RESUMO: O objetivo deste estudo foi identificar e monitorar as flutuações populacionais de insetos vetores do Cowpea aphid-borne mosaic virus (CABMV) em pomares experimentais nas Regiões Norte e Noroeste do Estado do Paraná. Os experimentos foram conduzidos nas cidades de Londrina e Paranavaí nas Estações de Pesquisa Experimental do Instituto de Desenvolvimento Rural do Paraná-IAPAR-EMATER (IDR-Paraná), Brasil. O período de estudo foi de setembro de 2019 a março de 2021. Nos experimentos realizados em Londrina e em Paranavaí, plantas de maracujá amarelo foram cultivadas em sistema de latada. Foram utilizadas armadilhas Moericke para captura dos insetos e as coletas foram realizadas semanalmente. Os pulgões foram identificados por meio de uma chave de identificação taxonômica. Os números de pulgões presentes em cada região foram comparados e as populações correlacionadas com o clima e a precipitação local. Foram observados 1.522 e 1.340 pulgões alados nos experimentos de Londrina e Paranavaí, respectivamente. Em Londrina, foram observadas correlações positivas moderadas entre o número de insetos e as temperaturas máxima e média, enquanto correlações negativas foram observadas entre o número de insetos e a temperatura mínima e precipitação. Em contrapartida, em Paranavaí, a correlação entre pulgões e fatores abióticos foi negativa, onde a temperatura máxima estava fortemente correlacionada. Em ambas as regiões foram detectadas as seguintes sete espécies de pulgões vetores do CABMV: Aphis fabae, Aphis gossypii, Toxoptera citricida, Acyrthosiphon pisum, Brevicoryne brassicae, Macrosiphum euphorbiae e Uroleucon ambrosiae. As flutuações populacionais dessas espécies foram influenciadas pelas variações de temperatura e precipitação. RESUMO aphidborne aphid borne CABMV (CABMV Paraná ParanáIAPAREMATER IAPAR EMATER IDRParaná, IDRParaná IDR , (IDR-Paraná) Brasil 201 2021 latada semanalmente taxonômica local 1522 1 522 1.52 1340 340 1.34 respectivamente média contrapartida negativa correlacionada fabae gossypii citricida pisum brassicae ambrosiae (IDR-Paraná 20 202 152 52 1.5 134 34 1.3 2 15 5 1. 13 3

ABSTRACT: This study identified and monitored the population fluctuations of insect vectors of Cowpea aphid-borne mosaic virus (CABMV) in experimental orchards in the North and Northwest Regions of the State of Paraná. The experiments were conducted in the cities of Londrina and Paranavaí at the Experimental Research Stations of the Instituto de Desenvolvimento Rural do Paraná-IAPAR-EMATER (IDR-Paraná), Brazil. The study period was from September 2019 to March 2021. In the experiments conducted in Londrina and in Paranavaí, yellow passion fruit plants were grown in trellis systems. Moericke traps were used to capture insects, and collections were performed weekly. Aphids were identified using a taxonomic identification key. The numbers of aphids present in each region were compared, and the populations were correlated with the climate and local precipitation. A total of 1522 and 1340 winged aphids were observed in the experiments in Londrina and Paranavaí, respectively. In Londrina, moderate positive correlations were observed between the number of insects and the maximum and average temperatures, while negative correlations were observed between the number of insects and the minimum temperature and precipitation. In contrast, in Paranavaí, the correlation between aphids and abiotic factors was negative, where maximum temperature was strongly correlated. In both regions, the following seven species of aphid vectors of CABMV were detected: Aphis fabae, Aphis gossypii, Toxoptera citricida, Acyrthosiphon pisum, Brevicoryne brassicae, Macrosiphum euphorbiae and Uroleucon ambrosiae. The population fluctuations of these species were influenced by variations in temperature and precipitation. ABSTRACT aphidborne borne (CABMV Paraná ParanáIAPAREMATER IAPAR EMATER IDRParaná, IDRParaná IDR , (IDR-Paraná) Brazil 201 2021 systems weekly key compared precipitation 152 134 respectively temperatures contrast regions detected fabae gossypii citricida pisum brassicae ambrosiae (IDR-Paraná 20 202 15 13 2 1

The history of the discovery, use, and development of dyes is closely linked to the history of humanity itself. Among the first records of human civilization are cave paintings made from, e.g., fruits, plants, minerals, and insects. Over the centuries, using different techniques, colors have been given to all types of materials and products, from clothing to food. The chemicals responsible for colors are dyes - a vast collection of molecules of the most varied compositions, but which have in common the absorption of light within the visible window of the electromagnetic spectrum. This article aims not only to review the properties of some classes of natural dyes, their origins, and their applications but also to describe the various computational chemistry methods involved in designing new bio-inspired molecules. discovery use itself eg e g e.g. fruits plants minerals insects centuries techniques products food compositions spectrum origins bioinspired bio inspired e.g

Resumen Introducción: El manglar es uno de los ecosistemas más importantes del planeta, debido al papel ecológico que desempeña en las costas, ya que es el hábitat, o bien el área de refugio y alimentación para diversas especies. Objetivo: Determinar la diversidad y fluctuación anual de la comunidad de cerambícidos, así como la distribución vertical de la riqueza de especies asociadas al borde e interior de un manglar en Tabasco, México. Métodos: El muestreo se realizó de agosto 2016 a julio 2017. La captura de insectos se realizó con trampas de intercepción cebadas con alcohol etílico al 70 % a 1.5, 6 y 12 m de altura, en el borde e interior del manglar. Resultados: Se recolectaron un total de 382 especímenes de tres subfamilias, pertenecientes a 36 especies de 25 géneros; Laminae fue la subfamilia más diversa con 24 especies, seguida de Cerambycinae con 11. En el borde del manglar se capturaron 31 especies y en el interior 21. El índice 1D, determinó que el borde fue 2.51 más diverso que el interior, con una similitud del 61 %, al compartir 16 especies. La fluctuación de las comunidades en el borde e interior presentó notables diferencias durante el año de muestreo. En el borde, la mayor riqueza de especie se registró a los 6 m de altura y en el interior a 1.5 m y 6 m. Conclusión: Los estudios relacionados con la distribución vertical de este grupo de insectos, aunado al incremento del tiempo de recolecta y utilizando técnicas complementarias, podrían dar mejores resultados para inventariar el mayor número de especies en los ecosistemas.

Abstract Introduction: The mangrove is one of the most important ecosystems on the planet, due to the ecological role it plays on coastlines, it provides development, protection, and feeding areas for various species. Objective: To determine the diversity and annual fluctuation of the cerambycid community, as well as the vertical distribution of species richness associated with the edge and interior of a mangrove in Tabasco, Mexico. Methods: The sampling was carried out from August 2016 to July 2017. The capture of insects was performed with interception traps baited with ethanol 70 % at 1.5, 6, and 12 m height, on the edge and interior of the mangrove. Results: A total of 382 specimens were collected, belonging to three subfamilies, 25 genera, and 36 species; Laminae was the subfamily most diverse with 24 species, followed by Cerambycinae with 11 species. At the edge of the mangrove 31 species were captured, and 21 in the interior. The 1D index determined that the edge was 2.51 more diverse than the interior, with a similarity of 61 %, sharing 16 species. The fluctuation of the communities on the edge and interior presented remarkable differences during the sampling year. On the edge, the greatest species richness was recorded at 6 m height and in the interior at 1.5 m and 6 m. Conclusions: Studies related to the vertical distribution of this group of insects, together with the increase in collection time and using complementary techniques, could give better results to inventory a larger number of species in the ecosystems.

Resumen El uso de insectos depredadores ha ganado interés para el manejo confiable y ambientalmente seguro de la polilla del tomate, Phthorimaea absoluta (Meyrick) (Lepidoptera: Gelechiidae), una plaga de este cultivo en todo el mundo. Por medio de un estudio con el programa EthoVision® y de ensayos de opción múltiple, repor tamos el comportamiento de búsqueda de presas y la preferencia alimentaria del mírido neotropical Tupiocoris cucurbitaceus Spinola (Hemiptera: Miridae), un agente de control biológico de P. absoluta, cuando se le presentan huevos de la plaga y simultáneamente otras dos especies de presas. T. cucurbitaceus exhibe un comportamiento alimentario generalista. Las ninfas del depredador mostraron inicialmente preferencia por las ninfas de Trialeurodes vaporariorum (Westwood) (Hemiptera: Aleyrodidae) pero consumieron más huevos de P. absoluta y Ephestia kuehniella Zeller (Lepidoptera: Pyralidae) al cabo de 24 h. Los machos de T. cucurbitaceus prefirieron a T. vaporariorum mientras que las hembras no mostraron preferencia por ningún tipo de presa. Además, los individuos no causaron daños directos a las hojas. Los hallazgos enfatizan la importancia de evaluar la oferta de diferentes presas para conocer la efectividad de los agentes de control biológico en el campo. La investigación aporta valiosos conocimientos sobre los hábitos alimentarios de T. cucurbitaceus, respaldando su potencial como agente de control biológico para P. absoluta.

Abstract The use of predatory insects has gained interest for reliable and environmentally safe pest management to control the South American tomato leafminer, Phthorimaea absoluta (Meyrick) (Lepidoptera: Gelechiidae), a pest of tomato crops worldwide. Based on video tracking using EthoVision® software and static feeding multiple-choice tests, we report the prey-searching behavior and feeding preference of the Neotropical mirid bug Tupiocoris cucurbitaceus Spinola (Hemiptera: Miridae), a biological control agent of P. absoluta when presented with its eggs and other two prey species. T. cucurbitaceus exhibits generalist feeding behavior; the nymphs initially showed a preference for Trialeurodes vaporariorum Westwood (Hemiptera: Aleyrodidae) nymphs but consumed more P. absoluta and Ephestia kuehniella Zeller (Lepidoptera: Pyralidae) eggs after 24 h. T. cucurbitaceus males preferred T. vaporariorum throughout the experiment while females showed no preference for any prey. Furthermore, they did not cause significant damage to the leaves. The findings emphasize the importance of evaluating the simultaneous offer of multiple prey types to understand the effectiveness of biocontrol agents in the field. Overall, the research contributes valuable insights into the feeding habits of T. cucurbitaceus, supporting its potential as a biological control agent for P. absoluta in tomato crops.

Resumen: Los bioestimulantes como el quitosano en la agricultura tradicional han demostrado su eficacia para promover el crecimiento y desarrollo de las plantas, así como protegerlas de enfermedades. Sin embargo, en sistemas de producción acuapónicos su efecto no está documentado, por ello el objetivo del presente trabajo fue determinar el efecto de la concentración de quitosano (0, 500 y 1000 mg L-1) en tres variedades (Grandes Lagos, Regina 500 y Red Rock) de lechuga (Latuca sativa L.), sobre los parámetros de producción en un sistema circular de acuaponía. Utilizando un diseño completamente al azar con un arreglo factorial 3×3 el quitosano se aplicó mediante aspersión a los 10 y 45 días después del trasplante. Posterior al análisis de varianza, las diferencias debido a la variedad se determinaron utilizando la prueba de Tukey y, el efecto de la concentración de quitosano mediante polinomios ortogonales, además de un análisis de correlación y regresión lineal simple entre el rendimiento, altura, número y longitud de las hojas. Los resultados demostraron que las variables número de hojas, longitud de hojas y raíz, peso de planta, altura de planta y rendimiento, se incrementó conforme se aumentó la dosis de quitosano. La variedad Red Rock superó a las variedades Regina 500 y Grandes Lagos. No se detectó la presencia de insectos ni enfermedades. Se concluye que el quitosano favorece el crecimiento, desarrollo y rendimiento de la planta de lechuga en un sistema circular de acuaponía, sobre todo con dosis de 1000 mg L-1 de quitosano, y que respecto a estas mismas variables, la variedad Red Rock supera a las variedades Regina 500 y Grandes Lagos.

Summary: Bioestimulants such as chitosan in traditional agriculture have proven effective in promoting plant growth and development, as well as protecting them from diseases. However, in aquaponic production systems its effect is not documented, therefore the objective of the present work was to determine the effect of chitosan concentration (0, 500 and 1000 mg L-1) in three varieties (Great Lakes, Regina 500 and Red Rock) of lettuce (Latuca sativa L.), on production parameters in a circular aquaponics system. Using a completely randomized design with a 3×3 factorial arrangement, chitosan was applied by spraying at 10 and 45 days after transplantation. After the analysis of variance, the differences due to the variety were determined using the Tukey test and the effect of chitosan concentration through orthogonal polynomials, in addition to a correlation analysis and simple linear regression between the yield, height, number and length of the leaves. The results showed that the variables number of leaves, length of leaves and root, plant weight, plant height and yield increased as the dose of chitosan increased. The Red Rock variety outperformed the Regina 500 and Great Lakes varieties. No presence of insects or diseases was detected. It is concluded that chitosan favors the growth, development and yield of the lettuce plant in a circular aquaponic system, especially with doses of 1000 mg L-1 of chitosan, and that with respect to these same variables, the Red Rock variety surpasses to the Regina 500 and Great Lakes varieties.

Resumen Objetivo: Describir el proceso participativo para el monitoreo comunitario a fin de evaluar la calidad ambiental de los ríos de las cuencas Cuitzmala y Purificación mediante un índice biótico multimétrico con insectos acuáticos previamente desarrollado para esta región. Diseño metodológico: Se propone un modelo de proceso participativo para el monitoreo ambiental. Con actores clave se seleccionaron localidades que abarcaron parte alta, media y baja de cada cuenca. Se diseñó un taller con base en protocolos para monitoreo, adecuado al contexto de las cuencas y actores elegidos. El taller consistió en cuatro etapas, en las que se capacitó con teoría y práctica. En un diario de campo se tomaron notas descriptivas respecto a lo que dijeron e hicieron los participantes. Resultados: Se conformaron seis grupos comunitarios, en cinco escuelas, y un Comité Ciudadano Ambiental. A la mayoría de los participantes les pareció bien el taller y les gustaría ampliar el número de monitoreos y los sitios a monitorear. Los participantes lograron evaluar su tramo de río con los insectos acuáticos y recomendaron continuar el acompañamiento técnico para fortalecer sus habilidades y asegurar el monitoreo a largo plazo. Limitaciones de la investigación: Aún esta actividad es considerada como extracurricular, por lo que es necesario trabajar con los docentes para que quede integrada en las materias del programa curricular de cada grado. Hallazgos: El monitoreo comunitario de los insectos acuáticos fortalece y complementa al monitoreo científico. Esta metodología puede ser replicada en otras cuencas costeras.

Abstract Purpose: To describe the participatory process of community monitoring using aquatic insects as a tool to assess environmental quality in Cuitzmala y Purificacion basins. Methodological design: A participatory environmental monitoring model is proposed, which involves key actors, covering the upper, middle and lower part of each basin. A workshop was designed in appropriate way to the context of local actors and basin characteristics. The workshop consisted of four stages, involving theory and practice. Field diary was developed thought descriptive notes about what is seen and doing the participants. Results: Six community groups were formed, five in schools and one a Citizen Environmental Committee. Most participants found the workshop beneficial and expressed a desire for an increased number of monitoring sessions and additional monitoring sites. Participants successfully assessed their river section using aquatic insects, and it is recommended to provide technical support to strengthen monitoring skills and long-term monitoring. Research limitations: Still this action is considered an extracurricular activity. For this reason, is necessary work with professor to integrate these activities in the education program of the schools. Findings: Aquatic insects community monitoring strength and complement the scientific monitoring. The methodology used can be replicated in other coastal basins.

Resumen La pudrición de mazorca de maíz ocasionada por especies del género Fusarium es uno de los varios problemas que enfrentan los productores a nivel mundial debido a su amplia distribución geográfica, ocasionando varias enfermedades como pudrición de tallo, raíz y mazorca. La identificación del patógeno se realiza a través de técnicas morfológicas y moleculares, siendo la última necesaria para identificación a nivel de especies. Además, el patógeno tiene la capacidad de producir micotoxinas como Deoxinivalenol (DON), Zearalenona (ZEA) y Fumonisinas (FB) las cuales contaminan el grano llegando a representar un riesgo tanto para la salud humana como animal. Esta reportado que el patógeno puede llegar a sobrevivir en los restos del cultivo ingresando a la planta a través de las raíces, a menudo por heridas causadas por insectos o prácticas de cultivo, una vez dentro de las raíces, el fitopatógeno coloniza los vasos del xilema y se transporta a través del sistema vascular de la planta, transportándose sistémicamente dentro de la misma, colonizando el tallo y otros tejidos vasculares llegando así a la mazorca. El uso de cultivares resistentes, el manejo de residuos de cultivos, riego y control biológico de enfermedades son alternativas enmarcadas en las prácticas agrícolas para disminuir la incidencia y propagación de enfermedades causadas por Fusarium. Sin embargo, los desafíos actuales y futuros incluyen la creciente resistencia de los hongos y el impacto del cambio climático en la distribución y severidad de las enfermedades.

Abstract Corn ear rot caused by species of the Fusarium genus is one of the many problems faced by producers worldwide due to its wide geographical distribution, leading to various diseases such as stalk, root, and ear rot. The identification of the pathogen can be carried out through morphological and molecular techniques, with the latter being necessary for species-level identification. Additionally, the pathogen can produce mycotoxins such as Deoxynivalenol (DON), Zearalenone (ZEA), and Fumonisins (FB), which contaminate the grain, posing a risk to both human and animal health. It has been reported that the pathogen can survive in crop residues, entering the plant through the roots, often via wounds caused by insects or agricultural practices. Once inside the roots, the phytopathogen colonizes the xylem vessels and is transported through the plant's vascular system, spreading systemically within the plant, colonizing the stalk and other vascular tissues, and eventually reaching the ear. The introduction of resistant cultivars, crop residue management, irrigation, and biological control of diseases are key strategies in agricultural practices to reduce the incidence and spread of diseases caused by Fusarium. However, current and future challenges include the increasing resistance of strains, distribution, and methods for pathogen identification.

The decomposition of a body, and the associated gaseous and liquid discharges emanating from it, attract gravid female blow flies which lay their eggs in or on the body. After the eggs have hatched, the emerging larvae start feeding on the body. As decomposition progresses, the blow fly larvae often migrate away, typically in a random manner in search of favourable conditions for pupation. In this paper, we report on a rarely described phenomenon of unidirectional mass migration of blow fly larvae and postulate on the factors which may drive this process. A decomposition trial utilising a 60-kg pig carcass, deployed in the summer months in Table Mountain National Park, Cape Town, South Africa, was conducted in 2022. On the fifth day of the trial, simultaneous unidirectional mass dispersal of blow fly larvae was observed. The larvae moved downhill in a southeasterly direction, following the flow of decomposition fluids oozing out from the pig carcass. The 'larval migration stream' had a length of approximately 1.5 m with a width of 40 cm, tapering to 17 cm at the terminal point. The larval migration stream consisted of the larvae of Chrysomya albiceps and Chrysomya chloropyga. This study demonstrates the importance of understanding the timing and pattern of dispersal of post-feeding blow fly larvae in each geographical region. This is crucial as the minimum post-mortem interval can be miscalculated if older immature insects dispersing from the corpse are not considered and collected during crime scene investigations. SIGNIFICANCE: • Understanding the timing and pattern of dispersal of blow fly larvae from decomposing vertebrate remains in each geographical region is important in time-since-death estimations when using entomological evidence. • In the summer season of the Western Cape Province, Chrysomya albiceps and Chrysomya chloropyga are among the blow fly species of forensic importance as they deposit their eggs on vertebrate remains. • When a decomposing body is found within the Table Mountain region, we suggest that crime scene investigators should examine the downhill area of the scene for larval/pupal entomological evidence that can assist in time and season of death estimations.

RESUMEN El cidrón, Aloysia citriodora (Palau) ha sido ampliamente utilizada en la medicina tradicional, la cosmética y la industria alimentaria. En Colombia el follaje se comercializa fresco, pero no se cuenta con información sobre la fenología de la planta, ni sobre los insectos asociados, por lo que las prácticas de manejo son aún empíricas, y en ocasiones no cumplen con las normas nacionales para la comercialización de plantas medicinales. En este estudio se determinó que la planta tarda 32 semanas desde la siembra hasta la senescencia de la flor completando su ciclo fenológico; así mismo, se encontró una artrofauna asociada de 50 familias con diferentes hábitos alimentarios, lo que sugiere que la especie ofrece diferentes servicios ecosistémicos. La información obtenida podría contribuir a establecer planes de manejo más efectivos para los artrópodos y a mejorar la calidad de los materiales con fines medicinales.

ABSTRACT Lemon verbena, Aloysia citriodora (Palau) has been widely used in traditional medicine, cosmetics, and the food industry. In Colombia the foliage is marketed fresh but there is no information regarding the plant phenology, nor on the insects associated, therefore the management practices are still empirical, and sometimes does not comply with the national regulations for the commercialization of medicinal plants. In this study it was determined that it takes 32 weeks from planting to flower senescence completing its phenological cycle; likewise, an associated arthropofauna of 50 families with different feeding habits were found, suggesting that the species offers different ecosystem services. The information obtained could contribute to establish more effective management plans for arthropods, and to improve quality of materials with medicinal purposes.

Abstract Food and energy security are global challenges due to growing demand for proteins and biofuels in the pursuit of a sustainable society. Although insects have emerged as environmentally-friendly sources that can replace meats, promising insect species as common resources for food and energy have not been examined. This study therefore identifies the insect species that can be utilized for sustainable food and energy based on their substance contents. These are nitrogen and phosphorus representing protein and minerals, respectively; lipids representing economic feasibility for biodiesel; and water representing drying energy requirement for storage. Fourteen species of the insects commonly farmed are examined: beetles, butterflies, cockroaches, flies, grasshoppers, and bees. Protaetia brevitarsis seulensis (PBS) larvae and termite are identified as promising species. The PBS larvae have the highest potential as a common resource for sustainable food and energy due to higher contents of nitrogen and phosphorus than beef, pork, and chicken; high oil content comparable to palm full fruit bunch (FFB) and soybean; and the lowest water content. This study can thus contribute to initiating new R&D and industrial endeavors to develop mass farming technology for such insects and securing sustainable resources for food and energy.

Resumen La seguridad alimentaria y energética es un reto mundial debido a la creciente demanda de proteínas y biocombustibles en pos de una sociedad sostenible. Aunque los insectos han surgido como fuentes respetuosas con el medio ambiente que pueden sustituir a las carnes, no se han examinado las especies de insectos prometedoras como recursos comunes para la alimentación y la energía. Por ello, este estudio identifica las especies de insectos que pueden utilizarse para obtener alimentos y energía sostenibles en función de su contenido en sustancias. Éstas son el nitrógeno y el fósforo, que representan las proteínas y los minerales, respectivamente; los lípidos, que representan la viabilidad económica para el biodiésel; y el agua, que representa el requisito de energía de secado para el almacenamiento. Se examinan catorce especies de insectos cultivados habitualmente: escarabajos, mariposas, cucarachas, moscas, saltamontes y abejas. Las larvas de Protaetia brevitarsis seulensis (PBS) y las termitas se identifican como especies prometedoras. Las larvas de PBS tienen el mayor potencial como recurso común para la alimentación y la energía sostenibles debido a su mayor contenido en nitrógeno y fósforo que la ternera, el cerdo y el pollo; su alto contenido en aceite, comparable al del racimo de fruta entera (FFB) de palma y la soja; y su menor contenido en agua. Así pues, este estudio puede contribuir a iniciar nuevos esfuerzos industriales y de I+D para desarrollar tecnologías de cría masiva de estos insectos y garantizar recursos sostenibles para la alimentación y la energía.

RESUMEN Antecedentes: Ephemeroptera es un pequeño orden de insectos acuáticos con cerca de 3500 especies a nivel global, de 40 familias y 460 géneros. La mayor diversidad de Ephemeroptera se encuentra en el Neotrópico, con aproximadamente 900 especies registradas. Las familias Baetidae Leach, 1815 y Leptophlebiidae Banks 1900 están entre las más diversas del orden Ephemeroptera a nivel global. Baetidae está representada con 956 especies en 239 géneros. Leptophlebiidae está representada con 643 especies pertenecientes a 247 géneros en la región Neotropical. Las familias más diversas en Cuba son Baetidae y Leptophlebiidae con 12 y 13 especies respectivamente. Objetivos: Describir patrones de distribución geográfica y uso de microhábitats en cuatro especies que son nuevos reportes del orden Ephemeroptera en la cadena montañosa Sierra Maestra para los dos períodos hidroclimáticos. Métodos: Este estudio fue realizado en los ríos Yara y Nagua, localizados en la ladera norte de la Sierra Maestra, aproximadamente a 50 km al sur de la ciudad de Bayamo provincia Granma en la región este de Cuba. Fueron considerados un total de 15 sitios de muestreos en arroyos desde segundo hasta cuarto orden. Se seleccionaron cinco microhábitats de los dos subsistemas remansos y rabiones. Para remansos fueron hojarascas, guijarros, arena y vegetación de orilla. Mientras que para rabión fueron los guijarros. Las especies de Ephemeroptera fueron identificadas hasta nivel de especie y preservadas en alcohol al 70%. Resultados: Se registraron 20 especies y cuatro morfoespecies de efímeras. Además, nuevos reportes de localidad para Caribaetis alcarrazae (Kluge,1991), Paracloeodes lilliputian (Kluge,1991), Poecilophlebia pacoi (Kluge, 1994a) y Traverina oriente (Kluge, 1994a) son presentados. Conclusiones: Los resultados de este estudio proveen nueva información acerca la historia natural, rasgos ecológicos y biológicos de estas especies, útiles para implementar programas de biomonitoreos, así como estrategias de conservación a mediano y largo plazo.

ABSTRACT Background: Mayflies are a small order of aquatic insects with nearly 3,500 species worldwide, in nearly 40 families and 460 genera. The highest diversity of mayflies is found in the Neotropics with about 900 species. Baetidae Leach, 1815 and Leptophlebiidae Banks 1900 are among the most diverse families of Ephemeroptera worldwide. Baetidae is composed of 956 species belonging to 239 genera. Leptophlebiidae has 643 species distributed among 247 genera in the Neotropical Region. Also, the Baetidae and Leptophlebiidae families are the most diverse in Cuba, with 12 and 13 species, respectively, likewise members of both families have a wide distribution in the archipelago. Objective: To describe the geographic distribution patterns and microhabitats used by mayfly species in both hidroclimatic periods in two rivers of the Sierra Maestra massif of four new records mayflies species. Methods: This study was conducted in the Yara and Nagua rivers, located on the north slope of the Sierra Maestra Mountain System, eastern Cuba. Fifteen sampling sites were established in streams from second to fourth order in both rivers. A total of five microhabitats were sampled in the pool subsystems: leaf litter, cobbles in pools, sand, and bank vegetation. Meanwhile, the riffles subsystem was assessed in the cobles in the rifles microhabitat. Mayflies were identified at the species level. Results: 20 species and four morphospecies are listed. Besides, new locality records to Caribaetis alcarrazae (Kluge,1991), Paracloeodes lilliputian (Kluge,1991), Poecilophlebia pacoi (Kluge, 1994a), and Traverina oriente (Kluge, 1994a) are presented for the Sierra Maestra massif range. Conclusions: The results of this study provide new information about the natural history, ecological and biological traits of these species, useful to implement biomonitoring programs and conservation strategies.

ABSTRACT Chinch bugs [Blissus pulchellus Montandon (Hemiptera: Blissidae)] suck the phloem from susceptible forage grasses, injecting toxins that destroy plant vessels and compromise the flow of water and nutrients, leading to plant death. Thus, the aim of this study was to assess eight forage grasses for antixenosis resistance to B. pulchellus and compare the anatomical characteristics of leaf sheath tissue from resistant and susceptible species/cultivars. Experiments were conducted in a laboratory and greenhouse, using choice and no-choice tests with the following forage grasses: Urochloa ruziziensis, U. humidicola, U. brizantha ‘Piatã’, U. brizantha ‘Paiaguás’, U. brizantha ‘Marandu’, Panicum maximum ‘Mombaça’, P. maximum ‘Zuri’, and Andropogon gayanus. The oviposition results demonstrated that in the choice test there was a change in the stink bug’s behavior in relation to grasses four hours after infestation, with U. humidicola, P. maximum ‘Mombaça’ and ‘Zuri’, U. brizantha ‘Marandu’ and A. gayanus, proving to be less attractive to insects. It is concluded that U. humidicola, P. maximum ‘Mombaça’ and ‘Zuri’, U. brizantha ‘Marandu’, and A. gayanus are less attractive to B. pulchellus. A. gayanus and P. maximum ‘Mombaça’ and ‘Zuri’ showed non-preference resistance (antixenosis) to oviposition by B. pulchellus. The resistance of U. humidicola, P. maximum ‘Zuri’, and A. gayanus to B. pulchellus may be associated with greater compaction and lignification of the parenchyma and sclerenchyma cells of leaf sheaths. Blissus Hemiptera (Hemiptera Blissidae Blissidae) nutrients death Thus B speciescultivars species cultivars species/cultivars greenhouse nochoice no ruziziensis U humidicola ‘Piatã, Piatã ‘Piatã , ‘Piatã’ ‘Paiaguás, Paiaguás ‘Paiaguás ‘Paiaguás’ ‘Marandu, Marandu ‘Marandu ‘Mombaça, Mombaça ‘Mombaça P ‘Zuri, Zuri ‘Zuri bug s infestation A insects nonpreference non preference (antixenosis sheaths

RESUMO Os percevejos-das-gramíneas [Blissus pulchellus Montandon (Hemiptera: Blissidae)] sugam a seiva de espécies forrageiras suscetíveis e injetam toxinas que destroem os vasos condutores e dificultam o transporte de água e nutrientes, levando as plantas a morte. Assim, o objetivo deste estudo foi avaliar a resistência por antixenose e tolerância em oito poáceas forrageiras à B. pulchellus e comparar as características anatômicas dos tecidos das bainhas foliares de espécies/cultivares resistentes e suscetíveis. Os ensaios foram conduzidos em laboratório e casa de vegetação, em testes com e sem chance de escolha, utilizando-se as forrageiras: Urochloa ruziziensis, U. humidicola, U. brizantha ‘Piatã’, U. brizantha ‘Paiaguás’, U. brizantha ‘Marandu’, Panicum maximum ‘Mombaça’, P. maximum ‘Zuri’, e Andropogon gayanus. Os resultados de oviposição demonstraram que no teste de escolha houve uma mudança no comportamento do percevejo em relação às gramíneas quatro horas após infestação, sendo U. humidicola, P. maximum ‘Mombaça’ e ‘Zuri’, U. brizantha ‘Marandu’ e A. gayanus menos atrativos para os insetos. Conclui-se que U. humidicola, P. maximum ‘Mombaça’ e ‘Zuri’, U. brizantha ‘Marandu’, e A. gayanus são menos atrativas a B. pulchellus. A. gayanus, e P. maximum ‘Mombaça’ e ‘Zuri’ apresentam resistência do tipo não-preferência para oviposição a B. pulchellus. A resistência de U. humidicola, P. maximum Zuri, e A. gayanus a B. pulchellus pode estar associada a maior compactação e lignificação das células dos tecidos parenquimático e esclerenquimático das bainhas foliares. percevejosdasgramíneas percevejos Blissus Hemiptera (Hemiptera Blissidae Blissidae) nutrientes morte Assim B espéciescultivares cultivares vegetação utilizandose utilizando se ruziziensis U humidicola ‘Piatã, Piatã ‘Piatã , ‘Piatã’ ‘Paiaguás, Paiaguás ‘Paiaguás ‘Paiaguás’ ‘Marandu, Marandu ‘Marandu ‘Mombaça, Mombaça ‘Mombaça P ‘Zuri, Zuri ‘Zuri infestação insetos Concluise Conclui nãopreferência não preferência

RESUMEN: El poliestireno, conocido por su resistencia a la degradación, constituye una fuente importante de contaminación ambiental. Sin embargo, se ha descubierto que ciertos insectos y microorganismos asociados lo degradan, utilizando este material como fuente de carbono y energía. Por tanto, el objetivo de esta revisión es evaluar críticamente las técnicas de caracterización utilizadas para analizar la biodegradación del poliestireno por insectos y microorganismos asociados. Se busca identificar las fortalezas y limitaciones de estas técnicas, así como su contribución al conocimiento de la degradación del poliestireno en un contexto ambiental. Se realizó un análisis bibliométrico y una revisión sistemática basada en el método PRISMA, analizando 100 artículos de la base de datos Scopus y 83 de la Web of Science entre 2015 y 2023. El método estadístico aplicado a los metadatos fue bibliométrico con aspectos cualitativos y cuantitativos. Los resultados demostraron que las técnicas de caracterización aplicadas, como la microscopía de barrido electrónico, mostraron la formación de biopelículas microbianas en la superficie y cavidades del poliestireno biodegradado. Así mismo, la cromatografía de permeación en gel indicó cambios en la morfología del poliestireno biodegradado. Finalmente, la espectroscopía infrarroja por transformada de Fourier (FTIR) y la resonancia magnética nuclear de protones (H-NMR) demostraron signos de oxidación, despolimerización e incorporación de oxígeno a la cadena de hidrocarburos del poliestireno debido al proceso de degradación. Estos resultados enfatizan la efectividad de las técnicas de caracterización para detectar y describir cambios significativos en el poliestireno durante su biodegradación. Su comprensión es crucial para futuras investigaciones y la evaluación del impacto ecológico de la degradación del poliestireno por organismos biodegradadores.

ABSTRACT: Polystyrene, known for its resistance to biodegradation, constitutes a significant source of environmental pollution. However, certain insects and associated microorganisms have been found to degrade it, using this material as a source of carbon and energy. Therefore, the objective of this review is to critically evaluate the characterization techniques used to analyze the biodegradation of polystyrene by insects and associated microorganisms. The aim is to identify the strengths and limitations of these techniques, as well as their contribution to the knowledge of polystyrene degradation in an environmental context. A bibliometric analysis and a systematic review based on the PRISMA method were carried out, analyzing 100 articles from the Scopus database and 83 from the Web of Science between 2015 and 2023. The statistical method applied to the metadata was bibliometric with qualitative and quantitative aspects. The results demonstrated that the applied characterization techniques, such as scanning electron microscopy showed the formation of microbial biofilms on the surface and cavities of the biodegraded polystyrene. Likewise, gel permeation chromatography indicated changes in the morphology of the biodegraded polystyrene. Finally, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), and proton nuclear magnetic resonance (H-NMR) demonstrated that signs of oxidation, depolymerization, and the incorporation of oxygen into the hydrocarbon chain of polystyrene due to the degradation process. These results emphasize the effectiveness of characterization techniques in detecting and describing significant changes in polystyrene during its biodegradation. Its understanding is crucial for future research and the evaluation of the ecological impact of polystyrene degradation by biodegrading organisms.

RESUMEN El benzoato de metilo es un compuesto químico orgánico que según literatura previa podría representar una alternativa segura como insecticida. El objetivo del presente proyecto fue sintetizar y evaluar la actividad insecticida del benzoato de metilo en un modelo in vivo frente al género Aedes. La síntesis del compuesto se realizó mediante esterificación de Fischer, seguida de un análisis físico-químico que incluyó técnicas como cromatografía en capa fina (TLC), prueba de miscibilidad, índice de refracción, método de Siwoloboff para el punto de ebullición, método del picnómetro, e índice de acidez. La caracterización se realizó mediante espectroscopia infrarroja utilizando un espectrómetro FTIR Nicolet™ iS™ 10. Luego, se analizó el efecto fumigante en insectos del género Aedes, y se calculó el porcentaje de mortalidad en un periodo de 24 horas mediante la concentración letal (LC50), según la metodología descrita por Jian Chen. Los resultados indicaron que, a las cinco horas de exposición, se alcanzó una mortalidad del 50% de los mosquitos, siendo la concentración de 1.08 µg/mL la de mayor eficacia. Además, se desarrolló una formulación insecticida simple para facilitar el uso del benzoato de metilo, optimizando su difusión en el ambiente y prolongando el tiempo de exposición del compuesto activo al insecto.

ABSTRACT Methyl benzoate is an organic chemical compound that, according to previous literature, could represent a safe alternative as an insecticide. The objective of the present project was to synthesize and evaluate the insecticidal activity of methyl benzoate in an in vivo model against the genus Aedes. The synthesis of the compound was performed by Fischer esterification, followed by physicochemical analysis including techniques such as thin layer chromatography (TLC), miscibility test, refractive index, Siwoloboff's method for boiling point, pycnometer method and acid number. Characterization was performed by infrared spectroscopy using a Nicolet™ iS™ 10 FTIR spectrometer. Then, the fumigant effect on insects of the genus Aedes was analyzed, and the percentage of mortality in a 24-hour period was calculated using the lethal concentration (LC50), according to the methodology described by Jian Chen. The results indicated that, after five hours of exposure, 50% mortality of the mosquitoes was achieved, with the concentration of 1.08 µg/mL being the most effective. In addition, a simple insecticide formulation was developed to facilitate the use of methyl benzoate, optimizing its diffusion in the environment and prolonging the exposure time of the active compound to the insect.

Resumen La fertilización de las plantas puede tener un impacto directo en el comportamiento y la biología de los insectos plaga. La fertilización se puede lograr utilizando fertilizantes minerales sintéticos u orgánicos. Se evaluó el efecto de diferentes dosis de estiércol de gallina hervido, Penergetic®, compuesto Bokashi y fertilizante mineral sobre la población adulta de Bemisia tabaci y Myzus persicae en hojas de col forrajera. El experimento se realizó en invernadero utilizando los tratamientos: Bokashi, bioactivador Penergetic®, 2.5%, 5% y 7.5% de solución de estiércol hervido, fertilización mineral y el control. El número de insectos se contó directamente en las hojas, y se determinó el contenido de nitrógeno, de potasio y los compuestos fenólicos totales en las hojas. Se observaron poblaciones más altas de Bemisia tabaci y M. persicae en plantas fertilizadas con NPK en comparación con otros tratamientos. Se encontraron niveles más altos de nitrógeno foliar para las plantas fertilizadas con Bokashi; y se encontraron mayores concentraciones de compuestos fenólicos totales en el control. Se estableció una correlación negativa entre los fenólicos totales y B. tabaci, lo que sugiere la importancia de estos compuestos en el desarrollo de la especie. Los resultados indican la importancia de la fuente de fertilización para el manejo sustentable de plagas.

Abstract Plant fertilization may impact directly on insect pest behavior and biology. Fertilization may be accomplished by using synthetic mineral or organic fertilizers. The effect of different doses of boiled hen chicken manure, Penergetic®, Bokashi compound and mineral fertilizer on the adult population of Bemisia tabaci and Myzus persicae on collards leaves were evaluated. The experiment was conducted in the greenhouse using the treatments: Bokashi, Penergetic® bioactivator, 2.5%, 5%, and 7.5% of solution of boiled manure, mineral fertilization and control. The number of insects was counted directly on the leaves, and the nitrogen, potassium content, and total phenolic compound in the leaves were determined. Higher populations of Bemisia tabaci and M. persicae were observed on NPK-fertilized plants compared to other treatments. Higher levels of nitrogen foliar were found for Bokashi-fertilized plants; and higher concentrations of total phenolic compounds were found in the control. A negative correlation between total phenolics and B. tabaci was established suggesting the importance of these compounds in the species development. The results indicate the importance of the source of the fertilization for sustainable pest management.