ABSTRACT Zethus Fabricius is the largest known genus in Vespidae, but very little is known about their nesting behavior. Belonging to the Z. olmecus species group, Zethus miniatus is widely known for its subsocial behavior, where females build together aerial nests comprised of a cluster of several cells. Nests of closely related species of the same species group, Z. notatus, Z. schadei and Z. thoracicus, collected in the Amazon basin, are here described and illustrated. Nests of Z. notatus and Z. thoracicus reveal architectures very distinct from those of Z. miniatus. Although examined nests are all aerial and comprised of at least four cells, the orientation and maceration of vegetable matter vary among these species. Finally, notes on social behavior and progressive provisioning of Z. schadei and Z. thoracicus are provided.

ABSTRACT The mangroves along the Pacific coastline of South America are considered highly vulnerable ecosystems due to resource exploitation and climate change; nevertheless, they remain largely ignored. This study focuses on an overlooked aspect of an understudied ecosystem: mangrove ant fauna. We describe the ant diversity from eight mangrove forests along the Ecuadorian coast. A total of 400 occurrences were recorded, representing 31 species, 16 genera, and 5 subfamilies. Myrmicinae was the most abundant subfamily, comprising 64% of the samples, with the genus Crematogaster being dominant. We also provide brief diagnoses and general comments on the most important species. Two species, Camponotus dalmasi Forel and Crematogaster ampla Forel, are recorded for the first time in Ecuador. Additionally, four exotic species with global distributions are documented: Monomorium floricola Jerdon, Paratrechina longicornis Latreille, Tetramorium bicarinatum Nylander, and Tapinoma melanocephalum (Fabricius). We discuss the potential causes and impacts of these species' presence on mangrove ecosystems. Our work contributes to the first efforts to study mangrove myrmecofauna on the Pacific coast of South America, emphasizing the need to increase research, conservation, and restoration efforts for this threatened ecosystem and its components.

ABSTRACT Understanding bee diversity and their relationships with plants is crucial for conserving pollination services. Here, we focused on the southern region of Brazil to: i) provide an overview of bee diversity based on fauna inventories, ii) compile studies on floral visitation in natural and agricultural systems, and iii) discuss the threats and conservation status of bee fauna, particularly through endangered species lists., we conducted a systematic review of the literature, and retrieved 138 papers. Among the 68 systematic bee inventories, most were carried out in Paraná, followed by Santa Catarina and Rio Grande do Sul. Studies indicate bee richness up to 400 species at regional scale (multiple localities). Of the total visitation studies, 48 involved cultivated plants, while 22 were focused on non-cultivated species. Canola was the most researched among the 16 species of cultivated plants, appearing in nine papers, followed by soybean with eight articles. In the case of non-cultivated plants, a total of 23 plant species were studied, with Bromeliaceae and Orchidaceae as the most common families. We identified a need for increased research efforts in the western regions of the Atlantic Forest, as well as in the Cerrado and Pampa biomes based on the scarcity of initiatives in these areas. There is a significant gap in our knowledge regarding the pollination of neglected crops and native plants. Regarding bee conservation, comprehensive monitoring and data collection efforts are urgently needed to assess the status of bee populations and identify areas where conservation actions are most critical.

ABSTRACT The genus Erythrodiplax is the most species-rich libellulid in the Neotropics. Erythrodiplax fulva is one of the less known species of this genus, with its larva currently unknown and conservation status undefined. It was described based on specimens from Venezuela and later recorded from Guiana and French Guiana. We record the species from Brazil for the first time, comment on the importance of the distributional expansion range of E. fulva and point out the main differences between similar species.

ABSTRACT Dichotomius Hope, 1838 is one of the most diverse and abundant genera of dung beetles (Scarabaeidae: Scarabaeinae) in the New World. It congregates about 200 species distributed from the northeastern United States to central Argentina, and is arranged into four subgenera: Dichotomius s. str., Cephagonus Luederwaldt, 1929, Homocanthonides Luederwaldt, 1929 and Selenocopris Burmeister, 1846. The subgenus nominotypical has seen the least progress in its taxonomy, with only 15% of species with information in a recent revision. Therefore, in this paper, using a protocol for taxonomic revision and reviewing the type material and more than 12,000 specimens from 32 entomological collections, we have divided Dichotomius s. str. into two subgenera. We describe Dichotomius (Luederwaldtius) new subgenus to encompass, the smallest species (less than 20 mm), 13 species which previously belonged to D. sensu stricto, four species of Dichotomius (Selenocopris), and several undescribed species. Dichotomius triangulariceps (Blanchard, 1846) is transferred to the subgenus Selenocopris based on characters of the male genitalia. The subgenus Dichotomius s. str., in its new, more restricted sense, is delimited to include approximately 73 species arranged into, 12 species groups, plus two incertae sedis species. For each group, its definition is presented with species composition and geographic distribution. The incertae sedis species, D. agesilaus (Waterhouse, 1891) and D. compressicollis (Luederwaldt, 1929) (lectotype designated) are revised; the following information is presented for them: taxonomic history, species’ citation in published literature, redescription of males and females, list of material examined, photographs of the external morphology, male genitalia, and distribution map.

ABSTRACT Understanding tri-trophic interactions and the relationship among plants, herbivores, and their natural enemies is fundamental to advancing theoretical and practical ecology. Parasitoidism is among those interactions where tri-trophic levels are usually developed, with hyperparasitism and kleptoparasitism as examples. This study explores the interaction between fig wasps of the genera Physothorax Mayr, 1885 and Sycophila Walker, 1871 (Hymenoptera: Chalcidoidea) and the gall midge Ficiomyia brasiliensis Urso-Guimarães, 2024 (Diptera: Cecidomyiidae) associated with Ficus citrifolia Mill. in Ribeirão Preto, Brazil. Through behavioral observations and larval dissections we document the “drill on drill” strategy where Sycophila females utilize oviposition holes drilled by Physothorax females on the fig surface to access the host gall midge immatures. This behavior suggests a sophisticated adaptation for reducing oviposition time and conserving energy. Additionally, Sycophila behavior aligns with kleptoparasitic and hyperparasitic strategies, indicating a complex evolutionary history and ecological interaction. Our findings provide insight into the intricate relationships among non-pollinating fig wasps and their hosts, contributing to the broader understanding of tri-trophic interactions in fig microcosm.

ABSTRACT Herein, we describe Ecualeon peruvianus sp. nov. from Peru, a new species of Ecualeon Stange, a genus that was previously monotypic, and only known from Ecuador. Meanwhile, we discuss the characters of this genus, highlighting that some characters previously known solely from the type species are now considered generic features.

ABSTRACT Viticulture has been expanded to different producing regions of Brazil. Grape producers in the southeastern and southern regions of Brazil have consistently reported the incidence of a caterpillar damaging the trunk and branches of vine plants. Larvae were reared in the laboratory, and the species Roseala tessellatus (Herrich-Schäffer, [1854]) (Lepidoptera: Hepialidae) was subsequently identified as responsible for the damage. This study presents information on the geographic distribution of this pest species in Brazil, the damage caused to vine plants, and images of the main development phases, suggesting management methods. Additionally, references and genetic sequences that could be used for molecular identification of the different stages of insect development are indicated.

Abstract Scoliidae is a family commonly found throughout the globe and, currently, one of the most neglected taxa within the Hymenoptera. As expected, information about this group is extremely scarce, confusing, and outdated, especially when it comes to its taxonomy and systematics. Therefore, here the genus Aelocampsomeris Bradley, 1957 is revised. This genus comprises three species: Aelocampsomeris brethesi Bradley, 1927, Aelocampsomeris campestris Burmeister, 1854, and Aelocampsomeris variegata Fabricius, 1793. While Aelocampsomeris variegata, is a very common and well-known species, Aelocampsomeris brethesi, and Aelocampsomeris campestris, remain much less known. Examination of the male and female type specimens, as well as new specimens, allowed an accurate review. We provide a detailed morphological redescription, illustrations and a species key.

ABSTRACT Mcclungia fallensstat. rest. is a butterfly species found in lowland warm forests in the Brazilian states of Rio de Janeiro, Minas Gerais, Espírito Santo, and Bahia states. Due to its limited range, it is currently considered Critically Endangered in Brazil. However, a recent field trip to the fully protected Reserva Biológica (Rebio) União reserve in Rio de Janeiro revealed a large colony of about 50 individuals, enabling observations and fresh material collection for molecular studies. Based on molecular and morphological data, M. fallens stat. rest. was recovered as a distinct species rather than a subspecies of M. cymo. According to IUCN guidelines, its Extent of Occurrence (EOO) suggests it should be classified as Least Concern, while the Area of Occupancy (AOO) suggests Endangered. However, due to insufficient life history data, using the AOO threshold is discouraged, leading to a more conservative Least Concern classification. Further research is essential to confirm the presence of M. fallens stat. rest. presence in historically recorded locations, especially inland areas where forests have been largely cleared. Additional studies in areas like Rebio União could yield crucial data on population size, longevity, sex ratios, and behavior, aiding in its conservation assessment and planning.

ABSTRACT Diadiplosis is a genus of predatory midges for which the immature stages of most species lack detailed morphological information or remain undescribed. Diadiplosis coccidarum (Cockerell, 1892) and Diadiplosis coccidivora (Felt, 1911) are midges that prey on nymphs of several mealybugs and have been described based on male and female specimens. We describe and illustrate for the first time the third instar larva and pupa of D. coccidarum, collected preying on nymphs of Saccharicoccus sacchari (Hemiptera: Pseudococcidae) on Saccharum officinarum (Poaceae) in an agroecosystem from Colombia, and the pupa of D. coccidivora, collected preying on specimens of Coccus brasiliensis (Hemiptera: Coccidae) on fruits of Coffea canephora (Rubiaceae) in Brazil. In this study, we also provide new morphological data on the adults of D. coccidarum and D. coccidivora.

ABSTRACT The ambrosia beetle Megaplatypus mutatus (Chapuis) (Coleoptera: Curculionidae: Platypodinae) is native to South America and is an important forest pest in poplar plantations in Argentina as well as in Italy where it has been introduced. Unlike most platypodine ambrosia beetles, it targets specifically live and vigorous trees. We report for the first time an attack on African mahogany trees, Khaya grandifoliola C. DC., by M. mutatus in Brazil, indicating its preference for trees with larger diameters. Most attacked trees exhibited only one or two gallery entrance holes, primarily along the lower 2 m of the trunk. However, colonization was impeded by gummosis, a plant defense mechanism. Overall, the attack rate was low, with nearly all of them failing to produce progeny. Megaplatypus mutatus exhibited a multivoltine life cycle in the study region, and most specimens captured in traps baited with the beetle’s sex pheromone were females. Adults of neither sex responded to traps baited with ethanol. Although successful reproduction was not evidenced in K. grandifoliola, gallery initiation could still affect timber quality. Therefore, regular monitoring of Khaya plantations for potential M. mutatus infestations is recommended to mitigate potential impacts on tree health and timber value. Additionally, we proposed here a novel classification of Platypodinae species into ‘A’ and ‘B’ categories, based on their behavioral patterns and ecological interactions.

ABSTRACT The Stratiomyidae (Diptera) are small to large flies in size, characterized by a small discal cell and radial veins crowded toward the anterior margin of the wing. With over 2,800 described species worldwide, this family has high morphological variation and occurs in various habitats, including the Cerrado, the second-largest biome in Brazil. Despite the potential of Diptera for conservational studies, the lack of species lists and faunistic studies limits our understanding of stratiomyids, especially in the Cerrado and in the state of Goiás, for which only 10 stratiomyid species have been reported. This study presents the Stratiomyidae fauna from the Parque Estadual Altamiro de Moura Pacheco and the Parque Estadual do João Leite, remnant areas of the semideciduous seasonal forest from the Cerrado. Collections were carried out using Malaise traps, between June and December 2022 and January and March 2023. A total of 855 specimens were collected and identified into 63 stratiomyid species/morphospecies, 35 genera, and eight subfamilies. Of these species, 59 are new records for the state of Goiás and, in addition, two species—Merosargus tangens James, 1971 in James & McFadden, 1971 and Sargus cirrhosus McFadden, 1982 in James & McFadden, 1982—are new records for Brazil. The knowledge of the Stratiomyidae in the state has expanded to nine subfamilies, 36 genera, and 69 species, indicating that insect fauna in the Cerrado is still far beyond our comprehension.

ABSTRACT Soil-dwelling pests, such as Phyllophaga larvae, pose significant challenges to agriculture as they feed on crop roots, causing substantial losses. Their hidden behavior within the soil further complicates monitoring and control efforts. Traditional methods, such as manual excavation and acoustic detection, are often invasive, labor-intensive, or limited in precision. To address these challenges, this study aimed to establish a reliable methodology to study larval trajectories and responses within the soil environment without disturbing its natural behavior. This study describes the development of an innovative system for precise tracking of these larvae, combining magnetic markers with an array of magnetoresistive sensors. Larvae were tagged with neodymium magnets and tracked using an array of 64 anisotropic magnetoresistive sensors while being attracted by food sources and repelled by electrical stimuli. The movement of larvae marked with magnetic tags and attracted by Zea mays and Solanum tuberosum roots was successfully monitored. The system was validated using a 3D printer framework as a reference, achieving high accuracy with minimal uncertainty. Adjustments were made to the z-axis to account for variations in the distance between the magnet and the sensor array. Experiments demonstrated the ability to guide larval behavior through controlled electrical stimuli, confirming the system's utility for monitoring and behavioral studies. This approach offers significant improvements over traditional methods by preserving soil integrity, enhancing precision, and enabling real-time tracking. The findings provide a valuable tool for understanding subterranean pest dynamics and support the development of sustainable pest management strategies in agriculture.

ABSTRACT The Neotropical genus Xanthozona Townsend, 1908 (Diptera: Tachinidae) comprises species that serve as important parasitoids of palm tree pests, particularly the larvae of Brassolis Fabricius, 1807 and Opsiphanes Doubleday, [1849]. However, its host range, distribution, taxonomy, and relationships with similar genera have remained unclear. Here, the taxonomy of Xanthozona is revised, with two new junior synonyms proposed: Jurinia scutellaris Robineau-Desvoidy, 1830 = Jurinia indica Robineau-Desvoidy, 1830, syn. nov. = Tachina melanopyga Wiedemann, 1830, syn. nov. As a result, X. scutellaris (Robineau-Desvoidy, 1830) is recognized as the sole representative of the genus. An illustrated key to Tachinini genera that are similar to Xanthozona Townsend, 1908, is provided, highlighting the most useful diagnostic characters. Redescriptions and illustrations of males, females, and the puparium are presented, alongside the first description of the first-instar larva. The classification, distribution and host range of X. scutellaris have been reassessed, and significant misconceptions regarding its oviposition strategy are discussed.