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The current state of knowledge regarding the representatives of the order Lepidoptera (Linnaeus, 1758) in the Republic of Serbia has been discussed. This paper outlines formal and legal aspects enabling theoretical and practical work in the field of lepidopterology. The personnel and institutional organization have been examined. The necessity of establishing strategies to improve and direct work has been emphasized. Priority directions of work in national lepidopterology are listed.

In 1949, the American Lepidopterists' Society published an essay of nine entries on the history of Hungarian lepidopterology. The principal author of the short paper was the young, 28 years old Dr. László Gozmány. Access of the essay is difficult as early volumes of the News of the Lepidopterists' Society are rare in libraries and not available on the world-wide-web. The original essay is reproduced here with 38 supplementary annotations giving more historical clarity. The article is a tribute to Dr. László Gozmány on the occasion of the 100th anniversary of his birth. With one figure. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Rhodostrophia is a speciose genus which is widespread in arid landscapes of Central Asia. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article focuses on the history of butterfly and moth collecting in the United States. Topics include the history of lepidopterology, the association developed between butterfly collecting and psychopathy, and the portrayal of lepidopterology in the 1965 film "The Collector," directed by William Wyler, starring Terence Stamp and Samantha Eggar.

In 2017 the authors undertook four collecting trips to Albania, between May and October. Material was collected at light on 22 nights, mostly from the southern part of the country. This is part two of a three part report. Eight genera and 22 species are reported for the first time for Albania; 24 species are reported for the second time for the country. Collecting localities and the adults of some of the reported species are illustrated in colour; for some species the genitalia, including everted vesicas, are also illustrated. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A subtropical insect, Maruca vitrata (F.) (Lepidoptera: Crambidae), is invasive to temperate zones, in which low temperatures during winter would be a serious challenge for colonization. This study assessed cold tolerance and cold-hardening of M. vitrata to understand its overwintering mechanism. Supercooling capacity was confirmed in all developmental stages exhibiting body freezing points at lower than -10°C, in which supercooling points (SCPs) were significantly different among developmental stages, with eggs having the lowest SCP (at -22.5°C). However, all developmental stages suffered significant mortality after being exposed to low temperatures much higher than SCPs. Furthermore, nonfreezing injury increased with elapsed time at 25°C after cold shock. One of the nonfreezing symptoms was a darkening on thorax, which was explained by uncontrolled prophenoloxidase activation. Pre-exposure to 8°C for 1 h significantly increased the survival of both young and old larvae to a lowtemperature treatment (-5°C for 1 h). Rapid cold-hardening (RCH) was accompanied by significant increase in hemolymph trehalose concentration. During RCH, trehalose-6-phosphate synthase was significantly upregulated in its expression level. These results suggest that M. vitrata is a freeze-susceptible species and becomes cold-hardy via hypertrehalosemia. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ectropis grisescens Warren (Lepidoptera: Geometridae) is one of the most severe pests of tea plants in China. This species commonly pupates in soil; however, little is known about its pupation ecology. In the present study, choice and no-choice tests were conducted to investigate the pupation behaviors and emergence success of E. grisescens in response to different substrates (sand, sandy loam 1, sandy loam 2, and silt loam) and moisture contents (5, 20, 35, 50, 65, and 80%). Moisture-choice bioassays showed that significantly more E. grisescens individuals pupated in or on soil (sandy loam 1 and 2 and silt loam) that was at the intermediate moisture levels, whereas 5%- and 35%-moisture sand was significantly more preferred over 80%-moisture sand for pupating. Substrate-choice bioassays showed that sand was most preferred by E. grisescens individuals at 20%- and 80%-moisture levels, but no preference was detected among the four substrates at 50%-moisture content. No-choice tests showed that the percentage of burrowed E. grisescens individuals and pupation depth were significantly lower when soil was dry (20% moisture) or wet (80% moisture). In addition, 20%-moisture sandy loam 2 and silt loam significantly decreased the body water content of pupae and emergence success of adults compared to 50%-moisture content. However, each measurement (percentage of burrowed individuals, pupation depth, body water content, or emergence success) was similar when compared among different moisture levels of sand. Interestingly, pupae buried with 80%-moisture soil exhibited significantly lower emergence success than that were unburied. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Exyra ridingsii (Riley) (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae) is a moth whose obligate host is the pitcher plant Sarracenia flava (L.) (Nepenthales: Sarraceniaceae). The entire life cycle of the moth is completed in the trumpets of this firedependent plant that is found throughout the southeastern United States in bogs, long-leaf pine savannas, and pocosins. The purpose of this study was to determine the effects of E. ridingsii on S. flava, including the effect of herbivory on trumpet height in the year subsequent to feeding and whether moths select trumpets for oviposition based on height. Although most forms of herbivory by insects might be expected to have negative effects on plants by reducing photosynthetic abilities, it would be counterproductive for herbivory by E. ridingsii to negatively affect S. flava as this plant is the only possible habitat for E. ridingsii. At each site in selected quadrats, the number of trumpets, trumpet height, trumpet status, number of trumpets in a clump, and number of clumps were recorded. The relationship between height and herbivory was analyzed using a linear model, and a positive correlation was found between height and herbivory. E. ridingsii herbivory had no effect on the next year's growth of S. flava based on a Spearman's correlation. Therefore, we concluded that E. ridingsii has little effect on S. flava populations and has likely evolved to selectively avoid herbivory on more vulnerable, smaller plants. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Noteworthy records of microlepidoptera obtained in the British Isles during 2016 are summarised, including two species new to the British Isles and numerous new Vicecounty records. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BACKGROUND Spodoptera frugiperda (J.E. Smith) (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae) is one of the major pests of maize and is in the same feeding guild as the noctuid pests Helicoverpa zea (Boddie) and Helicoverpa armigera (Hübner), recently reported in South and North America. The intraguild interactions of these species were assessed in laboratory and field conditions by determining the survival of larvae in interaction scenarios with non- Bt maize silks and ears. Moreover, a video tracking system was utilized to evaluate behavioral parameters during larval interactions in scenarios with or without food. RESULTS In intraguild interactions, S. frugiperda had greater survival (55-100%) when competing with Helicoverpa spp. in scenarios where larvae were the same instar or when they were larger (fourth versus second) than their competitor. Frequency and time in food of S. frugiperda larvae were negatively influenced by interactions. Larvae of S. frugiperda moved shorter distances (less than 183.03 cm) compared with H. zea. CONCLUSION Overall, S. frugiperda had a competitive advantage over Helicoverpa spp. This study provides significant information regarding noctuid behavior and larval survival during intraguild interactions, which may impact pest prevalence and population dynamics, thereby affecting integrated pest management and insect resistance management of these species in maize. © 2017 Society of Chemical Industry [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Plutella xylostella (L.) (Lepidoptera: Plutellidae) is a worldwide pest of Brassicaceae. Resistance has evolved against various insecticides including chlorfenapyr one of the most recently registered molecules to control this pest. The failure of chlorfenapyr to control this pest could be related to resistance in P. xylostella in the state of Pernambuco (Brazil), but there is currently no information on its heritability. Here, we estimated the heritability of resistance of P. xylostella to chlorfenapyr and the number of genes involved in the resistance in a field-derived population (PxClf-SEL). A field population was selected in the laboratory with increasing doses of chlorfenapyr (for five generations), and the LC50s were estimated for every generation using the leaf dip bioassay. The selection increased resistance to chlorfenapyr in the PxClf-SEL as the LC50 shifted from 27.6 (F1) to 256.5 (F5) mg chlorfenapyr/L. As a result, the resistance ratio (RR) increased from 33-fold (F1) to 310-fold (F5). The heritability of resistance of P. xylostella to chlorfenapyr was 0.90 (h2), and the number of generations needed for a 10-fold increase in the resistance to chlorfenapyr was 5.20 (G). Other methods have shown different numbers of genes (0.64 and 1.88) involved in resistance of P. xylostella to chlorfenapyr. There was sufficient variation regarding resistance in the field population to account for a high realized heritability influenced mainly by additive genetic factors. Therefore, there is a high risk of chlorfenapyr resistance in the field. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Parapoynx crisonalis (Walker, 1859) (Lepidoptera: Crambidae) is a major pest of aquatic vegetables and aquatic landscape plants. It has been responsible for causing considerable economic damage to water chestnut (Trapa natans) plants. In the Changsha vicinity of China, P. crisonalis has five generations a year. Populations of P. crisonalis were relatively low in April and began to rapidly rise at the beginning of May. At the end of July and early August, the population dropped dramatically. A rebound occurred at the end of August and early September, which was referred to as the second population peak. From then, until early November, the P. crisonalis population steadily diminished in preparation for overwintering. The primary factors influencing the seasonal dynamics of P. crisonalis were the climatic conditions, especially the temperature, and secondarily precipitation. Between May and October, the P. crisonalis adults were evenly distributed in the pond. In May and June, the eggs of P. crisonalis were present in an aggregate distribution, due to the effects of environmental heterogeneity. In July and August, however, they were found to be in a uniform distribution. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The nun moth, Lymantria monacha L., is one of the most important defoliators of Eurasian coniferous forests. Outbreaks during 2011-2015 in the natural/planted larch, and larch-birch mixed forests of the Greater Khingan Range in Inner Mongolia, China, caused tremendous timber losses from severe defoliation and tree mortality. A series of trapping experiments were conducted in these outbreak areas to evaluate the efficacy of a synthetic species-specific pheromone lure based on the female pheromone blend of European nun moth populations. Our results clearly show that the nun moth in Inner Mongolia is highly and specifically attracted to this synthetic pheromone, with few gypsy moths ( Lymantria dispar) captured. Flight activity monitoring of L. monacha male moths using pheromone-baited Unitraps at 2 locations during the summer of 2015 indicated that the flight period started in mid-July, peaking in early August at both locations. Based on male moth captures, there was a strong diurnal rhythm of flight activity throughout the entire scotophase, peaking between 22:00 and 24:00. Unitraps and wing traps had significantly and surprisingly higher catches than the gypsy moth traps. Unitraps fastened to tree trunks 2 m above ground caught significantly more male moths than those at the ground level or at 5 m height. Male L. monacha moths can be attracted to pheromone-baited traps in open areas 150-200 m distant from the infested forest edge. Our data should allow improvement on the performance of pheromone-baited traps for monitoring or mass-trapping to combat outbreaks of this pest in northeastern China. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ovicidal and toxic effects of crude leaf extracts of Clerodendrum inerme, Clerodendrum splendens, Clerodendrum multiflorum, Vitex negundo and Argemone mexicana were evaluated against the castor semilooper, Achaea janata L. (Noctuidae: Lepidoptera) using different bioassay methods. Among the extracts tested, the highest ovicidal activity was observed in C. splendens as well as A. mexicana with LD50 values of 7.65 and 9.14 mg-1, respectively. Leaf extracts of A. mexicana and C. inerme were toxic to both third and fourth instar larvae of A. janata through topical application. However, the extracts of A. mexicana and C. inerme found to be more toxic to third instar larvae with 70 and 73 per cent mortality, respectively. The lowest LD50 value of 5.33 mg-1 was recorded by A. mexicana extract and was followed by C. inerme extract with LD50 value of 7.26 mg-1. Present results indicated that A. mexicana and C. inerme plants have potential to use in IPM programme. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Owing to the high species diversity and the lack of a modern revision, the phylogenetic relationships within the tribe Boarmiini remain largely unexplored. In this study, we reconstruct the first molecular phylogeny of the Palaearctic and Oriental members of Boarmiini, and infer the relationships among tribes within the 'boarmiine' lineage. One mitochondrial (COI) and four nuclear (EF-1α, CAD, RpS5, GAPDH) genes for 56 genera and 96 species of Boarmiini mostly from the Palaearctic and Oriental regions were included in the study. Analyses of Bayesian inference and maximum likelihood recovered largely congruent results. The monophyly of Boarmiini is supported by our results. Seven clades and seven subclades within Boarmiini were found. The molecular results coupled with morphological studies suggested the synonymisation of Zanclopera Warren, 1894, syn. nov. with Krananda Moore, 1868. The following new combinations are proposed: Krananda straminearia (Leech, 1897) (comb. nov.), Krananda falcata (Warren, 1894) (comb. nov.), and Krananda fulva (Yazaki, 1994) (comb. nov.).Our results also supported the monophyly of the 'boarmiine' lineage. Boarmiini were recovered as sister to the remaining taxa within the 'boarmiine' lineage, and Macariini were recovered as sister to Abraxini, Eutoeini and Cassymini. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The first cladistic analysis of the genus Pampasatyrus Hayward, 1953 is presented based on morphological evidence. The monophyly of Pampasatyrus is corroborated with previous molecular hypothesis, and supported by two synapomorphies and six homoplastic characters. Haywardella Herrera, 1966 stat. rest. is recovered as sister group of Pampasatyrus, and both are closely related to a clade composed by Argyrophorus Blanchard, 1852, Etcheverrius Herrera, 1965 and Quilaphoethosus Herrera, 1966. Furthermore, three new subspecies are described: Pampasatyrus gyrtone biezankoi Zacca, Pyrcz, Mielke & Casagrande, ssp. n. from southern Brazil, Pampasatyrus reticulata gagarini Zacca, Pyrcz, Mielke & Casagrande, ssp. n. from São Paulo and Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, and Pampasatyrus glaucope eberti Pyrcz & Zacca, ssp. n. from São Paulo, Brazil. Neotypes to Faunula johanna Weymer, 1911 and Neomaenas reticulata Weymer, 1907 are herein designated. Lectotypes to Epinephele gyrtone Berg, 1877, Cosmosatyrus nilesi Weeks, 1902, Epinephele friedenreichi Staudinger, 1888 and Satyrus quies Berg, 1877 are also designated. A catalogue, diagnosis, illustrations, photos and distributional maps are provided for all the taxa, including an identification key. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The oriental armyworm, Mythimna separata Walker (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae), is a severe pest of graminaceous crops in Asia and Australia. In this study, we investigated the impacts of Cry2Ab, cantharidin and its analogues (cantharidin-23 and cantharidin-24) on M. separata growth, hydrolytic enzymes and detoxifying enzymes. Differences in weight gain and enzyme activities among all treatments were observed. Larval and pupal weight gain and hydrolytic enzyme activities declined when larvae were treated with Cry2Ab, cantharidin and its analogues, individually or in combination. The combination of Cry2Ab and cantharidin or cantharidin-24 had a markedly adverse effect on larval weight gain. Alkaline phosphatase and acid phosphatase were inhibited, whereas glutathione S-transferase was upregulated in all treatments with sublethal doses. The maximum reduction in alkaline phosphatase activity and increase in glutathione S-transferase activity occurred after the larvae were treated with a combination of Cry2Ab and cantharidin-24 over 48 h. The results suggest that the compositions of Cry2Ab, cantharidin and cantharidin-24 have a potential use in pest management. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Host selection is a key stage in the lifecycle of parasitoids, and is critical to both their function in control and to the maintenance of their population. The solitary endoparasitoid Microplitis similis (Hymenoptera: Braconidae) is a potential biological control agent of Spodoptera litura (F.) larvae (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae). In this study, we examined the preference M. similis exhibits for different instars of the host, host instar effects on parasitoid development, and the weight gain and food consumption of different instars of parasitized larvae. In no-choice tests, parasitization rates were highest in second- and early third-instar larvae, and no fourth- or fifth-instar hosts were parasitized. When provided with a choice of first- to late third-instar host larvae, M. similis preferred to parasitize early third-instar host larvae (41%) with a selection coefficient of 0.37. All morphometric features of wasp offspring increased with increasing age of the host at parasitization. A lower proportion of females emerged from first-instar larvae than any other instar. Parasitized S. litura larvae showed a pronounced reduction in food consumption and weight gain. Microplitis similis may have the potential to significantly suppress population growth and the damage caused by S. litura. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Coenonympha nipisiquit McDunnough (Lepidoptera: Nymphalidae) is an endemic butterfly species that has been recorded only in 10 salt marshes of eastern Canada. Despite obtaining the endangered status and benefiting from a conservation program, the populations of this species appear to be declining. However, a lack of information about the ecology of the species and current demographics undermines potential in-situ conservation efforts. To identify the environmental factors affecting the emergence phenology and flight period of this species, daily visual counts of adult C. nipisiquit were carried out on a daily basis from 2011 to 2015 during the flight period along transects in four marshes where the butterfly maintains a continuous presence. A series of environmental parameters was collected during the monitoring. Additive modeling indicated that the accumulation of degree-days above 7 °C from mid-May contributed to the synchronization of adult emergence and flight in C. nipisiquit and identified a number of abiotic factors having an impact on the activity and monitoring of this insect. Data also indicated that some demographic aspects of this butterfly differ between sites and confirmed that C. nipisiquit has been declining from 2011 to 2015. In conclusion, this study not only generated information critical to the adjustment of the conservation program for C. nipisiquit, but also indicated that the extirpation of this species from its natural range should remain a concern. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The transfusion reactions represents one of the major risks of transfusion therapy, regardless of the blood product used, whole blood, erythro-concentrate or frozen plasma. This paper presents the evolution of transfusion reactions and treatment of 60 dogs during the period 2014-2016 monitored in the Clinics of the Faculty of Veterinary Medicine in Bucharest. The clinical signs, CBC, biochemistry were observed for all dogs as the animals came to the clinics. The treatment provided has a base content of glucocorticoid mixture of drugs and complementary symptomatic therapy. The glucocorticoid therapy refers to the usage of hemi-succinate hydrocortisone at the beginning of each transfusion and at the administration of Prednisolone at the end. The glucocorticoid combo therapy was used in all transfusions, regardless of the product or sub-product of blood being used. For 70% of the cases was used whole blood, for 20% erythro-concentrate and for 10% plasma. The data processed using the parameters above shows a decreased number of transfusion reactions when used the glucocorticoid drug combo on the 50% of the case load in comparison to the other 50% which did not receive the glucocorticoid therapy prior to transfusion. This study shows that the glucocorticoid combo therapy might be helpful in a variety of cases in which the pathology presented allows the usage of glucocorticoid therapy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Traps baited with a sex attractant were used to determine if the invasive noctuid moth Hecatera dysodea (Denis & Schiffermüller, 1775) is generally distributed in the state of Idaho. The insect, which originated from Europe, utilizes species of Lactuca (lettuce) (Asteraceae) as a larval host. It was previously reported from northern Oregon and southern Washington but not the state of Idaho. The moth was subsequently captured in traps in six Idaho counties ranging from the south of the state near Utah to the north of the state in the panhandle area. A larva was also found on wild lettuce, Lactuca serriola L., near Boise, Idaho, and adults were captured in a light-trap near the southern border of the state. We conclude that the moth is generally distributed in the state at lower elevations where L. serriola is present. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A baculovirus, Cnaphalocrocis medinalis (Guenée) granulovirus (CnmeGV) was isolated from the infected caterpillars of the rice leaf folder, Cnaphalocrocis medinalis Güenée (Lepidoptera: Pyralidae) and was analyzed in biological and molecular characterizations. The occlusion body of CnmeGV was in ovoidal shape, with an average size of 384 x 211nm. Each occlusion body contained one single rod-shape virion with a mean size of 237 nm in length taband 39 nm in width. Occlusion body matrix analysis indicated that, despite the molecular weight of 31 kD granulins, there was another special protein lane for molecular mass about 14.5 kD. Phylogenetic analysis based on amino acid sequences of gran, lef-8, and lef-9 revealed that CnmeGV is grouped in the Betabaculovirus genus. Restriction endonuclease fragment analysis showed that the total genome size of CnmeGV was about 113 kb. Bioassay test at the concentration of 2.5×103 OBs/g of the CnmeGV showed the killing efficacy to different instar larvae ranged from 30.7 to 51.4% in 12 days and 54.8 to 71.3% in 18 days. The median lethal time ranged from 13.2 days in 1st instar larvae to 16.1 days in 3rd instar larvae at the same concentration. The results revealed a promising use of CnmeGV in the future as a potential microbial agent against the rice leaf folder. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Balkan Peninsula represents one of the hottest biodiversity spots in Europe. However, the invertebrate fauna of this region is still insufficiently investigated, even in respect of such well-studied organisms as Lepidoptera. Here we use a combination of chromosomal, molecular and morphological markers to rearrange the group of so-called anomalous blue butterflies (also known 'brown complex' of the subgenus Agrodiaetus Hübner, [1822] and as the Polyommatus (Agrodiaetus) admetus (Esper, 1783) species group) and to reveal its cryptic taxonomic structure. We demonstrate that P. aroaniensis (Brown, 1976) is not as widespread in the Balkans as was previously thought. In fact, it has a dot-like distribution range restricted to the Peloponnese Peninsula in South Greece. Polyommatus orphicus Kolev, 2005 is not as closely related to the Turkish species P. dantchenkoi (Lukhtanov & Wiemers, 2003) as was supposed earlier. Instead, it is a Balkan endemic represented by two subspecies: P. orphicus orphicus (Bulgaria) and P. orphicus eleniae Coutsis & De Prins, 2005 (Northern Greece). Polyommatus ripartii (Freyer, 1830) is represented in the Balkans by an endemic subspecies P. ripartii pelopi. The traditionally recognized P. admetus (Esper, 1783) is shown to be a heterogeneous complex and is divided into Polyommatus admetus sensu stricto (the Balkans and west Turkey) and P. yeranyani (Dantchenko & Lukhtanov, 2005) (east Turkey, Armenia, Azerbaijan and Iran). Polyommatus nephohiptamenos (Brown & Coutsis, 1978) is confirmed to be a species with a dotlike distribution range in Northern Greece. Finally, from Central Greece (Timfristos and Parnassos mountains) we describe Polyommatus timfristos Lukhtanov, Vishnevskaya & Shapoval, sp. n. which differs by its haploid chromosome number (n=38) from the closely related and morphologically similar P. aroaniensis (n=47-48) and P. orphicus (n=41-42). We provide chromosomal evidence for three separate south Balkan Pleistocene refugia (Peloponnesse, Central Greece and Northern Greece/South Bulgaria) and stress the biogeographic importance of Central Greece as a place of diversification. Then we argue that the data obtained have direct implications for butterfly karyology, taxonomy, biogeography and conservation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of SHILAP Revista de Lepidopterologia is the property of Sociedad Hispano-Luso-Americana de Lepidopterologia and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Copyright of SHILAP Revista de Lepidopterologia is the property of Sociedad Hispano-Luso-Americana de Lepidopterologia and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

The genus Pseudacrobasis is reviewed for China. Pseudacrobasis dilatata sp. n. is described as new and compared with P. tergestella (Ragonot, 1901). Images of adults and illustrations of genital structures are provided. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The U.S. National Park Service initiated a 10-year study of the Lepidoptera at White Sands National Monument, Otero County, New Mexico in late 2006. Arotrura landryorum sp. n., described here, was discovered in 2007, during the first year of the study. The male and female adult moths and genitalia are illustrated. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The population biology of adult Monarch butterflies ( Danaus plexippus) was studied during regular visits over three years (June-September 2013-15) at a milkweed ( Asclepias speciosa)-rich site in central Washington. Small numbers of spring migrants colonized the site during June 5-17 each year and produced two adult generations one in early July and the other in late July-August, increasing the population at the site until mid-late August in 2013 and 2014. Greatest numbers of adults occurred in late July and August (20-24 per hour). In 2015 the population fell substantially in early August apparently as a consequence of heat wave conditions in late June-early July adversely affecting survival of second generation immature stages. Mark, release and recapture provided maximum population estimates at the site of 160-190 males, a recapture rate of 25-32% and intervals between tagging and recapture of 5-39 days. Sex ratio was imbalanced in favor of males on all dates ranging from 57-100%. Males patrolling milkweed patches was the most common behavior observed. Nectaring on A. speciosa and the exotic Purple Loosestrife ( Lythrum salicaria) was frequently observed and the introduced Russian Olive ( Elaeagnus angustifolia) was used for resting during the day. Dispersal from the site occurred in late August or early September. The use of large, dense areas of milkweed in relatively moist locations with some shade may be an important component of summer breeding of D. plexippus in the arid western United States. Expanding and/or creating additional such sites may be a useful conservation strategy for D. plexippus in the arid west. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Busseola fusca (Fuller) (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae) is a stemborer pest that attacks maize ( Zea mays) throughout sub-Saharan Africa. Genetically modified maize has been shown to be effective against B. fusca. However, resistance of B. fusca against Bt-maize has developed and spread throughout South Africa. Previous studies suggested that gut microbiota contribute to mortality across a range of Lepidoptera. To fully assess the role of microbiota within the gut, it is essential to understand the microbiota harboured by natural B. fusca populations. This study aimed to identify the gut-associated bacteria by 16S rRNA gene sequencing. A total of 78 bacterial strains were characterised from the midgut of B. fusca larvae that were collected from 30 sites across the maize producing region of South Africa. Molecular phylogenetic analyses revealed bacteria affiliated to Proteobacteria, Actinobacteria, and Firmicutes. Taxonomic distribution placed these isolates into 15 different genera representing 20 species. The majority of bacteria identified belong to the genera Bacillus, Enterococcus, and Klebsiella. The B. fusca gut represents an intriguing and unexplored niche for analysing microbial ecology. The study could provide opportunities for developing new targets for pest management and contribute to understanding the phenomenon of resistance evolution of this species. Graphical Abstract: [Figure not available: see fulltext.] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Butterflies and moths exhibit a spectacular diver sity of wing shape and size. The extent of wing variation is particularly evident in wild silk moths (Saturniidae), which have large wing shape and size variation. Some species have jagged wing margins, rounded forewing apical lobes, or narrow hind wings with long tails, while others lack these traits entirely. Surprisingly, very little work has been done to formally quantify wing variation within the fa mily. We analyzed the hind wing shape and size of 76 saturniid species representing 52 genera across five subfamilies using geometric morphometrics. We identified fifteen landmarks that we predict can be applied to families across Lepidoptera. PCA analyses grouped saturniid hind wings into six distinct morphological clusters. These groups did not appear to follow species relatedness-some phylogenetically and genetically distantly related taxa clustered in the same morphological group. We discuss ecological factors that might have led to the extraordinary wing variation within Saturniidae. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Two-hundred-and-forty-eight species of moths were recorded during surveys conducted over 40 nights in Dehradun and Mussoorie in Dehradun District and Devalsari in Tehri Garhwal District in Uttarakhand. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Quantitative studies on the behavioral events involved in oviposition by phytophagous insects are scant. One of these events is drumming behavior, a rapid extension of forelegs after landing on a host, which remains largely under studied. In this study, quali- and quantitative analyses of Heliconius erato phyllis (Lepidoptera: Nymphalidae) oviposition events and drumming behavior in relation to both preferred ( Passiflora misera and P. suberosa) and non-preferred ( P. caerulea and P. alata) hosts were performed. For the first time, drumming behavior is described by images made during the butterfly oviposition process. The same set of females was assigned to both single- and multiple-choice tests under insectary conditions, and their behaviors toward each host were recorded on video. The resulting images were analyzed frame by frame. Both frequency and duration of behavioral events related to oviposition varied on preferred vs non-preferred hosts. On preferred hosts, behaviors that were associated with egg deposition (inspecting flight, drumming and abdomen touching) were pronounced; subsequently, oviposition occurred within a few seconds. On non-preferred host plants, behaviors that did not predict oviposition (flying and resting) predominated, and oviposition on these hosts was negligible. Drumming occurred on all plants and resulted in a faster decision-making process on high-quality hosts (prompt acceptance) as well as on lethal hosts (prompt rejection) compared to the host that confers poor larval performance (delayed rejection). Thus, drumming is crucial for decision-making related in host-plant selection by H. erato phyllis, and influences other behaviors involved in the oviposition process. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The seasonal variation of forewing size and shape was analyzed in adults of different seasonal generations of two polyvoltine species of whites: Pieris rapae and P. napi (Lepidoptera: Pieridae). Particular morphological features of the forewing are characteristic of each seasonal generation of adults independently of their sex and species. Adults of the spring generations have the smallest wings, elongate and pointed. Adults of the summer generation have the largest, broad and rounded wings over the entire summer season. Adults of the autumn generation have wings similar in shape and size to those of the summer generation, but somewhat smaller and more elongate. Differences between seasonal generations in forewing shape are linked to differences between adults of each generation in adaptation to dispersal. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Risk assessment for GMOs such as Bt maize requires detailed data concerning pollen deposition onto non-target host-plant leaves. A field study of pollen on lepidopteran host-plant leaves was therefore undertaken in 2009-2012 in Germany. During the maize flowering period, we used in situ microscopy at a spatial resolution adequate to monitor the feeding behaviour of butterfly larvae. The plant-specific pollen deposition data were supplemented with standardised measurements of pollen release rates and deposition obtained by volumetric pollen monitors and passive samplers. Results: In 2010, we made 5377 measurements of maize pollen deposited onto leaves of maize, nettle, goosefoot, sorrel and blackberry. Overall mean leaf deposition during the flowering period ranged from 54 to 478 n/cm (grains/cm) depending on plant species and site, while daily mean leaf deposition values were as high as 2710 n/cm. Maximum single leaf-deposition values reached up to 103,000 n/cm, with a 95 % confidence-limit upper boundary of 11,716 n/cm. Conclusions: Daily means and variation of single values uncovered by our detailed measurements are considerably higher than previously assumed. The recorded levels are more than a single degree of magnitude larger than actual EU expert risk assessment assumptions. Because variation and total aggregation of deposited pollen on leaves have been previously underestimated, lepidopteran larvae have actually been subjected to higher and more variable exposure. Higher risks to these organisms must consequently be assumed. Our results imply that risk assessments related to the effects of Bt maize exposure under both realistic cultivation conditions and worst-case scenarios must be revised. Under common cultivation conditions, isolation buffer distances in the kilometre range are recommended rather than the 20-30 m distance defined by the EFSA. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The tomato looper, Chrysodeixis chalcites (Esper) (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae), is a major pest that feeds on some fodder crops, vegetables, and ornamental plants in diverse plant families. We studied the effect of different cultivars of tomato including: Cal.JN3, Hed Rio Grande, Rio Grande UG, SUN 6108 f1, Super crystal, and Super strain B on the life history of C. chalcites under laboratory conditions (25±1 °C, 65±5% relative humidity, and 16:8 (light:dark hours). Data were analysed using the age-stage, two-sex life table method. Tomato cultivars had significant effects on developmental time of larvae, pupae, and total preadult stages of C. chalcites. The longest (17.39 days) and the shortest (13.93 days) larval period were observed on Hed Rio Grande and SUN 6108 f1, respectively. The longest pupal period was observed on Cal.JN3 (12.16 days) and Hed Rio Grande (12.11 days) compared with other cultivars. The lowest amount of larval growth index and rate of ovipositon days was observed on Cal.JN3. The results of this study revealed that Cal.JN3 and Hed Rio Grande were the less suitable cultivars to C. chalcites compared with other cultivars studied and can be used in integrated pest management programme of this pest. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

The article offers information related to entomology, highlighting further records concerning extra-seasonal moth flights in 2017. It mentions the author's contribution through his own two-pennyworth of similar records noted at his 125 watt, mercury vapour, Robinson pattern light trap dated in late 2017.

A cladistic analysis of twenty three species of the fourteen genera of the family Geometridae is performed using apomorphic characters scanned from whole body characters and male and female genitalia. A cladograme is also constructed and discussed the above species with their sister group and out group relationship. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Clanidopsis exausta (Butler) of the family Sphingidae first time redescribed from Pakistan with reference to its head components, venations of fore and hind wings and male genital component. The systematic position is also discussed with its apomorphies under the family Sphingidae. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The riodinid Rhetus belphegor (Westwood) (n. comb., previously in the genus Nirodia) is a critically endangered butterfly confined to the 'campos rupestres'; a high-altitude rocky outcrop vegetation from southeast Brazil. The aim of this study is to unveil its biology and evaluate its systematic position. Based on museum data and public contribution of data (in the context of citizen science), R. belphegor is restricted to the 'Espinhaço Mountain Chain', and occurs exclusively above 1000 m. Adults were found resting upside down on rock walls. Females searched for host plants during the hottest hours of the day, depositing 1-2 eggs on leaves of the herbaceous subshrub Microstachys serrulata (Euphorbiaceae). The non-myrmecophilous larvae developed through six instars and the developmental time from egg to adult was ~50 days. Larvae are covered with abundant setae. Morphology of immature stages and molecular phylogenetic analysis showed that Nirodia is part of Rhetus, justifying the generic change. Our data supports that Nirodia is the only species in its clade associated with high mountains, in contrast to its lowland congeners. The description of the immature biology and clarification on its systematic position are essential steps for the establishment of better and more effective conservation efforts for this magnificent Brazilian butterfly. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present paper is a continuation of the systematic list of Lepidoptera species preserved in the Collection of "Lucian Blaga" University of Sibiu. In the year 2000, it was published the Catalogue of this collection but only with partial data. After a new acquisition, the value of the collection increased. The present paper presents the updated systematic list of Suprafamily Noctuoidea -with Subfamily Pygaerinae (36 species), Herminiinae (11 species), Acontiinae (10 species), Psaphidininae (5 species), Stiriinae (44 species), Hadeninae (58 species), Noctuinae (37 species), and Family Lymantriidae (9 species). The total number of 211 species and 471 samples are presented with the data and place of collection, the number of samples and their sex. Their name was updated and the endangered degree is mentioned at all species according to ”Verzeichnis der Schmetterlinge Romäniens” (RÁKOSY et al., 2003). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper represents an important contribution to the knowledge of the Romanian butterfly heritage, thereby completing the literature faunal data of great interest for the values of the natural heritage. In the Lepidoptera collection of "Lucian Blaga" University-Sibiu, there are 1,017 samples, 660♂♂ and 357♀♀, belonging to 19 families, 334 genera, 572 species. The collection was acquired in 1998 from Lepidopterolog Levente Szekely from Braşov. The list of the 572 species renders the collecting data of each specimen, the altitude, the name of the collecting sites and the classification in geographical regions of Romania, as well as the degree of endangerment, which are of great documentary value. The systematic classification is updated according to Verzeichnis der Schmetterlinge Romäniens (RÁKOSY et al., 2003). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Lacinipolia vicina (Grote) species complex, previously consisting of L. vicina, L. teligera (Morrison), L. pensilis (Grote), and L. subalba Mustelin is revised to six species: L. vicina (eastern USA), L. teligera (southern Great Plains), L. pensilis (Pacific Northwest and northern Rocky Mountains), L. acutipennis (Grote), stat. rev. (= L. subalba syn. n.) (western North America), L. sareta (Smith), stat. rev. (Canada and western USA) and L. dimocki, sp. n. (California and Pacific Northwest). Lectotypes are designated for L. vicina, L. teligera and L. pensilis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A new species of Ogdoconta Butler (Lepidoptera, Noctuidae, Condicinae, Condicini) is described from the Patagonia Mountains, Santa Cruz County, Arizona, USA. Ogdoconta margareta sp. n., is related closely to Ogdoconta tacna (Barnes) from Texas. Modifications are proposed to a recently published key to the Ogdoconta species north of Mexico to allow identification of the new species. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]