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Bacterial wilt, caused by Ralstonia pseudosolanacearum (Rpsol) and R. solanacearum (Rsol), poses a significant challenge to solanaceous plant cultivation worldwide, particularly in tropical and subtropical regions. Even though Brazil is recognized as one of the centres of origin and diversity of Rsol, in certain regions of this large country there is an emerging prevalence of Rpsol in production fields. Therefore, this study aimed to comprehensively investigate the adaptive traits of Rpsol and Rsol using a polyphasic approach. A diverse collection of isolates from both species was assessed for their physiological, biochemical, ecological and pathogenic traits. Rsol isolates demonstrated greater adaptability to a broader range of temperature, salinity and pH. They also exhibited enhanced abilities in biofilm formation and bacteriocin production. Conversely, Rpsol isolates exhibited a broader utilization of carbon sources and displayed a wider spectrum of resistance to inhibitory substances. Moreover, they demonstrated higher infectivity towards different solanaceous hosts, showing a faster invasion and colonization process in the roots and stems of tomato plants compared to Rsol isolates. Based on our findings, we concluded that Rsol exhibited greater physiological and ecological adaptability, while Rpsol showed greater pathogenic and biochemical adaptability. These results suggest that the coexistence of both species is maintained through a balance of distinct traits within each species. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim An extensive survey was done to clarify the prevalent Stemphylium species on Solanaceae plants across Brazil, and their host ranges. Methods and Results Eighty nine (89) Stemphylium isolates were obtained from naturally infected tomatoes as well as S. paniculatum , potato, eggplant, scarlet eggplant (Solanum aethiopicum var. gilo), Physalis angulata , and Capsicum species. Phylogenetic analyses encompassing the ITS-5.8S rDNA and glyceraldehyde-3-phosphate dehydrogenase genomic regions placed the isolates into two distinct groupings with either Stemphylium lycopersici or S. solani. Isolates of S. lycopersici (n  = 81) were obtained infecting tomato, potato, eggplant, S. paniculatum , and P. angulata. Isolates of S. solani (n  = 8) were detected in natural association with scarlet eggplant and tomato. Two isolates of S. lycopersici displayed a wide experimental host range in greenhouse bioassays, infecting accessions of 12 out of 18 species. Ocimum basilicum (Lamiaceae) was the only experimental host outside the Solanaceae family. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Stachytarpheta is mainly distributed in Brazil, where the knowledge of species richness is still in progress. Here, we describe S. meninii, a new micro‐endemic species from the Diamantina Plateau, Espinhaço Range. It is a shrub that can reach up to 1.8 meters in height, with abundant pedicellate glandular trichomes, viscous, aromatic leaves, inflorescences with oblong‐triangular bracts, and blue corollas, with a tube that is barely exserted from the calyx. The new species has been recorded from two gatherings from the same locality in the municipality of Serro, Minas Gerais state, and can be considered Critically Endangered (CR). Illustrations and a distribution map are provided for the recognition of S. meninii, along with an identification key for species of the genus found in Diamantina Plateau. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The particular plant species found in southern Brazil, Vassobia breviflora (Solanaceae) has only a few apparent studies examining its biological effect. Thus, the aim of the present study was to determine the activity of the acetone extract fraction derived from V. breviflora. Four compounds were identified by ESI-qTOF-MS: eucalrobusone R, aplanoic acid B, pheophorbide A, and pheophytin A. In addition, 5 compounds were identified by HPLC-PDA-MS/MS: all-trans-lutein, 15-cis-lutein, all-trans-β-carotene, 5,8-epoxy-β-carotene, and cis-β-carotene. Cell lines A549 (lung cancer), A375 (melanoma cancer) and HeLa (cervical cancer) were incubated with different concentrations of each studied extract using 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide (MTT), lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), and 2'−7'dichlorofluorescin diacetate (DCFH-DA) assays. The acetonic extract exhibited cytotoxic activity at a concentration of 0.03 mg/ml in the HeLa strain and 0.1 mg/ml in the others. In addition to increased production of reactive oxygen species (ROS). Antibacterial activity was assessed utilizing minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) and minimum bactericidal concentration (MBC) in 9 ATCCs strains and 7 clinical isolates, as well as determination of biofilm production. Data demonstrated that MIC and MBC were approximately 256 mg/ml in most of the strains tested and antibiofilm effect at S. aureus, S. epidermidis, A. baumannii, and E. faecalis, concentrations below the MIC. Genotoxic activity on plasmid DNA did not produce significant elevated levels in breaks in the isolated genetic material. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Physalis peruviana (Solanaceae), originating from the Andean region of South America, is an exotic plant cultivated in Brazil that produces edible fruit. Five viruses have been reported to naturally infect the Physalis plants in Brazil, of which, two have been drawing attention for the severity of their infections: sobemovirus, physalis rugose mosaic virus (PhyRMV) and orthotospovirus, groundnut ringspot virus (GRSV). This study aimed to evaluate the effects of single and double infections of PhyRMV and GRSV on the development, yield and postharvest fruit characteristics of P. peruviana plants. We found that both viruses caused severe systemic symptoms in infected plants, and double infection even led to plant death. Plant height and aerial dry weight were significantly affected by PhyRMV and GRSV infections. Double‐infected plants were the most affected, exhibiting average height and aerial dry weight reductions of 70.9% and 89.7%, respectively. Moreover, PhyRMV‐ and GRSV‐infected plants showed average fruit yield reductions of 66.4% and 85.2%, respectively, compared to healthy plants. Notably, double‐infected plants did not produce any fruit. The fruits produced by infected plants were smaller than those produced by healthy plants. Viral infections also affected postharvest characteristics, such as titratable acidity, total soluble solids (°Brix), phenolic compound concentration and antioxidant activity. Both viruses affected the pulp firmness and palatability, but not the colour of the fruits. Therefore, effective disease management strategies against these viruses are necessary to prevent economic losses. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Bemisia tabaci (Gennadius) (Hemiptera: Aleyrodidae) Middle East-Asia Minor 1 (MEAM1) and Mediterranean (MED) were reported as the sole vectors for tomato severe rugose virus (ToSRV), the prevalent begomovirus infecting tomato (Solanum lycopersicum L., Solanaceae) in Brazil. To improve our understanding on the interactions between B. tabaci and ToSRV, we studied the effects of the virus on the performance of MEAM1 and MED. Comparing adults' performance on non-infected and ToSRV-infected tomato plants, the number of hatched eggs and emerged adults decreased for both MEAM1 and MED in infected tomato plants. However, the negative effect was more evident for MED, where the emergence of adults was reduced by 90% on ToSRV-infected tomatoes. In addition, the developmental time and percentage survival of MED on ToSRV-infected plants were severely affected compared to non-infected plants, while no differences were observed for MEAM1. Preference assays showed that non-viruliferous MEAM1 adults preferred to settle on non-infected plants in initial times (from 1 h to 6 h) but did not show preference between non-infected and infected plants in other evaluated times (from 12 h to 72 h). Viruliferous MEAM1 adults did not show a preference for either ToSRV-infected or non-infected plants. In contrast, MED non-viruliferous and viruliferous adults preferred to settle on non-infected plants compared to ToSRV-infected tomato plants. Our results indicate that ToSRV differently influences the performance and behavior of the whitefly species MEAM1 and MED, negatively interfering with the life parameters of MED. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Improving species delimitation and knowledge on species complexes is crucial for many areas of study in Biology, especially conservation. Integrative taxonomy contributes to this topic by using different approaches to better delineate taxonomic boundaries. Metternichia (Solanaceae), historically a monospecific genus, has a geographic range that comprises contrasting environments. Metternichia principis was described as having two varieties: the typical variety, found in the humid forests of eastern Brazil (Atlantic Forest region), and M. principis var. macrocalyx, which presents a larger calyx and inhabits mostly semi-arid areas (Caatinga region). In this study, we tested the validity of such groups by integrating environmental, phenological, morphometric, and palynological data; applying uni- and multivariate tests; and evaluating the conservation status of each taxon. Our results support the recognition of two morphological groups within Metternichia, largely in agreement with the original circumscription of the varieties. Multivariate analyses clearly indicate different ecological niches, with each taxon inhabiting environments with distinct mean annual precipitation and temperature. Phenological data show some differences between the varieties regarding months with the highest number of flowering and fruiting records. In general, M. principis var. macrocalyx presents larger flower and pollen characters, and smaller fruit characters compared to the typical variety. Based on these findings, we elevate the variety to the status of species, as the new combination Metternichia macrocalyx. Following IUCN guidelines, both taxa are here preliminarily considered endangered (EN). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Physalis peruviana L. (physalis) has significant economic potential by virtue of the unique flavor of its fruit. However, the productivity of Brazilian plantations is low because of the limited number of varieties or cultivars available. The main obstacle in the selection of superior genotypes is the lack of information about genetic variability within- and between- populations and limited genetic basis that has likely resulted from evolutionary, domestication and selection processes of the natural or artificial populations. Physalis currently cultivated in Brazil is tetraploid, and such polyploidy may have led to the reproductive isolation of the species, preventing the occurrence of intraspecific hybridization. Moreover, cultivated populations derive from a common gene pool and have undergone a long process of domestication and selection carried out empirically by farmers. In Colombia and other Andean countries there are wild populations that exhibit genetic diversity which; although, fundamental for the conservation of the species, have low potential for the development of genotypes with superior agronomic traits. In order to create and expand the genetic variability of physalis, breeders have employed various strategies including induction of mutation, chromosome duplication, and interspecific and intraspecific hybridization. Furthermore, the production of double haploid lines from in vitro anther cultures has shown good results in the selection of hybrids. The mutant genotypes and/or hybrids obtained using these methods in association with those of wide genomic selection can generate cultivars with superior agronomic traits. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Lepidaploa estevesiana (Asteraceae) is a new species from the northern Mantiqueira range in the Atlantic Forest domain, in Minas Gerais and Espírito Santo states, Brazil. This new species grows in tropical highland grasslands and rock outcrops, from 1.700–2.200 m a.s.l. Lepidaploa estevesiana is described based on morphological evidence, and differs by its leaves, inflorescences, involucral bracts, and corolla. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This contribution describes biological and molecular features of an isolate of the chrysanthemum stem necrosis orthotospovirus (CSNV) found naturally infecting sweet pepper plants (Capsicum annuum L.). High‐throughput sequencing resulted in three contig sequences of 2948, 4829 and 8959 nucleotides for CSNV‐Ca small, medium and large RNAs, respectively. They shared 98.4%, 99.3% and 99.1% nucleotide identities, respectively, with the corresponding nucleotide sequences of a CSNV isolate from Slovenia. The virus was mechanically transmitted to sweet pepper and some additional test plants, and RT‐PCR confirmed the infection with specific primers for CSNV. Additionally, transmission electron microscopic analysis of ultrathin sections prepared from symptomatic sweet pepper fruit tissue showed orthotospoviruses‐like particles in elements of the endoplasmic reticulum. Studies are needed to evaluate the occurrence of CSNV infecting sweet pepper in commercial crops, to assess yield damage and develop recommendations for management. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cestrum axillare poisoning causes significant economic losses in farms of ruminant production due to a fatal acute hepatic disease. The consumption of C. axillare occurs on farms or pastures with a scarcity of feed or with dry forage. Epidemiological, clinical, and pathological data of poisoning outbreaks by C. axillare from 1953 to 2021 in grazing ruminants in southeastern Brazil are reported. A total of 68 bovines, two buffaloes, and two goats exhibited clinical signs and resulted in death due to C. axillare consumption, with 79% of the cases occurring during the dry period. Clinical signs were apathy, anorexia, ruminal arrest, arched back, and constipation with hard stools, sometimes with blood or mucus. Cases with neurological signs due to hepatic encephalopathy showed excitement, aggressiveness, drooling, staggering, and muscle tremors. The pathological findings included hepatocellular necrosis in the liver and microcavitations in the brain's white matter (status spongiosus). The hepatotoxins, carboxyparquin and parquin, were detected in C. axillare leaf samples collected from paddocks grazed by cattle in three southeastern Brazilian municipalities where outbreaks of C. axillare poisoning occurred. This is the first report of parquin and carboxyparquin in C. axillare. [Display omitted] • Cestrum axillare is a cause of centrilobular hepatocellular necrosis in ruminants. • This is the first report of the hepatotoxins, carboxyparquin and parquin, in Cestrum axillare. • Spontaneous poisoning occurred in cattle, buffalo and goats, mainly in the Southeast region of Brazil. • 79% of the poisoning outbreaks occurred during the dry season, during which C. axillare supports green leaves. • To prevent severe losses, it is essential to plan for supplemental herd nutrition in ruminants during the dry season. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Four new species of Mandevilla from inselbergs in Espírito Santo, Brazil are described, including illustrations, and maps. Mandevilla declinata resembles M. crassinoda but differs by leaf blades acuminate to long acuminate and longer corolla. Mandevilla fornograndensis is distinguished from morphologically similar species by its yellow corolla. Mandevilla mysteriosa is morphologically similar to M. lucida but differs by its longer petioles, leaf blade characters, shorter corolla tube, and smaller anthers; Mandevilla obovata resembles M. hatschbachii, but it is separated by its puberulent leaves, longer sepals, and white corolla. An informal evaluation of the conservation status according to IUCN guidelines is proposed for each species: M. declinata (VU: D2), M. fornograndensis (VU: D2), M. mysteriosa (VU: D2), and M. obovata (VU: B1ab(i,ii,iii)+2ab(i,ii,iii)). A key to the species of Mandevilla in Espírito Santo is included. Quatro novas espécies de Mandevilla são descritas dos inselbergs do estado do Espírito Santo, Brasil, incluindo ilustrações e mapas. Mandevilla declinata assemelha-se a M. crassinoda, diferindo pelas lâminas foliares acuminadas a longamente acuminadas e corola mais longa. Mandevilla fornograndensis distingue-se de espécies morfologicamente semelhantes pela sua corola amarela. Mandevilla mysteriosa é morfologicamente semelhante a M. lucida, mas difere desta pelos pecíolos mais longos, caracteres das lâminas foliares, tubo de corola mais curto e anteras menores. Mandevilla obovata assemelha-se a M. hatschbachii, mas é diferenciada por suas folhas puberulentas, sépalas mais longas e corola branca. A avaliação informal do estado de conservação de cada espécie foi realizada de acordo com os critérios da IUCN: M. declinata (VU: D2), M. fornograndensis (VU: D2), M. mysteriosa (VU: D2), and M. obovata (VU: B1ab(i,ii,iii)+2ab(i,ii,iii)). É apresentada uma chave para identificação das oito espécies de Mandevilla do Espírito Santo. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background – Waltheria marielleae is a new species of Malvaceae endemic to north-eastern Brazil that occurs only in the states of Pernambuco and Alagoas, in areas of Atlantic Forest and Caatinga. It is characterized by cinereous leaves, axillary and sessile to subsessile inflorescences, pallid yellow corollas with apically eciliate petals and fan-plumose stigmas. Material and methods – DNA was extracted from leaf tissue and the markers matK, ndhF, and ITS were amplified using universal primers, with PCR products purified and sequenced. Phylogenetic analysis was performed, including DNA sequences obtained from GenBank. Morphological studies were based on the analysis of specimens deposited in seven herbaria and specimens collected in Pernambuco state, Brazil. Results – Waltheria marielleae is morphologically and phylogenetically related to pantropical W. indica and W. ackermanniana, with these three species forming a well-supported clade. Overall, phylogenetic molecular analysis suggests the monophyly of Waltheria, with the two currently proposed sections also being monophyletic, and Melochia as its sister group. The new species is assessed here as Endangered, according to IUCN criteria. In addition, we formally present new occurrences of W. ackermanniana and W. rotundifolia. Conclusion – In this study, a complete morphological description, illustration, distribution map, and phylogenetic tree are provided for Waltheria marielleae. This species is compared with morphologically and phylogenetically related species (W. ackermanniana, W. indica, and W. rotundifolia) and an identification key to the species occurring in Alagoas and Pernambuco is provided. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Using a next–generation sequencing (NGS) approach, we identified a gemycircularvirus (Genomoviridae) in association with foliar samples of open–field tomatoes in Brazil. The viral ssDNA genome (2,189 nucleotides) was amplified and Sanger–sequenced. BLASTn and sequence demarcation tool (SDT) analyzes showed that the virus from tomato shares 99% identity with a virus tentatively named as plant–associated genomovirus 12 from Larrea tridentata (Zygophyllaceae). SDT analyzes of a wide array of Genomoviridae sequences indicated this virus as a member of the genus Gemycircularvirus. This the first report of a gemycircularvirus in natural association with a species of the Solanaceae. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Lycianthes, comprising approximately 200 species, is one of the largest genera of the Solanaceae family. The taxonomy of the genus is considered difficult, and for more than a century its species were included in Solanum. Despite its relative diversity, Lycianthes has only a small number of diagnostic characters and has accumulated nomenclatural and systematic problems throughout its history, reflecting its great similarity with Solanum. Information concerning the genus in Brazil is still scarce, and the present work was designed to provide a taxonomic treatment and revisionary study of the Brazilian members of Lycianthes. The circumscriptions of the species presented here are based on evaluations of more than 700 specimens from both Brazilian and foreign herbaria and the examination of types and images from virtual herbaria. Lycianthes is represented in Brazil by 12 species belonging to Lycianthes subgenus Polymeris, with three subordinate sections (Lycianthes sects. Asaropsis, Simplicipila, and Eupolymeris). We provide keys to separate the three sections and the 12 Brazilian species of Lycianthes and include synonymy, typification, updated descriptions, distributions, and illustrations of all treated species. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Capsicum L. (tribe Capsiceae, Solanaceae) is an American genus distributed ranging from the southern United States of America to central Argentina and Brazil. The genus includes chili peppers, bell peppers, ajíes, habaneros, jalapeños, ulupicas and pimientos, well known for their economic importance around the globe. Within the Solanaceae, the genus can be recognised by its shrubby habit, actinomorphic flowers, distinctive truncate calyx with or without appendages, anthers opening by longitudinal slits, nectaries at the base of the ovary and the variously coloured and usually pungent fruits. The highest diversity of this genus is located along the northern and central Andes. Although Capsicum has been extensively studied and great advances have been made in the understanding of its taxonomy and the relationships amongst species, there is no monographic treatment of the genus as a whole. Based on morphological and molecular evidence studied from field and herbarium specimens, we present here a comprehensive taxonomic treatment for the genus, including updated information about morphology, anatomy, karyology, phylogeny and distribution. We recognise 43 species and five varieties, including C. mirum Barboza, sp. nov. from São Paulo State, Brazil and a new combination C. muticum (Sendtn.) Barboza, comb. nov.; five of these taxa are cultivated worldwide (C. annuum L. var. annuum, C. baccatum L. var. pendulum (Willd.) Eshbaugh, C. baccatum L. var. umbilicatum (Vell.) Hunz. & Barboza, C. chinense Jacq. and C. frutescens L.). Nomenclatural revision of the 265 names attributed to chili peppers resulted in 89 new lectotypifications and five new neotypifications. Identification keys and detailed descriptions, maps and illustrations for all taxa are provided. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Speciation begins with the isolation of some individuals or subpopulations due to drivers promoting a diverging genetic distribution. Such isolation may occur, followed by different processes and pressures. Isolation‐by‐distance (IBD), isolation‐by‐adaptation (IBA), and isolation‐by‐colonization (IBC) have been recognized as the main divergence patterns. Still, it is not easy to distinguish which one is the main pattern as each one may act at different points in time or even simultaneously. Using an extensive genome coverage from a Petunia species complex with coastal and inland distribution and multiple analytical approaches on population genomics and phylogeography, we showed a complex interplay between neutral and selective forces acting on the divergence process. We found 18,887 SNPs potentially neutral and 924 potentially under selection (outlier) loci. All analyses pointed that each subspecies displays its own genetic component and evolutionary history. We suggested plausible ecological drivers for such divergence in a southernmost South Atlantic coastal plain in Brazil and Uruguay and identified a connection between adaptation and environment heterogeneity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Floral shape and size play a role in plant diversification and reproductive isolation. Different floral forms can rise by selective pressures by pollinators/ecological constraints and/or genetic drift. Nicotiana (Solanaceae) has c. 82 currently recognized species grouped in 13 sections. Nicotiana forgetiana and N. alata belong to section Alatae and present different floral traits related to their primary pollinators. These species co-occur in a region of plant endemism in southern Brazil marked by a mosaic between open grasslands and Araucaria forest. Here, we conducted a population-level sampling across the range of N. forgetiana and combined geometric morphometric analyses and ecological niche modelling to shed light on the patterns underlying intraspecific floral shape variation. Corolla shape and size varied significantly across the geographical distribution of N. forgetiana and ' rastroensis ', a putative new species. These floral shape differences were related to variations in temperature, precipitation and elevation. We also observed a range of intermediate floral traits in two populations, and our results of geometric morphometric analyses reveal morphological overlap between N. alata and N. forgetiana. Moreover, we found that habitat suitability for both species was impacted by past climatic oscillations, with severe reduction for N. forgetiana during the Last Glacial Maximum. We discuss the results to shed light on the evolution of N. forgetiana. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Population genetic structure results from the interaction between historical events, current ecological conditions and life traits. The genetic structure and gene flow between populations are important to species dynamics, mainly for rare and endangered species that are more vulnerable to landscape changes and fragmentation. Here we evaluated the genetic diversity, population structure and gene exchange in Petunia bonjardinensis , P. reitzii and P. saxicola , three rare species endemic to subtropical highland grasslands in southern South America. We analysed the genetic diversity and structure considering historical events, such as founder effect and climate changes, and biological traits of each species. We also estimated the conservation status for these three species. We collected samples from all adult individuals and occurrence sites that could be found at the same flowering season and genotyped them for 13 nuclear microsatellite markers. Our results indicate that rarity is probably historical for these species, given that we found no genetic evidence for recent bottlenecks. Petunia bonjardinensis , with the largest occurrence area and population sizes, displayed the higher diversity indices. The other two showed lower genetic diversity and are geographically most restricted. Gene exchange among these species was low, although they share some ancestral genetic polymorphism. Historical migration, founder effects and Pleistocene climate cycles ae the main factors explaining genetic diversity, and this was also influenced by reproductive biology and recent habitat loss, whereas the landscape influences the structure. Based on IUCN criteria, the three species are endangered, and the main risk for their survival is probably anthropic activity in the occurrence area. We recommend an urgent programme for the preservation of these species in situ and ex situ. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Septoria leaf spot, caused by Septoria lycopersici, is considered one of the most important diseases of tomato in Brazil. Despite its importance, the disease agent is still poorly studied. Septoria isolates collected from different production regions of Brazil were characterized by molecular, morphological, and pathogenic methods. A set of 104 isolates was sequenced for the DNA Tub, Cal, and EF1‐α loci. Ten isolates were selected, according to geographical region of origin and type of leaf lesion (typical or atypical), for morphological characterization and for evaluation of aggressiveness on tomato cultivar Santa Clara. To evaluate the pathogen host range, cultivated and wild Solanaceae plants were inoculated with four selected isolates. The results showed that all isolates grouped with the type isolate of S. lycopersici in maximum likelihood and Bayesian inference trees. The isolates were morphologically similar. All isolates selected for pathogenicity testing on tomato were able to induce typical symptoms of the disease, but differed in their aggressiveness. A total of eight species of Solanaceae were also identified as potential alternative hosts for S. lycopersici. This information will provide a more accurate assessment of the risks involved with the introduction of new crops, especially of the genus Solanum, in areas where the species is already present. In addition, it will provide the basis for the establishment of more efficient methods in the management of Septoria leaf spot of tomatoes in natural conditions and in the different production systems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Tomato severe rugose virus (ToSRV) is predominant among the more than 20 tomato-infecting begomoviruses reported in Brazil after the invasion of Bemisia tabaci Middle East-Asia Minor 1 (= biotype B) in the early 1990s. ToSRV is currently detected in association and/or displacing other begomoviruses in major tomato-producing areas. The prevalence of ToSRV across many ecogeographical regions is yet elusive. This peculiar ToSRV feature can be partially explained by its large number of alternative hosts, including those not yet characterized. Here, isolates of ToSRV were characterized in four new natural hosts, including Pachyrhizus erosus (Fabaceae), Solanum betaceum (section Pachyphylla, Solanaceae), S. torvum (section Torva, Solanaceae), and Oxalis latifolia (Oxalidaceae family). These results reinforce the notion that the wide host range of ToSRV may play relevant biological and epidemiological roles in explaining the geographical dispersion and large frequency of this virus in tomato crops in the Neotropics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nicotiana gandarela Augsten & Stehmann (Solanaceae), sp. nov., a small 'tobacco' known only from one locality at Serra do Gandarela, in the state of Minas Gerais, Brazil, is described and illustrated. It is morphologically characterized by its rosulate basal leaves, red corolla with a short tube not inflated at the apex, and the peculiar habitat, a shaded site under a rocky outcrop ledge along a forested stream. Phylogenetic analyses based on a combined dataset of nuclear (ITS) and plastid (ndhF, trnLF, and trnSG) DNA sequences revealed that the species belongs to the Nicotiana sect. Alatae and is sister to the clade with the remaining species in the section. A key for the identification of Brazilian species of the section is given. The unusual habitat, the small population size, and the intense pressure of mining activities in the surroundings made the species assessed as Critically Endangered (CR), needing conservation efforts to avoid its extinction. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim: To report the characterization of 120 Alternaria isolates inducing early blight‐like foliar lesions in nine species of five Solanaceae genera collected across all macrogeographical Brazilian regions. Material and Results: Phylogenetic relationships were assessed via analyses of the Alternaria alternata allergenic protein‐coding, glyceraldehyde‐3‐phosphate dehydrogenase and the calmodulin gene sequences. Most of the tomato isolates were placed into the Alternaria linariae cluster, whereas most of the potato isolates were grouped with Alternaria grandis. Novel host–pathogen interactions were also reported. Seventeen isolates were selected for morphometrical characterization, and a subsample of 13 isolates was employed in pathogenicity assays on tomato, potato, eggplant, scarlet eggplant, Capsicum annuum, Datura stramonium, Physalis angulata and Nicotiana tabacum. Eleven isolates were able to induce foliar lesions in tomatoes but none in C. annuum. Potato was susceptible to a subgroup of isolates but displayed a subset of isolate‐specific interactions. Morphological traits were in overall agreement with molecular and host range data. Conclusion: Alternaria linariae and A. grandis were confirmed as the major causal agents of tomato and potato early blight, respectively. However other Alternaria species are also involved with early blight in solanaceous hosts in Brazil. Significance and Impact of the Study: The diversity and host‐specific patterns of the Alternaria isolates from Solanaceae may have practical implications in establishing effective early blight genetic resistance and cultural management strategies especially for tomato and potato crops. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Root-knot nematodes (Meloidogyne spp.) are responsible for economic losses in various crops across the world. Meloidogyne enterolobii was first found in Brazil on guava in 2001 and spread rapidly, causing loses in many other plant species as well as vegetables such as tomatoes, Capsicum species, lettuce, and sweet potato. Meloidogyne enterolobii is also known to affect plant hybrids that contain resistance genes to other major Meloidogyne species. The objective of this research was to identify sources of resistance to M. enterolobii in Solanum stramonifolium and S. scuticum with the potential to be used as rootstocks for cultivated crops in the Solanaceae family. Twenty-nine accessions of S. scuticum and seven of S. stramonifolium were evaluated. Tomato cultivars 'Rutgers' and 'Nemadoro' (standard for M. javanica, M. incognita, and M. arenaria) were used as susceptible and resistant controls, respectively. The experiment was conducted in a greenhouse in a completely randomized design with six replications. Plants were grown in plastic pots containing 1.5 L of substrate and then inoculated with 5,000 eggs and second-stage juveniles of M. enterolobii. After 74 days incubation, gall index (GI), egg mass index (EMI), number of eggs per gram of root (NOGR), and reproduction factor (RF) were determined. Solanum stramonifolium was the best source of resistance to M. enterolobii, with the accessions CNPH 349 and CNPH 24 being highly resistant. Solanum scuticum had a lower frequency of resistance compared with S. stramonifolium. However, it was possible to identify some S. scuticum accessions, CNPH 07, CNPH 39, and CNPH 9, that were resistant to M. enterolobii. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Witches' broom caused by Moniliophthora perniciosa is the main disease of cacao (Theobroma cacao) in Brazil. The fungus is known to occur on other host families and these populations have been addressed in the literature as biotypes: C (Malvaceae); H (Malpighiaceae); L (Bignoniaceae) and S (Solanaceae). No complete elucidation of the phylogenetic relationships of isolates obtained from this disparate host range appears in the literature. One member of H (ex Heteropterys acutifolia) has been described as a distinct species. But should other biotypes be also recognized as distinct taxa? In the present study, a survey yielding 24 isolates of M. perniciosa from ten hosts and covering a wide range of geographic regions in Brazil was undertaken. These isolates were compared with those from T. cacao using three DNA regions for the phylogenetic analyses: ITS, LSU and RPB1. Morphology was also examined. All isolates in this study were found to belong to M. perniciosa , including the population from H. acutifolia , formerly treated as Moniliophthora brasiliensis but reduced here to a synonym of M. perniciosa. This species ranged from pathogenic to a previously unreported occurrence as a non-pathogenic endophyte in the Atlantic rainforest tree Allophylus edulis (Sapindaceae). M. perniciosa was recorded on a range of solanaceous hosts (16 species) over a wide variety of ecosystems. The ecological and evolutionary significance of these novel findings are discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Solanum confertiflorum (Solanaceae), a new species for the Cyphomandra clade, is described and illustrated. The species is endemic to Bahia state, in Brazil, restricted to few localities, inhabiting seasonal forests and outcrops in the Caatinga biome. It is morphologically related to S. luridifuscescens, sharing the papillose anthers without swollen connectives, but distinguished by the forked cymes with flowers congested at the apex, swollen calyx with shorter lobes, as well as shorter, sessile stamens. The morphology, geographic distribution, ecology, and conservation status are discussed and a key for the Brazilian species without swollen connectives belonging to the Cyphomandra clade is presented. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The results of a survey of Eriophyoidea mites on wild and cultivated Solanaceae plants in Central Brazil are presented. Five new taxa associated with plants in the genus Solanum are described and illustrated. They include one new genus with type species belonging to Phyllocoptinae, Calacarini—Viginticus lupusmalumgen. nov. & sp. nov.; two new species in the Eriophyinae, Aceriini—Aceria solanisp. nov. and Paraphytoptus tuberacutussp. nov., all of them associated with Solanum lycocarpum St. Hil.; and one new species in the Phyllocoptinae, Athocoptini—Aculus michereffisp. nov., associated with Solanum acanthodes Hook.. New host plants for the tomato russet mite, Aculops lycopersici (Tryon 1917), are reported. In addition, the first record of Calacarus speciosissimumFlechtmann, 1999 for Brazil and from Capsicum as host plants, and the first record of Rhynacus lippius Duarte, Chetverikov & Navia, 2016, on solanaceous plants are presented; supplementary descriptions of these species were elaborated. Diagnostic traits for Calacarus mites collected on Solanaceae plants around the world are summarized. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A new clearwing butterfly, Napeogenes inachia grazielae Freitas ssp. nov., is described from the Atlantic Forest in northeastern Brazil. This subspecies is relatively common in forest fragments and has been reported from 17 localities from sea level to 900 m in the Brazilian states of Pernambuco and Alagoas. The immature stages are illustrated and redescribed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Spider mite surveys conducted in Rio Grande do Sul state, Brazil, allowed us to provide the redescription of Tetranychus armipenis Flechtmann & Baker (Tetranychidae) from specimens collected on native plant species from Pampa biome, Rio Grande do Sul state. A new species of spider mite, Aponychus mauritianumsp. nov. is described and illustrated based on specimens collected from Solanum mauritianum Scop. (Solanaceae) in the municipality of Lajeado in the same state. New hosts for Atrichoproctus uncinatus Flechtmann and Schizotetranychus oryzae Rossi de Simons are also reported. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Boletín Latinoamericano y del Caribe de Plantas Medicinales y Aromáticas is the property of Universidad de Santiago de Chile 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.)

Solanum adamantium is described from Serra de Grão Mogol, located in the Espinhaço range, in northern Minas Gerais State, Brazil. The new species is ecologically and morphologically similar to the prickly species S. buddleiifolium and S. thomasiifolium, from which it differs in a series of vegetative and reproductive characters. We discuss the morphological similarities and differences among these species, as well as certain aspects of the new taxon's ecology and geographic distribution. Images of diagnostic characters, a map of geographical distribution, a preliminary conservation assessment, and full specimen citations are provided. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Some plant species of the genus Cestrum L. (Solanaceae family) are known to cause poisoning in farming animals in Brazil, negatively affecting the livestock sector. In this context, this study aimed to carry out a systematic review of the Cestrum species that cause poisoning in ruminants in Brazil and to list the main phytochemicals involved in these toxic activities that have already been identified. Scientific documents were retrieved in Google Scholar, PubMed®, ScienceDirect®, and SciELO databases. After applying the inclusion criteria, a total of 38 articles published between 1920 and 2023 were included in the present study. Cestrum axillare Vell. [Syn. Cestrum laevigatum Schltdl.], Cestrum corymbosum Schltdl., Cestrum intermedium Sendtn., and Cestrum parqui L'Hér. were found to have reported cases of poisoning in the Northeast, Southeast, and South of Brazil. Natural poisonings in ruminants caused by these species have been recorded in ten Brazilian states, mostly in Rio de Janeiro, Santa Catarina, Rio Grande do Sul, and Pernambuco. In general, Cestrum species cause liver damage and a clinical-pathological state characterized by acute liver failure of the poisoned animals. Cattle are more susceptible to poisoning by these plants, but there are reports of poisoning by C. axillare in goats and buffaloes as well. Several chemical constituents were identified in C. axillare and C. parqui , including some saponins and terpenoids that may be associated with the cases of poisoning. However, only one chemical compound has been identified in C. intermedium , and no phytochemical investigation has been carried out regarding toxic compounds in C. corymbosum. It is expected that future studies fill the gap in determining the toxic principles present in these species. [Display omitted] • Poisoning by the genus Cestrum in ruminants is widely reported in the literature. • Cestrum species cause hepatotoxicity in ruminants. • Cattle are more susceptible to poisoning by Cestrum spp. • Saponins and terpenoids may be associated with cases of poisoning by Cestrum spp. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Petunia axillaris subsp. axillaris and P. axillaris subsp. parodii (Solanaceae) are closely related taxa primarily distinguished by their geographical distribution and floral morphology. Both are found in the southern South American Pampas ecoregion, with the latter also occurring in the Chaco ecoregion; in the Pampas, taxa occupying adjacent areas and intermediary morphologies have been observed. Here, we explored morphological traits and genetic polymorphisms to test the occurrence of hybrid zones between these taxa along the Negro River (Uruguay) and southern Brazil. Morphological data showed variation among the groups, although they could have some overlap. Genetic data also support the differences between them and hybrid zones. These findings suggest that the divergence between P. axillaris subspecies occurred with occasional hybridization in their contact zones. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Peppers belong to the Solanaceae family and present a wide genetic variability that may be accessed through phenotypic and genotypic traits. This work aimed to study the genetic divergence in an ornamental pepper F3 population by multivariate methods based on the individual and simultaneous analyses of qualitative, quantitative, and molecular data. The work was developed in the Center of Agrarian Sciences (CCA) of the Universidade Federal da Paraíba (UFPB), Paraíba state, Brazil. 44 progenies from an F3 generation were used and the characterization of 30 qualitative traits, 16 quantitative traits, and 18 pairs of microsatellite primers was performed. Individual and simultaneous analyses of the variables were performed by using the clustering method of Ward's algorithm. Tocher's method was used based on distance matrixes. A non-metric multidimensional scaling was applied (nMDS) for the graphic representation of the distance matrixes in the bidimensional space. Data analysis was efficient to separate the genotypes into distinct groups. There is genetic variability among the individuals of the C. annuum F3 population, verified by individual and joint trait measurements. The three clustering methods were efficient to represent the genetic distance between individuals of ornamental pepper plants. Individuals 1, 2, 7, 8, 10, 11, 21, 27, 29, 35, and 38 are indicated to advance generation and continue the breeding program. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Physalis peruviana L. is a species of commercial interest belonging to the Solanaceae family, cultivated preferentially in shaded environment, which still has cultivation restricted to small areas in Brazil and therefore requires further studies. Plants are directly affected by environmental factors such as drought, temperature, radiation, among others. These factors affect not only the vegetative organs, but also reproductive structures, which may cause damage to agronomically explored plants. With the need for shading presented by the crop, the present work aimed to characterize the pollen grain and to verify the influence of shade nets used in shading on the morphology of pollen grains of this species. The work was developed at the Lavras Federal University, where three replications of two plants were cultivated under full sun and under shadenets white, blue, red and black. Flower anthesis pollen was collected, processed and photographed by scanning electron microscope (SEM). Polar diameter, equatorial diameter and pollen area were measured in ten pollen grains. The results showed that P. peruviana pollen grains are isopolar, radial, prolato-spheroidal in shape and medium in size. There was also an increase in pollen grain area when cultivated in shading with white shade net and in full sun. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Athenaea Sendtn. nom. cons. is re‐established as the correct name for the taxon previously referred to as Aureliana Sendtn. (Withaninae, Solanaceae), which is a later homonym of Aureliana Boehm. (Araliaceae), and thus illegitimate. As a result, five new combinations transferring species from Aureliana Sendtn. to Athenaea are necessary and are made here: Athenaea angustifolia comb. nov., Athenaea fasciculata comb. nov., Athenaea sellowiana comb. nov., Athenaea tomentosa comb. nov., and Athenaea wettsteiniana comb. nov. We also provide lectotypifications for names not previously typified (Athenaea anonacea Sendtn., Athenaea cuspidata Witasek, Athenaea hirsuta Sendtn., Aureliana tomentosa Sendtn., Aureliana velutina var. obtusifolia Sendtn., Bassovia lucida var. pallida Dunal, Bassovia lucida var. pilosulum Dunal, Saracha brasiliensis Klotzsch, Withania picta var. parvifolia Dunal, Withania picta var. subnuda Dunal), an epitype for Aureliana tomentosa Sendtn. and a synoptic list of all currently recognized species of Athenaea, including geographic distributions and nomenclatural details. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Rocky outcrops surrounded by vegetation in northeastern Brazil form special ecosystems of high species richness and endemism and represent priority areas for biodiversity studies and conservation measures. Floristic surveys of rocky outcrops in the State of Ceará resulted in the identification of a new species of Solanum from the Thomasiifolium clade. Its morphological description, geographic distribution, habitat, ecology, informal conservation status, and environmental suitability models are provided and discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Solanum medusae sp. nov. is described from the Cerrado biome in the Serra da Canastra region, southwestern Minas Gerais State, Brazil. The new species is morphologically similar to the common S. lycocarpum A.St.-Hil. (known as lobeira or wolf-fruit), but differs from it in habit and pubescence characters. We here describe this new taxon and discuss its morphology, some aspects of its ecology, affinities and distribution. Full specimen citations are provided, as well as illustrations, distribution map and a preliminary conservation assessment of the species. A key to all of the known extra-Amazonian Brazilian species of the Androceras/Crinitum clade is also provided to aid in their identification. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Brazilian Journal of Biology is the property of Instituto Internacional de Ecologia 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.)

Carotenoid and ascorbic acid content was determined in peppers of two red cultivars and three yellow lineages of “Jalapeño” ( Capsicum annuum L.) plus a “sweet red biquinho” and a “red bode” cultivar ( C. chinense Jacquin) from the Brazilian Breeding Program. Capsanthin (68 ± 3 to 177 ± 2 μg/g) was found to be the main carotenoid in the red peppers, and violaxanthin (34 ± 3 to 100 ± 17 μg/g) was the main carotenoid in the yellow jalapeño peppers. Red jalapeño peppers grown in the field (in summer) showed higher zeaxanthin (29 ± 0 and 31 ± 2 μg/g), β-cryptoxanthin (11 ± 1 and 7 ± 0 μg/g), provitamin A (161 ± 2 and 81 ± 2 μg/g) and ascorbic acid (132 ± 2 and 129 ± 2 μg/g) than peppers grown in the greenhouse. Peppers of one yellow jalapeño lineage ( C. annuum ) and of the red “bode” cultivar ( C. chinense ) also stood out for their very high levels of zeaxanthin (36 ± 6 and 53 ± 7 μg/g), besides nutritional compounds, provitamin A (222 ± 17 and 299 ± 32 retinol activity equivalents/100 g) and vitamin C (152 ± 5 and 123 ± 1 mg/100 g). These results indicate that the selected peppers presented compounds that are beneficial for human health and that they could be used in the Brazilian pepper breeding programs to develop new commercial hybrids. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Solanum cernuumis a native shrub from Brazil that has been used as medicine since the nineteenth century. Although it has been utilized for a long time, there are few studies regarding its chemical composition and it motivated us to investigate this species. The dried leaves ofS. cernuumwere extracted with methanol and the obtained extract was further partitioned with different organic solvents. As part of our investigation, the n-hexane fraction was submitted to CCC with a nonaqueous solvent system composed of hexane, acetonitrile, and ethyl acetate (5:5:1,v/v/v). Three terpenoids were obtained by one-step separation and identified as 24-oxo-31-norcycloartanone (22.8 mg), lupeol (9.4 mg), and cycloeucalenone (13.4 mg). Complementarily, the solvents system used on the separation have had their compositions determined by gas chromotography–flame ionization detector (GC-FID). [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

Worldwide, the tomato russet mite (TRM), Aculops lycopersici (Eriophyidae), is a key pest on cultivated tomato in addition to infesting other cultivated and wild Solanaceae; however, basic information on TRM supporting effective control strategies is still lacking, mainly regarding its taxonomic status and genetic diversity and structure. As A. lycopersici is reported on different species and genera of host plants, populations associated with different host plants may constitute specialized cryptic species, as shown for other eriophyids previously considered generalists. The main aims of this study were to (i) confirm the TRM taxonomic unity of populations from different host plants and localities as well as the species' oligophagy, and (ii) to advance the understanding of TRM host relationship and invasion history. For this purpose, we evaluated the genetic variability and structure of populations from different host plants along crucial areas of occurrence, including the area of potential origin, based on DNA sequences of mitochondrial (cytochrome c oxidase subunit I) and nuclear (internal transcribed spacer, D2 28S) genomic regions. Specimens from South America (Brazil) and Europe (France, Italy, Poland, The Netherlands) were collected from tomato and other solanaceous species from the genera Solanum and Physalis. Final TRM datasets were composed of 101, 82 and 50 sequences from the COI (672 bp), ITS (553 bp) and D2 (605 bp) regions, respectively. Distributions and frequencies of haplotypes (COI) and genotypes (D2 and ITS1) were inferred; pairwise genetic distance comparisons, and phylogenetic analysis were performed, including Bayesian Inference (BI) combined analysis. Our results showed that genetic divergences for mitochondrial and nuclear genomic regions from TRM associated with different host plants were lower than those observed in other eriophyid taxa, confirming conspecificity of TRM populations and oligophagy of this eriophyid mite. Four haplotypes (cH) were identified from the COI sequences with cH1 being the most frequent, representing 90% of all sequences occurring in all host plants studied (Brazil, France, The Netherlands); the other haplotypes were present exclusively in Brazilian populations. Six variants (I) were identified from the ITS sequences: I-1 was the most frequent (76.5% of all sequences), spread in all countries and associated with all host plants, except S. nigrum. Just one D2 sequence variant was found in all studied countries. The genetic homogeneity among populations highlights the occurrence of a highly invasive and oligophagous haplotype. These results failed to corroborate the hypothesis that differential symptomatology or damage intensity among tomato varieties and solanaceous host plants could be due to the genetic diversity of the associated mite populations. The genetic evidence, along with the history of spread of cultivated tomato, corroborates the hypothesis of a South American origin of TRM., (© 2023. The Author(s), under exclusive licence to Springer Nature Switzerland AG.)

We review the 68 names of plants treated in genera treated or now recognised as Solanaceae from J.M. da C. Vellozo's Flora Fluminensis in the context of current floristic knowledge of the region around Rio de Janeiro in southern Brazil. Most of Vellozo's names are synonyms of names previously published or are illegitimate later homonyms, but several are accepted and in widespread use. Two names do not belong to solanaceaeous taxa, but to species in Apocynaceae and Violaceae respectively. We provide lectotypifications for all names, including those previously lectotypified using the published plates that do not qualify as original material. Type localities, previous lectotypifications and current accepted names are provided for all taxa. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Two additions and four new species are described from Brazil for the large Geminata clade (Solanum: Solanaceae) bringing the total diversity in the group to 149 species, with 44 of these occurring in Brazil. New species are described from Brazil: S. amorimii S.Knapp & Giacomin, sp. nov. from Bahia and adjacent Minas Gerais states, S. flirhachis Giacomin & Stehmann, sp. nov. from Espirito Santo, S. psilophyllum Stehmann & Giacomin, sp. nov. from Minas Gerais and S. verticillatum S.Knapp & Stehmann, sp. nov. from São Paulo, Rio de Janeiro and Minas Gerais. Modern character-rich descriptions and lectotypifca- tions are provided for S. apiahyense Witasek and Solanum lacteum Vell. All are illustrated, mapped and assessed for conservation status. We also provide a brief analysis of the diversity and endemism of the Geminata clade in Brazil and a key to all 44 Brazilian species. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Emersonella Girault, 1916 is a wasp genus including species that parasitize Chrysomelidae (Coleoptera) eggs, mainly Cassidinae. It occurs only in the Americas, and is primarily distributed in the Neotropical Region. In this paper two new species of Emersonella from the Atlantic Forest of southeastern Brazil are described and compared to similar species. Emersonella appendigaster sp. nov. is characterized by an elongate last gastral tergite in female, thoracic dorsum flat, femora and tibiae yellowish in female, malar sulcus absent, frontal suture slightly down-curved laterally, eyes with scattered hairs, frons and vertex smooth, and propodeum smooth with small anteromedian foveae. Emersonella frieirocostai sp. nov. is characterized by an elongate gaster in the female, at most 1.3 times as long as mesosoma and pointed at apex, propodeum with two large anterolateral foveae, pronotum hardly visible in dorsal view, with posterior part smooth, transverse pronotal carina present and malar sulcus absent. Both species are egg parasitoids of Metriona elatior (Klug, 1820) (Chrysomelidae) which feeds on Solanum viarum Dunal (Solanaceae). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cyrtomon luridus (Boheman) (Coleoptera: Curculionidae: Entiminae) is a serious pest of Duboisia sp. (Solanaceae) in Brazil. However, our knowledge of the reproductive behavior and the chemical ecology of this curculionid is based on very limited data. The aim of this study was therefore to describe the mating behavior of C. luridus and the olfactory response of males and females to volatiles of conspecifics alone or conspecifics with a host plant. The mating behavior was observed in newly emerged pairs for 9 days in the laboratory. A Y-tube olfactometer was used to evaluate the responses of beetles to odor sources. The paired adults began to mate 2 days after emergence, and they displayed repeated matings that increased in frequency with age. The males were the most active sex in the mating system of C. luridus. The mating sequence in this species was divided into precopulatory, copulatory and postcopulatory phases. In the olfactometer bioassays, the volatiles emitted from males that fed on Duboisia sp. were attractive to conspecific weevils. The evidence from this result indicates that chemical communication in C. luridus is likely mediated by an aggregation pheromone produced by males. Our findings provide new insights into the mating system and chemical ecology of C. luridus and may serve as a foundation for future studies to develop strategies for the management of this curculionid in the field. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Physalis peruviana L. is an exotic fruit that belongs to the Solanaceae family with recent production in Brazil. This is presented as an alternative production with nutritional potential and economic value. The cape gooseberry plant has a high added value that can be used from its root to the fruit itself. The roots and leaves are rich in medicinal properties that are used in pharmacology. The fruit is sweet and have good content of vitamins A, C, iron, phosphorus and fiber, often used in making jellies, jams, juices and ice creams. To improve the plant canopy, but also contribute to the quality and appearance of the fruit produced some cultural practices such as staking, training systems, pruning and thinning are used. The aim of this review is to provide technical and scientific data about the culture of physalis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]