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Insects
Volume 16
Issue 1
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Insects, Volume 16, Issue 1 (January 2025) – 104 articles

Cover Story (view full-size image): The Mediterranean fruit fly (Ceratitis capitata) is a major pest for many fresh fruit commodities globally. It is extremely polyphagous (>300 hosts) and an aggressive invasive species which has dispersed to almost all continents. Developmental temperature and host fruit type may affect the key biological traits and life history of C. capitata thus determining its invasion potential. Nevertheless, different populations may express different responses to both biotic and abiotic conditions. Understanding the plastic and adaptive responses of the Mediterranean fruit fly to different hosts and developmental temperatures is an important element for elucidating its invasion dynamics and developing effective management strategies, especially in the context of climate change and its impact on agroecosystems. View this paper
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18 pages, 5817 KiB  
Article
Morphological Comparisons of Adult Worker Bees Developed in Chinese and Italian Honey Bee Combs
by Shunhua Yang, Hui Li, Pingqing Wu, Dan Yue, Yulong Guo, Wenzheng Zhao and Kun Dong
Insects 2025, 16(1), 104; https://doi.org/10.3390/insects16010104 - 20 Jan 2025
Viewed by 516
Abstract
The size of comb cells is a key factor influencing the body size of honey bee workers. Comb cells and the body size of Chinese honey bee workers are smaller than those of Italian honey bee workers. To increase the size of Chinese [...] Read more.
The size of comb cells is a key factor influencing the body size of honey bee workers. Comb cells and the body size of Chinese honey bee workers are smaller than those of Italian honey bee workers. To increase the size of Chinese honey bee workers, this study used newly built combs from Chinese honey bee colonies (control group) and Italian honey bee colonies (treatment group). These combs were provided to Chinese honey bee colonies for queens to lay fertilized eggs with the aim of rearing larger workers. Workers emerging from the control and treatment combs were designated as control and treatment workers, respectively. We compared 13 external morphological traits, including right forewing length and width; linear length of veins a, b, c, and d; proboscis length; right hind femur length; tibia length; metatarsal length and width; and the longitudinal diameters of the third and fourth tergites between the two groups. The results identified six types of cell contents in the combs, excluding empty cells: capped honey (most abundant), followed by capped brood, uncapped honey, and smaller amounts of pollen, larvae, and eggs. Additionally, the average body weights of 6-day-old worker bee larvae, white-eyed pupae, adult worker bees, and honey stomachs containing sucrose solution were significantly higher in the treatment group than in the control group. Except for proboscis length, the average size of 12 out of 13 traits in the treatment group was significantly larger than in the control group, indicating that increasing cell size can produce larger Chinese honey bee workers. In the control group, only the left forewing was significantly shorter than the right, with no significant side-to-side differences in the other morphological traits. In the treatment group, the left forewing width, hind leg femur length, tibia length, and hind leg metatarsus width were significantly smaller than their right-side counterparts, while the other six traits showed no significant side-to-side differences. These findings provide a basis for using Italian honey bee combs to rear larger workers in Chinese honey bee colonies, offering beekeepers a strategy to enhance foraging capacity and improve honey production. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Precision Apicultures)
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17 pages, 3928 KiB  
Article
Precise Crop Pest Detection Based on Co-Ordinate-Attention-Based Feature Pyramid Module
by Chenrui Kang, Lin Jiao, Kang Liu, Zhigui Liu and Rujing Wang
Insects 2025, 16(1), 103; https://doi.org/10.3390/insects16010103 - 20 Jan 2025
Viewed by 627
Abstract
Insect pests strongly affect crop growth and value globally. Fast and precise pest detection and counting are crucial measures in the management and mitigation of pest infestations. In this area, deep learning technologies have come to represent the method with the most potential. [...] Read more.
Insect pests strongly affect crop growth and value globally. Fast and precise pest detection and counting are crucial measures in the management and mitigation of pest infestations. In this area, deep learning technologies have come to represent the method with the most potential. However, for small-sized crop pests, recent deep-learning-based detection attempts have not accomplished accurate recognition and detection due to the challenges posed by feature extraction and positive and negative sample selection. Therefore, to overcome these limitations, we first designed a co-ordinate-attention-based feature pyramid network, termed CAFPN, to extract the salient visual features that distinguish small insects from each other. Subsequently, in the network training stage, a dynamic sample selection strategy using positive and negative weight functions, which considers both high classification scores and precise localization, was introduced. Finally, several experiments were conducted on our constructed large-scale crop pest datasets, the AgriPest 21 dataset and the IP102 dateset, achieving accuracy scores of 77.2% and 29.8% for mAP (mean average precision), demonstrating promising detection results when compared to other detectors. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Insect Pest and Vector Management)
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20 pages, 7318 KiB  
Article
SP-YOLO: A Real-Time and Efficient Multi-Scale Model for Pest Detection in Sugar Beet Fields
by Ke Tang, Yurong Qian, Hualong Dong, Yuning Huang, Yi Lu, Palidan Tuerxun and Qin Li
Insects 2025, 16(1), 102; https://doi.org/10.3390/insects16010102 - 20 Jan 2025
Viewed by 515
Abstract
Beet crops are highly vulnerable to pest infestations throughout their growth cycle, which significantly affects crop development and yield. Timely and accurate pest identification is crucial for implementing effective control measures. Current pest detection tasks face two primary challenges: first, pests frequently blend [...] Read more.
Beet crops are highly vulnerable to pest infestations throughout their growth cycle, which significantly affects crop development and yield. Timely and accurate pest identification is crucial for implementing effective control measures. Current pest detection tasks face two primary challenges: first, pests frequently blend into their environment due to similar colors, making it difficult to capture distinguishing features in the field; second, pest images exhibit scale variations under different viewing angles, lighting conditions, and distances, which complicates the detection process. This study constructed the BeetPest dataset, a multi-scale pest dataset for beets in complex backgrounds, and proposed the SP-YOLO model, which is an improved real-time detection model based on YOLO11. The model integrates a CNN and transformer (CAT) into the backbone network to capture global features. The lightweight depthwise separable convolution block (DSCB) module is designed to extract multi-scale features and enlarge the receptive field. The neck utilizes the cross-layer path aggregation network (CLPAN) module, further merging low-level and high-level features. SP-YOLO effectively differentiates between the background and target, excelling in handling scale variations in pest images. In comparison with the original YOLO11 model, SP-YOLO shows a 4.9% improvement in mean average precision (mAP@50), a 9.9% increase in precision, and a 1.3% rise in average recall. Furthermore, SP-YOLO achieves a detection speed of 136 frames per second (FPS), meeting real-time pest detection requirements. The model demonstrates remarkable robustness on other pest datasets while maintaining a manageable parameter size and computational complexity suitable for edge devices. Full article
(This article belongs to the Collection Improving IPM of Specialty Crop Pests and Global Food Security)
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14 pages, 1244 KiB  
Article
Functional Responses of the Warehouse Pirate Bug Xylocoris flavipes (Reuter) (Hemiptera: Anthocoridae) on a Diet of Liposcelis decolor (Pearman) (Psocodea: Liposcelididae)
by Augustine Bosomtwe, George Opit, Kristopher Giles, Brad Kard and Carla Goad
Insects 2025, 16(1), 101; https://doi.org/10.3390/insects16010101 - 19 Jan 2025
Viewed by 582
Abstract
Psocids are difficult to manage using grain protectants and phosphine hence research on non-chemical control methods. This study evaluated the effectiveness of Xylocoris flavipes (Reuter) (Hemiptera: Anthocoridae) at managing Liposcelis decolor (Pearman) (Psocodea: Liposcelididae). The functional responses of adult♀ and nymphs of X. flavipes [...] Read more.
Psocids are difficult to manage using grain protectants and phosphine hence research on non-chemical control methods. This study evaluated the effectiveness of Xylocoris flavipes (Reuter) (Hemiptera: Anthocoridae) at managing Liposcelis decolor (Pearman) (Psocodea: Liposcelididae). The functional responses of adult♀ and nymphs of X. flavipes on a diet of nymphs, adult♂, and adult♀ of L. decolor were determined under laboratory conditions at 28 ± 1 °C, 63 ± 5% RH, and a 0:24 (L:D) photoperiod. Maximum likelihood estimates (MLEs) of a logistic regression analysis showed that the functional responses of the life stages of X. flavipes on diets of three stages of L. decolor were Holling Type II. Estimates of the attack rate (a), handling time (Th), maximum predation (K) per day, and predation efficiency (η) per day for the two predator life stages against each prey life stage showed that the adult♀ X. flavipes predation rate was better compared with the nymphs. The adult♀ X. flavipes per capita consumption rate and searching efficiency were also higher than those of the nymphs. The data showed adults of L. decolor are more favorable for adult♀ X. flavipes whereas their nymphs prefer nymphs of L. decolor. Field evaluation of X. flavipes is required for their incorporation into psocid pest management. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Insect Physiology, Reproduction and Development)
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25 pages, 21840 KiB  
Article
A Review of the Psyllid Genus Epipsylla (Hemiptera, Psyllidae) from the Chinese Mainland with Phylogenetic Considerations and the Description of a New Species
by Zhixin He, Daniel Burckhardt, Xinyu Luo, Rongzhen Xu, Wanzhi Cai and Fan Song
Insects 2025, 16(1), 99; https://doi.org/10.3390/insects16010099 - 18 Jan 2025
Viewed by 483
Abstract
Epipsylla Kuwayama, 1908, constitutes an Old World genus of psyllids with 15 described species. Based on characters of immatures, Epipsylla was recently assigned to Ciriacreminae (Psyllidae). The genus is morphologically well circumscribed but species are currently difficult to identify as many descriptions lack [...] Read more.
Epipsylla Kuwayama, 1908, constitutes an Old World genus of psyllids with 15 described species. Based on characters of immatures, Epipsylla was recently assigned to Ciriacreminae (Psyllidae). The genus is morphologically well circumscribed but species are currently difficult to identify as many descriptions lack detail and precision. Eight species are reported from the Chinese mainland. Here, we provide diagnoses for the adults of these species and, as far as known, the fifth-instar immatures. Figures are provided of taxonomically relevant adult characters. A new species, Epipsylla suni sp. nov., is described from Yunnan (China). We provide illustrations of its habitus and morphological features, and list the host plant. Furthermore, we sequenced the mitochondrial genome of the new species and constructed a phylogenetic tree using thirteen protein-coding genes and two rRNA genes. The results of the molecular phylogenetic analysis using the maximum likelihood method support the assignment to Ciriacreminae. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Insect Systematics, Phylogeny and Evolution)
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17 pages, 1514 KiB  
Article
Essential Oils as Bioinsecticides Against Blattella germanica (Linnaeus, 1767): Evaluating Its Efficacy Under a Practical Framework
by Ana Manzanares-Sierra, Eduard Monsonís-Güell, Crisanto Gómez, Sílvia Abril and Mara Moreno-Gómez
Insects 2025, 16(1), 98; https://doi.org/10.3390/insects16010098 - 18 Jan 2025
Viewed by 614
Abstract
Concerns about the negative effects of traditional insecticides and increasing insecticide resistance have prompted the exploration of botanical alternatives like essential oils (EOs). The registration of biocides is a mandatory procedure, and some regions have established a special status for compounds that meet [...] Read more.
Concerns about the negative effects of traditional insecticides and increasing insecticide resistance have prompted the exploration of botanical alternatives like essential oils (EOs). The registration of biocides is a mandatory procedure, and some regions have established a special status for compounds that meet specific low-risk criteria, which includes certain EOs. This study aimed to evaluate and compare the efficacy of sixteen EOs, both registered as low-risk biocides and/or standard biocides, against the German cockroach, Blattella germanica. A topical application was performed with undiluted EOs (15 µL) on the dorsal surface of awake cockroaches. The results showed significant variations in efficacy, as follows: thyme, sweet orange, and lavender oils were the most effective, achieving 100% mortality within 24 h and a less than 30 s knockdown effect. In contrast, linseed and cottonseed oils were the least effective, resulting in 70% and 40% 24 h mortality. Remarkably, some EOs registered as low-risk biocides performed as well as the ones registered as standard biocides, suggesting that this category does not have to always be at odds with efficacy. Future research should adopt practical, application-driven approaches to ensure bioinsecticides balance performance and safety, meeting both regulatory and consumer demands. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue The Efficacy of Insecticides and Botanicals Against Pests—2nd Edition)
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12 pages, 277 KiB  
Review
An Overview of the Nutritional Requirements of Honey Bees (Apis mellifera Linnaeus, 1758)
by Leticia S. Ansaloni, Janja Kristl, Caio E. C. Domingues and Aleš Gregorc
Insects 2025, 16(1), 97; https://doi.org/10.3390/insects16010097 - 18 Jan 2025
Viewed by 992
Abstract
Honey bees are known for their wide global distribution, their ease of handling, and their economic and ecological value. However, they are often exposed to a wide variety of stress factors. Therefore, it is essential for beekeepers to maintain healthy bee colonies. In [...] Read more.
Honey bees are known for their wide global distribution, their ease of handling, and their economic and ecological value. However, they are often exposed to a wide variety of stress factors. Therefore, it is essential for beekeepers to maintain healthy bee colonies. In this context, a balanced diet is recommended to support the growth of strong and healthy honey bee colonies. The purpose of this review is therefore to provide an overview of the nutritional requirements of Apis mellifera and their importance for the maintenance of healthy bee colonies. An adequate diet includes the consumption of sufficient amounts of proteins, carbohydrates, lipids, amino acids, vitamins, minerals, water, and essential sterols, and a diet based on multi-floral pollen is desirable. However, when honey bee colonies are located near agroecosystems with lower resource diversity, both brood rearing and colony longevity may decrease, making them more susceptible to parasites and diseases. On the other hand, efforts have been made to improve the health of honey bee colonies with the help of nutritional supplements consisting of a variety of components. Nevertheless, studies have shown that even with these supplements, a lack of nutrients can still be an issue for honey bee colonies. Furthermore, future research should focus on identifying nutritional supplements that can better replicate natural diet diversity and assessing long-term effects on honey bee colony resilience, especially in low-flowering areas. This review discusses the interaction between nutrient requirements and the effects of supplements on colony health. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in the Health, Behavior, and Physiology of Honeybees and Other Pollinators)
12 pages, 639 KiB  
Article
Comparison of Fecundity and Gall-Forming of the Horned-Gall Aphid, Schlechtendalia chinensis (Hemiptera: Aphididae) from Different Populations
by Xin Xu, Zhaohui Shi, Chang Tong, Shuxia Shao, Hongyuan Wei and Zixiang Yang
Insects 2025, 16(1), 100; https://doi.org/10.3390/insects16010100 - 18 Jan 2025
Viewed by 530
Abstract
The horned-gall aphid, Schlechtendalia chinensis, is the most economically valuable Chinese gallnut aphid species, playing a decisive role in the production of Chinese gallnuts. The method of cultivating the gallnut species with artificial moss and increasing the yield of gallnuts after inoculation [...] Read more.
The horned-gall aphid, Schlechtendalia chinensis, is the most economically valuable Chinese gallnut aphid species, playing a decisive role in the production of Chinese gallnuts. The method of cultivating the gallnut species with artificial moss and increasing the yield of gallnuts after inoculation has been applied in the main producing areas of Chinese gallnuts. However, it is still unclear whether artificial cultivation affects the fecundity and gall-forming effect of S. chinensis. In this study, autumn migrant aphids of S. chinensis from wild, artificial and introduced populations were used as materials to cultivate and inoculate under the same environment. The number of male and female sexuales, fundatrices, the galls per tree, and the total weight of galls per tree in subsequent generations were analyzed, and differences in the fecundity and gall-forming effects of different populations were analyzed. The results showed that the fecundity of the wild population was stronger than that of the artificial population, and the number of aphids produced by a single spring migrant and the number of fundatrices increased by 75.86% and 81.62%, respectively. Compared with the introduced population, the survival rate of female sexuales in the local population was higher. Compared with the artificial population, the gall-forming effect of the wild population was better; the number of galls per tree, the weight of single gall, and the total weight of galls per tree increased by 68.33%, 50.77%, and 153.78%, respectively; and the gall preservation rate increased significantly. Artificial cultivation of S. chinensis will lead to a decrease in fecundity and gall-forming effect in subsequent generations, showing the degradation of the vitality of S. chinensis. Therefore, it is necessary to improve the effect of artificial cultivation of S. chinensis by adopting technical measures such as wild population or introduction. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Role of Insects in Human Society)
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17 pages, 5134 KiB  
Article
Interspecific Competition Between Eotetranychus sexmaculatus Riley and Oligonychus biharensis Hirst (Acari: Tetranychidae)
by Lijiu Zheng, Yong Zhang, Xia Shi, Wei Gan, Fangping Zhang, Yueguan Fu, Ya Liu, Junyu Chen and Zhengpei Ye
Insects 2025, 16(1), 96; https://doi.org/10.3390/insects16010096 - 17 Jan 2025
Viewed by 418
Abstract
Eotetranychus sexmaculatus has long been recognized as an important spider mite pest of rubber trees. Recently, increasing damage from Oligonychus biharensis has elevated its importance as a key spider mite pest. These two species share highly overlapping ecological niches, with outbreaks strongly associated [...] Read more.
Eotetranychus sexmaculatus has long been recognized as an important spider mite pest of rubber trees. Recently, increasing damage from Oligonychus biharensis has elevated its importance as a key spider mite pest. These two species share highly overlapping ecological niches, with outbreaks strongly associated with high temperatures and drought stresses. However, little is known regarding the potential competition between these spider mite species and the role of temperature in shaping these interactions. This study investigates the development and reproduction of E. sexmaculatus and O. biharensis at varying population densities, and evaluates their dynamics at 27 °C, 30 °C, and 33 °C. Five initial population densities of E. sexmaculatus and O. biharensis were evaluated in mixed populations: 0:30, 10:20, 15:15, 20:10, and 30:0. The results demonstrate both intra- and interspecific competition between E. sexmaculatus and O. biharensis. At all three intraspecific densities, the survival rate and lifespan of both species declined as density increased, with fecundity also decreasing at higher densities. Single-species populations of each mite were larger in number when compared with mixed populations. Across all treatments, the mean and peak values of the intrinsic rate of increase (rm) were greater in O. biharensis than in E. sexmaculatus. Additionally, increasing temperatures accelerated the displacement of E. sexmaculatus by O. biharensis, regardless of the initial population density. When the mixed populations of E. sexmaculatus and O. biharensis were at densities of 10:20, the highest interspecific competition coefficients were obtained at 33 °C, with values of 0.6591. In conclusion, O. biharensis consistently outcompeted E. sexmaculatus at all tested temperatures, irrespective of initial densities, providing valuable insights into the competitive dynamics of dominant rubber tree pests. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Other Arthropods and General Topics)
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29 pages, 2039 KiB  
Review
Bioacaricides in Crop Protection—What Is the State of Play?
by Dejan Marčić, Ismail Döker and Haralabos Tsolakis
Insects 2025, 16(1), 95; https://doi.org/10.3390/insects16010095 - 17 Jan 2025
Viewed by 697
Abstract
Growing demands for environmentally safe and sustainable pest management have increased interest in biopesticides as alternatives to synthetic chemical pesticides. This review presents the current status of bioacaricides, defined as commercial biopesticide products based on microorganisms (microbial acaricides) and biologically active substances of [...] Read more.
Growing demands for environmentally safe and sustainable pest management have increased interest in biopesticides as alternatives to synthetic chemical pesticides. This review presents the current status of bioacaricides, defined as commercial biopesticide products based on microorganisms (microbial acaricides) and biologically active substances of microbial, plant or animal origin (biochemicals and semiochemicals) used in crop protection against spider mites (Tetranychidae) and other plant-feeding mites. The most important microbial bioacaricides are mycopesticides, which are products manufactured from living propagules of Beauveria bassiana s.l. and several other acaropathogenic fungi. Products based on avermectins and milbemycins, secondary metabolites of actinomycetes, are well-known examples of biochemicals of microbial origin. Among the biochemicals of plant origin, the most widely used to date have been the products based on pyrethrum—obtained from the Dalmatian daisy, Tanacetum cinerariifolium (Asteraceae)—and azadirachtin, obtained from the Indian neem tree, Azadirachta indica (Meliaceae). In recent years, products based on essential oils from aromatic plants belonging to the families Lamiaceae, Myrtaceae, Rutaceae and others have also gained increasing importance in the market. Special emphasis in this review is given to the compatibility of bioacaricides with predatory mites of the family Phytoseiidae as biological control agents used in the integrated management of plant-feeding mites. Full article
(This article belongs to the Collection Biology and Management of Sap-Sucking Pests)
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12 pages, 245 KiB  
Article
Comparison of Pheromone Lures and Sticky Pad Color for Capturing Tuta absoluta (Lepidoptera: Gelechiidae)
by Muhammad Sadique, Muhammad Ishtiaq, Mirza Abdul Qayyum, Wafa A. H. Alkherb, Asim Abbasi, Muhammad Arshad, Unsar Naeem Ullah, Nazar Faried, Muhammad Irfan Akram and Nazih Y. Rebouh
Insects 2025, 16(1), 94; https://doi.org/10.3390/insects16010094 - 17 Jan 2025
Viewed by 752
Abstract
Tomato leaf miner Tuta absoluta (Meyrick) (Lepidoptera: Gelechiidae) has gained the status of major pest globally. Integrated pest management (IPM) consists of different control methods. This field study was conducted to evaluate the influence of different pheromone-based traps to attract the male population [...] Read more.
Tomato leaf miner Tuta absoluta (Meyrick) (Lepidoptera: Gelechiidae) has gained the status of major pest globally. Integrated pest management (IPM) consists of different control methods. This field study was conducted to evaluate the influence of different pheromone-based traps to attract the male population and the potential of sticky pads of four different colors in capturing the adults in the absence of pheromone lures. The trials were conducted in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (Pakistan) for two consecutive years, 2020 and 2021. The Delta trap with rubber septum type lure was significantly more attractive in both years, with mean number of capturing 76.0 and 86.17, as compared to polymer wax (32.83 and 28.2) and polymer vial (10.37 and 11.77), lures. The highest mean number of capturing of T. absoluta adults were noted as 17.93 and 21.73 with black color sticky trap without pheromone, whereas the lowest number of adults, i.e., 1.33 and 1.47, were captured during the first and second year of the study, respectively, with yellow color sticky traps. However, a significant difference was found in pheromone lures and among black, red, green, and yellow color sticky pads. Hence, Delta traps equipped with rubber septum pheromones lures and black colored sticky pads were more useful for the control of T. absoluta than any other colored sticky pads and pheromone lures alone. These findings could be helpful for the integrated management of T. absoluta. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Inter- and Intra-specific Interactions by Semiochemicals in Arthropods)
9 pages, 411 KiB  
Article
Transforming Children’s Attitudes Toward Insects Through In-School Encounters
by Kathleen M. Miller, Dana K. Beegle, Stephanie Blevins Wycoff and Daniel L. Frank
Insects 2025, 16(1), 93; https://doi.org/10.3390/insects16010093 - 17 Jan 2025
Viewed by 451
Abstract
Each year, the Department of Entomology at Virginia Tech hosts an entomology-themed outreach event known as Hokie BugFest. This on-campus, festival-sized experience aims to educate the public about insects and other arthropods through hands-on activities, games, displays, and live arthropods. In 2021, due [...] Read more.
Each year, the Department of Entomology at Virginia Tech hosts an entomology-themed outreach event known as Hokie BugFest. This on-campus, festival-sized experience aims to educate the public about insects and other arthropods through hands-on activities, games, displays, and live arthropods. In 2021, due to the COVID-19 pandemic, Hokie BugFest and similar large public events were cancelled. In response, the department launched Hokie BugFest on the Go, which offered smaller-scale, in-person learning opportunities during these closures. Instead of hosting the community on campus, Virginia Tech’s Department of Entomology brought live arthropods, university experts, and the exciting science of entomology directly into schools, fostering small-group, hands-on learning experiences. In 2022, a playful assessment was added to the traveling outreach program to measure changes in student attitudes and perceptions of insects and other arthropods before and after the program. The assessment also gauged students’ favorite arthropods after seeing, and in some cases handling, them live during the program. Assessment results revealed valuable insights into how hands-on, applied learning experiences can shift children’s attitudes toward arthropods. Results showed that even after expressing trepidation and fears, students’ knowledge and comfort levels with insects and other arthropods increased as they interacted and learned throughout the program. These findings underscore the value of using engaging, hands-on, small-group approaches when designing entomology-themed outreach events for young audiences and offer guidance for future programs. Full article
(This article belongs to the Collection Cultural Entomology: Our Love-hate Relationship with Insects)
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15 pages, 5268 KiB  
Article
Overwintering of Thrips (Thysanoptera) Under the Bark of the Plane Tree (Platanus x hispanica Mill. ex Münchh.) in Southeastern Poland
by Halina Kucharczyk, Marek Kucharczyk and Tomasz Olbrycht
Insects 2025, 16(1), 92; https://doi.org/10.3390/insects16010092 - 17 Jan 2025
Viewed by 442
Abstract
The insect fauna overwintering under the bark of tree trunks is very rarely studied. Thrips (Thysanoptera) associated with the plane tree (Platanus x hispanica Mill. ex Münchh., syn. Platanus x acerifolia (Aiton) Willd.) have not been studied so far, especially those overwintering [...] Read more.
The insect fauna overwintering under the bark of tree trunks is very rarely studied. Thrips (Thysanoptera) associated with the plane tree (Platanus x hispanica Mill. ex Münchh., syn. Platanus x acerifolia (Aiton) Willd.) have not been studied so far, especially those overwintering on the non-native tree in Poland. The study was carried out in March and April 2014 and 2015 and in February 2016 in 29 localities in southeastern Poland. The study sites were localized in urban and rural parks. Tree bark samples were taken from each trunk at a height of 1–2 m and collected in 4 L plastic bags (approximately 250 cm2). Thrips were sorted from the pieces of plane tree bark in the laboratory and preserved in 70% ethyl alcohol; the species were identified on microscopic slides. Fifteen species, nine from the suborder Terebrantia and six from the suborder Tubulifera, were identified. Ten species were dendrophilous, among which all Tubuliferan species were fungivorous. A total of 494 thrips individuals were collected, with 84% representing the suborder Terebrantia. The most abundant thrips species included Dendrothrips degeeri Uzel, Phlaeothrips coriaceus Haliday, Thrips major Uzel, and Dendrothrips ornatus (Jablonowski). D. degeeri, i.e., the most numerous species, was found in the highest number of sites (22), while six species were only found in one site each. Generalized Linear Model (GLM) and Nonmetric Multidimensional Scaling (NMDS) analysis showed that the species composition was strongly associated with environmental such factors as insolation, the trunk circumference, and the number of trunks where the species overwintered. Our research has shown that the bark of plane trees (Platanus x hispanica) provided a suitable habitat for thrips overwintering. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Insect Behavior and Pathology)
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7 pages, 4715 KiB  
Communication
Cephalotoma patcharinae n. sp.—The First Record of Cephalotoma Species with a 2-Segmented Club of Antennae in the Oriental Region (Bostrichidae, Lyctinae: Trogoxylini)
by Jerzy Borowski, Adam Byk, Sławomir Mazur, Tomasz Mokrzycki, Artur Rutkiewicz, Henryk Tracz, Agnieszka Ostrowska and Tomasz Oszako
Insects 2025, 16(1), 91; https://doi.org/10.3390/insects16010091 - 16 Jan 2025
Viewed by 530
Abstract
The paper presents a description of a new species of the genus Cephalotoma Lesne, caught in northern Thailand. The new species, C. patcharinae Borowski n. sp., is the first species in the Oriental region with a two-segmented club of antennae. The effect of [...] Read more.
The paper presents a description of a new species of the genus Cephalotoma Lesne, caught in northern Thailand. The new species, C. patcharinae Borowski n. sp., is the first species in the Oriental region with a two-segmented club of antennae. The effect of the discussion presented in the paper is synonymising the tribe Cephalotomini Liu and Schönitzer, 2011 n. syn. with Trogoxylini Lesne, 1921. Moreover, the paper contains a key to classify all the species known from the Oriental region and belonging to the genus Cephalotoma. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Revival of a Prominent Taxonomy of Insects)
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13 pages, 24727 KiB  
Article
Citric Acid and Sodium Bicarbonate as an Alternative Carbon Dioxide Source for Mosquito Surveillance
by Christine Hong, Victoria J. Brookes, Ruth N. Zadoks and Cameron E. Webb
Insects 2025, 16(1), 90; https://doi.org/10.3390/insects16010090 - 16 Jan 2025
Viewed by 718
Abstract
Most mosquito surveillance programs rely on traps baited with carbon dioxide (CO2) to attract host-seeking mosquitoes. The source of CO2, traditionally dry ice or gas cylinders, poses operational challenges, especially in remote locations. CO2 production from citric acid [...] Read more.
Most mosquito surveillance programs rely on traps baited with carbon dioxide (CO2) to attract host-seeking mosquitoes. The source of CO2, traditionally dry ice or gas cylinders, poses operational challenges, especially in remote locations. CO2 production from citric acid and sodium bicarbonate (NaHCO3) using low-cost intravenous fluid bags (‘acid traps’) was evaluated in laboratory experiments. Field trials then compared the efficacy of these acid traps with dry ice traps. Using a 2 × 2 Latin square style design, trapping locations were established at two sites in Sydney, New South Wales, Australia (one urban and another peri-urban), to assess trap performance in diverse environments. The laboratory results showed CO2 production of sufficient amount and duration for overnight mosquito capture. Whilst field experiments showed that dry ice traps captured more mosquitoes (up to 59%) than acid traps, numbers were similar in the urban environment. At both sites, species composition was similar, with Culex quinquefasciatus, Aedes notoscriptus, and Aedes vigilax predominantly collected, and these are known species of pest and public health concern. Further modifications to the acid traps could further improve CO2 output and trap efficiency. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Control and Surveillance of Mosquitoes to Reduce the Spread of Mosquito-Borne Disease)
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18 pages, 1196 KiB  
Review
Challenges of Dermanyssus gallinae in Poultry: Biological Insights, Economic Impact and Management Strategies
by Péter Sárkány, Zoltán Bagi, Ágnes Süli and Szilvia Kusza
Insects 2025, 16(1), 89; https://doi.org/10.3390/insects16010089 - 16 Jan 2025
Viewed by 515
Abstract
Bird mites are parasites that feed on both wild and domesticated bird species, causing severe degradation in avian welfare. The chicken mite, Dermanyssus gallinae in particular, is a widespread ectoparasite in poultry, responsible for several challenges faced by the poultry industry, including poor [...] Read more.
Bird mites are parasites that feed on both wild and domesticated bird species, causing severe degradation in avian welfare. The chicken mite, Dermanyssus gallinae in particular, is a widespread ectoparasite in poultry, responsible for several challenges faced by the poultry industry, including poor animal health, which causes significant economic losses. This review, based on our current knowledge, aims to provide a comprehensive insight into the biology and distribution of these mites, as well as their impact on poultry health and production. It explores the most prevalent mites in avian species, with a focus on D. gallinae, and examines the different psychological and physiological alterations observed in infected stocks, such as decreased egg production, weight loss, and an increased susceptibility to diseases. This review will also cover existing control strategies, including chemical, biological, and environmental approaches, with attention to the growing concern around pesticide resistance. Additionally, it delves into genetic research conducted on these mites, primarily focusing on phylogenetic studies, which have provided insights into their evolutionary relationships and potential vulnerabilities. By compiling existing studies, this article underscores the urgent need for effective and sustainable countermeasures, as well as further genetic research to mitigate the substantial impact of D. gallinae on the poultry sector. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Medical and Livestock Entomology)
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38 pages, 100935 KiB  
Article
Confocal Laser Scanning Microscopy as a Method for Identifying Variation in Puparial Morphology and Establishing Characters for Taxonomic Determination
by Christian Elowsky and Leon Higley
Insects 2025, 16(1), 88; https://doi.org/10.3390/insects16010088 - 16 Jan 2025
Viewed by 521
Abstract
Calliphoridae, or blow flies, are of much ecological and practical importance given their roles in decompositional ecology, medical and veterinary myiasis, and forensic entomology. As ephemeral and rapidly developing species, adults are frequently not present for identification, but puparia (the remaining outer integument [...] Read more.
Calliphoridae, or blow flies, are of much ecological and practical importance given their roles in decompositional ecology, medical and veterinary myiasis, and forensic entomology. As ephemeral and rapidly developing species, adults are frequently not present for identification, but puparia (the remaining outer integument of the third instar larvae) are frequently found. These heavily sclerotized remains are stable in the environment but they are of a conservative character. Historically, scanning electron microscopy (SEM) has been used for characterization, a technique which is not only time-consuming but also often expensive, effectively making large numbers of specimens impossible to quantify. As an alternative, confocal laser scanning laser microscopy (CSLM) was tested for utility in providing superior data over SEM. Furthermore, due to the use of intrinsic autofluorescence for imagining, CSLM is significantly more rapid than SEM, requiring no preparation for imaging. Three channels of excitation and emission spectra provided not only image data from the pupal wall but also from the hydrocarbons found upon the puparia. The excitation wavelengths were 404.7, 488, and 640.5 nm, and the emissions were 425–475, 500–550, and 663–738 nm. For ten species of calliphorids, CSLM was used to image puparia. Not only did this provide characters for species identification but it also allowed for the examination of hundreds of specimens. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Revival of a Prominent Taxonomy of Insects)
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22 pages, 5629 KiB  
Article
Hermetia illucens in the Process of Kitchen Waste Biodegradation: The Effect of Different Approaches to Waste Storage on the Microbiological Profile and Nutritional Parameters of the Larvae
by Zuzana Mašková, Juraj Medo, Eduard Kolesár, Dana Tančinová, Eva Ivanišová, Dana Urminská, Lukáš Hleba, Jana Urminská, Monika Mrvová and Zuzana Barboráková
Insects 2025, 16(1), 87; https://doi.org/10.3390/insects16010087 - 16 Jan 2025
Viewed by 598
Abstract
This study assessed the bioconversion efficiency of Hermetia illucens larvae (BSFL) fed on food waste stored under different conditions, focusing on the nutritional and microbial quality of the resulting larval biomass. Food waste was prepared as a fresh diet (FD) or naturally contaminated [...] Read more.
This study assessed the bioconversion efficiency of Hermetia illucens larvae (BSFL) fed on food waste stored under different conditions, focusing on the nutritional and microbial quality of the resulting larval biomass. Food waste was prepared as a fresh diet (FD) or naturally contaminated and stored at 20–22 °C (OS-T, opened storage-tempered) or under refrigeration, at 5–8 °C (CS-C, closed storage-cooled). Refrigerated, closed storage (CS-C) led to the highest rates of waste reduction (91.0%) and bioconversion efficiency (30.2%), with larvae exhibiting the highest protein content (36.83%) compared to the FD (35.5%) and OS-T (34.71%) groups. Microbiome analysis revealed that the CS-C condition promoted beneficial yeasts like Pichia and Diutia, which correlated positively with improved protein content and microbial safety. In contrast, OS-T storage supported spoilage fungi (Mucor, Rhizopus) and elevated total aerobic counts (7.28 log CFU/g), indicating higher microbial risks. The observed trends in waste reduction and protein content most probably relate to differences in microbial profiles, as controlled cooling affected microbial dynamics, preserving substrate quality and supporting larval growth. These findings emphasize the importance of refrigerated, closed storage to optimize bioconversion, improve larval nutritional value, and minimize microbiological hazards. Full article
(This article belongs to the Collection Edible Insects and Circular Economy)
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14 pages, 1688 KiB  
Article
Quality Assessment and Host Preference of Telenomus podisi (Hymenoptera: Scelionidae) for Fresh and Cryopreserved Euschistus heros (Hemiptera: Pentatomidae) Eggs
by Gabryele Silva Ramos, Rafael Hayashida, Pedro Hiroshi Passos Ikuno, Vanessa Rafaela de Carvalho, William Wyatt Hoback and Regiane Cristina de Oliveira
Insects 2025, 16(1), 86; https://doi.org/10.3390/insects16010086 - 16 Jan 2025
Viewed by 966
Abstract
The development of the mass rearing technique for the egg parasitoid Telenomus podisi has been under study for about 20 years, with increasing attention on the development of quality control. Here, we evaluated the behavior, biological parameters, morphometrics and presence of endosymbionts of [...] Read more.
The development of the mass rearing technique for the egg parasitoid Telenomus podisi has been under study for about 20 years, with increasing attention on the development of quality control. Here, we evaluated the behavior, biological parameters, morphometrics and presence of endosymbionts of T. podisi produced in cryopreserved eggs compared to those produced in traditional fresh stink bug eggs. Parasitoids reared from cryopreserved eggs showed similar parasitism and emergence rates, sex ratios, longevity, morphometrics, and proportions of flyers compared to those originating from fresh eggs. Slight differences, including an increase in egg-to-adult development time and differences in the presence of endosymbionts, were observed. Despite these differences, we conclude that the use of cryopreserved eggs is suitable for T. podisi mass rearing, allowing more options for timed inundative parasitoid releases for biological control. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Host Specificity of Parasitoid Wasps and Its Applications in Biological Control)
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15 pages, 1343 KiB  
Article
Mitochondrial Gene Expression of Three Different Dragonflies Under the Stress of Chlorpyrifos
by Yuxin Chen, Ziwen Yang, Zhiqiang Guo, Lemei Zhan, Kenneth B. Storey, Danna Yu and Jiayong Zhang
Insects 2025, 16(1), 85; https://doi.org/10.3390/insects16010085 - 16 Jan 2025
Viewed by 506
Abstract
Chlorpyrifos (CPF) is an organophosphate insecticide that is extensively utilized globally due to its effectiveness against over 200 pest species. CPF exhibits its toxicity primarily through the inhibition of the acetylcholinesterase (AChE) enzyme, while mitochondrial damage and dysfunction have also been observed. The [...] Read more.
Chlorpyrifos (CPF) is an organophosphate insecticide that is extensively utilized globally due to its effectiveness against over 200 pest species. CPF exhibits its toxicity primarily through the inhibition of the acetylcholinesterase (AChE) enzyme, while mitochondrial damage and dysfunction have also been observed. The present study quantified the transcript levels of mitochondria protein-coding genes (mtPCGs) using quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR) in samples of larvae of three dragonfly species (A. parthenope, E. elegans, and G. confluens) under different levels of CPF stress. By exposing larvae from uncontaminated populations to 0.05 μg/L CPF for 24 h, the transcript levels of seven mtPCGs in A. parthenope were significantly increased (p < 0.05) by 1.89 ± 0.42-fold for COI, 4.30 ± 0.24-fold for COIII, 5.94 ± 0.17-fold for ND1, 4.69 ± 0.56-fold for ND2, 3.44 ± 0.48-fold for ND4, 2.19 ± 0.53-fold for ND4L, and 5.05 ± 0.36-fold for Cytb, respectively. In E. elegans, the transcript levels of ND1, ND2, and ND4 increased by 1.23 ± 0.15, 1.48 ± 0.31, and 1.98 ± 0.25-fold, respectively (p < 0.05). In G. confluens, the transcript levels of COI, COIII, and ND4 increased by 1.56 ± 0.13, 1.50 ± 0.26, and 3.74 ± 0.40-fold, respectively (p < 0.01). It was demonstrated that the transcript levels of different mtPCGs showed significant up-regulation in the three different dragonfly larvae under CPF stress in the absence of mortality. ND4 was significantly increased in all three species, indicating that it is an important target gene. The present study underscores the response of mitochondrial gene expression in larvae of three different species in response to CPF pollutants, indicating that pesticide influences can potentially alter mitochondrial gene expression and potentially act as a method for assessing aquatic ecosystem health. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Insect Molecular Biology and Genomics)
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20 pages, 3902 KiB  
Article
Differential Coding of Fruit, Leaf, and Microbial Odours in the Brains of Drosophila suzukii and Drosophila melanogaster
by Claire Dumenil, Gülsüm Yildirim and Albrecht Haase
Insects 2025, 16(1), 84; https://doi.org/10.3390/insects16010084 - 15 Jan 2025
Viewed by 863
Abstract
Drosophila suzukii severely damages the production of berry and stone fruits in large parts of the world. Unlike D. melanogaster, which reproduces on overripe and fermenting fruits on the ground, D. suzukii prefers to lay its eggs in ripening fruits still on [...] Read more.
Drosophila suzukii severely damages the production of berry and stone fruits in large parts of the world. Unlike D. melanogaster, which reproduces on overripe and fermenting fruits on the ground, D. suzukii prefers to lay its eggs in ripening fruits still on the plants. Flies locate fruit hosts by their odorant volatiles, which are detected and encoded by a highly specialised olfactory system before being translated into behaviour. The exact information-processing pathway is not yet fully understood, especially the evaluation of odour attractiveness. It is also unclear what differentiates the brains of D. suzukii and D. melanogaster to cause the crucial difference in host selection. We hypothesised that the basis for different behaviours is already formed at the level of the antennal lobe of D. suzukii and D. melanogaster by different neuronal responses to volatiles associated with ripe and fermenting fruit. We thus investigated by 3D in vivo two-photon calcium imaging how both species encoded odours from ripe fruits, leaves, fermented fruits, bacteria, and their mixtures in the antennal lobe. We then assessed their behavioural responses to mixtures of ripe and fermenting odours. The neural responses reflect species-dependent shifts in the odour code. In addition to this, morphological differences were also observed. However, this was not directly reflected in different behavioural responses to the odours tested. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Insect Behavior and Pathology)
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23 pages, 19936 KiB  
Article
New Species of Empidinae (Diptera) from San Rossore National Park, Italy, with the First Report on Leg Polymorphism in the Genus Hilara Meigen and Their DNA Barcoding Evidence
by Miroslav Barták, Milan Kozánek, Antonio Belcari and Andrea Š. Tóthová
Insects 2025, 16(1), 83; https://doi.org/10.3390/insects16010083 - 15 Jan 2025
Viewed by 570
Abstract
Altogether three species of Empidinae are described from San Rossore National Park, Italy: Empis (Euempis) sanrossorensis Barták sp. nov., Hilara polymorpha Barták sp. nov., and Rhamphomyia (Megacyttarus) sanrossorensis Barták sp. nov. Polymorphism in the shape of foreleg in Hilara is [...] Read more.
Altogether three species of Empidinae are described from San Rossore National Park, Italy: Empis (Euempis) sanrossorensis Barták sp. nov., Hilara polymorpha Barták sp. nov., and Rhamphomyia (Megacyttarus) sanrossorensis Barták sp. nov. Polymorphism in the shape of foreleg in Hilara is reported for the first time. The COI sequences for barcoding purposes and upcoming studies are provided. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Revival of a Prominent Taxonomy of Insects)
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15 pages, 2415 KiB  
Review
Effects of Microbes on Insect Host Physiology and Behavior Mediated by the Host Immune System
by Shan Zhang, Zhengyan Wang, Qiong Luo, Lizhen Zhou, Xin Du and Yonglin Ren
Insects 2025, 16(1), 82; https://doi.org/10.3390/insects16010082 - 15 Jan 2025
Viewed by 574
Abstract
Innate immunity is critical for insects to adjust to complicated environments. Studying the insect immune system can aid in identifying novel insecticide targets and provide insights for developing novel pest control strategies. Insects recognize environmental pathogens through pattern recognition receptors, thus activating the [...] Read more.
Innate immunity is critical for insects to adjust to complicated environments. Studying the insect immune system can aid in identifying novel insecticide targets and provide insights for developing novel pest control strategies. Insects recognize environmental pathogens through pattern recognition receptors, thus activating the innate immune system to eliminate pathogens. The innate immune system of insects primarily comprises cellular immunity and humoral immunity. Toll, immune deficiency, and Janus kinase/signal transducers and activators of transcription are the main signaling pathways regulating insect humoral immunity. Nevertheless, increasing research has revealed that immune signaling activated by microbes also performs non-immune roles while exerting immune roles, and insulin signaling performs a key role in mediating the connection between the immune system and non-immune physiological activities. Therefore, this paper first briefly reviews the main innate immune signaling and insulin signaling of insects, then summarizes the relationship between immune signaling activated by microbes and insect growth and development, reproduction, pesticide resistance, chemical communication, cell turnover, lifespan, sleep, energy generation pathways and their possible underlying mechanisms. Future research directions and methodologies are also proposed, aiming to provide insights into further study on the physiological mechanism linking microbes and insect hosts. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Research on Insect Interactions with Symbionts and Pathogens)
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12 pages, 1765 KiB  
Article
Reduction in Aedes aegypti Population After a Year-Long Application of Targeted Sterile Insect Releases in the West Valley Region of Southern California
by Solomon Kibret Birhanie, Jacob Hans, Jennifer Thieme Castellon, Ale Macias, Rubi Casas, Huy Hoang, Deanna Mormile, Kecia Pitts-Love and Michelle Q. Brown
Insects 2025, 16(1), 81; https://doi.org/10.3390/insects16010081 - 15 Jan 2025
Viewed by 783
Abstract
Aedes aegypti is of great public health concern because of its vectorial capacity to transmit various arboviruses such as Zika, yellow fever, dengue, and chikungunya. In California, its expanding geographic distribution has been unrestrained. This urgently calls for innovative tools such as the [...] Read more.
Aedes aegypti is of great public health concern because of its vectorial capacity to transmit various arboviruses such as Zika, yellow fever, dengue, and chikungunya. In California, its expanding geographic distribution has been unrestrained. This urgently calls for innovative tools such as the use of sterile insect technique (SIT) to strengthen invasive Aedes control. This study aimed to determine the efficacy of combining an SIT application into integrated vector management (IVM) strategies in invasive Aedes control in the West Valley region of southern California. A total of 25 Aedes hotspots, grouped into two cohorts—sites that received SIT treatment only (n = 9) and sites that received both SIT and In2Care® Mosquito Stations (n = 16)—were selected for this study. Biweekly, X-ray irradiated male Ae. aegypti mosquitoes were released between April and November 2024. Data from weekly BG Sentinel-2 traps were utilized to compare the mosquito densities between the pre-intervention (2023) and intervention (2024) periods for both cohorts. In addition, a subset of samples (n = 50) of irradiated male mosquitoes were placed in a separate cage with freshly emerged unirradiated female mosquitoes to evaluate the level of sterility of the eggs from these mosquitoes. Aedes-related service requests made by the District’s residents were also compared between the pre-intervention and intervention periods to indirectly determine the effect of optimizing the control strategies on overall mosquito problems. A total of 106,608 sterile male Ae. aegypti were released between April and November 2024. The cohort with the SIT only application showed a 44% reduction in the number of female Ae. aegypti per trap-night during the intervention period compared with the pre-intervention period. At sites with In2Care Mosquito Stations that also received SIT treatment, the mosquito density dropped by 65% during the intervention period compared with the pre-intervention period. The number of Aedes-related service requests during the intervention year (n = 367) was 45% lower than the pre-intervention year (n = 656). Over 99.6% eggs collected from female mosquitoes mated with irradiated males did not hatch, indicating a high level of sterility of the irradiated males utilized for our SIT application. Here, we demonstrated the potential of SIT when combined with IVM strategies such as In2Care® Mosquito Stations, offering a holistic approach to reducing the public health risks associated with Aedes-borne diseases. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Insect Pest and Vector Management)
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28 pages, 33832 KiB  
Article
The Thermal Tolerance of Springtails in a Tropical Cave, with the Description of a New Coecobrya Species (Collembola: Entomobryidae) from Thailand
by Nongnapat Manee, Louis Deharveng, Cyrille A. D’Haese, Areeruk Nilsai, Satoshi Shimano and Sopark Jantarit
Insects 2025, 16(1), 80; https://doi.org/10.3390/insects16010080 - 15 Jan 2025
Viewed by 664
Abstract
A new species of Collembola in the genus Coecobrya, C. microphthalma sp. nov., is described from a cave environment in Saraburi province, central Thailand. The new species is the second described species of the boneti-group found in the country. [...] Read more.
A new species of Collembola in the genus Coecobrya, C. microphthalma sp. nov., is described from a cave environment in Saraburi province, central Thailand. The new species is the second described species of the boneti-group found in the country. It is most similar to C. chompon Nilsai, Lima & Jantarit, 2022, which is also described from a Thai cave. However, the new species is morphologically different from C. chompon in having orange dot pigmentation on its body and a combination of other morphological characteristics such as the number of sublobal hairs on the maxillary outer lobe and the number of medio-sublateral mac on Th. II, Abd. I, Abd. III and Abd. IV and the anterior face of the ventral tube. The morphological comparison of all known boneti species and a key to the world species of Coecobrya of the boneti-group are given. Coecobrya microphthalma sp. nov. was successfully cultured in the laboratory. The thermal tolerance of the new species was studied and tested with seven different temperature experiments (27 °C as a control, 30, 32, 33, 34, 35 and 36 °C). The results showed that C. microphthalma sp. nov. cannot survive at a temperature higher than 32 °C after exposure to the experimental heat for 7 and 14 consecutive days. At 27, 30 and 32 °C, C. microphthalma sp. nov. remained alive and produced eggs, but the duration of egg production and number of egg-laying days significantly declined when the temperature increased (p < 0.001). An interesting aspect of their reproduction concerns temperature. At 32 °C (5 °C above the control temperature), the F1 generation survived, was active and was able to molt to the adult stage. However, specimens were unable to produce the next generation of offspring. For postembryonic development, C. microphthalma sp. nov. required six molts to reach the adult stage. The development rate (from egg to adult) varied and differed significantly between the tested temperatures (p < 0.001). An increase in temperature from the control temperature significantly accelerated the developmental rate from egg to juvenile instars to adult with a statistical significance (p < 0.01). This study is the first attempt that provide information on the impact of increasing temperature on the population dynamics, reproductive capacity and life history of a subterranean tropical Collembola. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Other Arthropods and General Topics)
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15 pages, 4628 KiB  
Article
Evaluating the Impact of Climate Change on the Asia Habitat Suitability of Troides helena Using the MaxEnt Model
by Fengrong Yang, Quanwei Liu, Junyi Yang, Biyu Liu, Xinqi Deng, Tingjiang Gan, Xue Liao, Xiushan Li, Danping Xu and Zhihang Zhuo
Insects 2025, 16(1), 79; https://doi.org/10.3390/insects16010079 - 14 Jan 2025
Viewed by 797
Abstract
Butterflies are highly sensitive to climate change, and Troides helena, as an endangered butterfly species, is also affected by these changes. To enhance the conservation of T. helena and effectively plan its protected areas, it is crucial to understand the potential impacts [...] Read more.
Butterflies are highly sensitive to climate change, and Troides helena, as an endangered butterfly species, is also affected by these changes. To enhance the conservation of T. helena and effectively plan its protected areas, it is crucial to understand the potential impacts of climate change on its distribution. This study utilized a MaxEnt model in combination with ArcGIS technology to predict the global potential suitable habitats of T. helena under current and future climate conditions, using the species’ distribution data and relevant environmental variables. The results indicated that the MaxEnt model provided a good prediction accuracy for the distribution of T. helena. Under the current climate scenario, the species is primarily distributed in tropical regions, with high suitability areas concentrated in tropical rainforest climates. In future climate scenarios, the suitable habitat areas for T. helena in medium and high suitability categories generally show an expansion trend, which increases over time. Especially under the SSP5-8.5 scenario, by the 2090s, the area of high suitability for T. helena is projected to increase by 42.85%. The analysis of key environmental factors revealed that precipitation of the wettest quarter (Bio16) was the most significant environmental factor affecting the distribution of T. helena. The species has high demands for precipitation and temperature and can adapt to future climate warming. This study is valuable for identifying the optimal conservation areas for T. helena and provides a reference for future conservation efforts. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Insect Ecology, Diversity and Conservation)
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9 pages, 226 KiB  
Review
The Utilization of Inert Materials for the Control of Stored-Product Mites—A Mini Review
by Christos G. Athanassiou, Christos I. Rumbos, Paraskevi Agrafioti and Maria K. Sakka
Insects 2025, 16(1), 78; https://doi.org/10.3390/insects16010078 - 14 Jan 2025
Viewed by 561
Abstract
Stored-product mites are important pests of stored products, while their presence in storage and processing facilities has a significant effect on public health. On the other hand, inert materials are promising alternatives to conventional pesticides in stored product protection and have provided very [...] Read more.
Stored-product mites are important pests of stored products, while their presence in storage and processing facilities has a significant effect on public health. On the other hand, inert materials are promising alternatives to conventional pesticides in stored product protection and have provided very good results against storage insects. These formulations can be applied either directly on the product or on surfaces, as dusts or as slurry formulations. In the current paper, we review the factors that affect the efficacy of inert dusts, emphasizing in diatomaceous earths, against stored-product mites. Hence, we address the different biotic and abiotic factors that affect the acaricidal effect of inert materials against different mite species, but also the complexity of such an application, that often arises from the simultaneous presence of plant-feeding mites with their mite predators. Finally, we provide some insights for further research directions. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Insect Pest and Vector Management)
22 pages, 2141 KiB  
Article
Macronutrient-Based Predictive Modelling of Bioconversion Efficiency in Black Soldier Fly Larvae (Hermetia illucens) Through Artificial Substrates
by Laurens Broeckx, Lotte Frooninckx, Siebe Berrens, Sarah Goossens, Carmen ter Heide, Ann Wuyts, Mariève Dallaire-Lamontagne and Sabine Van Miert
Insects 2025, 16(1), 77; https://doi.org/10.3390/insects16010077 - 14 Jan 2025
Viewed by 817
Abstract
This study explores the optimisation of rearing substrates for black soldier fly larvae (BSFL). First, the ideal dry matter content of substrates was determined, comparing the standard 30% dry matter (DM) with substrates hydrated to their maximum water holding capacity (WHC). Substrates at [...] Read more.
This study explores the optimisation of rearing substrates for black soldier fly larvae (BSFL). First, the ideal dry matter content of substrates was determined, comparing the standard 30% dry matter (DM) with substrates hydrated to their maximum water holding capacity (WHC). Substrates at maximal WHC yielded significantly higher larval survival rates (p = 0.0006). Consequently, the WHC approach was adopted for further experiments. Using these hydrated artificial substrates, fractional factorial designs based on central composite and Box–Behnken designs were employed to assess the impact of macronutrient composition on bioconversion efficiency. The results demonstrated significant main, interaction, and quadratic effects on bioconversion efficiency. Validation with real-life substrates of varied protein content, including indigestible feather meal, affirmed the predictive model’s accuracy after accounting for protein source digestibility. This research underscores the importance of optimal hydration and macronutrient composition in enhancing BSFL growth and bioconversion efficiency. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Insect Physiology, Reproduction and Development)
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20 pages, 2383 KiB  
Article
Molecular and Biochemical Mechanisms of Scutellum Color Variation in Bactrocera dorsalis Adults (Diptera: Tephritidae)
by Guangli Wang, Weijun Li, Jiazhan Wu, Ye Xu, Zhaohuan Xu, Qingxiu Xie, Yugui Ge, Haiyan Yang and Xiaozhen Li
Insects 2025, 16(1), 76; https://doi.org/10.3390/insects16010076 - 14 Jan 2025
Viewed by 600
Abstract
Bactrocera dorsalis (Hendel) is an invasive fruit and vegetable pest, infesting citrus, mango, carambola, etc. We observed that the posterior thoracic scutella of some B. dorsalis adults are yellow, some light yellow, and some white in China. Compared with the B. dorsalis races [...] Read more.
Bactrocera dorsalis (Hendel) is an invasive fruit and vegetable pest, infesting citrus, mango, carambola, etc. We observed that the posterior thoracic scutella of some B. dorsalis adults are yellow, some light yellow, and some white in China. Compared with the B. dorsalis races with a yellow scutellum (YS) and white scutellum (WS), the race with a light-yellow scutellum (LYS) is dominant in citrus and carambola orchards. To reveal genetic correlates among the three races, the genomes of 22 samples (8 with YS, 7 with LYS, and 7 with WS) were sequenced by high-throughput sequencing technology. Single-nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) annotation showed that there were 17,580 non-synonymous mutation sites located in the exonic region. Principal component analysis based on independent SNP data revealed that the SNPs with LYS were more similar to that with YS when compared with WS. Most genes associated with scutellum color variation were involved in three pathways: oxidative phosphorylation, porphyrin and chlorophyll metabolism, and terpenoid backbone biosynthesis. By comparing the sequences among the three races, we screened out 276 differential genes (DGs) in YS vs. WS, 185 DGs in LYS vs. WS, and 104 DGs in YS vs. LYS. Most genes determining color variation in B. dorsalis scutella were located on chromosomes 2–5. Biochemical analysis showed that β-carotene content in YS and LYS was significantly higher than that in WS at any stage of adult days 1, 10, and 20. No significant differences were observed in cytochrome P450 or melanin content in YS, LYS, or WS. Our study provides results on aspects of scutellum color variation in B. dorsalis adults, providing molecular and physiological information for revealing the adaptation and evolution of the B. dorsalis population. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Insect Pest and Vector Management)
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13 pages, 1331 KiB  
Article
An AI-Based Digital Scanner for Varroa destructor Detection in Beekeeping
by Daniela Scutaru, Simone Bergonzoli, Corrado Costa, Simona Violino, Cecilia Costa, Sergio Albertazzi, Vittorio Capano, Marko M. Kostić and Antonio Scarfone
Insects 2025, 16(1), 75; https://doi.org/10.3390/insects16010075 - 14 Jan 2025
Viewed by 713
Abstract
Beekeeping is a crucial agricultural practice that significantly enhances environmental health and food production through effective pollination by honey bees. However, honey bees face numerous threats, including exotic parasites, large-scale transportation, and common agricultural practices that may increase the risk of parasite and [...] Read more.
Beekeeping is a crucial agricultural practice that significantly enhances environmental health and food production through effective pollination by honey bees. However, honey bees face numerous threats, including exotic parasites, large-scale transportation, and common agricultural practices that may increase the risk of parasite and pathogen transmission. A major threat is the Varroa destructor mite, which feeds on honey bee fat bodies and transmits viruses, leading to significant colony losses. Detecting the parasite and defining the intervention thresholds for effective treatment is a difficult and time-consuming task; different detection methods exist, but they are mainly based on human eye observations, resulting in low accuracy. This study introduces a digital portable scanner coupled with an AI algorithm (BeeVS) used to detect Varroa mites. The device works through image analysis of a sticky sheet previously placed under the beehive for some days, intercepting the Varroa mites that naturally fall. In this study, the scanner was tested for 17 weeks, receiving sheets from 5 beehives every week, and checking the accuracy, reliability, and speed of the method compared to conventional human visual inspection. The results highlighted the high repeatability of the measurements (R2 ≥ 0.998) and the high accuracy of the BeeVS device; when at least 10 mites per sheet were present, the device showed a cumulative percentage error below 1%, compared to approximately 20% for human visual observation. Given its repeatability and reliability, the device can be considered a valid tool for beekeepers and scientists, offering the opportunity to monitor many beehives in a short time, unlike visual counting, which is done on a sample basis. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances on Conservation of Biodiversity, Monitoring Programs and Trend Assessment)
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