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In the present study we have described four new species of Eucosmini (Tortricidae: Olethreutinae) namely Blastesthia umngotana sp. n., Rhopaltriplasia umiamensis sp. n., Zeiraphera mussoorieana sp. n. and Zeiraphera almoraensis sp. n. from India. The genera Blastesthia Obraztsov, 1960, Zeiraphera Treitschke, 1829 and Rhopaltriplasia Diakonoff 1973 are recorded for the first time from India. Descriptions and photographic illustrations of adult habitus, wing venation and genitalia are provided. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Lobesia botrana (Lepidoptera: Tortricidae) and Cryptoblabes gnidiella (Lepidoptera: Pyralidae) represent a threat to wine production in Mediterranean countries. In recent years, the development of new formulations promoted the spread of pheromone-based mating disruption (MD) as an effective tool for the management of several insect pests in different agricultural contexts. In this study, we investigated the efficacy of an experimental dispenser designed for simultaneous MD of these two pests. The biodegradable double-tube dispenser (Isonet® L CG-BIOX235) was tested for two years in two Italian wine-growing sites, the first in Apulia (Southern Italy), and the second in Tuscany (Central Italy). Isonet® L CG-BIOX235 efficacy was evaluated by testing different doses (i.e., 300, 400, and 500 dispensers/ha), on different varieties (i.e., Aglianico, Syrah, and Viognier), and comparing it with an untreated control. The MD performed using this dispenser significantly reduced the infestation of both L. botrana (i.e., percentage of infested bunches and number of nests per bunch) and C. gnidiella compared to the untreated control, although the occurrence of the latter fluctuated throughout the two-year trials. Overall, although our results underline the possibility of combining the pheromones of the two pests in a single dispenser for their simultaneous MD, they also highlight the need for further studies on some aspects of C. gnidiella biology and consequently improve the MD efficacy against this species. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Tortricidae is one of the largest families in Lepidoptera, including subfamilies of Tortricinae, Olethreutinae, and Chlidanotinae. Here, we assembled the gap-free genome for the subfamily Chlidanotinae using Illumina, Nanopore, and Hi-C sequencing from Polylopha cassiicola, a pest of camphor trees in southern China. The nuclear genome is 302.03 Mb in size, with 36.82% of repeats and 98.4% of BUCSO completeness. The karyotype is 2n = 44 for males. We identified 15412 protein-coding genes, 1052 tRNAs, and 67 rRNAs. We also determined the mitochondrial genome of this species and annotated 13 protein-coding genes, 22 tRNAs, and one rRNA. These high-quality genomes provide valuable information for studying phylogeny, karyotypic evolution, and adaptive evolution of tortricid moths. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

New data on 36 species of leafrollers (Lepidoptera, Tortricidae) collected during field trips in 2014–2021 in the Lower Volga Region are given. Six species are recorded as new to Volgograd Province, 5 species, to Astrakhan Province, 6 species, to Kalmykia, and 2 species, to the entire Volga Region. Images of the species recorded for the Volga Region for the first time are provided. Based on examination of the type material, the female genitalia of Cochylimorpha blandana (Eversmann, 1844) are described for the first time. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A two-year field study was carried out to evaluate the efficacy of mass-trapping of the codling moth, Cydia pomonella (L.) (Lepidoptera: Tortricidae), using newly designed light trap in reducing fruit damage in apple orchards. In both years (2020 and 2021), experiments were conducted in two apple orchards, one of which was located in Antalya (Elmalı) province and the other was located in Isparta (Senirkent) province (southwestern part of Turkey). For each of the two years, the study orchards were divided into two equal parts (plots), separating from each other by a guard row; in one of them (termed 'light trap plot'), newly designed light trap was tested and the traps were placed 30 m apart from each other along the outer rows of the plot just above the plant canopy (≈4 m from the ground), using galvanized metal poles. In the other plot (termed 'conventional plot'), conventional control system, based heavily relied on the use of synthetic insecticides, was applied for comparison. In weekly trap checks in the light trap plot of each orchard, total number of adult C. pomonella caught in each trap was recorded. The effectiveness of mass-trapping in reducing fruit damage was evaluated by comparing the percentages of weekly infestation in apple fruits (examining 100 randomly selected fruits on the trees) and the percentages of damaged fruits at harvest in both plots of each orchard. The results demonstrated that mass-trapping of adult C. pomonella using newly designed light trap was effective in reducing fruit damage in both years. Considering the yearly averages, in both 2020 and 2021 significantly lower fruit damages were observed in the light trap plot of the orchards in both Antalya (9.6 and 7.8%) and Isparta (8.8 and 7.3%) than in their conventional plots (10.2 and 9.4% in Antalya, 7.5 and 9.1% in Isparta, respectively). Mass-trapping adult C. pomonella using newly designed light trap seems to be an effective tool for the integrated pest management (IPM) of C. pomonella in apple orchards. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In adult Lepidoptera the labial palps are best known for their role in CO2 detection, but they can also bear sensilla chaetica which function is unknown. The number and distribution of sensilla chaetica in labial palps was studied using a bright field microscope. To determine if these sensilla have a gustatory function, we performed single sensillum electrophysiology recordings from palp and antennal sensilla of adult moths of Cydia pomonella (L.), Grapholita molesta (Busck) and Lobesia botrana (Denis and Shieffermüller). Each sensillum was stimulated with 3 doses of one of four test stimulus (sucrose, fructose, KCl and NaCl). Overall, responses (spikes/s−1) increased with dose, and were higher in the palps than in the antennae, and higher to sugars than to salts. With sugars the response increased with concentration in the palp but not in the antenna. With salts there was a drop in response at the intermediate concentration. The number and position of sensilla chaetica on labial palps was variable among individuals. Sensilla were located in the most exposed areas of the palp. Differences in sensilla distribution were detected between species. Such differences among species and between palps and antenna suggest that taste sensilla on the palps have an unforeseen role in adaptation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present study offers a comprehensive taxonomic revision of the genus Ophiorrhabda Diakonoff, 1966 with detailed redescriptions of four Indian species: O. cellifera (Meyrick, 1912), O. mormopa (Meyrick, 1906), O. harmonica (Meyrick, 1905) and O. philocompsa (Meyrick, 1921). Notably, O. harmonica and O. philocompsa represent new records for the Indian fauna. This work includes illustrative documentation of the Indian species of Ophiorrhabda, accompanied by identification keys. Furthermore, an updated checklist of fifteen globally recognized species within the genus Ophiorrhabda is provided, encompassing comprehensive information on type localities, synonyms, distribution, and host plants. This study significantly enhances the current understanding of Ophiorrhabda species diversity and distribution. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Thaumatotibia leucotreta (Meyrick) (Lepidoptera: Tortricidae) is a polyphagous insect pest native to sub-Saharan Africa. The larvae burrow into the fruit and feed on the pulp, thus inflicting huge direct (yield) and indirect losses (markets). Nevertheless, little is known about the mating frequency, behavior, and trade-off between fecundity and longevity of this pest. Therefore, this study aimed to determine the effect of mating status and frequency on fecundity, fertility, and female longevity of T. leucotreta; evaluate the trade-off between the female fecundity and longevity, and evaluate the spermatophore degradation in the bursa copulatrix. The first mating occurred 13 h on average after adult eclosion and the highest number of individuals were mated on the first-day post eclosion. Females mated frequently with an average of 6.3 mating occurrences. Fecundity was highest for females mated multiple times with the same male followed by those mated with different males. An increase in mating duration significantly increased the fecundity of females mated once with virgin males, while it decreased the fecundity of those mated once with the mated males. The number of eggs laid by females significantly increased with the increase in the number of matings and female longevity. The amount of resources invested by females for egg laying was thirty to seventy times higher than those used for survival, depending on the mating status. The spermatophore in bursa copulatrix was invisible 24 h after copulation. Our results contribute to a better understanding of the reproductive biology and demographic parameters of T. leucotreta. The findings of this study lay the foundation for the development of sound management strategies of this pest, such as the use of autodissemination technique, mating disruption, and sterile insect techniques. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The European grapevine moth, Lobesia botrana (Denis and Schiffermüller) (Lepidoptera: Tortricidae) is currently the most damaging pest in many viticultural regions across the Mediterranean basin and elsewhere. Its feeding activity also enhances the development of secondary infections by Botrytis cinerea - and other fungi - to wine grapes. The gram-positive bacterium Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) has been reported to partially control larval populations of L. botrana, while it requires to be digested by the insect to cause infection. Entomopathogenic fungi (EPF) are possibly capable of acting synergistically with Bt to increase its efficacy against insect pests. Results: The hypothesis of synergy or antagonism between Bt and EPF for the control of L. botrana was tested in two bioassays: A) Insects fed on Bt diet and subsequently some groups were sprayed by conidia of Beauveria bassiana or Paecilomyces fumosoroseus, and B) Grapes were sprayed by Bt, or B. bassiana, or combination of the two, and then untreated insects were placed to feed on the grapes. In both bioassays, combination treatments performed better than single treatments, indicating additive action or synergy. The Bt and B. bassiana combination treatment (Bt diet for 30 h and then sprayed with conidia of B. bassiana) resulted in 91% larval mortality while the single Bt and B. bassiana treatments caused 28% and 34% mortality respectively. Such results indicated synergism. Combination treatment on grapes also caused significantly higher mortality on L. botrana larvae, compared to single treatments. The median lethal time (LT50) was estimated as 8.43 days for the single Bt treatment, 7.87 days for the single B. bassiana treatment and 6.3 days for the combination Bt + B. bassiana treatment. Conclusions: Absence of antagonism as well as additive action or synergy were indicated by the results. Larval populations of the pest can be effectively controlled by using microbial biocontrol agents. Further research is needed to investigate the biotic and abiotic factors that affect interactions between insect hosts and entomopathogenic organisms. However, the entomopathogens used in the present study showed remarkable action and may be included parallelly in control strategies against vineyard pests. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Prediction of the geographic distribution of an exotic species in a new environment is an important element of risk assessment as it provides an assessment of the spatial scale of potential impacts and the range of ecosystems affected by the establishment of an exotic species. For a more complete risk assessment, however, information on how abundant the species is likely to become at specific locations within the predicted geographic distribution would allow a more detailed analysis of potential environmental and economic impacts. In this study an improved species distribution model for Epiphyas postvittana, an Australian leafroller, is developed and used to test for an abundance–suitability relationship based on survey data on its relative abundance in coastal California where it has become established as an exotic species. To better assess the current status of this exotic leafroller as a quarantine pest in California, the potential geographic distribution and its relative abundance are predicted for the conterminous United States. These analyses predict that E. postvittana would primarily be limited to the Pacific coastline with small pockets of less suitable environment supporting lower relative abundance on the east coast and in the southwest. This study also highlights the potential value of the core distribution from the CLIMEX species distribution model as a more informative metric of environmental suitability with respect to relative abundance, based on surveys of larval populations of E. postvittana at 30 different locations in coastal California. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The codling moth (CM), Cydia pomonella (L). (Lepidoptera: Tortricidae), is an important pest of apple in Turkey and other apple producing countries in the world. Several control methods are available for reducing the pest populations. Entomopathogenic nematode (EPNs), for example, can be used as a potential alternative to chemical insecticides to control codling moth larvae in the soil as eco-friendly management their hosts that can actively find them in cryptic locations. Results: Efficacy of 4 EPN isolates, Steinernema carpocapsae (Bakışlı), S. feltiae (ES-3), Heterorhabditis bacteriophora (TOK-20) and H. bacteriophora (11-KG) for controlling the 1st instar larvae of the codling moth (Cydia pomonella L.) was investigated under controlled laboratory conditions. Codling moth was susceptible to different rates to all the 4 EPN isolates. All nematode trials were more effective than the control (water). The overall mortality caused by S. carpocapsae (Bakışlı 05) was significantly higher than the other EPN species. S. carpocapsae was the most effective with the highest tested concentration (100 IJs/larva), killing 82.63% of codling moth larvae, followed by S. feltilae (ES-3), with a mortality rate of 71.5%. H. bacteriophora (TOK-20) exhibited the least mortality at 25 IJs/larva concentration in all experiments. Conclusion: The study proved that these nematodes were very efficient and could be used to control codling moth in biological control programs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present study was conducted in four central-southern Italian regions (Abruzzo, Campania, Molise, Puglia) in the years 2008 and 2016–2018, with the aim to verify in hilly areas characterized by the coexistence of vineyards and olive groves, the presence, frequency and density on olive trees of the larval instars of the European grapevine moth, Lobesia botrana on olive tree flowers, and to compare these parameters with those of other lepidopteran species as well. The sampling collection was conducted on the selected plots twice in each spring, during the phenological phase of flowering. The Lepidoptera larvae found in flower buds were identified through a chaetotaxy analysis. During samplings, 384 larvae belonging to three families (Geometridae, Tortricidae, and Praydidae) were found. The olive moth, Prays oleae, was by far the most abundant species (89.8% of the total collections) and was found in all samplings. L. botrana represented 8.2% of collected specimens and was found in all sampled fields, except in Molise during 2017. Prays oleae populations were significantly more abundant compared to L. botrana populations in all cases, except in Campania during 2017. The largest L. botrana populations were found in 2008 in Abruzzo olive groves, with 0.3 larvae per inflorescence, whereas in the other years and experimental fields the densities ranged between 0 and 0.14 larvae per inflorescence, from 3 to 24 times lower compared to P. oleae. At similar levels of infestation, L. botrana did not represent a harmful pest for olive trees; however, its presence cannot be considered occasional, as it has been found constantly, year after year, even on different olive cultivars. Kruscal-Wallis results showed significant differences among the olive orchards differently related with vineyards and suggests a direct link of L.botrana populations in olive groves and neighbouring vineyards. Olive trees located near vineyards can thus represent an important infestation focus and an insect reservoir, from which the first annual generation of L. botrana adult moths easily move and colonise the surrounding areas, including the neighbouring vineyards. Our results should be considered in IPM programmes for the control of L. botrana in those territories where vineyards and olive trees are closely cultivated. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study has been conducted in 2014 and 2015 in vineyards in Çermik district of Diyarbakır province where 'Mazruni' variety is grown commonly. Purpose of the study was to determine some control criteria of grapevine moth (Lobesia botrana Denis & Schiffermüller (Lepidoptera: Tortricidae)) such as the first sight of adults in nature, adult population fluctuations, active period of adults in nature, number of seeds and infestation rate of the European grapevine moth (Lobesia botrana Denis & Schiffermüller (Lep.: Tortricidae)) in vineyards. Conclusion of the study was that in both years, the first flight of L. botrana adults was observed in 6–14 April and the pest had three peaks a year (5–11 May, 29 June–7 July, 11–17 August). Furthermore, it was observed that the first peak coincided with flowering period (May, 1. generation), the second occurred during unripe grape period (June and July 2. generation), and the third coincided with the beginning of sweetening period (August, 3. generation). Adult flights of L. botrana ended on 12–20 October and it was determined that it was active for seven months in nature (mid-April to late October) and it completed 3 generations per year. The infestation rate of L. botrana was determined as 12% and 15% respectively for the two years in the vineyards of Bintaş village‑1 while the rates were only 10% and 18% in the vineyards of Bintaş village‑2. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The European grapevine moth, Lobesia botrana (Lepidoptera: Tortricidae), is a pest that has great potential to cause damage to vineyards. Considering that L. botrana is one of the major grapevine pests globally, it is essential to analyze the risk of its introduction and determine places with higher potential for the establishment of this pest. In this study, we highlighted the most prone regions in the world for the occurrence of L. botrana and its main host, Vitis vinifera, based on the bioclimatic and occurrence region for the pest and the crop, using ecological niche modeling with the MaxEnt algorithm. A survey was also made of the location of 3700 airports around the world, to emphasize the possible influx of people and material carrying the pest in different countries. The climatic variables that most influenced the establishment of L. botrana were annual average temperature, annual mean precipitation, and annual temperature variation. The regions with the greatest possibility of the occurrence of both species (L. botrana and V. vinifera) were those with average annual temperatures close to 13 °C, a mean annual precipitation between 600 and 700 mm, an annual temperature variation of approximately 28 °C, an average daily temperature range of 10 °C, and precipitation of approximately 20 mm in the coldest month. These characteristics are found in almost all vineyard regions globally. This study allowed us to determine the relationship between the environmental preferences of L. botrana and V. vinifera, making it possible to choose locations to focus on combatting the pest and implementing preventive actions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Entomopathogenic fungi often have wide host range and can be important biological control agents against the oriental fruit moth, Grapholita molesta (Busck) (Lepidoptera: Tortricidae), a significant pest of stone and pome fruits. The virulence of six entomopathogenic fungi, including three strains of Beauveria bassiana (Balsamo) Vuillemin (Hypocreales: Cordycipitaceae) (ARP14, GHA, A) and one strain each of Metarhizium robertsii Bischoff, Rehner, & Humber (Hypocreales: Clavicipitaceae), Metarhizium brunneum (Petch) (Hypocreales: Clavicipitaceae), and Isaria farinosa (Holmsk.) (Hypocreales: Cordycipitaceae) was assessed against first instars (< 5 h old) of G. molesta held in glass scintillation vials. Compared to commercialized strain of B. bassiana (GHA), B. bassiana ARP14, which was recovered from a cadaver of Riptortus pedestris (F.) (Hemiptera: Alydidae), killed first instar larvae 2.6 times faster at 12 h after exposure to 1 × 108 conidia/ml concentration at 95.9% RH and 25.4 °C. However, the mycosis rate after 14 days was similar to that of B. bassiana GHA in all treatments. Beauveria bassiana ARP14 also killed adult moths 2.7 (males) and 2.2 (females) times faster than did B. bassiana GHA, measured 168 h (7 days) after exposure. However, the mycosis rate after 14 days was similar from both fungi. In assay using three conidial concentrations (1 × 107, 1 × 108, and 1 × 109 conidia/ml) and three RHs levels (55, 75, and 95%). Mortality became higher as concentration and RH increase, but mycosis rate at 14 days wasn't significantly different among treatments. These results suggest that B. bassiana ARP14 can be a potential biological control agent against G. molesta. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Indigenous entomopathogenic nematode, Heterorhabditis pakistanensis, NBAIR H-05 strain was evaluated against diapausing larvae of the Codling moth, Cydia pomonella L. (Lepidoptera: Tortricidae) at 3 different dosages, i.e., at 15, 20, and 25 gm/ l of water in apple orchards at the district Kargil of Ladakh Region, India, during 2017 and 2018.Two year's pooled average density of diapausing ranged 34.6 to 56.8 larvae/trunk band before treatment, which declined ranging 43.85 to 86.27 % with respect to different treatments of entomopathogenic nematode at concentrations between 7.5 × 105 IJs to 1.25 × 106 IJs/tree. Percent reduction in larvae over control varied from 41.78 to 85.77% for 7.5 × 105 IJs and 1.25 × 106 IJs respectively. Two-year pooled data indicated larval mortality between 39.85 and 73.38% and 4.0 to 12.89% with respect to different treatments at 48 and 72 h respectively, with statistically significant difference (P = ˂ 0.001). Increase in dosage of nematode formulation from 15 gm to 25 gm resulted in increased larval mortality (r = 0.92**). Post wetting of trunk band after 24 h in each treatment resulted in significantly higher larval mortality than non-post wetting. There was non-significant difference (t = 0.83) between larval mortality with respect to treatments during 2017 and 2018. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Wolbachia are inherited intracellular bacteria that cause male-specific death in some arthropods, called male-killing. To date, three Wolbachia strains have been identified in the oriental tea tortrix Homona magnanima (Tortricidae, Lepidoptera); however, none of these caused male-killing in the Japanese population. Here, we describe a male-killing Wolbachia strain in Taiwanese H. magnanima. From field-collected H. magnanima, two female-biased host lines were established, and antibiotic treatments revealed Wolbachia (wHm-t) as the causative agent of male-killing. The wsp and MLST genes in wHm-t are identical to corresponding genes in the nonmale-killing strain wHm-c from the Japanese population, implying a close relationship of the two strains. Crossing the Japanese and Taiwanese H. magnanima revealed that Wolbachia genotype rather than the host genetic background was responsible for the presence of the male-killing phenotype. Quantitative PCR analyses revealed that the density of wHm-t was higher than that of other Wolbachia strains in H. magnanima, including wHm-c. The densities of wHm-t were also heterogeneous between host lines. Notably, wHm-t in the low-density and high-density lines carried identical wsp and MLST genes but had distinct lethal patterns. Furthermore, over 90% of field-collected lines of H. magnanima in Taiwan were infected with wHm-t, although not all host lines harboring wHm-t showed male-killing. The host lines that showed male-killing harbored a high density of Wolbachia compared to the host lines that did not show male-killing. Thus, the differences in the phenotypes appear to be dependent on biological and genetic characteristics of closely related Wolbachia strains. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The European grapevine moth, Lobesia botrana (Denis and Schiffermüller), is an important grape pest worldwide. To forecast how this species might respond to climate change has emerged as one major challenge in recent viticultural research. Predictions about L. botrana population dynamics under global warming scenario are usually derived from physiologically based demographic models (PBDMs). Despite their ecological realism, PBDMs are based on physiological equations derived from constant, unrealistic thermal regimes, and they exclude the effects of temperature on male's reproductive traits, which importantly mediates population dynamics in this species. Focused on Burgundy (a viticultural region of France), we compared the adult performance of L. botrana between the Current Fluctuating Regime (CFR) based on in situ meteorological data and the Future Fluctuating Regime (FFR) based on the outputs of climate models. Under controlled conditions complying to the scenario of local warming termed FFR, L. botrana individuals incurred reduced adult lifespan, while their body amounts of four major energetic components (proteins, lipids, glycogen, soluble carbohydrates) remained unchanged compared to individuals exposed to the CFR. Furthermore, each sex endured reproductive costs associated with local warming scenario: females incurred reduced mating success, and males bore decreased fertility (lower number of eupyrene sperms within spermatophore). Our results indicate that global warming should adversely impact the reproductive success of L. botrana and the local abundance of this pest. In terms of pest management, our findings might contribute to the increase in the ecological realism of PBDMs and improve the reliability of their predictions about the population dynamics of L. botrana. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The false codling moth (FCM), Thaumatotibia leucotreta (Meyrick) (Lepidoptera: Tortricidae), is an indigenous pest of citrus and other crops in sub-Saharan areas of Africa. The pest was first recorded in Israel in the 1980s and has remained at low population levels although extending its geographic range. The pest is difficult to detect without pheromone traps, but published information is conflicting about the optimal blend for male capture. In the present work, we used the SSGA method of sequential solid-phase microextraction gas chromatography–mass spectrometry analysis, in which the usual circadian pattern of pheromone release by insects is revealed and characterized. The SSGA method enabled the identification of 11 components that are emitted by female FCM specifically during the "calling" time which coincides with maximum pheromone emission. In addition, pheromone glands of 362 females of different ages in days after eclosion were dissected at the time of day when maximum pheromone emission occurs (SSGA results) in order to obtain the nanogram amounts of pheromone components necessary for identification and quantification. The component mixtures were tested using a subtraction method in both electroantennograms and field trials. The crucial pheromone components for optimal baits are E8-12:Ac and Z8-12:Ac in a ratio of 9:1. Our results suggest that a 1 mg blend of this pheromone inside a closed polyethylene vial, within an IPS trap placed as high as possible in the fruit tree, is suitable for monitoring. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

There are contrasting hypotheses regarding the role of plant volatiles in host plant location. We used the grape berry moth (GBM; Paralobesia viteana)-grape plant (Vitis spp.) complex as a model for studying the proximate mechanisms of long distance olfactory-mediated, host-plant location and selection by a specialist phytophagous insect. We used flight tunnel assays to observe GBM female in-flight responses to host (V. riparia) and non-host (apple, Malus domestica; and gray dogwood, Cornus racimosa,) odor sources in the form of plant shoots, extracts of shoots, and synthetic blends. Gas chromatography-electroantennographic detection and gas chromatography/mass spectrometry analyses were used to identify antennal-active volatile compounds. All antennal-active compounds found in grape shoots were also present in dogwood and apple shoots. Female GBM flew upwind to host and non-host extracts and synthetic blends at similar levels, suggesting discrimination is not occurring at long distance from the plant. Further, females did not land on sources releasing plant extracts and synthetic blends, suggesting not all landing cues were present. Additionally, mated and unmated moths displayed similar levels of upwind flight responses to all odor sources, supporting the idea that plant volatiles are not functioning solely as ovipositional cues. The results of this study support a hypothesis that GBM females are using volatile blends to locate a favorable habitat rather than a specific host plant, and that discrimination is occurring within the habitat, or even post-landing. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The establishment of Mastrus ridens Horstmann (Hym: Ichneumonidae) in New Zealand, from introductions in 2012–2015, was assessed in 2016. Two assessment techniques were used: (1) 10-cm wide corrugated cardboard trunk bands deployed throughout the summer and winter periods to catch wild codling moth larvae and their parasitoids; and (2) sentinel, laboratory reared, codling moth larvae, cocooned within narrow, 2-cm wide corrugated cardboard bands, deployed on a monthly rotation throughout the spring and summer. Trunk band recoveries showed at least a low rate of establishment of Mastrus ridens across the country. Mastrus ridens females attacked sentinel hosts from early spring (prior to pupation of wild hosts) until late autumn. This evidence for multi-voltinism (compared with one or two generations of their host) signals a potentially effective parasitoid. Four other codling moth parasitoids were also recovered frequently from either wild or sentinel codling moth larvae, with differences between regions. The extent to which they may disrupt or enhance biocontrol by M. ridens remains to be investigated. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Endosymbiotic bacterium Wolbachia interacts with host in either a mutualistic or parasitic manner. Wolbachia is frequently identified in various arthropod species, and to date, Wolbachia infections have been detected in different insects. Here, we found a triple Wolbachia infection in Homona magnanima, a serious tea pest, and investigated the effects of three infecting Wolbachia strains (wHm-a, -b, and -c) on the host. Starting with the triple-infected host line (Wabc), which was collected in western Tokyo in 1999 and maintained in laboratory, we established an uninfected line (W−) and three singly infected lines (Wa, Wb, and Wc) using antibiotics. Mating experiments with the host lines revealed that only wHm-b induced cytoplasmic incompatibility (CI) in H. magnanima, with the intensities of CI different between the Wb and Wabc lines. Regarding mutualistic effects, wHm-c shortened larval development time and increased pupal weight in both the Wc and Wabc lines to the same extent, whereas no distinct phenotype was observed in lines singly infected with wHm-a. Based on quantitative PCR analysis, Wolbachia density in the Wa line was higher than in the other host lines (p < 0.01, n = 10). Wolbachia density in the Wb line was also higher than in the Wc and Wabc lines, while no difference was observed between the Wc and Wabc lines. These results indicate that the difference in the CI intensity between a single or multiple infection may be attributed to the difference in wHm-b density. However, no correlation was observed between mutualistic effects and Wolbachia density. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study is the first attempt to elucidate the detailed function of the internal musculature of the phallus in Lepidoptera with respect to complementary female structures. Based on the examination of Eugnosta magnificana, a leaf-roller species with a large elaborate vesica (endophallus), the attachment points of the muscle bundles are described and their putative function is discussed. Some parts of the vesica (two large diverticula with cornuti) are not everted in living specimens, though their artificial eversion is possible after maceration with KOH. Direct observation of everted vesica of living moths showed that its large diverticula are capable of at least two movements: forth-and-back and flexion-extension. Hypothetical position of the internal male and female genitalia during copulation is proposed. It appears that the corpus bursae consists of two compartments with different functions: anterior for spermatophore digestion and posterior for interaction with the vesica. Some evidence of a stimulating function by non-deciduous cornuti was found. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The European grapevine moth, Lobesia botrana Den. & Schiff. (Lepidoptera: Tortricidae) and the gray rot fungus (Botrytis cinerea) are two important factors that cause elevated losses of productivity in vineyards globally. The European grapevine moth is one of the most important pests in vineyards around the world, not only because of its direct damage to crops, but also due to its association with the gray rot fungus; both organisms are highly detrimental to the same crop. Currently, there is no effective, economic, and eco-friendly technique that can be applied for the control of both agents. On the other hand, Metarhizium anisopliae belongs to a diverse group of entomopathogenic fungi of asexual reproduction and global distribution. Several Metarhizium isolates have been discovered causing large epizootics to over 300 insects' species worldwide. In this study, a simple design was conducted to evaluate the potential of native M. anisopliae isolates as one of biological control agents against L. botrana and as possible growth inhibitors to B. cinerea. Entomopathogenic fungal strains were isolated from arid soils under vine (Vitis vinifera) culture. Results suggest that the three entomopathogenic strains (CEP413, CEP589, and CEP591) were highly efficient in controlling larval and pupal stages of L. botrana, with mortality rates ranging from 81 to 98% (within 4-6 days). Also, growth inhibition over B. cinerea strains resulted in percentages ranged from 47 to 64%. Finally, the compatibility of the entomopathogenic strains, with seven commercial fungicides, was evaluated. The potential of the entomopathogenic fungal strains to act as control agents is discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Pheromone-mediated mating disruption (MD) is currently considered an effective strategy to control the European grapevine moth (EGVM), Lobesia botrana, with a successful interference on natural female calling during the male searching flight. However, little is known on the impact of the hour of the day on EGVM male flight. While various models forecasting the day of maximum presence of males per flight have been developed, field research on the male flight activity over 24 hours is scarce. Hence, we used video camera-assisted pheromone traps to allow a continuous monitoring of EGVM flights over daylight and night hours, quantifying captures of males. Experiments were carried out in three vineyards located in northern Spain over two years (2016 and 2017). Results showed that EGVM flight mainly occurred between 21:00 and 23:00 h (GMT+1, daylight saving time). Furthermore, male catches significantly differed over the study year, annual flight period and vineyard. Most of the dispensers used worldwide for EGVM MD continuously release the main sex pheromone component [(7E,9Z)-7,9-dodecadien-1-yl acetate], except for some automatic devices releasing puffs of sex pheromones at selected time intervals. The findings presented here can be useful to optimize the MD technique, identifying selected time intervals when the release of EGVM synthetic pheromones can be concentrated, boosting MD efficacy against this important pest, minimizing the release of synthetic sex pheromone molecules in the environment and reducing application costs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Pheromone-mediated mating disruption (MD) is widely used as a control tool to manage the European grapevine moth (EGVM), Lobesia botrana. Most of the MD formulations are “passive” reservoir dispensers, which need to be used at a rather large number of units per hectare. A promising alternative is represented by automatic aerosol devices, releasing pheromone puffs at programmed time intervals. Herein, we investigated the effectiveness of MD aerosol product Isonet® L MisterX841 in reducing EGVM infestation on grape in comparison to the reference MD product Isonet® L and the grower’s standard. Experiments were carried out over 2 years in two different study sites of Aragon region (Spain). EGVM male catches were monitored using traps baited with the female sex pheromone. The effectiveness of MD formulations against the three generations of EGVM was assessed by determining the percentage of infested bunches and the number of nests per bunch. As expected, a much greater amount of male catches in the grower’s standard over Isonet® L MisterX841 and Isonet ® L was observed. No significant differences about EGVM male catches were found in vineyards where Isonet® L MisterX841 and Isonet® L were used. EGVM-infested bunches, as well as number of nests per bunch, were higher in the grower’s standard, if compared to vineyards where we tested Isonet® L MisterX841 and Isonet® L. However, the employ of the latter led to a lower EGVM bunch infestation, if compared to Isonet® L MisterX841. Overall, the MD approach proposed here is effective against EGVM. These aerosol devices require a lower number of units per hectare if compared to hand-applied dispensers, saving labor costs and contributing to reduce plastic disposal in agricultural settings. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The development of environmentally sustainable control strategies to fight insect pests is a key challenge nowadays. Pheromone-mediated mating disruption (MD) is based on the release of synthetic sex attractants into a crop, interfering with mate finding of a given pest species. However, a limited number of research items have been published on the optimization of MD strategies against the European grapevine moth, Lobesia botrana, as well as on the use of biodegradable dispensers to reduce waste production in vineyards, despite the high economic importance of this pest. Therefore, the present study evaluated the efficacy of the MD products Isonet® L TT and the biodegradable Isonet® L TT BIO, applied at various densities, in reducing L. botrana damage on grapevine in comparison to an untreated control and the reference MD product Isonet® L. Experiments were conducted in three different areas of grapevine cultivation, located in Central and Northern Italy, over three different years. Our MD approach allowed a reliable control of the three generations of L. botrana during the whole grape growing season, leading to a significant reduction in the infested flower clusters and bunches, as well as in the number of nests per flower cluster and bunch, if compared to the untreated control. The performances of Isonet® L TT BIO, Isonet® LTT, and Isonet® L did not differ in terms of infested flower clusters/bunches, as well as nests per flower cluster/bunch. This was confirmed in all experimental sites over 3 years of field experiments. Overall, the present research provides useful information for the optimization of MD programs against L. botrana, highlighting the interesting potential of biodegradable pheromone dispensers that can be easily applied at low densities in vineyards, reducing the use of chemical pesticides to control moth pests. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In moths, sexual behavior combines female sex pheromone production and calling behavior. The normal functioning of these periodic events requires an intact nervous system. Neurotoxic insecticide residues in the agroecosystem could impact the normal functioning of pheromone communication through alteration of the nervous system. In this study we assess whether sublethal concentrations of the neonicotinoid insecticide thiacloprid, that competitively modulates nicotinic acetylcholine receptors at the dendrite, affect pheromone production and calling behavior in adults of three economically important tortricid moth pests; Cydia pomonella (L.), Grapholita molesta (Busck), and Lobesia botrana (Denis & Schiffermüller). Thiacloprid significantly reduced the amount of calling in C. pomonella females at LC (a lethal concentration that kills only 1 in 10 individuals), and altered its calling period at LC, and in both cases the effect was dose-dependent. In the other two species the effect was similar but started at higher LCs, and the effect was relatively small in L. botrana. Pheromone production was altered only in C. pomonella, with a reduction of the major compound, codlemone, and one minor component, starting at LC. Since sex pheromones and neonicotinoids are used together in the management of these three species, our results could have implications regarding the interaction between these two pest control methods. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Binary and ternary combinations of volatile organic compounds identified earlier from caterpillar-infested apple foliage caught more than one thousand individuals of both sexes of several adult tortricid leafroller species in several days of trials conducted in apple orchards in southern British Columbia. A series of combinations with phenylacetonitrile, benzyl alcohol, and/or 2-phenylethanol and acetic acid enabled substantial catches of both sexes of eye-spotted budmoth, Spilonota ocellana, oblique-banded leafroller, Choristoneura rosaceana and three-lined leafroller, Pandemis limitata. These findings suggest that new monitoring aides can be developed to seasonally track populations, enabling practical applications in surveillance of female leafroller populations for the first time. It may also be possible to develop suppression tools based on combinations of kairomone compounds originally identified from leafroller larval-damaged apple trees, given the level of attraction. The discovery of these adult tortricid attractants (aromatic compounds plus acetic acid) raises new ecological questions about evolved direct plant defences against herbivores. Larval feeding-induced attraction of adult herbivores produces signals that are potentially harmful to the plant by increasing herbivory in the same family and probably feeding guild, but evidence for effects on plant fitness is needed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Non-crop habitat adjacent to crops may be important for enhancing the activity of natural enemies in crops. However, it is not always clear whether natural enemies that are active in non-crop habitats actually contribute to pest suppression in adjacent crop habitats. We hypothesised that parasitic wasps that utilise the same hosts can be segregated between crop and non-crop habitats in an agro-ecosystem. We tested this hypothesis using the light brown apple moth, Epiphyas postvittana (Walker) (Lepidoptera: Tortricidae), in vineyards and adjacent native vegetation. We experimentally measured the parasitism rate of larval E. postvittana at six and eight sites in both vineyards and the adjacent native vegetation in two consecutive years. Wild larval Tortricidae were also collected at each experimental site to assess their diversity and related parasitoids. Parasitised hosts were then identified using a PCR-based protocol to examine the parasitoids' host ranges. The parasitoid Therophilus unimaculatus (Turner) (Hymenoptera: Braconidae) was most active in non-crop native vegetation, whereas Dolichogenidea tasmanica (Cameron) (Hymenoptera: Braconidae) parasitised the most larvae in vineyards. Parasitism of E. postvittana by D. tasmanica was higher on grape than on plantain, which indicates that host plants influence activities in different habitat. Both species shared the same range of tortricid hosts. Overall, our results indicate the two key parasitoids that attack E. postvittana differ in their pattern of habitat use. The native vegetation adjacent to crops may not enhance the activity of some natural enemies for pest control in an agricultural ecosystem. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The European grapevine moth, Lobesia botrana (Denis & Schiffermüller) (Lepidoptera: Tortricidae) is one of the most harmful insect pests of grape species in many countries. The purpose of this study was to find a safe and effective microbial control agents against L. botrana. Pathogenicity of 4 bacterial, 12 fungal and 4 viral agents was tested on the 3rd instar larvae of L. botrana. Results showed that one strain of Bacillus thuringiensis (MnD) had the highest mortality (100%) on the larvae within 3 days of treatment. On the other hand, 93% mortality and mycosis with Metarhizium anisopliae (Gg-12) and 90% mortality with Chilo iridescent virus (CIV) were determined on the larvae of the pest. The findings indicate that B. thuringiensis (MnD), M. anisopliae (Gg-12) and C. iridescent virus (CIV) are considered suitable microbial control agents against L. botrana larvae. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study investigated the volatile emission from apple ( Malus x domestica Borkh ., cv. Golden Delicious) foliage that was either intact, mechanically-damaged, or exposed to larval feeding by Pandemis heparana (Denis and Schiffermüller) (Lepidoptera: Tortricidae). Volatiles were collected by closed-loop-stripping-analysis and characterized by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry in three time periods: after 1 h and again 24 and 48 h later. Volatiles for all treatments also were monitored continuously over a 72-h period by the use of proton transfer reaction - time of flight-mass spectrometry (PTR-ToF-MS). In addition, the volatile samples were analyzed by gas chromatography-electroantennographic detection (GC-EAD) using male and female antennae of P. heparana. Twelve compounds were detected from intact foliage compared with 23 from mechanically-damaged, and 30 from P. heparana-infested foliage. Interestingly, six compounds were released only by P. heparana-infested foliage. The emission dynamics of many compounds measured by PTR-ToF-MS showed striking differences according to the timing of herbivory and the circadian cycle. For example, the emission of green leaf volatiles began shortly after the start of herbivory, and increased over time independently from the light-dark cycle. Conversely, the emission of terpenes and aromatic compounds showed a several-hour delay in response to herbivory, and followed a diurnal rhythm. Methanol was the only identified volatile showing a nocturnal rhythm. Consistent GC-EAD responses were found for sixteen compounds, including five aromatic ones. A field trial in Sweden demonstrated that benzyl alcohol, 2-phenylethanol, phenylacetonitrile, and indole lures placed in traps were not attractive to Pandemis spp. adults, but 2-phenylethanol and phenylacetonitrile when used in combination with acetic acid were attractive to both sexes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Entomopathogenic fungal isolates Beauveria bassiana (Balsamo) Vuillemin (Hypocreales: Cordycipitaceae) strain G Ar 17 B3 and Metarhizium anisopliae (Metchnikoff) Sorokin (Hypocreales: Clavicipitaceae) strain FCM Ar 23 B3 have been identified as effective control agents of the important citrus pest Thaumatotibia leucotreta (Meyrick) (Lepidoptera: Tortricidae) wandering fifth instars under laboratory conditions. This study is the first report on the ability of these isolates to persist and reduce T. leucotreta infestation in commercial citrus orchards in South Africa. A reduction in pest infestation of between 28 and 82 % upon trial completion was reported. Both isolates were recovered from soil samples collected five months post-application with high host density and moderate to high soil moisture favouring recovery. Low soil moisture negatively influenced the persistence of both isolates and the control efficiency of B. bassiana. These results provide evidence and support for the future use of these isolates against T. leucotreta thus warranting further investigation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Many phytophagous insects are agricultural pests, and control methods require accurate monitoring and decisions based on the determination of population age structure. The reproductive output (fecundity, egg size and percent egg hatch) is a central life history trait because it determines the offspring number, and temporal oviposition patterns are of primary importance in conditioning larval hatching and the occurrence of later larval instars in time. In turn, these phenomena determine the window for natural enemy attack and thus impact the context of biological control programmes. In addition, for most phytophagous insects, the quality of the host plants that larvae consume determines the insects' reproductive output. The purpose of the present study was to determine whether the number of eggs laid, egg size and egg hatch percentage vary with female age and the cultivar on which females develop as larvae, as well as the temporal effects of these parameters. This determination was performed in laboratory experiments where larvae were reared on artificial diets based on dried fruits of seven cultivars. Our results showed that the cultivars had a significant effect on female temporal oviposition. Independent of the food tested, the numbers of oviposited eggs, their size and percent egg hatch decreased with daily oviposition rank. Such temporal patterns must be incorporated in age-structured mathematical models used in the design of control strategies. Temporal oviposition and variation in egg quality traits will also be useful in biological control programmes, especially when based on egg or larval parasitoids, which is thus discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The objective of this study was to investigate the effects of the ban of Gusathion (azinphosmethyl) as insecticide in Swedish apple orchards on tortricid moth population density and tortricid-induced crop damage. In addition, the effects on growers' management strategies, such as choice of spraying dates and alternative insecticide combinations, were studied. Populations of Adoxophyes orana, Archips podana, Archips rosana, Cydia pomonella, Pandemis heparana, Hedya nubiferana, and Spilonota ocellana were monitored using sex-pheromone traps during the four consecutive seasons of 2008-2011, with annual crop damage estimates made prior to harvest. Azinphosmethyl was banned after 2008. Significantly increasing population densities were observed in A. orana, A. podana, C. pomonella, and H. nubiferana, whereas correspondingly increasing crop damage was observed only in the case of C. pomonella. The growers' management strategies, with respect to number and timing of spray applications, did not change during the study period although the insecticides available after the ban were less persistent and more specific, i.e., either with primarily ovicidal or larvicidal effect. Analysis of a broad range of factors showed that temperatures during winter and spring, number and timing of insecticide applications, and usage of azinphosmethyl in 2008 were important factors affecting population size and the damage caused by the tortricid species studied. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Parthenium hysterophorus (Asteraceae: Heliantheae) (parthenium weed), one of the most aggressive terrestrial weeds, has wide-ranging negative impacts on crop and animal production, biodiversity conservation, and human and animal health in Africa, Asia and Australia. In 2010, South Africa imported the biological control agent, Epiblema strenuana (Lepidoptera: Tortricidae), into quarantine for testing. It is one of the most widespread and damaging agents to have established on parthenium weed in Australia and China. However, it was rejected in India for completely developing on Guizotia abyssinica (Asteraceae: Heliantheae) during laboratory testing. Although G. abyssinica is not cultivated in South Africa, if E. strenuana were to be released here, there are concerns that the moth could readily reach East Africa (where G. abyssinica is an important native commercial oil crop in some countries) due to its dispersal ability and broad host acceptance across several genera. As a matter of responsibility, initial host-range testing in South Africa focussed on determining the susceptibility of selected Ethiopian cultivars of G. abyssinica. Under no-choice conditions, E. strenuana completed development on only one of five test cultivars. However, significant larval feeding damage was recorded on all cultivars. During multiple-choice studies, E. strenuana did not complete development on any of the cultivars, and significantly reduced larval feeding damage was recorded as compared to damage in no-choice tests. Larval development studies showed gall formation and adult eclosion on four cultivars. The interpretation of these results concluded with a decision by South African researchers in 2012 to deprioritise E. strenuana as a potential biological control agent, at least until its host range and potential impact on non-target species in Africa were resolved through field host range trials in Australia. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In Lepidoptera, males transfer a spermatophore to females containing sperm and accessory gland secretions that are reinvested into female reproduction, providing a fitness gain to females. One of the key factors shaping male spermatophore size is certainly the resources that males have acquired as larvae. In this study, we investigate how male larval food contributes to shaping the spermatophore quantity and quality and how it affects female reproduction in the European grapevine moth ( Lobesia botrana). Specifically, we examined the effect of male origin (cultivar or geographical site) on their mating success by scoring individual motivation to mate, male spermatophore size and amount of sperm, and finally female fecundity and fertility. A strong effect of larval cultivar was found on spermatophore size and amount of fertilizing sperm produced by males. These male characteristics had important repercussions on female reproductive output. Females mating with males producing the biggest spermatophore and more fertilizing sperm were the most fecund and fertile. Finally, females were able to recognize males of different quality during the precopulatory phase and changed their mating behavior accordingly. The present results suggest that male nutritional quality could have an important implication for population dynamics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The second and third generations of Lobesia botrana can cause both yield losses and spreading of grape bunch rots. The aim of this study was to know to what degree these generations of L. botrana influence the rots at harvest time. The study was carried out in two grape-growing areas of northeastern Italy where the moth completes two and three generations per year, respectively. In the context of 12 insecticide trials, samplings were conducted in different plots to estimate the number of larval nests of the second and third generations and that of rotten berries at harvest time. The data sets (number of larval nests and rotten berries) from the different trials were submitted to regression analyses. Gray mold was the most important grape rot. The second generation, in the area where L. botrana has only two generations per year, and the third generation, in the area where the moth completes three generations per year, can favor gray mold on and around berries bored by larvae. In contrast, groups of rotten berries non-contiguous to larval nests did not appear to be influenced by moth activity. In the area where the moth completes three generations per year the larval nests of the second generation did not show a significant influence on bunch rots at harvest time. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sexual communication in the Lepidoptera typically involves a female-produced sex pheromone that attracts males of the same species. The most common type of moth sex pheromone comprises individual or blends of fatty acyl derivatives that are synthesized by a specific enzymatic pathway in the female's pheromone gland, often including a desaturation step. This reaction is catalyzed by fatty acyl desaturases that introduce double bonds at specific locations in the fatty acid precursor backbone. The two tortricid moths, Ctenopseustis obliquana and C. herana (brown-headed leafrollers), which are endemic in New Zealand, both use ( Z)-5-tetradecenyl acetate as part of their sex pheromone. In C. herana, ( Z)-5-tetradecenyl acetate is the sole component of the pheromone. Labeling experiments have revealed that this compound is produced via an unusual Δ5-desaturation of myristic acid. Previously six desaturases were identified from the pheromone glands of Ctenopseustis and its sibling genus Planotortrix, with one differentially regulated to produce the distinct blends used by individual species. However, none were able to conduct the Δ5-desaturation observed in C. herana, and presumably C. obliquana. We have now identified an additional desaturase gene, desat7, expressed in the pheromone glands of both Ctenopseustis species, which is not closely related to any previously described moth pheromone desaturase. The encoded enzyme displays Δ5-desaturase activity on myristic acid when heterologously expressed in yeast, but is not able to desaturate any other fatty acid (C8-C16). We conclude that desat7 represents a new group of desaturases that has evolved a role in the biosynthesis of sex pheromones in moths. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The host-acceptance and oviposition behaviours of Mastrus ridens Horstmann (Hymenoptera: Ichneumonidae) on cocooned codling moth ( Cydia pomonella (Linnaeus) (Lepidoptera: Tortricidae) and non-target tortricid larvae were characterised. Acceptance appeared to result from analysis of kairomones in the silken cocoon and not from the size or movement of the larva within. No larva of three non-target species ( Planotortix octo Dugdale, Grapholita molesta (Busck) and Cydia succedana (Denis & Schiffermüller)) was recognised by M. ridens, but a few larvae of Ctenopseustis obliquana Walker and Argyroploce chlorosaris Meyrick were accepted and eggs laid. Scanning electron micrographs of antenna and the ovipositor sheath revealed sensilla likely to be involved with host recognition. It appears that a female M. ridens can only locate a host within a habitat by encountering specific, contact chemical cues and by acoustical sounding. Generally, New Zealand’s native insects are not at risk because they are simply not recognised as possible hosts. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Survival in the laboratory of Mastrus ridens Horstmann (Hymenoptera: Ichneumonidae) reared on larvae of Cydia pomonella (Linnaeus) (Lepidoptera: Tortricidae) and five species of non-target Tortricidae was compared. Clutch size (numbers of eggs per host larva) and survival were higher on codling moth than on non-target species, and most adults reared from non-target larvae were smaller. F 2 generation M. ridens adults reared on Argyroploce chlorosaris Meyrick and Cydia succedana (Denis and Schiffermüller) larvae were also small, with a sex ratio skewed to males. Few parasitoids survived, and they did not appear to have adapted to the non-target species on which their parents were reared. When M. ridens eggs were immediately removed from venom paralysed larvae, no codling moth larvae but most non-target larvae died within a few days. It is suggested that the host-paralysing venom of M. ridens is adapted to ensure the survival of codling moth larvae and is lethally maladapted to non-target species, such that it might be possible to determine ectoparasitoid host range by biochemical or physiological tools that characterise venom or prey response, respectively. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Archips atrolucens, Adoxophyes privatana, and Homona sp. are serious defoliators of citrus trees in the Mekong Delta of Vietnam. In order to establish a sustainable pest-management program for the three species, their female-produced sex pheromones were investigated by GC-EAD and GC-MS analyses, and the following multi-component pheromones were identified: ( Z)-11-tetradecenyl acetate (Z11-14:OAc), ( E)-11-tetradecenyl acetate (E11-14:OAc), and tetradecyl acetate (14:OAc) in a ratio of 64:32:4 for A. atrolucens; Z11-14:OAc and ( Z)-9-tetradecenyl acetate (Z9-14:OAc) in a ratio of 92:8 for A. privatana; and Z11-14:OAc and ( Z)-9-dodecenyl acetate (Z9-12:OAc) in a ratio of 96:4 for Homona sp. Each lure baited with synthetic components as a mimic of the natural pheromone attracted males of the target species specifically, indicating that each monounsaturated minor component plays a significant role for mating communication and reproductive isolation of the three species inhabiting the same citrus orchards. In an extract of the pheromone glands of A. atrolucens females, the content of 14:OAc was very low, but a synergistic effect was observed clearly when the saturated compound was mixed at the same level as the E11-14:OAc. The synthetic lures will provide useful tools for monitoring flights of adults of the three species. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

After identifying 114 microsatellite loci from Choristoneura fumiferana expressed sequence tags, 87 loci were assayed in a panel of 11 wild-caught individuals, giving 29 polymorphic loci. Further analysis of 20 of these loci on 31 individuals collected from a single population in northern Minnesota identified 14 in Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The influence of precocene II, an antijuvenile agent, on the development of adult antennae in the large fruit-tree tortrix A. podana Scop. was demonstrated. Treatment of the fifth instar larvae and prepupae with different doses of precocene proved to cause different sensitivity of the specimens to the juvenile hormone deficit. Treatment with 450 and 600 μg precocene per specimen during the first days after ecdysis to the fifth instar caused the death of larvae. Treatment with 300, 450, and 600 μg per specimen on the third day of the fifth instar larvae and prepupae caused a delay in the development of adult antennae. The results are discussed with respect to the role of the juvenile hormone in the development of imaginal structures during metamorphosis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Two novel general odorant-binding protein (GOBP) cDNAs ( GmolGOBP1 and GmolGOBP2) were cloned and characterized from female antennal tissue of the oriental fruit moth, Grapholita molesta. We focused our investigation on this olfactory protein family by using reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) and rapid amplification of cDNA ends-PCR (RACE-PCR). The full-length open reading frames of GmolGOBP1 and GmolGOBP2 were 492 and 483 nucleotides long, which encode 164 and 161 amino acid residue peptides, respectively. Protein signature analyses revealed that they each contained six conserved cysteines with an N-terminal signal sequence of 20 amino acids. The alignment of the two deduced protein sequences with other Lepidoptera GOBPs showed high sequence similarity (70-80 %) with other full-length sequences from GenBank. Sequence similarity between the two GOBPs was only 48 %, suggesting that the two proteins belong to different classes of lepidopteran GOBPs. RT-PCR analysis revealed that the two GOBP genes were expressed only in antennae of both sexes. Real-time PCR analysis further indicated that the transcript level of GmolGOBP1 was higher in males than in females, whereas the transcript level of GmolGOBP2 was higher in females than in males. Temporally, the two GOBP genes were expressed during the complete photoperiod (15L:9D). The highest transcript levels of GmolGOBP1 in both sexes and GmolGOBP2 in females were detected at the end of photophase and during scotophase. The expression of GmolGOBP2 in males remained at similar levels during the complete photoperiod. Based on these results, the possible physiological functions of GmolGOBPs are discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Plant volatiles play an important role in the lives of phytophagous insects, by guiding them to oviposition, feeding and mating sites. We tested the effects of different host-plant volatiles on attraction of Lobesia botrana males to the female-produced sex pheromone, in a wind tunnel. Addition of volatile emissions from grapevines or individual plant volatiles to pheromone increased the behavioral responses of L. botrana males over those to pheromone alone. At a low release rate (under-dosed) of pheromone, addition of ( E)-β-caryophyllene, ( Z)-3-hexenyl acetate, 1-hexanol, or 1-octen-3-ol increased all behavioral responses, from activation to pheromone source contact, while addition of ( E)-4,8-dimethyl-1,3,7-nonatriene, ( E)-β-farnesene, ( Z)-3-hexenol, or methyl salicylate affected only the initial behavioral responses. Dose-response experiments suggested an optimal release ratio of 1:1000 (sex pheromone: host plant volatile). Our results highlight the role of plant volatiles in the sensory ecology of L. botrana. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Mating disruption is a valuable tool for the management of pest lepidopteran species in many agricultural crops. Many studies have addressed the effect of female pheromone on the ability of males to find calling females but, so far, fewer have addressed the effect of pheromone on the mating behavior of females. We hypothesized that mating of female moth species may be adversely affected following sex pheromone auto-exposure, due to abnormal behavioral activity and/or antennal sensitivity. Our results indicate that, for Grapholita molesta and Pandemis pyrusana females, copulation, but not calling, was reduced following pre-exposure to sex pheromone. In contrast, for Cydia pomonella and Choristoneura rosaceana, sex pheromone pre-exposure did not affect either calling or copulation propensity. Adaptation of female moth antennae to their own sex pheromone, following sex pheromone auto-exposure, as measured by electroantennograms, occurred in a species for which identical exposure reduced mating success ( G. molesta) and in a species for which such exposure did not affect mating success ( C. rosaceana). These results suggest that pre-exposure of female moths of certain species to sex pheromone may further contribute to the success of pheromone-based mating disruption. Therefore, we conclude that, in some species, mating disruption may include a secondary mechanism that affects the mating behavior of female moths, in addition to that of males. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We determined the nucleotide sequence of the mitochondrial genome (mtgenome) of Spilonota lechriaspis Meyrick (Lepidoptera: Tortricidae). The entire closed circular molecule is 15,368 bp and contains 37 genes with the typical gene complement and order for lepidopteran mtgenomes. All tRNAs except tRNA can be folded into the typical cloverleaf secondary structures. The protein-coding genes (PCGs) have typical mitochondrial start codons, with the exception of COI, which uses the unusual CGA one as is found in all other Lepidoptera sequenced to date. In addition, six of 13 PCGs harbor the incomplete termination codons, a single T. The A + T-rich region contains some conserved structures that are similar to those found in other lepidopteran mtgenomes, including a structure combining the motif 'ATAGA', a 19-bp poly(T) stretch and three microsatellite (AT) elements which are part of larger 122+ bp macrorepeats. This is the first report of macrorepeats in a lepidopteran mtgenome. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The composition of the sex pheromone gland of the lightbrown apple moth, Epiphyas postvittana (Walker) was re-investigated. In addition to the two previously identified compounds, ( E)-11-tetradecenyl acetate (E11-14Ac) and ( E,E)-9,11-tetradecadienyl acetate (E9E11-14Ac), seven additional candidate pheromone compounds were identified: ( E)-11-tetradecen-1-ol (E11-14OH), tetradecyl acetate, hexadecanal, ( E)-11-hexadecenyl acetate (E11-16Ac), hexadecyl acetate, octadecanal, and octadecyl acetate. Gas chromatographic-electroantennographic detection analysis showed that only four (of the nine) compounds (E11-14OH, E11-14Ac, E9E11-14Ac, and E11-16Ac) elicited electrophysiological responses. When either E11-14OH or E11-16Ac were tested at various ratios in three-component blends with both E11-14Ac and E9E11-14Ac, no increase in trap catch was observed compared to that to the previously identified binary blend. However, when these two compounds (1% E11-14OH and 0.5% E11-16Ac) were both added to E11-14Ac and E9E11-14Ac, trap catch was roughly double that to the previously identified binary blend alone. The new four-component blend should be more sensitive for detecting this economically important insect, especially in low population areas (i.e., in newly invaded habitats). In addition, this new blend may enhance pheromone control of this pest, through approaches such as mating disruption, lure and kill, and mass trapping. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The influence of sterilizing doses of X-radiation on the formation of adult antennae during the pupa period of development of Archips podana was studied. We found a change in the number of coeloconic and auriculate sensilla in those imago whose pupae were exposed to radiation. A slow-down in the process of antennae formation at the pupal stage was registered after the irradiation of instar five larvae and newly formed pupae. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]