ABSTRACT Spathodea campanulata Beauv. (Bignoniaceae) is a plant frequently employed in the ornamentation of public squares and gardens, attributed to its rapid growth and showy flowers. However, its use is controversial due to the potentially toxic nectar, which can lead to significant mortality rates among various stingless bee species in Brazil, posing a risk to native biodiversity and disrupting natural ecosystems. The aim of this study was to quantify and identify the species of stingless bees found dead within the flowers of the Spathodea campanulata plant. This investigation was conducted at the Ondina Campus of the Federal University of Bahia (UFBA), Brazil. Over a 15-day flowering period, 86 flowers from three specimens of this species were collected. After flower collection, the dead insects found within the flowers were extracted, stored, and identified at the Laboratory of Insect Bionomics, Biogeography, and Systematics (BIOSIS) at UFBA. The analysis revealed that all floral visitors were Hymenoptera insects, with 98.1% identified as bees (Apidae and Meliponini). In conclusion, S. campanulataflowers contain toxic compounds with insecticidal properties, leading to increased mortality among certain Melipona bee species. Melipona scutellaris and Apis mellifera bees are occasional visitors of the S. campanulata flowers; hence the lower mortality rates of these species. Given the damage caused by S. campanulata on native biodiversity, it is advised to avoid cultivating it in public squares, gardens, or in proximity to bee hives. Beauv Bignoniaceae (Bignoniaceae gardens However nectar Brazil ecosystems UFBA, UFBA , (UFBA) 15day day 15 period 8 collected collection extracted stored Bionomics Biogeography BIOSIS (BIOSIS 981 98 1 98.1 Apidae Meliponini. Meliponini . Meliponini) conclusion S properties hives (UFBA 9 98.

RESUMO Spathodea campanulata Beauv. (Bignoniaceae) é uma planta frequentemente utilizada na ornamentação de praças públicas e jardins, atribuída ao seu rápido crescimento e flores vistosas. No entanto, seu uso é controverso devido ao néctar potencialmente tóxico, que pode levar a taxas significativas de mortalidade entre várias espécies de abelhas sem ferrão no Brasil, representando um risco para a biodiversidade nativa e interrompendo os ecossistemas naturais. O objetivo deste estudo foi quantificar e identificar as espécies de abelhas sem ferrão encontradas mortas dentro das flores da planta Spathodea campanulata. Esta investigação foi conduzida no Campus de Ondina da Universidade Federal da Bahia (UFBA), Brasil. Durante um período de floração de 15 dias, foram coletadas 86 flores de três espécimes desta espécie. Após a coleta das flores, os insetos mortos encontrados dentro delas foram extraídos, armazenados e identificados no Laboratório de Bionomia, Biogeografia e Sistemática de Insetos (BIOSIS) da UFBA. A análise revelou que todos os visitantes florais eram insetos Hymenoptera, com 98,1% identificados como abelhas (Apidae e Meliponini). Em conclusão, as flores de S. campanulata contêm compostos tóxicos com propriedades inseticidas, levando a um aumento da mortalidade em certas espécies de abelhas Melipona. As abelhas Melipona scutellaris e Apis mellifera são visitantes ocasionais das flores de S. campanulata; portanto, apresentam taxas de mortalidade mais baixas. Dado o dano causado por S. campanulata na biodiversidade nativa, é aconselhável evitar o seu cultivo em praças públicas, jardins ou próximo a colmeias de abelhas. Beauv Bignoniaceae (Bignoniaceae vistosas entanto tóxico Brasil naturais UFBA, UFBA , (UFBA) 1 dias 8 espécie extraídos Bionomia BIOSIS (BIOSIS Hymenoptera 981 98 98,1 Apidae Meliponini. Meliponini . Meliponini) conclusão S inseticidas portanto baixas (UFBA 9 98,

RESUMO Ninhos da abelha coletora de óleo Epicharis (Hoplepicharis) fasciata Lepeletier & Serville, 1828 foram estudados no Jardim Botânico do Rio de Janeiro, Brasil. As fêmeas construíram seus ninhos em uma área de 609 m2 de solo plano principalmente arenoso. A arquitetura do ninho é relativamente simples, com um túnel principal de aproximadamente 30 cm de profundidade, com um ou dois túneis laterais terminando em uma única célula de cria. A atividade dos adultos se estendeu por cerca de 45 dias. As fêmeas cavam os túneis, constroem as células de cria, coletam as provisões e depositam os ovos em aproximadamente dois dias. A diapausa ocorreu no estágio de larva pós-defecante e não houve casulo. A arquitetura dos ninhos e a morfologia das células de cria são descritas e ilustradas.

ABSTRACT Nests of the oil-collecting bee Epicharis (Hoplepicharis) fasciata Lepeletier & Serville, 1828 were studied at the Jardim Botânico of Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. The females constructed their nests in an area of 609 m2 of mostly sandy flat soil. The nest architecture was relatively simple, with a main tunnel of approximately 30 cm in depth with one or two lateral tunnels ending in a single brood cell. Adult activity lasted approximately 45 days. The females dug the tunnels, constructed the brood cells, collected provisions and laid the eggs in approximately two days. Diapause occurred in the post defecating larval stage, and there was no cocoon. Nest architecture and the morphology of the brood cells are described and illustrated.

RESUMEN “Culicoides (Diptera: Ceratopogonidae) del estado de Ceará, noreste de Brasil: Diversidad, nuevos registros y enfoques bionómicos”. Introducción: poco se sabe sobre la biodiversidad del género Culicoides y la posible presencia de especies de vectores en el estado de Ceará, Brasil. Objetivo: mejorar el conocimiento de la biodiversidad y la posible presencia de vectores en el noreste de Brasil. Métodos: utilizamos trampas luminosas CDC, realizamos un levantamiento de las especies de Culicoides en 18 municipios pertenecientes a seis mesorregiones del estado de Ceará. Resultados: un total de 1 453 ejemplares (12 especies) recolectamos. Culicoides guyanensis fue la especie más abundante correspondiendo al 75,84% de los especímenes recolectados. Culicoides venezuelensis está bien distribuida en cinco de las mesorregiones investigadas. Cinco especies reportamos por primera vez para el estado de Ceará y siete especies para los municipios de las mesorregiones estudiadas; discutimos la presencia de especies de importancia sanitaria. Conclusión: con la adición de nuevos registros de especies, existen ahora 12 especies conocidas para el estado de Ceará. La presencia de especies con importancia médica y/o veterinaria en las mesorregiones estudiadas es indicativa de la necesidad de una vigilancia epidemiológica en el estado.

ABSTRACT Introduction: little is known about the biodiversity of the genus Culicoides and the possible presence of vector species in Ceará State, Brazil. Objective: to improve the knowledge about the biodiversity and possible vectors presence in northeastern Brazil. Methods: with CDC light traps we surveyed Culicoides species in 18 municipalities from six mesoregions of Ceará State. Results: we collected 1 453 specimens (12 species). Culicoides guyanensis was the most abundant species, with 75,84% of the collected specimens. Culicoides venezuelensis is well distributed and is found in five Mesoregions. We recorded five species for the first time from Ceará State and seven from the surveyed municipalities; the presence of species with sanitary importance is discussed. Conclusion: with the addition of new species records, there are now 12 species known from Ceará State. The presence of species with medical and/or veterinary importance in the studied Mesoregions is indicative of the need of epidemiological surveillance in this state.

Resumen Introducción. Riohacha, capital del departamento de La Guajira, registra las tasas más altas de malaria o paludismo en el departamento, especialmente entre los indígenas de la etnia wayúu. Objetivo. Describir algunos aspectos de la bionomía de las especies del género Anopheles presentes en dos rancherías de la etnia wayúu. Materiales y métodos. Se hicieron dos muestreos durante las temporadas de lluvia y sequía en las rancherías Marbacella y El Horno (municipio de Riohacha, La Guajira). Se recolectaron formas inmaduras de los mosquitos y se describieron sus hábitats. Los mosquitos adultos se recolectaron al posarse en sujetos humanos, previo consentimiento informado, y con trampas de luz Shannon y CDC. Resultados. Todos los ejemplares recolectados eran Anopheles albimanus, especie que registró actividad de picadura durante toda la noche en el peridomicilio (n=7), en tanto que en el intradomicilio se capturaron solo dos mosquitos entre las 18:00 y las 20:00 horas. Los sitios de cría positivos correspondieron a jagüeyes (n=7; 38,8 %), charcos (n=2; 10,5 %), y estanques piscícolas (n=2; 10,5 %). La mayor abundancia de formas inmaduras se encontró en los jagüeyes (n=25; 78 %), cuyo pH oscilaba entre 7,20 y 7,81 a una temperatura de 26,5 °C, y se localizaban a 150 m de distancia de las viviendas. Conclusión. Anopheles albimanus se registró en todos los depósitos de agua de ambas rancherías. Dado que la especie se considera vector primario de la malaria en la zona, debe establecerse un sistema de vigilancia entomológica local que involucre a la comunidad a la vez que respete su cosmología y actividades rutinarias como la pesca.

Abstract Introduction: Riohacha, capital of the department of La Guajira, reports the highest rates for malaria in the department, and the most vulnerable people are those of the Wayúu indigenous group. Objective: To describe some aspects of the bionomics of the Anopheles species in two Wayúu settlements. Materials and methods: Two sampling events were carried out during dry and rainy seasons in Marbacella and El Horno (Riohacha, La Guajira). Immature stages of Anopheles spp. were collected, and breeding sites were described. Adult mosquitoes were collected with human landing catches, Shannon traps and CDC traps. Results: All collected specimens were Anopheles albimanus. Biting activity occurred outdoors during all the night (n=7), while indoors, only two mosquitoes were captured between 18:00 and 20:00 hours. The positive breeding sites corresponded to jagüeyes (n=7, 38.8%), pools (n=2, 10.5%), and fishponds n=2, 10.5%). The highest abundance of immature forms was found in the jagüeyes (n=25, 78%), which had pH values between 7.20 and 7.81 and a temperature of 25°C, and were located 150 m away from Wayúu homes. Conclusion: Anopheles albimanus was the only collected species found in water supply deposits in the villages Marbacella and El Horno. Given that the species is the main vector for malaria in the area, we suggest the implementation of a community-based entomological surveillance system which should respect Wayúu cosmology and routine activities such as fishing.

Lacertinella australis is distributed in 11 provinces of Argentina and has been mentioned as a species of phytosanitary concern because of its potential for the transmission of pathogens. Considering its wide range of distribution, its poten-tial phytosanitary importance and the invasive nature of its principal host plant Cor-taderia spp., life cycle aspects were evaluated through a life table under controlled conditions in the laboratory and a second table based on samples of natural popu-lations. Population parameters R0, λ, rc, Vx, Tc and the average development time by stages were estimated. Behavioral and bionomic aspects of L. australis were re-corded and compared with the only two species of the tribe Saccharosydnini whose biology is known: Saccharosydne procerus and Saccharosydne saccharivora.

Lacertinella australis ha sido capturada en 11 provincias de la Argentina y fue mencionada como una especie de interés fitosanitario por su potencial para vehiculizar fitopatógenos. Atendiendo al amplio rango de distribución, su potencial importancia fitosanitaria y el carácter invasivo de su principal planta hospedera, Cortaderia spp., se evaluaron aspectos del ciclo de vida a través de una tabla de vida vertical bajo condiciones controladas en el laboratorio y se confeccionó una segunda tabla de vida sobre la base de un muestreo de una población natural. Se estimaron los atributos poblacionales: tasa reproductiva básica o tasa de reemplazo (R0), tasa finita de crecimiento poblacional (λ), capacidad de incremento poblacional (r c), valor reproductivo (Vx), tiempo generacional de la cohorte (Tc) y el promedio del tiempo de desarrollo por estadios. Se mencionan y comparan aspectos comportamentales y de la bionomía de L. australis compartidos con las dos especies de la tribu cuya biología se conoce: Saccharosydne procerus y Saccharosydne saccharivora.

Se estudiaron algunos aspectos de la bionomía de vectores de leishmaniasis cutánea en la localidad El Carrizal, Municipio Tovar, Venezuela: Lutzomyia youngi, Lutzomyia spinicrassa y Lutzomyia migonei. Las capturas mensuales se realizaron a lo largo del año 2008 usando trampas CDC y Shannon. Se investigó: (i) riqueza de especies, (ii) relaciones riqueza-trampa-hábitat (doméstico, peri-doméstico y selvático), (iii) fluctuaciones mensuales y relación con variables climáticas, (iv) relación factores climáticos-casos de leishmaniasis cutánea en El Carrizal y Tovar (2000-2008). Predominaron las hembras del grupo Verrucarum y los machos de Lu. youngi. Las capturas con CDC revelaron el predominio de Lu. migonei en el habitat peridoméstico donde probablemente mantienen la transmisión, mientras que las hembras del grupo Verrucarum contribuirían a mantenerla dentro de las casas. La mayor abundancia de las tres especies ocurrió en noviembre después del pico más alto de lluvias. La correlación especie-clima para Lu. migonei indicó que la temperatura parece ser un factor limitante y la precipitación un factor favorecedor, lo cual coincidió con los resultados obtenidos a través de la Modelación de Nichos Ecológicóos de esta especie sobre 23 registros a nivel nacional. La correlación de incidencia de leishmaniasis cutánea-clima mostró que el mayor número de casos tiende a ocurrir, con un mes de retraso, en los meses de mayor precipitación. Estos datos pueden ser utiles al Ministerio de Salud ya que proveen información sólida sobre "cuándo", "dónde" y "cómo" implementar métodos de control de vectores en la Región Andina de Venezuela.

We studied some aspects of the bionomics of phlebotomine vectors of cutaneous leishmaniasis (CL) at El Carrizal, Municipality Tovar, Venezuela: Lutzomyia youngi, Lutzomyia spinicrassa and Lutzomyia migonei. Monthly catches were performed throughout 2008 using CDC and Shannon traps. We investigated: (i) species richness, (ii) relationships richness-traps-habitats (domestic, peri-domestic and forest), (iii) monthly fluctuations and relationship with climatic variables, (iv) relationship climatic factors-cutaneous leishmaniasis cases at El Carrizal and Municipality Tovar (2000-2008). Females in the Verrucarum group and males of Lu. youngi prevailed. Catches with CDC revealed the predominance of Lu. migonei outdoors where probably they maintains cutaneous leishmaniasis transmission, while females in the Verrucarum group would contribute to maintain it indoors. The greatest abundance of the three species occurred in November after the heaviest peak of rains. The correlation species-climate for Lu. migonei indicated that temperature seems a limiting factor and precipitation a favouring factor, which agreed with results obtained through Ecological Niche Modelling of this species over 23 records at national level. The correlation cutaneous leishmaniasis incidence-climate showed that the greatest number of cases tends to occur, with a month lag, in the months of most rainfall. These data may support the Ministry of Health, since they provide robust information about "when", "where" and "how" to implement target phlebotomine vectors control methods in the Andean Region of Venezuela.

Melipona mondury Smith 1863 é uma espécie de abelha sem ferrão, importante polinizadora, produtora de mel e de pólen, mas ameaçada pela fragmentação dos habitats ao longo de sua área de ocorrência. Este artigo apresenta a identificação e a caracterização parcial dos substratos de nidificação e as características bionômicas, incluindo as populacionais, de M. mondury, comparando os dados de arquitetura do ninho entre colônias de cortiço e caixas rústicas. Dezenove colônias (13 em caixas rústicas e seis em cortiços) foram analisadas em relação aos substratos de nidificação, características do ninho (e.g.: comprimento e largura dos favos de cria, altura e diâmetro dos potes de pólen e mel) e população das abelhas. Foram encontrados volume e diâmetro médios da cavidade dos troncos nidificados por M. mondury, de 18,4 L e 15,8 cm; número médio de favos de cria de 9,26; diâmetro e altura médios dos potes de mel de 2,81 cm e 3,29 cm, sendo o volume médio de mel armazenado de 15,85 mL; altura e diâmetro médios dos potes de pólen de 3,21 cm e 2,93 cm, enquanto a massa média de pólen depositado foi de 12,56 g. A população variou de 3 537 a 10 281 indivíduos entre as colônias. Os resultados sugerem que a conservação de M. mondury deve envolver o reflorestamento com espécies nativas da Mata Atlântica; e as dimensões das caixas racionais foram definidas com base no tamanho médio dos ninhos no ambiente natural, para subsidiar estratégias conservacionistas e de manejo racional.

Melipona mondury Smith 1863 is an important stingless bee species pollinator and honey/pollen producer, but threatened by fragmentation of habitats throughout its range. This article presents the identification and partial characterization of nesting substrates, bionomic including population features of M. mondury by comparing data between nest architecture of natural beehive and boxes colonies. Nineteen colonies (13 in boxes and six in beehives) were analyzed with regards to substrate nesting, nest characteristics (e.g. length and width of the combs, height and diameter of the pollen and honey jar) and bee population. The average volume and diameter of the trunks cavities used for nesting of M.mondury were18.4 L and 15.8 cm; the average number of combs was 9.26; the average diameter and height of the honey pots were 2.81 cm and 3.29 cm, and the average volume of honey stored was 15.85 mL; the average height and diameter of pollen pots was 3.21 cm and 2.93 cm, respectively, while the average mass of pollen deposited was equal to 12.56 g. The population ranged from 3537 to 10281 individuals between colonies. The results suggest that the conservation of M. mondury should involve reforestation with native species from Atlantic Forest, and the dimensions of boxes should be based on the average size of the nests in the natural environment in order to support strategies of conservation and sustainable management of this species.

A bionomia de Chelopistes meleagridis fora do hospedeiro foi observada com o objetivo de compreender aspectos relacionados ao ciclo de vida desta espécie. Para isto, adultos de C. meleagridis foram coletados e colocados em condições controladas (temperatura de 35°C e umidade relativa superior a 80%) para se reproduzir, oferecendo-se pena como alimento. Da prole destes adultos, foi observado o desenvolvimento de 150 indivíduos desde o ovo até a fase adulta. Para 75 destes, foi oferecida a dieta composta de pena, enquanto para os outros 75 a dieta foi composta de pena e pele do hospedeiro (peru, Meleagris gallopavo). Ao verificar que a dieta “pena + pele” foi a que resultou no maior número de adultos, foram observadas a fertilidade, fecundidade e a longevidade de piolhos criados in vitro desde o primeiro ínstar alimentados com esta dieta. Valores altos relacionados à reprodução desta espécie foram encontrados em relação a outros piolhos da subordem Ischnocera, destacando-se: número de ovos produzidos por dia e número de ovos produzidos por fêmeas durante a vida (médias de 2,54 e 26,61 ovos, respectivamente, para fêmeas selvagens e 2,11 e 29,33 ovos, respectivamente, para fêmeas criadas in vitro.). A inclusão de pele na dieta foi determinante para o desenvolvimento até o estágio adulto, uma vez que 48% dos piolhos alimentados com essa dieta atingiram a fase adulta. Quando foi oferecido apenas pena, 1,3% dos piolhos atingiram a maturidade. O tempo de desenvolvimento de machos e fêmeas foi semelhante (média de 29,38 dias) sem haver diferença na proporção sexual dos adultos.

The bionomy of Chelopistes meleagridis off the host was observed with the aim of better understanding the aspects of this species' life cycle. For this purpose, C. meleagridisadults were collected and maintained under controlled conditions to reproduce (35°C and RH > 80%), with turkey feathers as the food source. From the offspring of these lice, the development of 150 individuals was observed from the egg to the adult phase. These eggs were divided into two groups of 75 each. After hatching, one group was given a diet composed of feathers while the other received feathers plus skin of the host turkey (Meleagris gallopavo). The “feather + skin” diet resulted in the greatest number of adults, so this diet was given to the next generation of lice reared in vitro, starting from the first instar, to observe their fertility, fecundity and longevity. High reproduction rates were found in relation to other lice of the Ischnocera sub-order, particularly the number of eggs per day and number of eggs produced per female over the lifetime (means of 2.54 and 26.61 eggs, respectively, for wild females and 2.11 and 29.33 eggs for laboratory-reared females). The inclusion of skin in the diet was a determining factor for development to the adult stage, since 48% of the lice fed this diet reached that stage, versus 1.3% that reached maturity fed only with feathers. The development time of the males and females was similar (mean of 29.38 days), without any difference in the sexual proportion of the adults.

Desde su descripción en el continente Americano en 1912, Coquillettidea Rhynchotaenia venezuelensis Theobald, 1912 se encuentra en algunos países de Centro y Sudamérica. Últimamente se ha ubicado en 22 países de la Región Neotropical. En Venezuela, representa una especie importante en los estados costeros del país, no solo por su marcada densidad poblacional, sino también por las molestias ocasionadas a los pobladores que habitan próximos a sistemas lagunares. Cq. venezuelensis es un vector importante de varios virus como Mayaro, Oropuche y Encefalitis de San Luis. Se ha evidenciado además, como vector potencial del virus del Oeste del Nilo en costas del territorio venezolano. Su distribución actual, ocupa los estados Aragua, Anzoátegui, Apure, Bolívar, Falcón, Mérida, Miranda, Monagas, Sucre y Zulia.

Since its description in the Americas in 1912, the mosquito, Coquillettidea (Rhynchotaenia) venezuelensis Theobald, 1912, is present in some countries of Central and South America. Lately it has been located in 22 countries of the Neotropical Region. In Venezuela, it represents an important species in coastal states, due not only to its population density, but also for the inconvenience it causes to the residents who live near lagoone systems. Coquillettidea venezuelensis is an important vector of several viruses as Mayaro, Oropuche and St. Louis encephalitis. It was further highlighted as a potential vector of West Nile virus in the coasts of Venezuela. Its current distribution occupies the states of Aragua, Anzoátegui, Apure, Bolivar, Falcon, Merida, Miranda, Monagas, Sucre and Zulia.

Field surveys conducted in North-central Argentina on Parkinsonia aculeata L. between 2008 and 2011 revealed the presence of the stem-galling midge Neolasioptera aculeatae Gagné (Diptera: Cecidomyiidae). Bionomical and field host range studies were conducted to determine the insect's suitability for biological control of P . aculeata. Presence of N. aculeatae galls was restricted to the northern distribution of P. aculeata. Larvae and/or pupae were found by dissecting galls collected throughout the year on P. aculeata plants at different phenological stages. Emergence of N. aculeatae adults occurred 13 to 34 days from field collection and over an average period of 22 days. Field host range surveys indicated that of the 11 legume species sampled, N. aculeatae adults only emerged from galls collected on P. aculeata. The biological attributes of N. aculeatae and its restricted field host range suggests that it will be a promising biological control agent for P. aculeata.

Inspecciones de campo realizadas sobre Parkinsonia aculeata L. en el Norte-centro de Argentina entre 2008 y 2011 revelaron la presencia del mosquito agallícola Neolasioptera aculeatae Gagné (Diptera: Cecidomyiidae). La presencia de las agallas de N. aculeatae está restringida a la distribución norte de P. aculeata. La disección de agallas recolectadas a lo largo del año, reveló la presencia de larvas y/o pupas en distintos estados fenológicos de P. aculeata. La emergencia de adultos de N. aculeatae tuvo lugar 13 a 34 días desde la recolección en el campo y se extendió por un período promedio de 22 días. Entre once especies de leguminosas inspeccionadas en el campo, adultos de N. aculeatae emergieron únicamente de agallas recolectadas sobre P. aculeata. Los atributos biológicos y el restringido conjunto de plantas hospederas utilizadas en el campo, hacen de N. aculeatae un agente promisorio para el control biológico de P. aculeata.

Results of collecting made with fluorescent light traps and by hand between April 2009 and July 2010 in two sites of Santa Cruz Xoxocotlán, Oaxaca are presented. These sites are located at 1550 m of altitude. Thirteen species were collected: Phyllophaga lenis (Horn), P. macrocera (Bates), P. nubipennis (Bates), P. parvisetis (Bates), P. cinnamomea (Blanchard), P. ravida (Blanchard), P. misteca (Bates), P. vetula (Horn), P. obsoleta (Blanchard), P. scabripyga (Bates), P. chiapensis (Chapin), P. porodera (Bates) and P. integriceps (Moser). The species group that showed a higher species richness was "anodentata". The most abundant species was P. lenis with 3107 of the 3251 specimens collected during the two years. A key for males of the 13 species is provided. Also, pictures of diagnostic structures of each species are included.

Se presentan los resultados de las colectas con trampas de luz fluorescente y colectas manuales directas de especies de Phyllophaga, efectuadas entre abril 2009 y julio 2010 en dos sitios de Santa Cruz Xoxocotlán, Oaxaca, ubicados a 1550 msnm. Se capturaron representantes de 13 especies: Phyllophaga lenis (Horn), P. macrocera (Bates), P. nubipennis (Bates), P. parvisetis (Bates), P. cinnamomea (Blanchard), P. ravida (Blanchard), P. misteca (Bates), P. vetula (Horn), P. obsoleta (Blanchard), P. scabripyga (Bates), P. chiapensis (Chapin), P. porodera (Bates) y P. integriceps (Moser). El grupo de especies con mayor número de representantes fue "anodentata" con cinco especies. La especie más abundante fue P. lenis, con 3,107 de los 3,251 ejemplares capturados durante los dos años. Se incluye una clave para identificar los machos de las 13 especies, así como fotografías de las estructuras diagnósticas para cada especie.

Introduction: We analyzed the variation in the age structure, sex ratio, proportion of reproductive individuals, age and size at sexual maturity, and litter size in a population of the sigmodont rodent Wiedomys pyrrhorhinos. We compared the observed distributions with the monthly rainfall for the same period, to identify the reproductive period and to assess the effects of the rains on the age structure of the population during the ensuing months. We further compared our results with age structure patterns recovered from other documented rodent outbreaks to identify possible causes of a presumptive population outbreak represented by this series. Methodology: Museum samples had been obtained between July 1953 and February 1955 from 40 sites in Caruaru, Pernambuco, Brazil (Fig. 1, Appendix). Records from a total of 2,280 individuals, 1,834 of which represented by their skulls, were analyzed. Skulls were sorted into seven age classes based on molar eruption and wear (Fig. 3). Monthly rainfall during the entire collecting period (Fig. 2) was analyzed for putative correlations with monthly frequencies of specimens (Figs. 4 and 5) and of indicators of reproductive condition, tabulated for each sex and age class. Results: Monthly frequency distributions of age classes presented separated and consecutive modal peaks, conforming to an age structured population (Fig. 6). Monthly proportions of pregnant females were highly correlated with the amount of rainfall of the same and of the previous month (Fig. 7), although records of pregnant females were obtained every month between July 1953 and December 1954. Pregnant females were found from age class 2 on. From January to April, 1954, reproductive females belonged to age classes 5 to 7. From May to September a wide range of age classes was documented among pregnant females, and from October to December only those of age classes 2 to 4 were recorded (Fig. 8). Litter size varied throughout the year, with larger averages and ranges at mid-wet season (June-August) (Fig. 10) and was highly correlated with female weight, female length and with the amount of rainfall of the previous 30 days. Higher means in litter size were also in phase with higher proportions of pregnant females and with the age class 1 peak. Discussion and Conclusion: The population peak occurred four to six months after the rainfall peak (September - November) and was primarily comprised of young adults. After this period, the pregnancy rates were very low, ceasing completely by January, 1955, when most of the individuals belong to older age classes. This shift in age structure from younger to older individuals during population decline indicated that the samples documented an outbreak episode in 1954. This episode was possibly related to the unusual rainfall in November 1953, apparently sufficient to support two closely-spaced breeding seasons, with the second amplifying the effect of the first.

Hemos analizado la variación en la estructura etaria, proporción sexual, proporción de individuos reproductivos, edad y grado en la madurez sexual, y el tamaño de la prole en una población del roedor sigmodontino Wiedomys pyrrhorhinos, con base en una gran serie de individuos obtenida entre julio de 1953 y febrero de 1955 en Caruaru, Pernambuco, Brasil. Se registraron 2,280 individuos, de los cuales 1,834 están representados por cráneos, los que fueron analizados. Los cráneos fueron agrupados en siete clases de edad basadas en la erupción y desgaste molar. La proporciones mensuales de hembras grávidas tuvieron una alta correlación con la cantidad de lluvia del mismo mes y del mes anterior, a pesar de que la variación han sido encontradas también durante la estación seca. El tamaño de la prole varió a lo largo del año, con valores más altos durante mediados de la estación húmeda (junio), y este fue altamente correlacionado al peso, el largo del cuerpo de la hembra y con la lluvia de los 30 días anteriores. Distribuciones de frecuencias mensuales de clases de edad presentaron máximos modales consecutivos y separados, ajustándose a una población estructurada de manera etaria. El máximo poblacional ocurrió de 4 a 6 meses después del máximo de lluvias (septiembre-noviembre) y estaba compuesto primariamente por jóvenes adultos. A partir de ese período, sin embargo, las tasas de gravidez fueron muy bajas, cesando completamente en enero, cuando la mayoría de los individuos pertenecía a clases etarias más viejas. Ese cambio en la estructura etaria, de los más jóvenes a individuos más viejos durante el descenso poblacional, indicó que la muestra disponible sufrió un surto poblacional en 1954. Este episodio fue posiblemente relacionado a un aumento poco común en las lluvias en noviembre de 1953, aparentemente suficiente para soportar dos estaciones reproductivas enmendadas.

O objetivo desse trabalho foi descrever os aspectos biológicos e morfométricos da lagarta desfolhadora do paricá, Syssphinx molina (Cramer), e fazer recomendações para a criação do inseto. O ciclo de vida foi de 62,9 dias com períodos médios para as fases de ovo, lagarta, pré-pupa e pupa de 5,6; 31,1; 2,2 e 16,6 dias, respectivamente. A viabilidade das pupas foi de 60,5% para fêmeas e 48,6% nos machos. A razão sexual foi de 0,5 e a produção média de 182,3 ± 2,2 ovos por fêmea com viabilidade de ovos de 24,3%. A longevidade média foi de 7,9 ± 2 e 8,1 ± 3 dias para fêmeas e machos, respectivamente. Outros parâmetros foram igualmente observados e comparados com a descrição de outras espécies de Saturniidae.

The objective of this research was to describe the biological and morphometric aspects of the parica tree defoliator, Syssphinx molina (Cramer), and make recommendations about the insect rearing. The life cycle was 62.9 days with mean periods for the egg, larval, pre-pupal and pupal stages of 5.6, 31.1, 2.2 and 16.6 days respectively. The pupal viability was 60.5% for females and 48.6% for males. The sexual ratio was 0.5 with mean production of 182.3 ± 2.2 eggs per female and egg viability of 24.3%. The mean longevity was 7.9 ± 2 and 8.1 ± 3 days for females and males respectively. Other parameters were also observed and compared with description of other Saturniidae species.

Foram localizados dez ninhos de Geotrigona subterranea em áreas de transição entre o Cerrado e a Caatinga nos municípios de Lontra e Januária, Estado de Minas Gerais. Os ninhos foram coletados para observação da arquitetura. Neste trabalho são apresentadas informações sobre estrutura geral e forma do ninho desta espécie; número, forma e área dos favos de cria; tamanho de células de cria; tamanho de potes de mel e pólen; volume dos potes de mel e massa de pólen em potes fechados; presença de inquilinos e características de defesa. Todos os ninhos foram encontrados em cavidades subterrâneas. De modo geral, esta espécie apresenta estrutura de ninho similar a apresentada por outras espécies do mesmo gênero.

We located ten nests of Geotrigona subterranea in the transition area between Cerrado and Caatinga within the municipalities of Lontra and Januária, state of Minas Gerais, southeastern Brazil. We collected the nests to study their architecture in detail. In the present paper, we describe the general nest structure of this bee species in terms of: number, shape and area of the combs; size of the brood cells; size of honey and pollen pots; volume of honey and mass of pollen stored in closed pots; presence of inquiline species; and defensive characteristics. All nests were found in subterranean cavities. The nest structure of G. subterranea is similar to that of other congeneric species.

Objetivando conhecer o ciclo de desenvolvimento de Spalangia endius sob condições de laboratório, 360 pupas de Musca domestica com idade de 24 a 48 horas foram expostas a 15 casais de S. endius por um período de 48 horas a 26 ± 2ºC. Estas pupas foram mantidas em BOD. Com mesma temperatura, umidade relativa <70% e com fotofase de 12 horas, onde diariamente dissecava-se 15 espécimes para avaliar o estágio e tempo de desenvolvimento do himenóptero. A fenologia permite concluir que S. endius apresenta um ciclo de desenvolvimento de 19 dias, cujo período de incubação foi de 24 horas, o desenvolvimento de larvas de S. endius ocorreu nos oito dias subsequentes nos quais uma série de alterações morfológicas foi observada. O estágio de pré-pupa deu-se no décimo dia onde cessa a movimentação e inicia a eliminação de mecônio. O estágio pupal ocorreu do décimo primeiro dia ao décimo nono, momento da emergência dos primeiros machos, já as fêmeas iniciaram a emergência aproximadamente 24 horas após. Estes resultados permitem avaliar aspectos da bionomia pormenorizada do desenvolvimento de S. endius para armazenar e programar a produção deste parasitóide, otimizando sua utilização como agente de controle biológico.

This work describes the phenology of Spalangia endius Walker in pupae of Musca domestica Linnaeus under laboratory conditions. In order to understand the developmental cycle of Spalangia endius under laboratory conditions, 360 Musca domestica pupae aged from 24 to 48 hours were exposed to 15 S. endius pairs for a period of 24 hours at 26 ± 2ºC. These pupae were kept in a BOD incubator at the same temperature, with a relative humidity of <70%, and 12 hours photophase. Fifteen hymenopteran specimens were dissected daily to evaluate their stage and development time. The phenology concluded that S. endius had a development cycle of 19 days with an incubation period of 24 hours. The development of the larvae of S. endius occurred in the subsequent eight days, during which a series of morphological alterations were observed. The pre-pupal stage occurred on the tenth day, where the movement ceased and elimination of the meconium started. The pupal stage occurred from the 11th to the 19th day, with emergence of males first, followed by female emergence approximately 24 hours later. These results allowed the evaluation of aspects of the detailed bionomics of the development of S. endius in order to record and program production of this parasitoid, thus optimizing its utilization as a biological control agent.