© The author(s) - Published by Sociedade Entomológica do Brasil
Oiketicus kirbyi (Guilding, 1827) (Lepidoptera: Psychidae): first record feeding on Malus domestica Borkh. (Rosaceae) in Brazil
Several phytophagous insects, such as sap-suckers, borers, and defoliators, affect apple (Malus domestica Borkh. (Rosaceae)) production in Brazil. Recording insects that cause damage to plants can facilitate their identification when making control decisions. Given the importance of apple production in Brazil, it was necessary to report the occurrence of Oiketicus kirbyi (Guilding, 1827) (Lepidoptera: Psychidae) feeding on M. domestica leaves in Brazil. The caterpillars identified as O. kirbyi were observed damaging leaves of the leaves of M. domestica. These were collected, determined, and deposited in an entomological reference collection, constituting the first record of the species feeding on M. domestica in Brazil.
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If you seek, you will find: second record of Melanoloma viatrix Hendel, 1911 (Diptera, Richardiidae) in pineapple in Brazil and its distribution in the country
The pineapple fly, Melanoloma viatrix Hendel, 1911 (Diptera, Richardiidae), is a pest in pineapple plantations in several South American countries. In Brazil, pineapple damage by M. viatrix was first reported in a commercial plantation in the state of Amapá. We report this pest from a single pineapple sample collected in the municipality of Itaituba, state of Pará, from a plantation operated under the family farming system. As in other South American countries, pineapple is the sole known host of M. viatrix. Examination of specimens deposited in two Brazilian collections revealed that, in addition to the states of Amapá and Pará, M. viatrix also occurs in the states of Maranhão, Tocantins, and Mato Grosso. However, no host information is known for the specimens deposited in collections; therefore, M. viatrix is known to damage pineapple only in Amapá and Pará. Given the extensive geographical distribution of the pest, surveys of host plants and sampling in other Brazilian pineapple-producing states are needed to establish effective management strategies and prevent the spread of the pest within Brazil.
Armored Scale Insects (Hemiptera: Diaspididae) on Dypsis lutescens and Phoenix roebelenii (Arecaceae) in Urban Environments of Costa Rica
Armored scales (Hemiptera: Diaspididae) were collected from Dypsis lutescens (H. Wendl) Beentje & J. Dransf., 1995, and Phoenix roebelenii O’Brien, 1889, in urban Costa Rica. Lopholeucaspis cockerelli (Grandpré & Charmoy, 1899), previously known only from intercepted plant material, was found on both palms (P. roebelenii—new host record). Pseudischnaspis bowreyi (Cockerell, 1893), also previously recorded only from interceptions, was identified on both species (new host records). Ischnaspis longirostris (Signoret, 1882) was identified on both palms, Selenaspidus articulatus (Morgan, 1889) on P. roebelenii (new host record), Hemiberlesia cyanophylli Signoret, 1869 on P. roebelenii (new host record) and D. lutescens, H. palmae (Cockerell, 1893) on P. roebelenii (new host record) and D. lutescens, Pinnaspis strachani (Cooley, 1899) on D. lutescens, Pinnaspis apidistrae (Signoret, 1869) on D. lutescens and P. roebelenii (new host record), Diaspis boisduvalii Signoret, 1869 on P. roebelenii, Chrysomphalus dictyospermi (Morgan, 1889) on both palms (new host records), Lepidosaphes gloverii (Packard, 1869) on P. roebelenii (new host record), and Aspidiotus destructor Signoret, 1869 on both palms. Among parasitoids, Aphytis sp. (Hymenoptera: Aphelinidae) was reared from C. dictyospermi and I. longirostris, and Signiphora sp. (Hymenoptera: Signiphoridae) from H. cyanophylli and I. longirostris. This is the first record of a species of Signiphora Ashmead, 1880 parasitizing I. longirostris. The identified armored scales are highly polyphagous and not exclusive to palms, highlighting the need for further research on their diversity and ecology, as well as their natural enemies, in tropical urban environments.
First report of Idalus agastus (Dyar, 1910) (Lepidoptera: Erebidae: Arctiinae) attacking native Myrtaceae seedlings in nurseries in Brazil
This study reports, for the first time, attack of Idalus agastus (Dyar, 1910) (Lepidoptera: Erebidae: Arctiinae) on the seedlings of Myrtaceae family plants grown in nurseries in southern Brazil. This arctiid is common in the state of Rio Grande do Sul and is a secondary pest of eucalyptus. However, reports of damage to native fruit species in nurseries are unprecedented in this region. Infestation and foliage damage have been observed in Psidium cattleyanum Sabine (strawberry guava), Myrcianthes pungens (O. Berg.) D. Legrand (guabiyu), Myrciaria cauliflora Mart. (jabuticaba), and Eugenia uvalha Cambess. (uvaia) trees during the September/October 2023.
Two new reports of armored scale insects (Hemiptera: Diaspididae) infesting Ficus pumila L. (Moraceae) in the Brazilian Midwest
Ficus pumila L. (Moraceae) is a species frequently used as an ornamental plant in many Brazilian regions. Until now, 22 species of scale insects (Hemiptera: Coccomorpha) have been reported infesting F. pumila around the world. In this work, two new reports of armored scale insects (Hemiptera: Diaspididae) associated with F. pumila in the Brazilian Midwest are presented: Pseudaonidia trilobitiformis (Green, 1896), infesting leaves, and Hemiberlesia lataniae (Signoret, 1869), infesting fruits, both in the same plant located in the Federal District, Brazil. Studies with scale insects in Central Brazil must be stimulated to catalogue and expand the knowledge about new interactions, occurrence, and possible new species of Cerrado biome.
The First record of Megaloptera (Insecta: Neuropterida) from Sergipe state, Brazil
Megaloptera comprises approximately 400 species, of which 25 are recorded in Brazil and belong to Corydalidae and Sialidae. Here, we provide new occurrence records for Corydalus diasi Navás, 1915 (Megaloptera: Corydalidae) in Serra de Itabaiana National Park, Sergipe, where two females and five males were collected using light traps from June 2022 to May 2023. Specimens were identified using morphological analysis. We provide illustrations that will aid in the elucidation of the species and can be used to understand its morphological variation. Originally described in Ceará in 1915, C. diasi is now known to occur in several Brazilian states, expanding its distribution to 2,231,711 km², covering ecotonal areas between the Atlantic Forest and the Caatinga in Northeastern Brazil. We highlight the lack of information on Megaloptera in the Northeast, a region affected by Linnean and Wallacean shortfalls, and emphasize the need for further sampling in ecologically diverse areas to uncover invertebrate diversity and support the development of conservation policies.
Ant nests found in mature pods of Cassia fistula L. and the extended phenotype of herbivores as house to opportunistic twig dwellers
Ants can present specialized or opportunistic nesting habits; the latter not being restricted to a single or a narrow set of host species in an ecological interaction. Herein we report ant colonies belonging to seven species and four genera inside ripe pods of Cassia fistula L. (Fabaceae) with signs of previous occupation by herbivores. Among the species found nesting in pods previously excavated by phytophagous insects are Cephalotes targionii (Emery, 1894); Cephalotes eduarduli (Forel, 1912); Crematogaster aff. victima Smith, 1858 and Crematogaster sp. (Myrmicinae); Myrmelachista nodigera Mayr, 1887 (Hymenoptera: Formicidae: Formicinae); Pseudomyrmex gracilis (Fabricius, 1804) (Hymenoptera: Formicidae: Pseudomyrmecinae) and Tapinoma sp. (Hymenoptera: Formicidae: Dolichoderinae), all of which showed opportunistic behavior by using pods previously hollowed and holed by phytophagous insects. This is the first record of Cephalotes Latreille, 1802 ants nesting in structures other than trunks and branches.
Occurrence of Aglae caerulea Lepeletier & Serville, 1825 (Apidae, Hymenoptera) in the Cerrado biome: new records from Minas Gerais state, Brazil
Aglae caerulea Lepeletier & Serville, 1825 (Apidae, Hymenoptera) is a rare cleptoparasitic species primarily associated with the Amazon rainforest and gallery forest in the Cerrado Biome. Here, we report two new records of A. caerulea from surveys conducted in seasonal semideciduous forest remnants of Cerrado, extending its home range to Minas Gerais state, Brazil. During these surveys, five A. caerulea males were attracted to methyl cinnamate. These findings highlight the importance of forested habitat in the Cerrado for supporting rare euglossine species and contribute to a better understanding of the distributional range and habitat use of A. caerulea.
Absence of Anastrepha grandis (Macquart, 1846) (Diptera: Tephritidae) in the coastal plain of Piauí, Brazil
Brazil is a large producer of cucurbits; despite the productive advantage, the country still has a low insertion in the international market due to the quarantine restrictions imposed by the Anastrepha grandis (Macquart, 1846) (Diptera: Tephritidae) presence. In this context, we conducted a study using McPhail traps and fruit sampling for three consecutive harvests to investigate the presence of A. grandis in commercial watermelon cultivation located in the Irrigation District of the Coastal Plateau of Piauí, Northeast Brazil. Anastrepha grandis was not registered in the coastal plain of Piauí, demonstrating the potential to establish a Pest Free Area. For this purpose, developing a pilot project on a larger time scale covering several properties and municipalities in Piauí is necessary.
Confirmation of Acutaspis albopicta (Cockerell, 1898) (Hemiptera: Diaspididae) in Brazil: occurrence on baru (Dipteryx alata Vogel, Fabaceae), a native Cerrado plant species
Recent research has been shown that Cerrado hosts a high richness of scale insects (Hemiptera: Coccomorpha) associated with native and exotic plants from different families and botanical species. This work aimed to report for the first time an association of an armored scale insect (Diaspididae), Acutaspis albopicta (Cockerell, 1898), with baru (Dipteryx alata Vogel, Fabaceae), a native tree from Cerrado biome, in Federal District, Brazil. Additionally, this is the first occurrence of this species of Diaspididae in Central Brazil. Acutaspis albopicta was first mentioned in Brazil in Rio de Janeiro, associated with Cocos nucifera (L.) (Arecaceae), but, until now, there was no evidence of its occurrence in the country. In this work, there is a confirmation of A. albopicta in Brazil, and macroscopic and microscopic descriptions and illustrations are presented.
First report of the invasive species and potential pest Zaprionus tuberculatus Malloch, 1932 (Diptera, Drosophilidae) in Pará, Brazil
This paper reports the first occurrence of the potential pest Zaprionus tuberculatus Malloch, 1932 (Diptera, Drosophilidae) in the municipality of Belém, Pará, Brazil, specifically in the Amazon region at the vicinity of the Museu Paraense Emílio Goeldi. This report is crucial for collecting data on the geographic distribution and population growth of this invasive species, which will aid in the development of strategies for pest management programs. Furthermore, new points records for the invasive species in Brasília are presented for the first time, extending the spread of Z. tuberculatus across Brazil.
Another brick in the wall: new record and key to Anastrepha Schiner, 1868 (Diptera, Tephritidae) from Pará, Brazil
Despite advances in studies on fruit flies belonging to the genus Anastrepha Schiner, 1868 (Diptera: Tephritidae) in the state of Pará, Brazil, over the past two decades, knowledge of their diversity remains incipient, particularly when considering the vast geographical expanse of the state. Only 35% of the documented species have been associated with their respective hosts. Anyway, for Anastrepha parishi Stone, 1942, which is reported for the first time in Pará State, all records of this species in Brazil have been associated with their designated hosts. In addition to this new record, we discuss the distribution of Anastrepha consobrina (Loew, 1873) in Pará, whose original description was based on specimens collected in the state in the early 19th century. Since then, A. consobrina has not been collected in Pará. A key to the 40 species of Anastrepha known in Pará is presented.
Foraging Activity in Polybia striata (Fabricius, 1787) (Hymenoptera: Vespidae)
Foraging ensures resource acquisition for feeding, nest construction, and colony maintenance in social wasps. This study examined the foraging activity and dripping behavior of Polybia striata (Fabricius, 1787) (Hymenoptera: Vespidae) in an urban environment, analyzing their correlation with temperature and humidity. Observations took place on the campus of the Federal University of Juiz de Fora, totaling 50 hours between January and February 2018. Every 30 minutes, departures and returns to the nest were recorded, along with climatic variables. Foraging activity peaked between 9:00 and 13:30, the hottest period of the day. The number of departures increased with temperature and decreased with humidity, suggesting that hottest conditions favor foraging while high humidity inhibits it. Always after rainfall, wasps engaged in dripping behavior, regurgitating small water droplets from the nest structure. This behavior occurred more frequently in the morning and was linked to nest maintenance. In addition to advancing knowledge of the species' ecology, this study may inform management strategies in urban areas.
Unveiling a New Association: First Record of Psocoptera in Social Wasp Nests
Social wasp nests provide stable microhabitats that can support diverse arthropod communities. This study reports the first record of psocopterans associated with social wasp colonies, highlighting a potential commensal relationship. We analyzed 88 colonies and nests between 2016 and 2018 in secondary urban forest fragments in Brazil. A total of 219 psocopterans were recorded in 15 nests, with Liposcelis bostrychophila Badonnel, 1931 being the most abundant species. The presence of nymphs and adults in both active and abandoned nests suggests that these insects exploit the nests regardless of colony activity. These findings emphasize the role of social wasp nests as important microhabitats and provide new insights into the ecological interactions within these structures, contributing to a broader understanding of arthropod biodiversity.
Southernmost Record of the threatened Platycypha amboniensis Martin 1915 (Odonata: Chlorocyphidae), Endemic to the Highlands of Central Kenya
Habitat fragmentation poses a significant global challenge to tropical forests, impacting on species, including endemic aquatic insects. Peripheral populations of range-restricted species are particularly vulnerable in rapidly changing landscapes. This study presents the southernmost occurrence of Kenya Jewel (Platycypha amboniensis Martin, 1915) (Odonata: Chlorocyphidae) and the first from a restored forest in upland Kenya. This damselfly is globally threatened, extremely rare in the region, and is confined to the montane streams of Central Kenya's highlands. This occurrence is compared with the species' distribution in Central Kenya, with a discussion on conservation measures. This finding not only extends the known range and extent of occurrence of P. amboniensis but also provides evidence that the species is persisting in isolated patches outside protected areas, necessitating urgent conservation action.
First record of Trichotrombidium muscarum (Riley, 1878) (Trombidiformes: Microtrombidiidae) in South America, with morphometric data and host association
The genus Trichotrombidium Kobulej, 1951 (Microtrombidiidae) includes ectoparasitic mites associated with dipteran species. However, their life cycle remains poorly understood, as only immature stages have been described. In this study, we report the first record of Trichotrombidium muscarum (Riley, 1878) in South America, specifically in Brazil, parasitizing the stable fly, Stomoxys calcitrans (L., 1758) (Diptera: Muscidae). The mites were collected using a pan- trap near a poultry farm in Nepomuceno, Minas Gerais State, Brazil. Morphometric data are provided, expanding the knowledge of this species.
First record of Megninia ginglymura (Mégnin, 1877) (Sarcoptiformes: Analgidae) in the state of Pernambuco, Brazil, associated with hen poultry systems
Mites of the genus Megninia Berlese, 1883 (Sarcoptiformes: Analgidae) are known ectoparasites of birds in intensive production systems, however, their distribution in Brazil remains poorly documented. This study reports the first record of the feather mite Megninia ginglymura (Mégnin, 1877) (Sarcoptiformes: Analgidae) in the state of Pernambuco, Brazil. Samples were collected from two farms with different rearing systems: Vertical Automatic, Californian and Cage Free. Monthly surveys were conducted between January and November 2024, totalizing 11 collections. M. ginglymura appears to be prevalent among poultry farms in Brazil; however, limited efforts has been made to mitigate its impacts, primarily due to a lack of targeted research. Baseline studies such as this are essential for guiding future research aimed at characterizing populations in poultry systems and reducing the impacts caused by Megninia mites.
Comunidade de formigas associadas à cochonilha-rosada da cana-de-açúcar em sistemas convencional e orgânico de produção
In agroecosystems, the interaction between ants (Hymenoptera: Formicidae) and hemipterans can increase populations of these phytophagous insects, promoting injuries and damage caused by them to crops. The aim of this study was to list the species of ants associated with the mealybug Saccharicoccus sacchari (Cockerell, 1895) (Hemiptera: Pseudococcidae), classifying them according to their presence in the different parts of sugarcane plants. In addition, we verified whether the adopted cultivation system could alter the ant community associated with mealybugs. The experiment was carried out in 2018/19 agricultural harvest, in two sugarcane stands, variety CTC4, in conventional and organic system, both in the municipality of Jardinópolis, SP, Brazil. Ants were collected in the mealybug colonies fixed in different plant structures and sugarcane development stages, including preliminary inspections on the roots of clumps and during plant development, evaluating aerial structures: sprouts, tillers and stalks. Eighteen species of ants were recorded. From these, eight were recorded exclusively in the conventional system, two only in the organic system and eight ant species were common for both systems. It is noteworthy that, for each of the plant structures, clumps and stems, six species of ants occurred exclusively foraging in the mealybug colonies. For sprouting, mealybugs and ants were not observed. We conclude that the cultivation system adopted in the cane field seems to influence ant community associated with S. sacchari. These results can help us to advance in the knowledge about how associated ants can alter the infestation indices of the mealybug in sugarcane fields.
Record of Cinnamomum verum (Lauraceae) as a host for treehoppers (Hemiptera, Auchenorrhyncha: Aetalionidae and Membracidae)
Cinnamon plants are attacked by different phytophagous insects, but there are no records of infestations by treehoppers. Thus, this note reports Notogonioides erythropus (Burmeister, 1835), Talipes appendiculatus (Fonseca, 1936), and Bolbonota sp. (Hemiptera: Membracidae) using a cinnamon tree as a host in an urban area of southeastern Brazil. Additionally, the formation of an interspecific aggregation between the leafhopper Aethalion reticulatum (Linnaeus, 1767) (Hemiptera: Aetalionidae) and N. erythropus is recorded.
First record of phoresy by Parachernes setiger Mahnert, 1979 (Pseudoscorpiones, Chernetidae) on the fly Artemita amenides (Walker, 1849) (Diptera, Stratiomyidae, Pachygastrinae) in the Central Amazon
Pseudoscorpions can attach themselves to various mobile arthropods. This interaction is known as phoresy. We report for the first time the phoretic interaction between pseudoscorpion (Arachnida) and Stratiomyidae (Diptera) in the New World, as well as the first phoretic interaction involving Parachernes setiger Mahnert, 1979 (Pseudoscorpiones, Chernetidae), in this case with Artemita amenides (Walker, 1849). Three specimens were attached to the fly's mid tibia (1 specimen) and hind tibia (2 specimens on the same side).
First record of Tetranychus musae Auger, Migeon & Flechtmann, 2008 (Prostigmata: Tetranychidae) on Musa sp. (Musaceae) from Pará State, Brazil
This study reports the occurrence of the spider mite Tetranychus musae Auger, Migeon & Flechtmann, 2008 (Acari: Tetranychidae) on banana (Musa sp.: Musaceae) in Brazil. Specimens were collected from banana leaves grown in an intercropping system with cacao (Theobroma cacao L. - Malvaceae) at an experimental site in the municipality of Moju, Pará State. This represents the first confirmed record of T. musae in Brazil.
Novos registros georeferenciados de Tityus serrulatus Lutz & Mello, 1922 (Scorpiones, Buthidae) para o estado do Mato Grosso, centro-oeste do Brasil
We present additional records of Tityus serrulatus Lutz & Mello, 1922 (Scorpiones: Buthidae) for the state of Mato Grosso, midwestern Brazil. The record of this scorpion species, which can cause mild to severe envenomation, significantly contributes to the knowledge of scorpionism in the state, as well as to the mapping of its distribution in the Brazilian territory. A morphologically similar species is abundant in the area - Tityus confluens Borelli, 1899 (Scorpiones: Buthidae), also presenting a general uniform yellow coloration - but is usually responsible for less severe scorpion accidents. The correct identification of both species by health agents and the general population may be relevant for the appropriate treatment of local scorpion sting cases.
Damage caused by the mite Brevipalpus yothersi Baker, 1949 (Acari: Tenuipalpidae) on 'Cortibel' guava fruits (Psidium guajava) in northeastern São Paulo State
This study reports damages caused by Brevipalpus yothersi Baker, 1949 (Acari: Tenuipalpidae) mites in guava fruits in northeastern São Paulo State, Brazil. High population densities of B. yothersi were observed, primarily infesting green peduncles and young fruits of guava (cv. Cortibel RG). The mites caused dark spots on the fruit skin, rendering them unsuitable for in natura market sale.
A rare trophic interaction: Carnivory by Helicogonus princeps (Brölemann, 1902) (Diplopoda, Spirostreptida, Spirostreptidae) on the frog Physalaemus cuvieri Fitzinger, 1826 (Anura, Leptodactylidae) in Brazil
Millipedes (Diplopoda) are predominantly detritivores, and reports of carnivory in the group remain rare. Here, we describe a potential case of perimortem predation involving the frog Physalaemus cuvieri Fitzinger, 1826 (Anura, Leptodactylidae) and the millipede Helicogonus princeps (Brölemann, 1902) (Diplopoda, Spirostreptida, Spirostreptidae) in Brazil. Two adult females of H. princeps were observed tightly coiled around the frog and consuming its tissues over a 20-hour period. Although it was not possible to determine whether the frog was alive at the onset of the interaction, the behavior suggests either opportunistic predation or carrion feeding. This event represents one of the few documented instances of vertebrate consumption by millipedes and highlights the need for further investigation into the trophic ecology of this understudied group.
Salacia crassifolia (Mart. ex Schult.) G. Don (Celastraceae) as a new host of the green scale insect [Coccus viridis (Green, 1889) (Hemiptera: Coccidae)] in the Brazilian Cerrado
The green scale insect, Coccus viridis (Green, 1889) (Hemiptera: Coccidae), is reported for the first time infesting Salacia crassifolia (Mart. ex Schult.) G. Don (Celastraceae). Infestations of this scale insect were observed on the leaves of an isolated tree located in cerrado sensu stricto fragment, near the urban perimeter of Federal District, Brazil. The individuals were concentrated on the central (main) foliar nervure, and ants (Hymenoptera: Formicidae) were observed in association with the coccids in a mutualistic relationship. This work reinforces the polyphagous nature of the species, expanding its geographic distribution in Brazil and increasing the number of known hosts.
First Record of the Flower Bud Fly Dasiops inedulis Steyskal, 1980 (Diptera: Lonchaeidae) in Northeastern Brazil
Passion fruit cultivation in Northeastern Brazil stands out in terms of both production and productivity when compared to other regions of the country. However, the incidence of arthropod pests during crop management poses a significant challenge. Among the various pest species, the presence of dipterans commonly known as flower bud flies, belonging to the genera Dasiops Rondani (1856) and Neosilba McAlpine (1962) (Diptera: Lonchaeidae), is particularly noteworthy. Both genera have been reported on plants in the Passifloraceae, with species from the genus Dasiops being primarily associated with the abscission of reproductive structures, which represents the main limiting factor in achieving high yields. In this context, the aim of this study was to identify the main species of flower bud fly present in passion fruit plantations in producing regions of the state of Ceará. To this end, five collections of infested flower buds were carried out. In Brazil, the species Dasiops inedulis Steyskal, 1980 has already been recorded in six states; this study represents the first record of the species in the state of Ceará.
Reducing Bycatch in Aquatic Insect Sampling: Evaluating a Size-Dependent Exclusion Device for UV Light Pan Traps
A growing body of research indicates that insect populations are declining worldwide, underscoring ongoing anthropogenic threats to biodiversity. Considering these conservation concerns, novel strategies to protect insects and other species vulnerable as bycatch to insect collecting techniques should be considered. These methods should ideally minimize bycatch while not impacting the recovery of target taxa. In the field of aquatic entomology, the UV light pan trap is widely used. While effective, this method incurs significant bycatch of unwanted arthropods and occasionally vertebrates, which both compromises the sample and has conservation implications. The goal herein was to develop and test a size-based bycatch exclusion device deployed with UV light pan traps for reducing non-target catches. This simple, cost-effective design does not require any modifications of the existing trap itself beyond adding a domed cage. "Caged" and "uncaged" traps were simultaneously deployed at two streams in northwest Georgia, USA, for a total of twelve trapping events over three months. Caddisflies (Trichoptera) served as the target taxa, namely net-spinning caddisflies (Hydropsychidae) and microcaddisflies (Hydroptilidae), and total numbers of these were counted and compared between caged and uncaged traps. No significant differences were detected between treatments. Therefore, the data suggest that these exclusion devices do not negatively impact adult caddisfly sampling and should exclude undesired large insects, such as dobsonflies, certain saturniid moths, and many vertebrates. Although these results are positive, they are preliminary, and additional questions must be addressed which are discussed in this study.
Some practical and biological information useful for Zoraptera (Insecta) studies
The data presented here summarizes essential information to enhance the collections and breeding of Zoraptera. We present our experience collecting specimens, primarily in the Amazon Basin, ranging from the precarious use of soft paintbrushes to the highly effective method of using a lightweight 9-volt portable aspirator when exploring under the bark of rotting wood and on the sheaths of live plants. The portable aspirator transformed the Instituto Nacional de Pesquisas da Amazônia (INPA) Zoraptera collection into the largest in the world, with over 4,500 specimens. We use a headlamp better to see the dark adult specimens against the dark substrate. We report on a mixed colony comprising more than 1,000 specimens on the same fallen trunk. We provide an easy method for growing specimens in the laboratory to obtain eggs, nymphs, and adults. We also present a rapid identification method for live specimens manipulated over a small amount of water using a soft paintbrush. Based on more than 3,000 specimens collected for Brazilozoros huxleyi Bolivar y Pieltain & Coronado, 1963 and Brazilozoros weidneri New, 1978 we obtained only 2% of the alated specimens in the field. The sex ratio for both species was close to 1:1.
Armadilha atrativa padronizada e de baixo custo para coleta de Diptera (Insecta) atraídos por substratos proteicos
The use of baited traps is essential for sampling necrophagous Diptera Linnaeus, 1758 in both ecological and forensic studies. Ferreira's trap is a widely used model in Brazil; however, traditional versions can present logistical challenges under field conditions. This study proposes a simple, cost-effective modification to the original design, using standard plastic honey jars as the new apparatus. The modified trap is characterized by its portability, ease of assembly, and the ability to allow rapid specimen retrieval. The effectiveness of the modified trap was successfully demonstrated during field collections. The system is designed for use by a single researcher and has proven to enable efficient specimen capture comparable to that achieved with classical traps. This design is especially recommended for sampling blowflies and other Diptera attracted to decomposing organic matter.
Susceptibility of Euschistus heros (Fabricius, 1798) (Hemiptera: Pentatomidae) nymphs to Bacillus spp. strains
Soybean crops are subject to various phytophagous insects, among which the Neotropical brown stink bug Euschistus heros (Fabricius, 1798) (Hemiptera: Pentatomidae) stands out. The biological control of this pest is one of the viable alternatives to reduce the use of chemical insecticides. This study aimed to evaluate the pathogenic potential of different Bacillus spp. strains in the mortality of nymphs of E. heros under laboratory conditions. Bioassays were done using the artificial feeding system methodology with Falcon tubes, and seventeen Bacillus spp. strains were utilized. As a result, one strain of Bacillus thuringiensis caused 100% mortality, and the lethal concentration (LC₅₀) was estimated: 8.42 × 10⁴ spores/mL. In addition, two other strains of B. thuringiensis and one strain of Bacillus cereus caused mortality above 70%, and a Bacillus velezensis caused 55%.
Breaking a 120-year gap: Isosomodes kopenawai sp. nov. (Hymenoptera, Eurytomidae), a newly discovered species from the Brazilian Amazon Rainforest
In this study, Isosomodes kopenawai Perioto & Lara, sp. nov. (Hymenoptera, Eurytomidae) is described and illustrated, based on a female specimen collected near Manaus, Amazonas, Brazil. The new species is distinguished by a combination of morphological characters, including head coloration (brown to orange), mesosomal orange pigmentation, and propodeal structure (foveate with a deep, narrow, laterally carinate median channel). An updated identification key to Isosomodes species is provided.
A new species of Heimbra Cameron, 1909 (Hymenoptera: Eurytomidae) from Eastern Uruguay
A new species of Heimbra Cameron, 1909 (Hymenoptera, Eurytomidae) from eastern Uruguay, is described and illustrated. The species is diagnosed and differentiated from its congeners by the following combination of characters: mesopleuron contiguously punctate, appearing dull along the posterior margin; male tergite 7 lacking a transverse groove; and the mesoscutellum orange-brown laterally with a dorsal, longitudinal dark band. The description is based on four male specimens collected with Malaise traps in the municipality of Castillos, Departamento de Rocha, Uruguay. A revised key to the species of Heimbra, incorporating the newly described species, is provided. This discovery increases the number of known Heimbra species to nine and represents the second species of this genus recorded for Uruguay.