso distintivo del espacio entre los sexos, y mostraron evidencia sobre las respectivas historias de vida de estas especies y brindan información sobre posibles factores que pueden estar usando para convivir exitosamente entre ellas. Concluimos que en este bosque templado de coníferas: 1) el uso del espacio por P. difficilis y P. melanotis, está influenciado por el sexo de los individuos y por las épocas reproductivas de cada especie, estos patrones varían de acuerdo a los cambios que ocurren en las condiciones ecológicas (i. e., variación en la disponibilidad de recursos) durante las dos épocas (secas y lluvias), 2) hay diferencias interespecíficas así como diferencias intraespecíficas visibles en el uso del espacio entre las hembras y los machos de P. difficilis (e. g., los machos son más territoriales y ambos sexos solo se agrupan más durante la temporada de reproducción), mientras que ambos sexos de P. melanotis se comportan de manera más gregaria, y finalmente, 3) hay una clara diferenciación en las épocas reproductivas de ambas especies que podría estar relacionada con la disponibilidad de recursos, como refugios y alimentos.

RESUMO: O estudo de organismos não-alvo, tais como ácaros, pode fornecer informações sobre os possíveis efeitos de cultivares de milho transgênico na comunidade de artrópodos. Este estudo teve como objetivo avaliar a abundância de ácaros fitófagos na área de milho Bt e avaliar a taxa de crescimento populacional instantânea e preferência alimentar de ácaros fitófagos em milho Bt. Registramos a ocorrência de espécies e número de indivíduos adultos de ácaros em quatro cultivares de milho, um não-Bt 30F35, e três contendo a proteína Cry1Ab (30F35 Yg), Cry1F (30F35 Hx) e VIP3A (Impacto Viptera). A preferência alimentar e taxa instantânea de crescimento populacional foram avaliadas utilizando fêmeas adultas do ácaro-rajado Tetranychus urticae. As espécies Catarhinus tricholaenae e Aceria zeala foram registradas. As cultivares de milho Bt não afetaram significativamente o número médio de ácaros C. tricholaenae e A. zeala em relação ao cultivar convencional. As taxas de crescimento populacional de T. urticae foram similares para os diferentes cultivares. T. urticae não mostrou preferência entre a folha de milho Bt ou cultivares convencionais. Sugere-se, então, que o milho Bt não afeta a abundância de espécies, preferência alimentar e taxa de crescimento de ácaros fitófagos.

ABSTRACT: The study of non-target organisms such as mites, can provide information about the possible effects of transgenic maize cultivars on the arthropod community. This study aimed to evaluate the abundance of phytophagous mites in the area of Bt maize and evaluate the instantaneous population growth rate, and food preference of phytophagous mites on Bt maize. We registered the species occurrence and the number of adult mite individuals on four maize cultivars, one non-Bt 30F35, and three containing the proteins Cry1Ab (30F35 Yg), Cry1F (30F35 Hx) and Vip3a (Impacto Viptera). Cry proteins disrupt the midgut epithelium of insect pests. The food preference and instantaneous population growth rate (ri) were evaluated using the two-spotted spider mite Tetranychus urticae as model. The species Catarhinus tricholaenae and Aceria zeala were recorded. The Bt maize cultivars did not significantly affect the average number of C. tricholaenae and A. zeala mites compared to conventional cultivar. The population growth rates of T. urticae were similar for the different maize cultivars. T. urticae showed no preference between the leaf of Bt or conventional cultivars. Bt maize did not affect the abundance of species in phytophagous mite.

Chrysoperla externa (Neuroptera: Chrysopidae) es uno de los enemigos naturales del pulgón de la hoja del maíz Rhopalosiphum maidis (Hemiptera: Aphididae) y tiene potencial aplicación en el control biológico contra esta plaga. Fue investigado el efecto de la temperatura sobre el desarrollo y capacidad depredadora de C. externa alimentada con ninfas de R. maidis. Huevos frescos del crisópido fueron mantenidos a 15, 20, 25 ó 30 °C bajo una humedad relativa de 70% y 12 h fotofase. Fueron evaluadas la duración del período embrionario, la duración y viabilidad de la fase larvaria (primer, segundo y tercer estadio), fases de prepupa, pupa y adulta del depredador. La duración de todas las etapas del desarrollo se redujo al aumentar la temperatura, mientras que la viabilidad de todas las fases alcanzó el 100 % a los 20 y 25 °C. El umbral de temperatura y el valor de la constante térmica K obtenidos para el ciclo de vida completo (de huevo a adulto) fueron 10,7 ºC y 377,8 grados-día, respectivamente. Independiente de la temperatura, el consumo de ninfas de R. maidis por C. externa aumentó con el desarrollo de las larvas. A los 20 y 25 °C, el número promedio de pulgones consumidos durante toda la fase larvaria alcanzó aproximadamente 350 especímenes. Se concluye que el desarrollo de las formas inmaduras de C. externa alimentada con R. maidis, así como la viabilidad y su capacidad depredadora, se favorecen a temperaturas entre 20 y 25 °C.

Chrysoperla externa (Neuroptera: Chrysopidae) is one of the natural enemies of the corn leaf aphid Rhopalosiphum maidis (Hemiptera: Aphididae) and has potential application in the biological control of that pest. The effect of' temperature on the development and the predatory capacity of this chrysopid fed with R. maidis nymphs was investigated. Fresh eggs of C. externa were maintained at 15, 20, 25 or 30 °C under 70% relative humidity and 12 h photophase, and the duration of the embryonic stage, as well as the duration and viability of the larval (first, second and third instars), prepupal, pupal and adult forms of the predator were evaluated. The duration of each of these stages decreased with increasing temperature, whilst the viabilities of all forms attained 100% at 20 and 25 °C. The threshold temperature and the value of the thermal constant K obtained for the complete life cycle (egg to adult) were, respectively, 10.7 °C and 377.8 degree-days. Independent of temperature, the consumption of R. maidis nymphs by C. externa increased as the larvae reached maturity. At 20 and 25 °C the average number of aphids consumed during the complete larval stage was maximal at approximately 350 specimens. It is concluded, therefore, that the development of the immature forms of C. externa fed on R. maidis as well as its viability and predatory capacity, were favored at temperatures between 20 and 25 °C.

Doru luteipes (SCUDDER, 1876) é um dos principais inimigos naturais da Spodoptera frugiperda (J. E. Smith, 1797) (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae), alimentando-se de seus ovos e lagartas pequenas. Para sua conservação é necessária a utilização de inseticidas seletivos a S. frugiperda e inócuos ao predador. Assim, o objetivo deste trabalho foi avaliar a toxicidade de inseticidas registrados para o controle de S. frugiperda. Foram conduzidos bioensaios com adultos de D. luteipes tratados diretamente com os inseticidas, exposição aos resíduos dos compostos aplicados em placas de vidro e consumo de ovos de S. frugiperda contaminados e ofertados uma, 24 e 48 horas após o tratamento. Os inseticidas foram classificados segundo índices propostos pela IOBC/WPRS. Para os adultos de D. luteipes tratados diretamente com os inseticidas, triflumurom foi inócuo (classe 1); clorfenapir e etofemproxi levemente nocivos (classe 2); teflubenzurom/α-cipermetrina e espinosade moderadamente nocivos (classe 3) e tiametoxam/λ-cialotrina nocivo (classe 4). No bioensaio de exposição de D. luteipes aos resíduos dos inseticidas aplicados em placas de vidro, todos os produtos foram nocivos ao predador, exceto triflumurom que foi levemente nocivo. A sobrevivência de adultos após o consumo de ovos contaminados com tiametoxam/λ-cialotrina foi de 46,7% (levemente nocivo ao predador); os demais inseticidas foram inócuos. Devido à baixa toxicidade do triflumurom a adultos do predador, este composto pode ser recomendado em programas de manejo integrado de pragas visando a preservação dessa espécie de inimigo natural. Os demais produtos devem ser avaliados em casa de vegetação e campo para comprovação de sua toxicidade.

Doru luteipes (SCUDDER, 1876) is considered one of the best natural enemies of the fall armyworm Spodoptera frugiperda (J. E. Smith, 1797) (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae), feeding on their eggs and small caterpillars. For its conservation it is necessary to use selective insecticides to S. frugiperda and harmless to the predator. Therefore, objective of the present work was to evaluate the toxicity of insecticides registered to control of S. frugiperda. It was conducted bioassays with D. luteipes adults treated with insecticides directly by exposure to residues of compounds applied on glass plates and the consumption of eggs of S. frugiperda contaminated and offered each one, 24 and 48 hours after treatment. The insecticides were classified according to indices proposed by IOBC/WPRS. For adults D. luteipes treated directly with insecticides, triflumuron was harmless (class 1); chlorfenapyr and etofenprox as slightly harmful (class 2) teflubenzuron/α-cypermethrin and spinosad moderately harmful (class 3) and thiamethoxan/λ-cyhalothrin harmful (class 4). In bioassay exposure of D. luteipes residues of insecticides applied to glass plates, all products were harmful to the predator, except triflumuron which was considered slightly harmful. The survival of adults after consumption of contaminated eggs was 46.7% for the insecticide tiametoxam/λ-cialotrina considered slightly harmful to the predator. The other insecticides were innocuous. Due to the low toxicity presented by the triflumuron to the D. luteipes adults, this compound can be recommended in programs aimed at integrated pest management the preservation of this natural enemy. All other products must be evaluated in greenhouse and field to prove its toxicity.

Respostas funcional e numérica, características reprodutivas e viabilidade de Campoletis flavicincta (Hymenoptera: Ichneumonidae) e mortalidade após o parasitismo do hospedeiro Spodoptera frugiperda (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae) foram estudados em laboratório. Casais de C. flavicincta foram mantidos até a morte da fêmea com 10, 20, 30, 40 ou 50 lagartas dia-1 do hospedeiro S. frugiperda. Um tipo de curva de resposta funcional III foi ajustado para o número médio de lagartas fornecidas por dia, durante a vida da vespa fêmea, como a variável explicativa. Tempo de tratamento foi 0,5940 ± 0,0875h e taxa de busca instantânea 0.0047 ± 0.0020 h-1. A resposta funcional para cada um dos cinco primeiros dias de fornecimento do hospedeiro foi do tipo III. Longevidade nas cinco densidades do hospedeiro e taxa de parasitismo mostraram redução linear significativa com a densidade do hospedeiro. Produção de descendentes mostrou variação quadrática crescente com a densidade crescente do hospedeiro. Produção de fêmeas de C. flavicincta, razão sexual de descendentes, viabilidade de pupas do parasitóide e porcentagem de mortalidade de lagartas de S. frugiperda não foram afetados pela densidade do hospedeiro. Respostas funcional e numérica de C. flavicincta indicam que esse parasitóide pode ser um candidato para controle biológico de S. frugiperda.

The functional and numerical responses, reproductive characteristics, and viability of Campoletis flavicincta (Hymenoptera: Ichneumonidae) as well as the mortality after parasitism of the host Spodoptera frugiperda (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae) were analyzed in the laboratory. Campoletis flavicincta pairs were maintained until female death with 10, 20, 30, 40, or 50 caterpillars day-1 of the host S. frugiperda. A type III functional response curve was fitted to the average number of caterpillars supplied per day during the female wasp lifespan, as the explanatory variable. The handling time was 0.5940 ± 0.0875h, and the instantaneous search 0.0047 ± 0.0020 h-1. The functional response for each of the first five days of the host was a type III. The longevity at the five host densities and the parasitism rate showed a significant linear decrease with the host density. The offspring production showed an increasing quadratic variation with increased host density. The production of females by C. flavicincta, the offspring sex ratio, the viability of the parasitoid pupae and the percentage of mortality of S. frugiperda caterpillars were not affected by host density. The functional and numerical responses of C. flavicincta indicate that this parasitoid could be a candidate for biological control of S. frugiperda.

A agressividade da presa altera o comportamento de ataque do predador Supputius cincticeps (Stål) (Hemiptera, Pentatomidae)? O percevejo Supputius cincticeps (Stål) (Hemiptera, Pentatomidae) é um predador encontrado em várias regiões brasileiras, que possui atributos desejáveis como agente de controle natural ou em programas de controle biológico. O objetivo deste trabalho foi testar se diferentes espécies de presa podem afetar o comportamento de ataque e o sucesso de predação de S. cincticeps. Larvas de Tenebrio molitor (L.) (Coleoptera, Tenebrionidae), Spodoptera frugiperda (J. E. Smith) (Lepidoptera, Noctuidae) e Thyrinteina arnobia (Stoll) (Lepidoptera, Geometridae) foram oferecidas a S. cincticeps, em bioensaios de laboratório, onde o comportamento de ataque do predador e o comportamento de defesa das presas foram observados por período de duas horas. O comportamento de ataque de S. cincticeps às presas apresentou variações nas frequências dos atos predatórios. O sucesso da inserção dos estiletes na presa depende da parte do corpo que é atacada (anterior, mediana ou posterior), apresentando maior sucesso quando o ataque ocorre na região anterior. As larvas de T. arnobia e S. frugiperda apresentaram maior frequência de movimentos bruscos quando atacadas por S. cincticeps, enquanto as de T. molitor não exibiram tais reações. Consequentemente, o sucesso da predação de S. cincticeps foi maior sobre T. molitor e S. frugiperda e consideravelmente menor em T. arnobia. Essas informações sobre as diferenças no comportamento de ataque de S. cincticeps a diferentes presas são úteis para os programas de controle biológico envolvendo hemípteros predadores

Does the aggressiveness of the prey modify the attack behavior of the predator Supputius cincticeps (Stål) (Hemiptera, Pentatomidae)? The stink bug Supputius cincticeps (Stål) (Hemiptera, Pentatomidae) is a predator found in several Brazilian regions, which possesses desirable attributes as a natural control agent and in biological control programs. The aim of this study was to test if the attack behavior and predation success of S. cincticeps were affected by prey species. Larvae of Tenebrio molitor (L.) (Coleoptera, Tenebrionidae), Spodoptera frugiperda (J. E. Smith) (Lepidoptera, Noctuidae), and Thyrinteina arnobia (Stoll) (Lepidoptera, Geometridae) were offered to S. cincticeps in laboratory bioassays where predatory attack and prey defensive behaviors were observed for 2-hour periods. The attack behavior of S. cincticeps changed with the prey species offered. More than 25% of T. molitor and S. frugiperda larvae were immediately attacked, but T. arnobia was not immediately attacked by S. cincticeps. Successful attack (i.e., successful insertion of the predator stylets into the prey) depends on the region of the body attacked, with a greater proportion of successful attacks in the anterior than in the median or posterior regions. Larvae of T. arnobia and S. frugiperda displayed a sequence of abrupt head and body movements in response to S. cincticeps attack. Attempts of predation were more successful on T. molitor and S. frugiperda than on T. arnobia. Information about the differential attack behavior of S. cincticeps on different prey species is important for designing successful biological control programs using this hemipteran predator.

Diatraea saccharalis (Fabr.) (Lepidoptera: Pyralidae) passa a maior parte de seu ciclo biológico no interior do colmo da planta hospedeira, onde fica protegida contra a ação dos métodos convencionais de controle. O controle biológico tem sido considerado uma alternativa viável para o controle desta praga em cana-de-açúcar (Saccharum officinarum L.) e milho (Zea mays L.), dois hospedeiros preferenciais. Este trabalho relata a ocorrência no Brasil de Tetrastichus howardi (Olliff) (Hymenoptera, Chalcidoidea: Eulophidae) parasitando pupas de D. saccharalis em colmos de plantas de milho. Ele também inclui dados preliminares sobre alguns aspectos biológicos do parasitóide. Uma fêmea de T. howardi foi capaz de produzir até 66 descendentes em uma única pupa do hospedeiro e, aparentemente, não faz distinção entre diferentes idades da pupa. O ciclo de vida do parasitóide foi ao redor de 25,5 dias. A presença do parasitóide no Brasil abre uma nova perspectiva sobre a supressão da broca da cana, considerando os resultados promissores já obtidos em países asiáticos. O inseto é bem adaptado à condição de laboratório, podendo ser produzido em grande número, tornando assim, uma opção adicional para o manejo integrado nas culturas onde D. saccharalis é praga chave, tais como a cana-de-açúcar, milho e sorgo (Sorghum bicolor (L.) Moench).

Diatraea saccharalis (Fabr.) (Lepidoptera: Pyralidae) spends the largest part of its life cycle inside the stalk of the host plant,which provides protection against the action of conventional control methods. Biological control has been considered a viable alternative to control this pest in sugarcane (Saccharum officinarum L.) and corn (Zea mays L.), two pest preferential hosts. This paper reports the occurrence in Brazil of Tetrastichus howardi (Olliff) (Hymenoptera; Chalcidoidea: Eulophidae) parasitizing pupae of D. saccharalis obtained from corn plants. It also includes preliminary biological data about the insect. A single female of T. howardi is able to produce up to 66 offspring using a single pupa of the host D. Saccharalis and apparently does not distinguish between the host pupae of different ages. The life cycle of the parasitoid was around 25.5 days. The presence of the parasitoid in Brazil opens a new perspective on suppression of the sugarcane borer, considering the promising results already obtained in Asian countries. The insect is well adapted to laboratory conditions, can be produced in large scale and may became an additional option for the integrated pest management in those crops where D. saccharalis is a key pest such as the sugarcane, corn and sorghum (Sorghum bicolor (L.) Moench).

Levantamento de mosca-da-espiga (Diptera: Ulidiidae) em milho (Zea mays L.) e primeiro relato de ocorrência de Euxesta mazorca Steyskal no Brasil. Espécies de Euxesta (Diptera, Ulidiidae), conhecidas como moscas do cabelo ou moscas da espiga estão aumentando em importância nas culturas de milho em diferentes países, embora muito pouco se conheça sobre elas no Brasil. As larvas das espécies representativas de Ulidiidae inicialmente danificam a parte reprodutiva feminina da planta e depois os grãos em desenvolvimento. Como resultado da alimentação das larvas ocorre fermentação e odor forte tornando a espiga inapropriada para o consumo humano ou animal. O principal objetivo deste trabalho foi avaliar a incidência de espécies de Euxesta em áreas de produção de milho e identificar as espécies predominantes usando dois atraentes alimentares diferentes à base de proteínas hidrolisáveis, BioAnastrepha® (proteína hidrolisável de milho) e Torula, colocados no interior de armadilha McPhail. As duas espécies identificadas foram E. eluta Loew and E. mazorca Steyskal, registrada pela primeira vez no Brasil. Entre as espécies, E. eluta foi predominante no milho. Ambos os atraentes foram eficientes na captura das duas espécies. No entanto, as armadilhas com BioAnastrepha® capturaram significativamente mais insetos do que aquelas com Torula.

Survey of ear flies (Diptera, Ulidiidae) in maize (Zea mays L.) and a new record of Euxesta mazorca Steyskalin Brazil. Species of Euxesta (Diptera, Ulidiidae), known as silk flies or ear flies, are becoming increasingly important as maize insect pests in South America, although very little is known about them in Brazil. The larvae of some species of this genus initially damage female reproductive tissues, and then the developing kernels on the ear. As a result of feeding, fermentation and associated odors cause complete loss of the grain because it is no longer fit for human or livestock consumption. The main objective of this work was to evaluate the incidence of Euxesta spp. in Brazilian maize fields and to determine the most prevalent species using two different hydrolyzed protein foods attractants, BioAnastrepha® (hydrolyzed maize protein) and Torula, placed inside McPhail traps. The two species identified were E. eluta Loew and E. mazorca Steyskal, the latter being a new record from Brazil. Between the two species, E. eluta was the more abundant in maize fields. Both attractants were efficient in capturing the two species. However, BioAnastrepha® captured significantly more insects than Torula.

A resposta funcional de fêmeas de Telenomus remus com 24 h e 48 h de idade foi observada em ovos de Spodoptera frugiperda. O experimento foi conduzido em câmara climatizada regulada a 25 ± 1°C, 70 ± 10% UR e fotofase de 12h. As fêmeas de T. remus foram alimentadas com mel e mantidas individualmente por 24h em tubos de vidro que continham 25, 50, 75, 100, 150, 200, 250 ou 300 ovos de S. frugiperda. Foi adotado o delineamento experimental inteiramente casualizado com 10 repetições. Os parâmetros avaliados para a construção da curva de resposta funcional foram o parasitismo médio diário, a taxa de busca e o tempo de oviposição. Foi observado que com o aumento da densidade de ovos também cresce o parasitismo em fêmeas com 24 h e 48 h de idade e que há uma tendência de estabilização do parasitismo na densidade de 150 ovos/fêmea. Os resultados mostraram uma curva de resposta funcional do tipo II para fêmeas de T. remus com 24 h e 48 h de idade.

Functional response of Telenomus remus Nixon (Hymenoptera, Scelionidae) to Spodoptera frugiperda (J. E. Smith) (Lepidoptera, Noctuidae) eggs: effect of female age. Functional response of 24-h and 48-h-old Telenomus remus adults was studied on Spodoptera frugiperda eggs. The study was carried out in climatic chamber regulated at 25 ± 1°C, 70 ± 10% RH and 12:12h (L: D). Females of T. remus were honey fed and individualized in glass vials along with 25, 50, 75, 100, 150, 200, 250 or 300 eggs of S. frugiperda for 24 h. Complete randomized design with ten replications was adopted. The parameters evaluated to construct the functional response curve were daily average parasitism, searching rate and oviposition time. It was observed that the higher the egg density, the higher the parasitism for 24-h and 48-h-old females although there was a tendency of parasitism stabilization at 150-egg density. The results showed a type II functional response curve for both 24-h and 48-h-old female.

OBJETIVO: Investigar a resposta do hormônio do crescimento (GH) ao teste de estímulo com glucagon (GST) numa população de homens saudáveis acima dos 50 anos de idade, em comparação ao teste de tolerância à insulina (ITT), além da análise do perfil de secreção espontânea de GH nas 24 horas e fator de crescimento semelhante à insulina (IGF-I) basal. MÉTODOS: 27 homens, com idades entre 51 e 65 anos, foram submetidos aos testes. RESULTADOS: Utilizando análise de correlação não paramétrica, encontrou-se correlação positiva entre o pico de GH pós-GST e a média de IGF-I (r = 0,528; p = 0,005), e também com o pico espontâneo do GH no perfil de 24 horas (r = 0,494; p = 0,009). Não houve correlação do pico de GH pós-ITT com os mesmos parâmetros. Dez indivíduos apresentaram pico de GH após GST inferior a 3,0 μg/L, sem confirmação no ITT. CONCLUSÕES: O pico de GH pós-GST foi menor do que o obtido pós-ITT, porém demonstrou correlação positiva com a média de IGF-I e o pico de GH na secreção espontânea de 24 horas. Entretanto, o GST não demonstrou ser um bom teste para distinguir entre deficiência de hormônio de crescimento (DGH) e somatopausa.

OBJECTIVE: To investigate the growth hormone (GH) response to glucagon stimulation test (GST) in a population of healthy men over 50 years old in comparison to insulin tolerance test (ITT), analysis of the spontaneous 24-hour GH profile and insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF-I). METHODS: 27 healthy men aged between 51 and 65 years were tested. RESULTS: Using non-parametric correlation analysis, a positive correlation between GH peak after GST and mean IGF-I (r = 0.528; p = 0.005) was found, as well with GH peak in 24-hour profile (r = 0.494; p = 0.009). No correlation was found comparing GH peak after ITT with the same parameters. Ten subjects presented GH peak of less than 3.0 μg/L after GST, none confirmed in ITT. CONCLUSIONS: GH peak response to GST was lower than ITT, but it showed a positive correlation with mean IGF-I and also with GH peak in 24-hour profile. However, GST should not be used to differentiate organic growth hormone deficiency (GDH) from the expected decline on GH secretion due to aging.

A competição intraespecífica e a ausência de hospedeiros podem comprometer o sucesso de programas de controle biológico. Assim, este trabalho objetivou avaliar o efeito de diferentes densidades de fêmeas (1, 3, 6 e 9 fêmeas/ 100 ovos) e da ausência de hospedeiro no parasitismo de Telenomus remus Nixon (Hymenoptera, Scelionidae) em ovos de Spodoptera frugiperda (J. E. Smith) (Lepidoptera, Noctuidae). Observou-se aumento no parasitismo de ovos de S. frugiperda por T. remus a partir da densidade 3 fêmeas/ 100 ovos tanto em condições de laboratório (18%) quanto em campo (32%), embora o parasitismo causado por densidades maiores que 1 fêmea/100 ovos não foi significativamente diferente. Todavia, isso não causou superparasitismo. Por outro lado, o número de fêmeas produzidas na progênie diminuiu (39%) com a maior densidade de fêmeas sob condições de laboratório. Contudo, não verificou-se diferença significativa sob condições de campo. Mesmo após 9 dias de ausência de hospedeiro não houve redução nos índices de parasitismo, permanecendo em torno de 95 ovos parasitados/fêmea/dia. Todavia, no décimo dia pode-se observar redução (40%) no número médio de ovos parasitados. Desse modo, a liberação de três fêmeas por 100 ovos é adequada para se obter elevados níveis de parasitismo.

Intraspecific competition and lack of host can affect the success of biological control programs. Thus, this work aimed at evaluating the effect of different densities of females (1, 3, 6, and 9 females/100 eggs) and the absence of host in the parasitism of Telenomus remus Nixon (Hymenoptera, Scelionidae) on Spodoptera frugiperda (J.E. Smith) (Lepidoptera, Noctuidae) eggs. It was observed an increase in egg parasitism of S. frugiperda by T. remus beyond a density of 3 females/ 100 eggs under laboratory (18%) and field (32%) conditions, although the parasitism caused by densities greater than 1 female/100 eggs was not significantly different. However, this did not cause superparasitism. On the other hand, the number of females in the progeny was lower (39%) as density of females increased, but it was not observed in field conditions. Even after nine days of host absence there was no significant reduction in the parasitism which was ca. 95 eggs/female/day. However, a decrease in the number of parasitized eggs (40%) could be observed on the 10th day. Therefore, the release of three females per 100-egg mass is adequate for high levels of parasitism.

O objetivo deste trabalho foi avaliar a patogenicidade de 24 isolados de Beauveria contra larvas de Spodoptera frugiperda e caracterizá-los molecularmente, por meio do seqüenciamento da região ITS do rDNA e de marcadores RAPD. O seqüenciamento de fragmentos de 570 pares de bases, da região ITS do rDNA, possibilitou a identificação dos isolados como B. bassiana e B. brongniarti, pela comparação com seqüências depositadas no GenBank. Sessenta e sete fragmentos polimórficos de RAPD foram capazes de diferenciar 20 entre 24 isolados de Beauveria, e agrupá-los de acordo com o inseto hospedeiro e com a patogenicidade contra a lagarta-do-cartucho do milho. Os marcadores RAPD foram altamente associados à patogenicidade contra S. frugiperda e explicaram até 67% da variação fenotípica. Além da identificação e caracterização molecular de isolados de Beauveria, o seqüenciamento da região ITS, aliado aos marcadores RAPD, é útil na seleção de isolados potencialmente eficazes contra larvas de S. frugiperda e no monitoramento de liberações desses microrganismos em programas de biocontrole.

The objective of this work was to evaluate the pathogenicity of 24 Beauveria isolates to Spodoptera frugiperda larvae, and characterize them molecularly through rDNA-ITS sequencing and RAPD markers. Sequencing of rDNA-ITS fragments of 570 bp allowed the identification of isolates as B. bassiana or B. brongniarti by sequence comparison to GenBank. Sixty seven polymorphic RAPD fragments were capable to differentiate 20 among 24 Beauveria isolates, grouping them according to the derived host insect and to pathogenicity against maize fall armyworm larvae. Three RAPD markers were highly associated to the pathogenicity against S. frugiperda, explaining up to 67% of the phenotypic variation. Besides identification and molecular characterization of Beauveria isolates, ITS sequence and RAPD markers proved to be very useful in selecting the isolates potentially effective against S. frugiperda larvae and in monitoring field release of these microorganisms in biocontrol programs.