Resumo O ácaro da tamareira, Oligonychus afrasiaticus (McGregor) (Acari: Tetranychidae), é uma praga grave das tâmaras no Médio Oriente e Norte de África, causando graves danos econômicos se não for controlado precocemente. Como os ácaros predadores são conhecidos por serem potenciais agentes de biocontrole contra diversas pragas, também a capacidade de predação, tabela de vida, reprodução e sobrevivência de Amblyseius swirskii Athias-Henriot e Neoseiulus cucumeris (Oudemans) (Acari: Phytoseiidae), coletados em fazendas de tamareiras em Qassim Arábia Saudita, foram estudados em condições de laboratório (25 °C, 30 °C, 35 °C e 50 ± 5% UR) contra todos os estágios móveis de O. afrasiaticus. Para ambos os predadores, o tempo médio de desenvolvimento, o período de oviposição e a longevidade foram inversamente relacionados à temperatura de 25 °C a 35 °C. Vários parâmetros foram estudados para A. swirskii e N. cucumeris a 25 °C, 30 °C e 35 °C, ou seja, o tempo de desenvolvimento feminino, 9,37, 7,29, 5,56 e 10,67, 8,38, 6,45 d; período de oviposição, 19,77, 16,18, 13,94 e 15,90, 13,84, 10,64 d; longevidade, 29,39, 24,79, 20,64 e 25,42, 21,94, 17,39 dias; fecundidade, 31,91, 37,10, 42,16 e 21,75, 26,84, 30,56 ovos por fêmea, respectivamente. A taxa máxima de predação diária para ambos os predadores foi registrada a 35 °C durante o período de oviposição. A predação total de fêmeas de A. swirskii e N. cucumeris foi de 370,86, 387,54, 405,83, 232,14, 263,32, 248,85 presas a 25 °C, 30 °C e 35 °C respectivamente. A taxa máxima de reprodução de A. swirskii e N. cucumeris (3,02; 2,87 ovos/♀/dia) foi registrada a 35 °C, enquanto a mínima (2,00; 1,36 ovos/♀/dia) foi registrada a 25 °C. Os parâmetros da tabela de vida foram estimados como taxa reprodutiva líquida (Ro) 21,68, 25,94, 29,52 e 18,95, 20,25, 22,78; o tempo médio de geração (T) 24,92, 21,82, 18,24 e 26,30, 23,60, 20,56 d; a taxa intrínseca de aumento (rm) 0,181, 0,232, 0,248 e 0,170, 0,185, 0,196; a taxa finita de aumento (λ) 1,365, 1,551, 1,706 e 1,126, 1,324, 1,428 para A. swirskii e N. cucumeris a 25 °C, 30 °C e 35 °C respectivamente. Os resultados deste estudo sugerem que as duas espécies de fitoseídeos são promissores agentes de controle biológico de O. afrasiaticus em uma ampla faixa de temperaturas. tamareira McGregor (McGregor Acari (Acari Tetranychidae, Tetranychidae , Tetranychidae) África precocemente pragas AthiasHenriot Athias Henriot Oudemans (Oudemans Phytoseiidae, Phytoseiidae Phytoseiidae) Saudita (2 C 3 5 UR 2 N seja feminino 937 9 37 9,37 729 7 29 7,29 556 56 5,5 1067 10 67 10,67 838 8 38 8,38 645 6 45 6,4 d 1977 19 77 19,77 1618 16 18 16,18 1394 13 94 13,9 1590 15 90 15,90 1384 84 13,84 1064 64 10,6 2939 39 29,39 2479 24 79 24,79 2064 20 20,6 2542 42 25,42 2194 21 21,94 1739 17 17,3 dias fecundidade 3191 31 91 31,91 3710 37,10 4216 42,1 2175 75 21,75 2684 26 26,84 3056 30,5 fêmea respectivamente 37086 370 86 370,86 38754 387 54 387,54 40583 405 83 405,83 23214 232 14 232,14 26332 263 32 263,32 24885 248 85 248,8 3,02 302 02 (3,02 287 87 2,8 ovos/♀/dia ovosdia dia 2,00 200 00 (2,00 136 1 36 1,3 Ro (Ro 2168 68 21,68 2594 25,94 2952 52 29,5 1895 95 18,95 2025 20,25 22,78 2278 22 78 T (T 2492 92 24,92 2182 82 21,82 1824 18,2 2630 26,30 2360 23 60 23,60 2056 20,5 rm (rm 0181 0 181 0,181 0232 0,232 0248 0,24 0170 170 0,170 0185 185 0,185 0,196 0196 196 λ (λ 1365 365 1,365 1551 551 1,551 1706 706 1,70 1126 126 1,126 1324 324 1,324 1428 428 1,42 temperaturas ( 93 9,3 72 7,2 55 5, 106 8,3 4 6, 197 19,7 161 16,1 139 13, 159 15,9 138 13,8 10, 293 29,3 247 24,7 206 20, 254 25,4 219 21,9 173 17, 319 31,9 371 37,1 421 42, 217 21,7 268 26,8 305 30, 3708 370,8 3875 387,5 4058 40 405,8 2321 232,1 2633 263,3 2488 248, 3,0 (3,0 28 2, 2,0 (2,0 1, 216 21,6 259 25,9 295 29, 189 18,9 202 20,2 22,7 227 249 24,9 218 21,8 182 18, 26,3 236 23,6 205 018 0,18 023 0,23 024 0,2 017 0,17 0,19 019 155 1,55 70 1,7 112 12 1,12 132 1,32 142 1,4 9, 7, 8, 19, 16, 15, 24, 25, 21, 31, 37, 26, 370, 387, 405, 232, 263, 3, (3, (2, 22, 23, 01 0,1 0, 1,5 11 1,1 (3

Abstract The date palm mite, Oligonychus afrasiaticus (McGregor) (Acari: Tetranychidae), is a serious pest of dates in the Middle East and North Africa, inflicting severe economic damage if not controlled early. As predaceous mites are known to be potential biocontrol agents against several pests, so predation capacity, life table, reproduction, and survival of Amblyseius swirskii Athias-Henriot and Neoseiulus cucumeris (Oudemans) (Acari: Phytoseiidae), collected from date palm farms in Qassim Saudi Arabia, were studied under laboratory conditions (25 °C, 30 °C, 35 °C and 50 ± 5% RH) against all motile stages of O. afrasiaticus. For both predators, mean developmental time, oviposition period, and longevity were inversely related to temperature from 25 to 35 °C. Various parameters were studied for A. swirskii and N. cucumeris at 25 °C, 30 °C and 35 °C, i.e. the female developmental time, 9.37, 7.29, 5.56, and 10.67, 8.38, 6.45 d; oviposition period, 19.77, 16.18, 13.94 and 15.90, 13.84, 10.64 d; longevity, 29.39, 24.79, 20.64 and 25.42, 21.94, 17.39 d; fecundity, 31.91, 37.10, 42.16 and 21.75, 26.84, 30.56 eggs per female, respectively. The maximum daily predation rate for both the predators was recorded at 35 °C during the oviposition period. The total predation of A. swirskii and N. cucumeris female was 370.86, 387.54, 405.83, 232.14, 263.32, 248.85 preys at 25 °C, 30 °C and 35 °C respectively. The maximum reproduction rate of A. swirskii and N. cucumeris (3.02, 2.87 eggs/♀/day) was recorded at 35 °C while the minimum (2.00, 1.36 eggs/♀/day) was recorded at 25 °C. The life table parameters were estimated as net reproductive rate (Ro) 21.68, 25.94, 29.52 and 18.95, 20.25, 22.78; the mean generation time (T) 24.92, 21.82, 18.24 and 26.30, 23.60, 20.56 d; the intrinsic rate of increase (rm) 0.181, 0.232, 0.248 and 0.170, 0.185, 0.196; the finite rate of increase (λ) 1.365, 1.551, 1.706 and 1.126, 1.324, 1.428 for A. swirskii and N. cucumeris at 25 °C, 30 °C and 35 °C respectively. The results of this study suggested that the two phytoseiid species are promising biological control agents of O. afrasiaticus at a wide range of temperatures. mite McGregor (McGregor Acari (Acari Tetranychidae, Tetranychidae , Tetranychidae) Africa early pests capacity AthiasHenriot Athias Henriot Oudemans (Oudemans Phytoseiidae, Phytoseiidae Phytoseiidae) Arabia (2 C 3 5 RH O period 2 A N ie i e i.e 937 9 37 9.37 729 7 29 7.29 556 56 5.56 1067 10 67 10.67 838 8 38 8.38 645 6 45 6.4 d 1977 19 77 19.77 1618 16 18 16.18 1394 13 94 13.9 1590 15 90 15.90 1384 84 13.84 1064 64 10.6 2939 39 29.39 2479 24 79 24.79 2064 20 20.6 2542 42 25.42 2194 21 21.94 1739 17 17.3 fecundity 3191 31 91 31.91 3710 37.10 4216 42.1 2175 75 21.75 2684 26 26.84 3056 30.5 respectively 37086 370 86 370.86 38754 387 54 387.54 40583 405 83 405.83 23214 232 14 232.14 26332 263 32 263.32 24885 248 85 248.8 3.02, 302 02 (3.02 287 87 2.8 eggs/♀/day eggsday day 2.00, 200 00 (2.00 136 1 36 1.3 Ro (Ro 2168 68 21.68 2594 25.94 2952 52 29.5 1895 95 18.95 2025 20.25 22.78 2278 22 78 T (T 2492 92 24.92 2182 82 21.82 1824 18.2 2630 26.30 2360 23 60 23.60 2056 20.5 rm (rm 0181 0 181 0.181 0232 0.232 0248 0.24 0170 170 0.170 0185 185 0.185 0.196 0196 196 λ (λ 1365 365 1.365 1551 551 1.551 1706 706 1.70 1126 126 1.126 1324 324 1.324 1428 428 1.42 temperatures ( 93 9.3 72 7.2 55 5.5 106 8.3 4 6. 197 19.7 161 16.1 139 13. 159 15.9 138 13.8 10. 293 29.3 247 24.7 206 20. 254 25.4 219 21.9 173 17. 319 31.9 371 37.1 421 42. 217 21.7 268 26.8 305 30. 3708 370.8 3875 387.5 4058 40 405.8 2321 232.1 2633 263.3 2488 248. 3.02 (3.0 28 2. 2.00 (2.0 1. 216 21.6 259 25.9 295 29. 189 18.9 202 20.2 22.7 227 249 24.9 218 21.8 182 18. 26.3 236 23.6 205 018 0.18 023 0.23 024 0.2 017 0.17 0.19 019 155 1.55 70 1.7 112 12 1.12 132 1.32 142 1.4 9. 7. 5. 8. 19. 16. 15. 24. 25. 21. 31. 37. 26. 370. 387. 405. 232. 263. 3.0 (3. 2.0 (2. 22. 23. 01 0.1 0. 1.5 11 1.1 3. (3

BACKGROUND Physical factors can determine the level of triatomine abundance, but do not regulate their population densities, and neither do natural enemies. OBJECTIVES To identify the processes associated with density-dependent triatomine population regulation. METHODS We set-up a laboratory experiment with four interconnected boxes; the central box harbored Rhodnius prolixus bugs and one hamster. Stage 5 and adult densities of 10, 20, 30, 40, and 60 bugs per hamster, were replicated four times (except the density of 60 bugs). Hamster’s irritability and several triatomine responses were measured: feeding, development time and longevity, mortality, fecundity, dispersal, and the net reproductive value (R o ). FINDINGS Density had a statistically significant effect on irritability, but not on the percent of bugs feeding. Density was significant on blood meal size ingested in bugs that did not move between boxes, but not significant when the bugs moved. Density and irritability affected the proportion of stage 5 nymphs molting, and the proportion of adult bugs dying per day and over a three-week period. There was a highly significant effect of density and irritability on R o . MAIN CONCLUSIONS We showed that a density-dependent mechanism, acting through the irritability of the host, seems the most plausible process regulating populations in triatomines. abundance enemies densitydependent dependent regulation setup set up boxes hamster 10 20 30 40 6 except bugs. bugs) Hamsters Hamster s measured feeding longevity mortality fecundity dispersal ) moved molting threeweek three week period mechanism host triatomines 1 2 3 4

Abstract This article presents the results of the culling of cows of the Simmental and Holstein breeds in the Republic of Kazakhstan. The purpose of the research was to study the actual number of culled cows of dairy productivity in the farms of the Republic of Kazakhstan to determine its norm. The object of research were cows of Simmental (18,462 heads) and Holstein (17,862 heads) breeds in various regions of the republic. The research was carried out according to generally accepted zootechnical methods using statistical data processing using RStudio. The results of the studies showed that the percentage of culling increases in cows of the Simmental and Holstein breeds and amounts to 19.7 and 22.9%, respectively. The analysis of the retirement of full-aged cows of the Simmental breed showed that the main causes are hoof diseases (up to 26%), low reproductive function (up to 21%), low productivity (up to 18%). Holstein cows had an increase in disposals in all categories except for disposals for various reasons, for problems with reproduction, the disposal is up to 21%. The determination of the relationship between productivity and retirement in the Simmental breed cows showed that with age and increased lactation, the proportion of retired cows also increases, in the Holstein breed, with increased productivity, the percentage of culled animals also increases. norm 18,462 18462 18 462 (18,46 heads 17,862 17862 17 862 (17,86 republic RStudio 197 19 7 19. 229 22 9 22.9% respectively fullaged full aged 26%, 26 26% , 26%) 21%, 21 21% 21%) 18%. 18% . 18%) reasons reproduction lactation 18,46 1846 1 46 (18,4 17,86 1786 86 (17,8 2 22.9 18,4 184 4 (18, 17,8 178 8 (17, 22. 18, (18 17, (17 (1 (

Resumo Este artigo apresenta os resultados do abate de vacas Simental e Holstein na República do Cazaquistão. O objetivo do estudo foi estudar o número real de vacas abatidas na direção da produtividade leiteira nas fazendas da República do Cazaquistão para determinar sua norma. O estudo incluiu vacas Simental (18.462 cabeças) e Holstein (17.862 cabeças) em diferentes regiões da República. A pesquisa foi conduzida de acordo com métodos zootécnicos geralmente aceitos, adotando o processamento estatístico de dados, usando o RStudio. Os resultados da pesquisa mostraram que as vacas Simental e Holstein aumentaram a taxa de abate para 19,7% e 22,9%, respectivamente. A análise da alienação de vacas Simental de meia-idade mostrou que as principais causas são doenças dos cascos (até 26%), baixa função reprodutiva (até 21%) e baixa produtividade (até 18%). As vacas Holstein tiveram um aumento na alienação em todas as categorias, exceto a alienação por várias razões; devido a problemas reprodutivos, a alienação é de até 21%. A determinação da relação entre a produtividade e a alienação em vacas Simental mostrou que a proporção de vacas eliminadas aumenta com a idade e o aumento da lactação, enquanto a porcentagem de animais eliminados aumenta com a produtividade na raça Holstein. norma 18.462 18462 18 462 (18.46 cabeças 17.862 17862 17 862 (17.86 aceitos dados RStudio 197 19 7 19,7 229 22 9 22,9% respectivamente meiaidade meia 26%, 26 26% , 26%) 21% 21 18%. 18% . 18%) categorias razões reprodutivos lactação 18.46 1846 1 46 (18.4 17.86 1786 86 (17.8 19, 2 22,9 18.4 184 4 (18. 17.8 178 8 (17. 22, 18. (18 17. (17 (1 (

Resumo O ciclo de vida do percevejo, Glyphepomis dubia e a biologia de dois parasitoides de ovos (Telenomus podisi e Trissolcus basalis) foram estudados na Universidade Federal do Maranhão, a 26 ± 2oC, umidade relativa (UR) de 60 ± 10% e fotofase de 12h. Sete indivíduos de G. dubia foram coletados em lavoura de arroz localizada no município de Arari, Maranhão, Brasil e mantidos em casa de vegetação e laboratório para estudos de ciclo de vida. Do ovo ao adulto, G. dubia levou 35.2 dias para completar o ciclo de vida. O período de oviposição foi de 37 dias com massas de ovos com cerca de 12 ovos/massa e viabilidade de 93.1%. A longevidade foi de 53 e 65 dias, respectivamente, para fêmeas e machos. Os parasitoides de ovos, Te. podisi e Tr. basalis parasitaram e se desenvolveram em ovos de G. dubia, no entanto as características biológicas de Tr. basalis foi afetada. A emergência dos parasitoides foi maior para Te. podisi (83.5%) em comparação com o registrado para Tr. basalis (50.4%). Portanto, G. dubia poderá apresentar potencial para atingir o status de praga e Te. podisi é um promissor agente de controle biológico para ser utilizado no manejo de G. dubia no Brasil, pois apresentou maior longevidade e os melhores parâmetros reprodutivos.

Abstract The life cycle of stink bug, Glyphepomis dubia and the development of two egg parasitoids (Telenomus podisi and Trissolcus basalis) were studied at the Federal University of Maranhão, at 26 ± 2oC, relative humidity (RH) of 60 ± 10% and 12h photophase. Individuals used in the study were collected from seven rice fields located around the municipality of Arari, Maranhão, Brazil, and maintained in greenhouse and laboratory for the life cycle studies. From egg to adult, G. dubia took 35.2 days to complete the life cycle. The oviposition period was 37 days, with egg masses of about 12 eggs each and viability of 93.1%. Longevity was 53 and 65 days for females and males, respectively. The egg parasitoids Te. podisi and Tr. basalis parasitized and developed in G. dubia eggs; however, the biological characteristics of Tr. basalis were affected. Emergence of the parasitoids was higher for Te. podisi (83.5%) compared to the records for Tr. basalis (50.4%). Therefore, G. dubia may potentially achieve a pest status and Te. podisi is a promising biological control agent for G. dubia management in Brazil due to its higher longevity and better reproductive parameters.

Spondyliaspis cf. plicatuloides (Froggatt) (Hemiptera: Aphalaridae), a shell lerp psyllid, is native to Australia but was first detected in South Africa during 2014. The insect feeds on the sap of eucalypt species and thus has the potential to become a pest in commercial Eucalyptus plantations. Information pertaining to the basic biology of this psyllid, which is important in fundamental studies of insect pests, is lacking. To investigate the biology of S. plicatuloides, the psyllid was reared under controlled glasshouse conditions on potted red-flowering gum, Corymbia ficifolia (F Muell.) KD Hill and LAS Johnson (syn. Eucalyptus ficifolia). The egg incubation period, number of nymphal instars and their developmental time, adult fecundity, adult longevity and duration of the life cycle were determined. The major diagnostic features used to differentiate nymphal instars included the number of antennal segments, wing pad development and body length. Females reached reproductive maturity 2.3 ± 0.47 days after eclosion and laid 16.2 ± 3.9 eggs on average. Reproduction was found to be sexual. The first nymphal instar took 10.7 ± 1.2 days to hatch from the egg. The nymphal instars completed their development in 22.6 ± 1.4 days under the brown scalloped shelters they secrete. The insect's total life cycle lasted 37.37 ± 1.17 days from egg to adult death. Male and female lifespans are also reported. The study provides the first information on the basic biology of S. cf. plicatuloides that will be useful for future studies on surveillance and management strategies.

Resumen Mejorar las técnicas para criar depredadores en el laboratorio, incluida la edad de apareamiento, es importante para obtener el mayor número de individuos para los programas de control biológico. El objetivo de este trabajo fue evaluar la fecundidad de hembras del depredador Podisus fuscescens (Dallas, 1851) (Hemiptera: Pentatomidae) con diferentes periodos de pre-apareamiento. Los tratamientos fueron: las hembras de este depredador se aparearon inmediatamente después de la emergencia (T1) o con uno (T2), dos (T3), tres (T4), cuatro (T5) o cinco (T6) días después de la emergencia. Las hembras que se aparearon inmediatamente (T1) y un día después de la emergencia (T2) tuvieron menos posturas que las que se aparearon después de cinco días (T6). El número de ninfas por hembra fue menor para las apareadas en emergencia (T1) y uno o dos días después. El número total de huevos fue menor para las hembras apareadas un día después de la emergencia (T2) que para aquellas apareadas después de cinco días (T6). La proporción de huevos eclosionados fue menor en los tratamientos T1 y T2 en comparación con el tratamiento T6. El período de oviposición y la longevidad de las hembras de P. fuscescens fueron similares entre los tratamientos, sin embargo, el período de preoviposición fue más largo para las hembras del tratamiento T1 que para las de T5 y T6 y el período de posoviposición fue más largo en las hembras del tratamiento T1. Las hembras de P. fuscescens necesitan cinco días después de la emergencia para que su sistema reproductivo madure, lo que mejora su aptitud y evita copulaciones innecesarias.

Abstract The improvement of techniques for the mass rearing of predators in the laboratory, including the age of mating is important to obtain the largest number of individuals for biological control programs. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the females’ fecundity of the predator Podisus fuscescens (Dallas, 1851) (Hemiptera: Pentatomidae) with different pre-mating periods. The females of this predator were mated immediately after emergence (T1) or with one (T2), two (T3), three (T4), four (T5) or five (T6) days after emergence. The females mated immediately and one day after the emergency (T1 and T2) had fewer egg clusters than those mated after five days (T6). The number of nymphs per female was lower for those mated immediately after the emergence (T1) and with one (T2) or two days (T3). The total number of eggs was lower in females mated one day after emergence (T2) than for those mated after five days (T6). The proportion of hatched eggs was lower in the treatments T1 and T2 than in the T6. The oviposition and longevity of P. fuscescens females were similar between treatments; however, the pre-oviposition period longer in the T1 than T5 and T6. The pos-oviposition period was longer in the T1. Podisus fuscescens females require five days after emergence to mature their reproductive system, which improves their fitness and avoids unnecessary mating.

ABSTRACT Introduction. Dragonflies are hemimetabolous predatory insects, which belong to the order Odonata with approximately 6,000 species, grouped into two suborders. The objectives of this study were to characterize and update the systematics of the order Odonata, its geographical and temporary distribution; to characterize, besides, their genetic diversity, ecology of populations, and both adult and larvae assemblies, emergency pattern from exuvias, as well as to describe aspects of their reproductive ecology, in diverse habitats of the Cuban archipelago for conservation purposes. Methods. Specimens and data were collected in 50 locations in Cuba, from 1995 to the present with aerial and aquatic nets. Four sites in Santiago de Cuba were selected to study the larvae, exuviae and the emergency pattern. The climate variables were recorded during the low-rain and rainy periods. The specimens were processed in the laboratories of the universities of Havana and Oriente; the extraction of DNA was completed in Vigo. Tests of normality, Pearson correlation, principal components, Maximum Likelihood and estimation of ecological niche were used. Results. The Cuban fauna of odonates includes 88 species, in six families, 41 genera and six of them are endemic. The larvae of three species are described and dichotomous keys were elaborated for larvae and adults from Cuba and the Antilles. The geographical distribution of dragonflies in Cuba was updated and, by using genetic data and population ecology, a proposal for conservation strategies for Hypolestes is presented. Permanent rivers and lagoons favor dragonfly assemblies with high equitability. To record the maximum number of species, it was estimated that 30 weekly samples of exuvia collection are needed. Five groups of larvae were created using morphology and functional attributes, and it was found that the emergence pattern was broad and unsynchronized, due to the presence of accidental and multivoltine species. The phylogenetic analyses revealed four Antillean lineages for Hypolestes, with inferences of the effect of climate change, flight period, longevity and environmental assessment as bioindicators of aquatic ecosystems.

RESUMEN Introducción. Las libélulas son insectos depredadores y hemimetábolos, que conforman el orden Odonata con aproximadamente 6000 especies, agrupadas en 2 subórdenes. El presente estudio tuvo como objetivos caracterizar y actualizar la sistemática del orden Odonata, la distribución geográfica y temporal; caracterizar además, la diversidad genética, ecología de poblaciones y ensambles de adultos y larvas, patrón de emergencia a partir de exuvias, así como describir aspectos de la ecología reproductiva, en diversos hábitats del archipiélago cubano con fines conservacionistas. Métodos. La recolecta de ejemplares y datos se realizaron en 50 localidades de Cuba, desde 1995 hasta el presente con redes aéreas y acuáticas. Para estudiar las larvas, exuvias y patrón de emergencia, se seleccionaron 4 ambientes dulceacuícolas. Se registraron variables climáticas y los periodos lluvioso y poco lluvioso. Los ejemplares fueron procesados en laboratorios de las universidades de La Habana, Oriente y la extracción de ADN en Vigo. Se emplearon pruebas de normalidad, correlación de Pearson, componentes principales, máxima verosimilitud y estimación del nicho ecológico. Resultados. La odonatofauna cubana presenta 88 especies, en 6 familias, 41 géneros y 6 endémicos. Se describe la larva de 3 especies y se confeccionaron claves dicotómicas para larvas y adultos de Cuba y las Antillas. La distribución geográfica de libélulas en Cuba fue actualizada, con bases genéticas y ecología de poblaciones para proponer estrategias de conservación para Hypolestes. La estabilidad hídrica en ríos y lagunas, favorece ensambles de libélulas y la equitatividad de abundancia. Se estimó 30 muestreos semanales de recolecta de exuvias, para obtener riqueza específica máxima. Se crearon 5 grupos morfofuncionales larvales, y el patrón de emergencia resultó amplio y no sincronizado, sustentados por especies accidentales y multivoltinas. El análisis filogenético reveló 4 linajes antillanos para Hypolestes, con inferencias del cambio climático, período de vuelo, longevidad y evaluación ambiental como bioindicadores de los ecosistemas acuáticos.

ABSTRACT The red mite, Oligonychus yothersi (McGregor) (Acari: Tetranychidae), is a serious pest of avocado (Persea americana Mill.) ‘Hass’ in Chile. Micro-coleopterans predators are observed in avocado orchards during outbreaks of O. yothersi, which are attracted by herbivore-induced plant volatiles (HIPVs). However, the damage to plants persists and new predators are needed. Due to its effectiveness and adaptability to dry climates, the western predatory mite Galendromus occidentalis (Nesbitt) (Acari: Phytoseiidae) has been adopted as a biological control agent on many crops. Ours objectives were to study the biological parameters of G. occidentalis preying on O. yothersi in controlled conditions and its attraction to volatile compounds from avocado shoots, live preys and four synthetic doses of methyl salicylate (MeSA) and ocimene using a Y-tube olfactometer. We found a net reproductive rate (R0) 34.41 offspring female-1, intrinsic rate of increase (rm) 0.19 females female-1 d-1, finite rate of increase (λ) 1.21 females female-1, mean generation time (T) 18.45 d, and doubling time (DT) of 3.61 d. Immature phytoseiids took 7.32 d to reach adulthood with 90% survival. Female longevity and fecundity were 36.27 d, and 59 eggs female-1, respectively. Phytoseiids show no attraction to O. yothersi volatiles or volatiles of O. yothersi-infested avocado shoots. Nevertheless, females showed a preference for synthetic MeSA and ocimene at 100 μg mL-1. Our findings indicate that O. yothersi is a potential diet to rear G. occidentalis, and MeSA and ocimene could be used in lures to manipulate its behavior in avocado orchards.

Abstract The life cycle of Subcoccinella vigintiquatuorpunctata (L.) (Coleoptera: Coccinellidae), which is an important pest of alfalfa (Medicago sativa Linnaeus (Fabales: Fabaceae) has been studied in laboratory conditions with a constant temperature of 25±1 ºC, relative humidity of 65±2% and light period of 16:8 hours. TWOSEX-MSChart was used to determine the parameters of the life table. The development stages of the egg to adult were recorded separately according to sex (female/male). The development duration of female and male individuals was found to be respectively, egg, 6.61±0.18, 5.45±0.19 days; first instar larvae, 4.58±0.16, 4.21±0.20 days; second instar larvae, 3.61±0.14, 3.21±0.17 days; third instar larvae, 2.81±0.14, 2.48±0.14 days; fourth instar larvae, 6.32±0.17, 6.03±0.17 days; pupae stage, 5.84±0.14, 5.34±0.11 days; total development time, 29.77±0.44, 26.72±0.41 days. In addition, the adult preoviposition (Apop) of the pest was 310.95±0.19 days; total preoviposition (Tpop) 340.33±0.59 days, the average number of eggs laid was 343.23±43.3; oviposition period was 29.71±0.7 days; the number of eggs laid per day was determined as 12.31±0.37. Adult longevity was found 265.68±29.5 and 292.69±28.2 days in female and male individuals, respectively. Among the population parameters, the intrinsic rate of increase (r) was 1.39 d-1. Net reproductive rate (Ro), 143.783 progeny/individual, the mean generation time (T) 355.547 days; Total reproductive rate (GRR) 249.764 females/females; finite rate of increase (λ) was calculated as 1.01 d-1. It shows that the data from the life table created with the results obtained can be used for the biology and control of the pest.

Abstract The purpose of this study was to investigate the effects of Viscum coloratum (Kom.) Nakai f. Lutescens Kitag polysaccharide on fertility, longevity and antioxidant capacity of Drosophila melanogaster. The Drosophila melanogaster were randomly divided into five groups. Four generations of Drosophila melanogaster were cultured continuously in basic medium with or without polysaccharides (400, 200, 100 and 50 mg/L). The changes in fertility, lifespan and male-to-female ratio from F1 to F4 generation. The survival time under acute oxidative damage caused by paraquat and hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) and changes in superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT) and malondialdehyde (MDA) content were determined as well. High dose of V. coloratum polysaccharide could significantly improve the fertility and lifespans of Drosophila melanogaster from F1 to F4 generation, prolong the survival time under acute oxidative damage. Moreover, the MDA content was decreased sharply, while the activities of SOD and CAT were increased in high group. However, the male-to-female ratio was overall close to 1:1 for F1 to F4 generations among the four groups. V. coloratum polysaccharide improved the antioxidant capacity and vitality of Drosophila melanogaster and promoted their reproductive capacity in a dose-dependent manner.

Resumo A mariposa oriental, Grapholita molesta (Busch, 1916), tem sido historicamente um grande problema nas regiões tradicionais de cultivo de maçã no Rio Grande do Sul e em Santa Catarina; entretanto, observou-se menor ocorrência de G. molesta na variedade precoce ('Eva') no Paraná do que na cultivar tardia 'Gala'. O objetivo deste estudo foi avaliar o desempenho larval e adulto de G. molesta em cultivares de macieira com ciclos curtos e longos, além de elucidar se há potencial adaptativo para o desenvolvimento e fertilidade da primeira à quarta geração. Os tratamentos experimentais consistiram em larvas alimentadas com frutas ‘Eva’ e ‘Gala’ e uma dieta comercial. Tempo de desenvolvimento imaturo, largura da cápsula cefálica, longevidade e parâmetros reprodutivos foram comparados entre os tratamentos. As larvas da quarta geração exibiram melhor desempenho do que as da primeira em ‘Eva’ e ‘Gala’. O desenvolvimento imaturo da mariposa oriental ocorreu em quatro ou cinco instares. Um maior número de larvas com quatro instares ocorreu em 'Eva' do que em 'Gala'. A largura da cápsula da cabeça foi mais estreita em 'Gala' do que em 'Eva' para larvas com quatro instares. As fêmeas criadas em ‘Eva’ também colocam mais ovos do que aquelas criadas em ‘Gala’. As larvas mais adaptadas às condições de alimentação apresentaram instares reduzidos, e as fêmeas exibiram melhor desempenho quando as novas gerações se originaram do mesmo substrato. A alta flutuação de G. molesta nos pomares 'Gala' não se deve ao estado nutricional dos frutos.

Abstract The oriental fruit moth, Grapholita molesta (Busch, 1916) has historically been a major problem in traditional apple-growing regions in Rio Grande do Sul and Santa Catarina; however, a lower occurrence of G. molesta has been observed in early variety (‘Eva’) than long cycles cultivar 'Gala' in Paraná State. The objective of this study was to evaluate the performance of immature and adult G. molesta in apple cultivars with short and long cycles, in addition to elucidating whether there is adaptive potential for development and fertility from the first generation to the fourth. The experimental treatments consisted of larvae fed ‘Eva’ and ‘Gala’ fruit and a commercial diet. Immature development time, head capsule width, longevity and reproductive parameters were compared across the treatments. The larvae of the fourth generation exhibited better performance than those of the first on ‘Eva’ and 'Gala’. Immature oriental fruit moth development occurred via four or five instars. A greater number of larvae with four instars occurred on 'Eva' than on ‘Gala’. The head capsule width was narrower on 'Gala' than on ‘Eva’ for larvae with four instars. Females reared on ‘Eva’ also laid more eggs than those reared on ‘Gala’. The larvae that were more adapted to the feeding conditions showed reduced cycles/instars, and the females exhibited better performance when new generations originated from the same substrate. The high fluctuation of G. molesta in 'Gala' orchards is not due to the nutritional condition of the fruits.

The extensive use of chemical insecticides to control mosquitoes led to the development of insecticide resistance and environmental health hazards. This caused a surge in interest in eco-friendly biocontrol agents. The present study aimed to explore the susceptibility of different instar larvae of the common mosquito, Culex pipiens Linnaeus, 1758, to the mermithid nematode, Romanomermis iyengari Welch, 1964. Moreover, the effects of R. iyengari on the mosquito pupal developmental time, adult emergence, longevity, female fecundity, as well as egg-hatching rate were determined after larval treatment with an LC50 quantity of the nematode pre-parasites. Different instars of Cx. pipiens (1st-4th) were exposed separately to R. iyengari at concentrations of 1-6 pre-parasites/mosquito larva. Mortality rates of mosquito larvae were observed and the LC50 values were calculated. The estimated LC50 values for the 1st-4th larval instars were 3.18, 2.73, 3.79 and 4 pre-parasites/larva, respectively. Mean percent mortality of the 1st-4th larval instars ranged from 10-94%, 16-100%, 4-100% and 0-52%, respectively. The results indicated that exposure of 4th larval instar to the LC50 of R. iyengari pre-parasites significantly prolonged the duration of pupal development, reduced the percentage of emerged adults and reduced mosquito female fecundity compared with the control. In contrast, adult longevity and the egg-hatching rate did not differ between the control and the exposed group. In conclusion, this isolate of R. iyengari could be a promising biocontrol agent for Egyptian Cx. pipiens. Other trials are required to assess the biocontrol potential of this parasite in field conditions.

Resumen Introducción. La evaluación de la eficiencia productiva debe estar acompañada por indicadores integrales para valorar el comportamiento de las vacas lecheras en los sistemas de pastoreo. Objetivo. Identificar en un rodeo de vacas lecheras Holstein agrupadas por su edad al primer parto, las de mayor eficiencia en sistemas de pastoreo, con base en una caracterización multivariada en indicadores productivos y reproductivos. Materiales y métodos. Se utilizaron datos retrospectivos de 1785 vacas primíparas de raza Holstein entre los años 1999-2016, en dos establecimientos comerciales pertenecientes a la empresa Los Ángeles - Argentina, las que se dividieron en tres grupos por su edad al primer parto: Grupo 1 - 750 días, Grupo 2 - 840 días y Grupo 3 - 1098 días. Las variables vida productiva total, producción total de leche, índice de leche e intervalo entre partos promedio se utilizaron asociadas a la edad al primer parto mediante la técnica multivariada de componentes principales. Resultados. No se observaron agrupamientos asociados al grupo de edad al primer parto. Los dos primeros componentes principales explicaron el 92,9 % de la variancia total observada. Se pudo definir cuatro cuadrantes representando todas las combinaciones entre los valores positivos y negativos. La distribución de las vacas de los tres grupos en los cuatro cuadrantes resultó homogénea (x2=6,291; p=0,391). La distribución por cuadrante, independientemente del Grupo de edad al primer parto fue de: Cuadrante I (52/150, 34,7 %), Cuadrante II (42/150; 28,0 %), Cuadrante III (28/150; 18,7 %) y Cuadrante IV (28/150; 18,7 %). Conclusión. Las vacas ubicadas en el Cuadrante II (valores negativos de la CP1 y positivos de la CP2), fueron las eficientes al sistema de pastoreo, mostraron mayor longevidad con niveles productivos compatibles con las limitaciones del sistema y un eficiente comportamiento reproductivo.

Abstract Introduction. The evaluation of productive efficiency must be accompanied by comprehensive indicators to assess the behavior of dairy cows in grazing systems. Objective. To identify in a herd of Holstein dairy cows grouped by age at first calving, those with the highest efficiency in grazing systems, based on a multivariate characterization of productive and reproductive indicators. Materials and methods. Retrospective data from 1785 primiparous cows of the Holstein breed, registered between the years 1999-2016 in two commercial establishments belonging to the Los Angeles-Argentina company, were used. Cows were categorized into three groups according to their age at first calving: Group 1 - 750 days, Group 2 - 840 days, and Group 3 - 1098 days. The variables total productive life, total milk production, milk index, and average calving interval were used associated with the age at first calving using the multivariate principal components technique. Results. No groupings associated with age group at first birth were observed. The two first principal components explained 92.9 % of the total variance observed. It was possible to define four quadrants representing all the combinations between the positive and negative values. Cows distribution of the three groups in the four quadrants was homogeneous (x2=6.291; p=0.391). The distribution per quadrant, regardless of the age group at first calving was: Quadrant I (52/150, 34.7 %); Quadrant II (42/150, 28.0 %); Quadrant III (28/150; 18.7 %); Quadrant IV (28/150; 18.7 %). Conclusion. Cows located in Quadrant II (negative values of PC1 and positive values of PC2), were efficient in the grazing system, showed greater longevity with productive levels compatible with the limitations of the system, and with an efficient reproductive behavior.

RESUMO O silício é indutor de resistência de plantas a artrópodes pragas, constituindo-se em promissora estratégia para o manejo integrado. O trabalho objetivou avaliar o efeito do silício nos aspectos biológicos, reprodutivos e populacionais do ácaro-rajado nas gerações parental e F1 em morangueiro. As plantas receberam aplicações de silicato de potássio, nanossílica e água. Fêmeas do ácaro-rajado foram confinadas sobre os discos foliares de morangueiro para oviposição e, após a eclosão, larvas foram observadas até a emergência dos adultos. Destes, casais foram formados para avaliação da pré-oviposição, oviposição, longevidade e fecundidade, com estimativa da taxa líquida de reprodução, taxa intrínseca de aumento, razão finita de aumento e tempo médio de geração. O silício prolongou a duração de algumas fases imaturas do ácaro-rajado nas gerações parental e F1, mas não afetou a duração total do ciclo de desenvolvimento da praga. Os períodos de pré-oviposição, oviposição e longevidade da geração parental e a longevidade e fecundidade da geração F1 do ácaro-rajado foram afetados negativamente pelo silicato de potássio e nanosilicato. Os parâmetros populacionais da geração parental do ácaro-rajado indicam que a nanossílica pode diminuir a população desta praga a longo prazo.

ABSTRACT Silicon is an inducer of plant resistance to arthropod pests, being a promising strategy for integrated management. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of silicon on biological, reproductive and population aspects of parental and F1 generations of the two-spotted spider mite on strawberry plants. Potassium silicate, nanosilica and water were applied to the plants. Two-spotted spider mite females were confined to strawberry leaf disks for oviposition and, after hatching, larvae were observed until the emergence of adults. Once adults had been obtained, couples were formed in order to evaluate pre-oviposition, oviposition, longevity and fertility, with an estimated net reproduction rate, intrinsic rate of increase, finite rate of increase and the necessary time for doubling the generation. Silicon prolonged the duration of some immature stages of the mites in parental and F1 generations, did not affect the duration of the whole biological cycle, though. The periods of pre-oviposition, oviposition and longevity of the parental generation and the longevity and oviposition of F1 generation of the two-spotted spider mite were negatively affected by potassium silicate and nanosilica. The population parameters of the parental generation of the mites indicated that nanosilica is able to lead to a long-run decrease of this pest population.

Abstract Anastrepha fraterculus (Wiedemann, 1830) (Diptera: Tephritidae) is a major fruit pest, which is basicaly controlled using insecticides, which represents a risk to beneficial arthropods, human health and food contamination. The sterile insect technique (SIT) is a potential alternative tool for the management of this pest, however, only conflicting data is found regarding the optimal dose to achieve sterility. Thus, this study evaluated the effect of gamma radiation doses (0, 40, 50, 60 and 70 Gy) on male and female reproductive sterility, gonads morphometry, emergence, flight ability, and longevity under nutritional stress of A. fraterculus. Full female sterility was achieved at 50 Gy, while full male sterility was achieved at 70 Gy. Both ovarian and testicular sizes were affected by irradiation, while no influence was observed on the quality parameters evaluated. Our results suggest that 70 Gy applied 48 h before adult emergence can be used to sterilize A. fraterculus in a SIT programme.