Selenium-containing compounds exhibit diverse biological activities, such as antioxidative, anti-inflammatory, and cancer preventive effects. Using Caenorhabditis elegans as a model organism, we assessed the toxicity, neuroprotective, antioxidant properties, and impact on longevity of 11 selenoacetylenes. Their toxicity and bioactivities varied based on molecular structure. Selenoacetylenes with butyl substituents were toxic to Galleria mellonella larvae. The presence of but-3-in-2-ol radical increased antiprotozoal activity against Tetrahymena pyriformis. Compared to the positive control (Nimitz® EC), selenoacetylenes were less toxic to nematode worms and eggs. Selenoacetylenes significantly reduced amyloid beta (Aβ) paralysis in C. elegans CL4176 worms, increased longevity by 18 to 22%, along with improving survival after oxidative or thermal stress. Galantamine, showed inferior results. These findings enhance our understanding of selenoacetylenes on neuroprotection, antioxidant activity, and longevity in C. elegans. Future mammalian studies will further elucidate mechanisms and explore the potential therapeutic use of selenoacetylenes in treating Alzheimer’s disease and longevity. Seleniumcontaining Selenium containing activities antioxidative antiinflammatory, antiinflammatory anti inflammatory, inflammatory anti-inflammatory effects organism neuroprotective properties 1 structure larvae but3in2ol butinol but 3 2 ol pyriformis Nimitz® Nimitz (Nimitz EC, EC , EC) eggs Aβ (Aβ C CL CL417 22 22% stress Galantamine results neuroprotection Alzheimers Alzheimer s CL41 CL4

The essential oil extracted from Anemia tomentosa (EOAT) has shown larvicidal potential against Aedes aegypti, based on methods in vitro and in silico. Chromatographic and spectrometric techniques (gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (CG-MS), gas chromatography-flame ionization detector (GC-FID)), as well as mono and bidimensional nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy (NMR) were used to assess 10 essential oil components. Chemical composition of essential oil comprised 87.51% sesquiterpenes, with emphasis on presilphiperfolan-1-ol (42.13%) and silphiperfol-5-ene (19.47%). Larvicidal assay conducted in vitro with EOAT has evidenced potential cytotoxic activity up to 48 h exposure to it; mortality rate observed for A. aegypti larvae exposed to essential oil reached 100%. Study conducted in silico with chemical compounds deriving from the herein investigated plant species has evidenced its potential to inhibit acetylcholinesterase in A. aegypti. Activity of triquinane sesquiterpenes ranging from -6.8 to -8.2 kcal mol-1 stood out in comparison to that of temephos (-7.5 kcal mol-1). Chemical compounds identified in the investigated essential oil presented low human and environmental toxicity, as observed in absorption, distribution, metabolism and excretion, and toxicity (ADMETox) predictions. (EOAT chromatographymass chromatography mass CGMS, CGMS CG MS , (CG-MS) chromatographyflame flame GCFID, GCFID GC FID (GC-FID)) NMR (NMR 1 components 8751 87 51 87.51 presilphiperfolan1ol presilphiperfolanol presilphiperfolan ol 42.13% 4213 42 13 (42.13% silphiperfol5ene silphiperfolene silphiperfol 5 ene 19.47%. 1947 19.47% . 19 47 (19.47%) 4 it A 100 100% 6.8 68 6 8 -6. 8.2 82 2 -8. mol1 mol mol- 7.5 75 7 (-7. mol1. mol-1) absorption distribution excretion ADMETox (ADMETox predictions (CG-MS (GC-FID) 875 87.5 42.13 421 (42.13 194 19.47 (19.47% 6. -6 8. -8 7. (-7 (GC-FID 87. 42.1 (42.1 19.4 (19.47 - (- 42. (42. 19. (19.4 ( (42 (19. (4 (19 (1

Abstract Introduction. Beekeeping in Honduras is an important activity for the livestock sector, threatened by the presence of pests and diseases that affect its development and production. Objective. To determine the parasitic load of Varroa destructor and Vairimorpha (Nosema) spp. associated with hygienic behavior, productivity, and the presence of other pests in Apis mellifera hives in the municipality of Tomalá, Lempira department, Honduras. Materials and Methods. A study was carried out on 57 samples from hives in 19 apiaries to determine the infestation rate of V. destructor. The average infection rate of Vairimorpha spp. was determined using the Cantwell method. Additionally, the association between parasitic loads and productivity, hygienic behavior, and the presence of other pests was determined through a stratified analysis based on whether or not treatment against Varroa spp. was used. Associations were determined using the non-parametric Mann-Whitney U and Kruskal-Wallis tests. Results. The infestation rates for V. destructor in dispersal and larval stages were 3.48 % and 6.82 %, respectively. The use of chemical treatment showed no association with the infestation rate of V. destructor in either larvae or a dults (p≥0.05). The presence of the small hive beetle (SHB) was associated with a higher infestation of V. destructor in larvae (p<0.007) in untreated hives. The infection range of Vairimorpha spp. was classified as very light with 5×104 spores per sample. The Vairimorpha spp. load showed no association with the mentioned variables (p≥0.05). Conclusion. The results indicate that varroosis is a disease of importance in the municipality of Tomalá, Lempira department, Honduras, associated with hygienic behavior and the presence of SHB in the hives. Nosemosis showed a very light infection.

Resumen Introducción. La apicultura en Honduras es una actividad importante para el sector pecuario, amenazada por la presencia de plagas y enfermedades que afectan su desarrollo y producción. Objetivo. Determinar la carga parasitaria de Varroa destructor y Vairimorpha (Nosema) spp. asociadas al comportamiento higiénico, productividad y presencia de otras plagas en colmenas de Apis mellifera en el municipio de Tomalá, departamento de Lempira, Honduras. Materiales y métodos. Se realizó un estudio en 57 muestras de colmenas de 19 apiarios, para determinar la tasa de infestación de V. destructor. La tasa media de infección de Vairimorpha spp., se determinó mediante el método de Cantwell. Además, se determinó la asociación entre las cargas parasitarias y la productividad, comportamiento higiénico y presencia de otras plagas, mediante un análisis estratificado según el uso o no de tratamiento contra Varroa spp. La determinación de asociaciones se realizó mediante las pruebas no paramétricas U de Mann Whitney y Kruskal Wallis. Resultados. Las tasas de infestación para V. destructor en fase de dispersión y larval fueron de un 3,48 % y un 6,82 %, respectivamente, el uso de tratamiento químico no mostró asociación con la tasa de infestación de V. destructor en larvas ni en adultos (p≥0,05), la presencia del pequeño escarabajo de las colmenas (PEC), se asoció con una mayor infestación de V. destructor en larvas (p<0,007) en las colmenas sin tratamiento. El rango de infección de Vairimorpha spp. se encontró dentro de la clasificación muy ligera con 5×104 esporas por muestra, la carga de Vairimorpha spp. no mostró asociación con las variables mencionadas (p≥0,05). Conclusión. Los resultados indican que varroasis es una enfermedad de importancia en el municipio de Tomalá, departamento de Lempira, Honduras, asociada con el comportamiento higiénico y la presencia de PEC en las colmenas. Nosemosis presentó una infección muy ligera.

ABSTRACT The feeding habits of the bonito Euthynnus alletteratus and the albacore Thunnus alalunga were assessed by analyzing the contents of 85 stomachs (50 from bonito and 35 from albacore) collected between March 2018 and April 2019. A qualitative and quantitative analysis of the prey found in the stomach contents was conducted, as well as of the trophic spectrum between species and climatic seasons. Climatic information was obtained through satellite images, analyzing variables such as sea surface temperature, salinity, and winds. In terms of abundance, the most representative prey were the fish Sardinella aurita (42.48 %) and Teleostei remains (27.45 %) for E. alletteratus, and Megalopa larvae (56.89 %) and Teleostei remains (10.26 %) for T. alalunga. The relative importance index indicates that the main prey for E. alletteratus were Teleostei remains (IRI = 1460.65) and Sardinella aurita (IRI = 1179.70), while, for T. alalunga they were megalopa larvae (IRI = 1367.19) and Teleostei remains (IRI = 840.94). These large pelagic predators were classified as generalists, with a low prey diversity in their stomach content. No trophic overlap was observed between the two species.

RESUMEN Se evaluaron los hábitos alimentarios del bonito Euthynnus alletteratus y la albacora Thunnus alalunga a partir del análisis de los contenidos de 85 estómagos (50 de bonito y 35 de albacora) recolectados entre marzo de 2018 y abril de 2019. Se realizó un análisis cualitativo y cuantitativo de las presas encontradas en dichos estómagos, así como del espectro trófico entre especies y temporadas climáticas. La información climática se obtuvo a través de imágenes satelitales, analizando variables como la temperatura superficial del mar, la salinidad y los vientos. En términos de abundancia, las presas más representativas fueron el pez Sardinella aurita (42.48 %) y restos de Teleostei (27.45 %) para E. alletteratus, y larvas megalopa (56.89 %) y restos de Teleostei (10.26 %) para T. alalunga. El índice de importancia relativa indica, como presas principales, a restos de Teleostei (IRI = 1460.65) y Sardinella aurita (IRI = 1179.70) para E. alletteratus, y a larvas megalopa (IRI = 1367.19) y restos de Teleostei (IRI = 840.94) para T. alalunga. Estos grandes depredadores pelágicos fueron catalogados como generalistas, con baja diversidad de presas en el contenido estomacal, y no se observó solapamiento trófico entre las dos especies.

Resumen. La mojarra (Eucinostomus currani) es un recurso importante de subsistencia en mercados locales de Ecuador. Sin embargo, poco es sabido sobre la historia de vida temprana y la biología reproductiva de esta especie. En 2016 y 2017, se recolectaron larvas de E. currani en 3 playas arenosas en el Golfo de Guayaquil, Ecuador, y se identificaron usando códigos de barras de ADN. La longitud estándar de las larvas osciló entre 4.00 y 15.78 mm. También recolectamos otolitos para comprender mejor la historia de vida temprana de E. currani. Los otolitos se usaron para estimar la edad, la tasa de crecimiento de la población (±EE), las fechas de eclosión y la época reproductiva. En promedio, la edad de los peces fue de 16.5 ± 4.5 días, mientras que la tasa de crecimiento promedio fue de 0.70 ± 0.05 y 0.22 ± 0.16 mm por día en marzo y mayo, respectivamente. En el Golfo de Guayaquil, la mayoría de las fechas de eclosión y la actividad reproductiva presunta de E. currani ocurrió durante la época húmeda (diciembre-abril) cuando aguas más calidas prevalecieron. Hasta donde tenemos conocimiento, este es el primer estudio que estima las fechas de eclosión y la tasa de crecimiento larval para una especie de la familia Gerreidae en el Océano Pacífico.

Abstract. The flagfin mojarra (Eucinostomus currani) is an important subsistence fishery resource in local Ecuadorian markets; however, very little is known about the early life history and reproductive biology of this species. In 2016 and 2017, E. currani larvae were collected at 3 sandy beaches in the Gulf of Guayaquil, Ecuador, and identified using DNA barcoding. Standard lengths ranged from 4.00-15.78 mm. We also collected otoliths to better understand the early life history of E. currani. Otoliths were used to estimate the age, population growth rate (±SE), hatch dates, and reproductive period. On average, the fish were 16.5 ± 4.5 days old, while the average growth rate was 0.70 ± 0.05 and 0.22 ± 0.16 mm per day in March and May, respectively. In the Gulf of Guayaquil, most hatch dates and the presumed reproductive activity of E. currani occurred during the wet season (December-April) when warmer water prevailed. To our knowledge, this is the first study to estimate the hatch dates and larval growth rate for a species of the family Gerreidae in the Pacific Ocean.

Abstract Introduction: Hermetia illucens is a fly found worldwide in tropical and temperate regions that feeds on decaying organic matter in its larval stage, which makes them useful to accelerate composing processes. Bacterial component on the larval guts that helps to degrade organic matter is well studied, however fungal communities information is more scarse, specially in tropical regions. Objective: To determine fungal communities in the gut of H. illucens larvae naturally occurring during urban composting processes in a tropical region. Methods: ITS sequencing was employed to characterize fungal communities present in H. illucens larval gut. Results: The analysis of amplicon sequence variants (ASVs) unveiled a notable dominance of Saccharomycetales, being yeasts of the genus Pichia the most abundant. Other relatively abundant yeasts were Candida and Galactomyces and the genus Archaeospora from Archaeosporales. The last two groups not being reported in H. illucens before. Conclusions: Yeasts of the genus Pichia are the most abundant group, this result is in concordance with previous studies which suggest a stable insect-yeast relation. The description of previously unreported fungal groups highlights the importance of continuing to explore the mycobiome dynamics of this larva. This study offers insight into the mycobiome of naturally occurring H. illucens larvae in a tropical region.

Resumen Introducción: Hermetia illucens se distribuye mundialmente en regiones tropicales y templadas. En su estado larval se alimenta de materia orgánica en descomposición, lo que las hace útiles para acelerar los procesos de compostaje. Se han realizado diversos estudios sobre el componente bacteriano de los intestinos de las larvas que ayuda a degradar la materia orgánica, sin embargo, información sobre las comunidades de microhongos es más escasa, especialmente en regiones tropicales. Objetivo: Determinar el micobioma presente en los intestinos de las larvas de H. illucens que se desarrollaron naturalmente en compostajes urbanos en una región tropical. Métodos: Se realizó secuenciación ITS para caracterizar las comunidades de microhongos presentes en el intestino de las larvas. Resultados: El análisis de variantes de secuencia de amplicones (ASV) reveló una notable dominancia de Saccharomycetales, siendo las levaduras del género Pichia las más abundantes. Otras levaduras relativamente abundantes fueron Candida y Galactomyces y el género Archaeospora de Archaeosporales. Los dos últimos grupos no han sido reportados previamente en H. illucens. Conclusión: Determinamos que las levaduras del género Pichia son el grupo más abundante. Este resultado concuerda con estudios previos, lo que sugiere una relación estable entre estos dos organismos. La descripción de grupos de hongos no reportados previamente resalta la importancia de continuar explorando la dinámica del micobioma de esta larva. Este estudio proporciona información sobre el micobioma de las larvas de H. illucens que se presentan naturalmente en una región tropical.

Abstract Introduction: The West Indian fruit fly, Anastrepha obliqua (Macquart), is one of the most economically important pests of mangoes in Mexico and the Neotropics. Objective: To analyze adult population patterns of A. obliqua and their relation to local and landscape factors. Methods: We selected 11 “Manila” mango orchards along the middle part of La Antigua River, which were characterized to determine their biophysical structure and landscape configuration considering their distance to six different land uses/land covers. Anastrepha obliqua population was estimated by collecting adult flies in colorless polyethylene plastic bottle traps baited with a protein for three weeks in June 2022. Results: A total of 1 869 adults of A. obliqua were trapped, of which 75 % were females and 25 % were males. Abundance varied from 68 to 490 adult flies per orchard, while capture frequency from 0.36 to 1.8 flies/trap/day. Abundance increased in highly shaded orchards, and capture frequency decreased in orchards with highly soil compaction. Abundance and the frequency of capture increased in orchards near isolated trees of Spondias spp. and decreased in orchards near sugarcane plantations. Shade management in mango orchards may be used as an effective strategy to promote biotic interactions to naturally regulate A. obliqua populations, meanwhile, soil compaction represents a limiting ecological condition, which might severely impact fruit fly larvae survival. Conclusions: Adult population of A. obliqua depends on several local and landscape factors because they indicate resource availability and ecological conditions. These findings could be considered for control strategies in the integrated management of this pest to promote protection and improve the fruit quality of mango crop.

Resumen Introducción: La mosca de las indias occidentales, Anastrepha obliqua (Macquart), es una de las plagas más importantes económicamente en el cultivo de mango de México y el neotrópico. Objetivo: Analizamos los patrones de la población adulta de A. obliqua y su relación con factores locales y del paisaje. Métodos: Un total de 11 huertos de mango “Manila” fueron caracterizados en estructura biofísica y configuración del paisaje. Los adultos de A. obliqua fueron capturados con trampas (botellas de polietileno cebadas con una proteína) durante tres semanas en junio de 2022. Resultados: Se capturaron 1 869 adultos de A. obliqua, de los cuales 75 % fueron hembras y 25 % machos. La abundancia varió de 68 a 490 moscas adultas por huerto, mientras que la frecuencia de captura de 0.36 a 1.8 moscas/trampa/día. La abundancia incrementó en huertos altamente sombreados y decreció en huertos con suelos compactos. La abundancia y frecuencia incrementaron en huertos cercanos a árboles de Spondias spp. y decreció en huertos cercanos a plantaciones de caña de azúcar. El manejo de la sombra puede ser utilizado como una estrategia efectiva para promover las interacciones que regulan naturalmente la población de A. obliqua, mientras que la compactación del suelo representa una condición ecológica limitante que podría impactar severamente en la supervivencia de larvas de moscas de la fruta. Conclusión: La población adulta de A. obliqua depende de varios factores locales y del paisaje que indican disponibilidad de recursos y condiciones ecológicas. Estos hallazgos podrían considerarse en las estrategias del manejo integrado de esta plaga para promover la protección y el mejoramiento de la calidad de frutos en el cultivo de mango.

Abstract Introduction: The Family Chironomidae is recognized for its great abundance and diversity in freshwater ecosystems around the world. However, taxonomic knowledge of this family is limited, particularly in Colombia. Objectives: To estimate the abundance and diversity at the genus level and its spatiotemporal dynamics in three streams, tributaries of the Combeima River in central Colombia. Methods: This study describes the taxonomic and ecological evaluation of chironomid larvae present in three high Andean streams (Tolima, Colombia), called Las Perlas (PE), La Plata (PL) and Cay (CA). Between 2015-2016, six sampling campaigns were conducted in contrasting climatic periods, at nine sampling points (three per stream: upper, middle, and lower). The collections were made with Surber net on different substrates. Results: 15 594 larvae were recorded, corresponding to three subfamilies and 20 genera. The most abundant subfamily was Orthocladiinae with 13 698 larvae (87.84 %), dominated by Cricotopus spp. (66.19 %), followed by Chironominae with 1 367 individuals (8.77 %) and Polypedilum spp. (5.18 %), and Tanypodinae with 530 organisms (3.40 %) and Pentaneura spp. (2.91 %). The highest abundance was found in PL3 (lower part; 27.84 %), followed by CA2 (middle part; 20.47 %) and PE1 (upper part; 1.93 %). The three streams presented the highest abundance during February 2016 (25.93 %; transition to the rainy season), followed by November 2015 (20.59 %; low rainfall) and October 2015 (3.94 %; high rainfall). Conclusions: The results obtained expands the taxonomic lists of chironomids in high Andean areas (1 419-2 586 m), and the detailed characterization of the 20 genera recorded in the selected streams, which constitute relevant contributions for the recognition of these dipterans and their ecological role in the aquatic systems of the Colombian Andes.

Resumen Introducción: La Familia Chironomidae es reconocida por su gran abundancia y diversidad en los ecosistemas de agua dulce alrededor del mundo. Sin embargo, el conocimiento taxonómico de esta familia es limitado, particularmente en Colombia. Objetivos: Estimar la abundancia y diversidad a nivel de género de la Familia Chironomidae y su dinámica espacio-temporal en tres quebradas, afluentes del Río Combeima en el centro de Colombia. Métodos: Este estudio describe la evaluación taxonómica y ecológica de las larvas de quironómidos presentes en tres quebradas altoandinas (Tolima, Colombia), denominadas Las Perlas (PE), La Plata (PL) y Cay (CA). Entre 2015-2016 se realizaron seis campañas de muestreo en periodos climáticos contrastantes, en nueve puntos de muestreo (tres por quebrada: parte alta, media, y baja). Las recolectas se realizaron con red Surber en diferentes sustratos. Resultados: Se registraron 15 594 larvas, correspondientes a tres subfamilias y 20 géneros. La más abundante fue Orthocladiinae con 13 698 larvas (87.84 %), dominada por Cricotopus spp. (66.19 %), seguida de Chironominae con 1 367 individuos (8.77 %) y Polypedilum spp. (5.18 %), y Tanypodinae con 530 organismos (3.40 %) y Pentaneura spp. (2.91 %). La mayor abundancia se encontró en PL3 (parte baja; 27.84 %), seguido de CA2 (parte media; 20.47 %) y PE1 (parte alta; 1.93 %). Las tres quebradas presentaron la mayor abundancia durante febrero 2016 (25.93 %; transición a la época de lluvias), seguido de noviembre 2015 (20.59 %; precipitaciones bajas) y octubre 2015 (3.94 %; precipitaciones altas). Conclusiones: Los resultados obtenidos amplían las listas taxonómicas de quironómidos en zonas altoandinas (1 419-2 586 m), y la caracterización detallada de los 20 géneros registrados en las quebradas seleccionadas, que constituyen aportes relevantes para el reconocimiento de estos dípteros y su rol ecológico en los sistemas acuáticos de los Andes colombianos.

ABSTRACT. This study aimed to assess the impact of microalgal concentrations in diets on the settlement and metamorphosis stages of pediveliger larvae and spat of Crassostrea gigas oysters. Diets containing microalgal concentrations of 8, 12, and 16×104 cells mL-1 were administered for seven days during the larval settlement phase of pediveliger larvae. In the metamorphosis and postlarval cultivation phases, diets with microalgal concentrations of 8, 16, 24, and 32×104 cells mL-1 and a control group without food were tested for 14 and 21 days, respectively. Growth, yield, and survival were assessed every seven days. The diet comprised 30% Isochrysis galbana and 70% Chaetoceros muelleri microalgae. In the metamorphosis phase, the results revealed no significant differences in larval metamorphosis rate and survival across the tested diets. The concentrations exhibited similar survival in the spat with an initial average shell height of 0.657 ± 0.05 mm, with a significant difference only in growth. In the spat with an initial average shell height of 0.830 ± 0.12 mm, no differences in survival were observed among the tested concentrations. We concluded that diets of 12 and 16×104 cells mL-1 provide high rates of larval metamorphosis and spat yield during the larval settlement and metamorphosis phases. During the spat cultivation phases, diets of 32 and 24×104 cells mL-1 could optimize the cultivation time and yield of C. gigas spat in the laboratory. However, when considering survival alone, no advantage was found in providing a diet with a microalgal concentration above 8×104 cells mL-1 across all C. gigas oyster cultivation phases.

ABSTRACT Piper marginatum and Piper tuberculatum are species used for their insecticidal properties by local indigenous people in eastern Ecuador. This study aimed to determine the acaricidal and larvicidal activity of the essential oil of these species. The essential oils were obtained by hydrodistillation. The acaricidal activity was evaluated with the contact toxicity method against larvae of the tick Rhipicephalus microplus. Larvicidal activity was evaluated against Aedes aegypti mosquito larvae following WHO recommended guidelines. The essential oils of P. marginatum and P. tuberculatum showed an acaricidal potential with LC50 of 0.90 and 0.73 µL mL-1,respectively. In addition, excellent larvicidal activity was obtained with LC50 of 11.87 µL mL-1 (P. marginatum) and 8.42 µL mL-1 (P. tuberculatum) at 48 hours of evaluation. This is the first report of the acaricidal activity of P. marginatum and P. tuberculatum essential oils against R. microplus tick larvae. The results indicate that essential oils could serve as a natural alternative for controlling these pests, with ethnobotanical applications as a lice and tick repellent.

Piper marginatum y Piper tuberculatum son especies utilizadas por sus propiedades insecticidas por indígenas locales del este de Ecuador. Este estudio tuvo como objetivo determinar la actividad acaricida y larvicida del aceite esencial de estas especies. Los aceites esenciales se obtuvieron por hidrodestilación. La actividad acaricida se evaluó con el método de toxicidad por contacto frente a larvas de la garrapata Rhipicephalus microplus. Se evaluó la actividad larvicida contra larvas del mosquito Aedes aegypti siguiendo los lineamientos recomendados por la OMS. Los aceites esenciales de P. marginatum y P. tuberculatum mostraron un potencial acaricida con CL50 de 0.90 y 0.73 µL mL-1,respectivamente. Además, se obtuvo una excelente actividad larvicida con CL50 de 11.87 µL mL-1 (P. marginatum) y 8.42 µL mL-1 (P. tuberculatum) a las 48 horas de evaluación. Este es el primer reporte de la actividad acaricida de los aceites esenciales de P. marginatum y P. tuberculatum frente a las larvas de la garrapata R. microplus. Los resultados indican que los aceites esenciales podrían servir como una alternativa natural para el control de estas plagas, con aplicaciones etnobotánicas como repelente de piojos y garrapatas.

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.

ABSTRACT: The invasive chinese slug Meghimatiumpictum (Stoliczka, 1873) (Stylommathophora: Philomycidae) is originally from Asia, and it has been introduced in Latin American countries like Argentina and Brazil, where it is considered a critical horticultural pest. This species also became an intermediate host for the nematode AngiostrongyluscostaricensisMorera&Cespedes, 1971(Strongylida: Metastrongylidae), which can cause abdominal angiostrongyliasis in humans when ingested molluscs or their mucus containing larvae released on fruit and vegetables. This research aimed to investigate the biological parameters of the life cycle of M. pictum and evaluate its food preference to understand the species’ behavior and provide information on the choice of safer pest management and control methods. We observed that 68 and 75% of the grouped and isolated slugs, respectively, survived 26 weeks (180 days) under laboratory conditions. In addition, the individuals kept isolated had higher body mass (2.8 ± 0.6 g), length (3.3 ± 0.8 cm), and width (0.37 ± 0.3 cm) than grouped specimens. We also found that M. pictum has indeterminate growth and an annual reproductive cycle. Concerning food preference, slugs better accepted lettuce at different developmental stages (neonate, juvenile, and adult). Our study presents the first description of the M. pictum life cycle. We concluded that M. pictum has undefined biological parameters, which hampers its laboratory rearing. However, we also demonstrate its potential as a pest for different horticultural crops, which will require the development of management strategies. ABSTRACT Stoliczka, Stoliczka (Stoliczka 1873 Stylommathophora (Stylommathophora Philomycidae Asia Brazil AngiostrongyluscostaricensisMoreraCespedes AngiostrongyluscostaricensisMorera Cespedes AngiostrongyluscostaricensisMorera&Cespedes 1971Strongylida Strongylida 1971 1971(Strongylida Metastrongylidae, Metastrongylidae , Metastrongylidae) vegetables M methods 6 75 respectively 2 180 (18 days conditions addition 2.8 28 8 (2. 06 0 0. g, g g) 3.3 33 3 (3. 08 cm, cm 0.37 037 37 (0.3 03 specimens neonate, neonate (neonate juvenile adult. adult . adult) rearing However crops strategies 187 197 7 18 (1 2. (2 3. (3 (0. 19 1 ( (0

RESUMO: A lesma invasora Meghimatium pictum (Stoliczka, 1873) (Stylommathophora: Philomycidae) é originária da Ásia e foi introduzida em países latino-americanos como Argentina e Brasil, onde é considerada uma praga hortícola severa. Esta espécie também se tornou um hospedeiro intermediário do nematoide Angiostrongylus costaricensis Morera & Céspedes, 1971 (Strongylida: Metastrongylidae), que pode causar a infecção angiostrongilíase abdominal em humanos quando ingerido o molusco ou frutas e vegetais contendo o seu muco contaminado com larvas. Esta pesquisa teve como objetivo investigar os parâmetros biológicos do ciclo de vida de M. pictum e avaliar sua preferência alimentar para entender o comportamento da espécie e fornecer informações sobre a escolha futura de métodos mais seguros de manejo e controle desta praga. Observamos que 68 e 75% das lesmas agrupadas e isoladas, respectivamente, sobreviveram 26 semanas (180 dias) em condições de laboratório. Além disso, os indivíduos mantidos isolados apresentaram maior massa corporal (2,8 ± 0,6 g), comprimento (3,3 ± 0,8 cm) e largura (0,37 ± 0,3 cm) do que os espécimes agrupados. Também descobrimos que M. pictum tem crescimento indeterminado e ciclo reprodutivo anual. Com relação à preferência alimentar, a alface foi bem aceita pelas lesmas em diferentes estágios de desenvolvimento (recém-nascido, juvenil e adulto). Nosso estudo apresenta a primeira descrição do ciclo de vida de M. pictum. Concluímos que M. pictum possui parâmetros biológicos indefinidos, com ciclo de vida longo o que dificulta sua criação em laboratório. No entanto, também demonstramos seu potencial como praga para diferentes culturas hortícolas, o que exigirá o desenvolvimento de estratégias de manejo. RESUMO Stoliczka, Stoliczka (Stoliczka 1873 Stylommathophora (Stylommathophora Philomycidae latinoamericanos latino americanos Brasil severa Céspedes 197 Strongylida (Strongylida Metastrongylidae, Metastrongylidae , Metastrongylidae) larvas M 6 75 isoladas respectivamente 2 180 (18 dias laboratório disso 2,8 28 8 (2, 06 0 0, g, g g) 3,3 33 3 (3, 08 cm 0,37 037 37 (0,3 03 agrupados anual recémnascido, recémnascido recém nascido, nascido (recém-nascido adulto. adulto . adulto) indefinidos entanto hortícolas 187 19 7 18 (1 2, (2 3, (3 (0, 1 ( (0

Abstract: Plastic is widely used and responsible for negative environmental impacts. Such is the case of expanded polystyrene (EPS), a material that presents revaluation challenges due to its low density. The ability of certain insects larvae, such as Tenebrio molitor, to mineralize plastic has been demonstrated, although its insect farming still focuses on obtaining sustainable protein and biofertilizer. This study investigates the influence of an EPS diet on the larval development of T. molitor for 6 months and examines how the diet affects the volume of biofertilizer collected in this period. Trials were developed with three diets, performing periodic measurements and collection of material. The results indicate that larvae fed a combined substrate, as well as those fed an organic diet, demonstrate survival rates of up to 66%. The final length is lower in the inorganic diet (112 mm), and in the other diets it exceeds 162 mm. Larvae on an inorganic diet did not progress to pupal stage, demonstrated a disappointing lowest Feed Conversion Ratio (3.87) and produced less frass (1.28g), compared to the combined diet which recorded 5.11g. The data suggest that plastic entomoremediation works optimally if larvae are raised on a combined diet substrate of EPS and organic elements. This condition not only produces positive results, but also is aligned well with the principles of the circular economy. Therefore, a combined diet proves to be an ideal candidate for tackling EPS waste.

Resumen: El plástico es ampliamente utilizado y responsable de impactos ambientales negativos. Tal es el caso del poliestireno expandido (EPS), que presenta desafíos de revalorización por su baja densidad. Aunque ciertas larvas de insecto, como tenebrio molitor, han demostrado la capacidad de mineralizar plásticos, la insecticultura de estos aún se enfoca en obtener proteína sostenible y biofertilizante. En este estudio, se investiga la influencia de una dieta de EPS en el desarrollo larval de T. molitor durante 6 meses, y se examina cómo la dieta afecta el volumen de biofertilizante recolectado en este lapso. Se desarrollaron ensayos con tres dietas, realizando mediciones y recolección de material de manera periódica. Los resultados indican que las larvas alimentadas con un sustrato combinado, así como aquellas con una dieta orgánica, demuestran tasas de supervivencia de hasta 66%. La longitud final es inferior en la dieta inorgánica (112mm), y en las otras dietas superan los 162 mm. Las larvas de una dieta inorgánica no progresaron a pupa, demostraron un Factor de Conversión de Alimento desalentador (3,87) y produjeron menor cantidad de frass/biofertilizante (1,28g), en comparación con la dieta combinada que registró 5,11g. Los datos sugieren que la entomoremediación plástica funciona óptimamente si se cría larvas en un sustrato combinado de EPS y elementos orgánicos. Dicha condición no solo produce resultados positivos, sino que se alinea con los principios de economía circular. En consecuencia, se demuestra que una dieta combinada es ideal para abordarla como opción en el tratamiento de residuos de EPS.

Abstract One of the most commonly used fungi in pest control, which has a wide range of hosts, is Beauveria bassiana. This entomopathogen has adapted to different environments and can be found in several places, so in the present work, 60 soil samples were collected in 2020 in Acatlán de Pérez Figueroa, Oaxaca, by means of Galleria mellonella, used as bait for its isolation. Five isolates were obtained from this procedure, which were evaluated in larvae of Galleria mellonella at 24, 48, 72, 96, 120, 144, and 168 h in order to know their efficacy in mortality and mycosis. In the methodology, the DNA of the fungi was extracted and the ITS region of the 5.8S rRNA gene was amplified by PCR, the product was sequenced and the sequences were compared with others existing at the National Center for Biotechnological Information. The result was one isolate of Beauveria pseudobassiana and four of Beauveria bassiana, of which isolate 11 showed 100% mortality and mycosis at 96 h, unlike the commercial isolate and the control, which needed an additional 72 h to kill all larvae, in addition to showing 20% and 60% of mycosis, respectively. The time of 96 h was significantly different (p≤ 0.05) because during this time, most of the larvae died and mycosis occurred. Identifying entomopathogenic fungi and conducting studies of their effectiveness in larvae facilitates the start of new research experiments.

Resumen Uno de los hongos más usado en el control de plagas, el cual tienen un amplio rango de hospedantes es Beauveria bassiana. Este entomopatógenos se ha adaptado a distintos ambientes y se puede encontrar en varios lugares, por lo que en el presente trabajo se colectaron 60 muestras de suelo en Acatlán de Pérez Figueroa, Oaxaca, por medio de Galleria mellonella utilizado como cebo para su aislamiento, en el año 2020. De este procedimiento se obtuvieron cinco aislados los cuales se evaluaron en larvas de Galleria mellonella a 24, 48, 72, 96, 120,144 y 168 h con el fin de conocer su eficacia en mortalidad y micosis. En la metodología se extrajo el ADN de los hongos y la región ITS del gen 5.8S rRNA fue amplificada por PCR, el producto fue secuenciado y las secuencias fueron comparadas con otras existentes en el centro nacional para la información biotecnológica. El resultado fue un aislado de Beauveria pseudobassiana y cuatro de Beauveria bassiana de los cuales el 11 presentó 100% de mortalidad y micosis a las 96 h a diferencia del aislado comercial y el testigo los cuales necesitaron 72 h adicionales para matar la totalidad de larvas, además de presentar 20% y 60% de micosis respectivamente. El tiempo de 96 h fue significativamente diferente (p≤ 0.05) debido a que en éste murió la mayoría de las larvas y hubo micosis. Identificar hongos entomopatógenos y realizar estudios de su efectividad en larvas facilita el inicio de nuevos experimentos en la investigacion.

ABSTRACT Integrative studies are important for a better understanding of the functional development of fish digestive systems and the consequent design of suitable feeding regimes and ad-hoc diets. To characterize the ontogeny of digestive function in larvae and juveniles of two atherinopsids from South America, Odontesthes bonariensis and O. hatcheri, morphologic, histologic, and intestinal enzyme biochemical analyses were performed. Both species showed a functional digestive system from one week after hatching (wah) with a sustained high-level activity of the cytosolic enzyme leucine alanine peptidase (leu-ala) until 9 and 13 wah in O. hatcheri and O. bonariensis, respectively. Maximum specific leu-ala activities in both species were higher compared to other agastric and most gastric fish. These results and the abundant pinocytic vacuoles in the posterior intestine suggest that cytosolic digestion is crucial for these species. It seems that their apparent anatomically simple digestive system is compensated by an uncommonly early development and function of the digestive tract and accessory organs accompanied by high intestinal cytosolic activity. The above findings contribute to the understanding of the Atherinopsidae digestive model and, for the first time, suggest that under farming conditions, these species could be weaned at an early developmental stage with an appropriate balanced diet.