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Abstract Botanicals from Marigold, Chrysanthemum, Basil, Rosemary and other medicinal plants have been analysed as potential replacements of chemical pesticides as they are effective and non-hazardous to the environment. The bioactive components thiophene is present in large amount in Tagetes sp. which have a wide range of biocidal properties. In this study the crude extracts of different parts of Tagetes erecta and Tagetes patula were obtained by Soxhlet extraction method. The leaf extracts were subjected to GC–MS to identify their components and to confirm the presence of thiophenes. Two major disastrous crop pests namely, Spodoptera litura and Corcyra cephalonica belongs to Order Lepidoptera, Family Noctuidae and Pyralidae were used for the experimental study. The effect of bioactive extract was tested by direct and indirect methods for their larvicidal effect. The S. litura larvae was allowed to feed on castor leaves coated with spraying different concentrations of methanolic sample extracts as indirect method. In the direct spraying method, the S. litura and C. cephalonica larvae were sprayed with low and high concentrations of crude sample extracts of both T. patula and T. erecta. Significant decrease in larval activity and survival rate within 24 h to 48 h were recorded for both the methods. The trials were performed using variousvolumes from 10 to 1000 µl to check larvicidal activity. The roots and stem extracts of T. erecta for 25 µl kill 100% larvae within 24 h whereas 50 µl of T. patula flowers, roots and stem extract effectively kill only 50% of the larvae in 48 h. A mini nursery evaluation were conducted by direct spraying method on larvae growing on jowar saplings, which displayed 100% mortality of larvae within 24 h for 25 µl of T. erecta leaf and flower extracts and T. patula flower extract. From these trials, it can be inferred that the extracts of T. patula and T. erecta provided effective outcomes as larvicides of S. litura and C. cephalonica.

Corcyra cephalonica (Stainton, 1866) (Lepidoptera: Pyralidae) is the common factitious host for mass culturing of several natural enemies due to its ease of mass production, adaptability to a variety of rearing conditions and its beneficial impact on reared insects. Our study aimed to determine the effect of various diets on the morphometric of C. cephalonica in different life stages. Based on pooled data of both the generations, longest (0.019 and 0.014 mm) morphometric dimension of eggs measured on D5 - Maize (48.5%) + Sorghum (48.5%) + Groundnut (3%) and D7 - Bajra (32.33%) + Maize (32.33%) + Wheat (32.33%) + Sugar (3%) were at par in both the diets, however shortest (0.014 and 0.009 mm) on D3 - Wheat (100%) diet. The respective values for maximum length and breadth of 1st, 2nd, 3rd, 4th, 5th larval, pre-pupal, pupal instars and adults female and male were (1.07 and 0.21 mm), (4.51 and 0.82 mm), (7.12 and 1.34 mm), (10.39 and 1.65 mm) and (12.98 and 2.14 mm), (9.94 and 2.51 mm), (10.32 and 2.79 mm), (10.53 and 2.46 mm) and (8.82 and 1.91 mm) on D5 diet whereas minimum (0.86 and 0.16 mm), (3.33 and 0.55 mm), (5.41 and 0.89 mm), (8.66 and 1.28 mm) and (11.14 and 1.37 mm), (9.46 and 2.25 mm), (7.76 and 2.19 mm), (8.28 and 1.50 mm) and (7.26 and 1.44 mm) were measured on D3 diet. From the present findings, it is concluded that D5 was the best diet for the rearing of C. cephalonica. Therefore, it can be optimized for mass production programmes for raising a variety of biocontrol agents. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Botanicals from Marigold, Chrysanthemum, Basil, Rosemary and other medicinal plants have been analysed as potential replacements of chemical pesticides as they are effective and non-hazardous to the environment. The bioactive components thiophene is present in large amount in Tagetes sp. which have a wide range of biocidal properties. In this study the crude extracts of different parts of Tagetes erecta and Tagetes patula were obtained by Soxhlet extraction method. The leaf extracts were subjected to GC–MS to identify their components and to confirm the presence of thiophenes. Two major disastrous crop pests namely, Spodoptera litura and Corcyra cephalonica belongs to Order Lepidoptera, Family Noctuidae and Pyralidae were used for the experimental study. The effect of bioactive extract was tested by direct and indirect methods for their larvicidal effect. The S. litura larvae was allowed to feed on castor leaves coated with spraying different concentrations of methanolic sample extracts as indirect method. In the direct spraying method, the S. litura and C. cephalonica larvae were sprayed with low and high concentrations of crude sample extracts of both T. patula and T. erecta. Significant decrease in larval activity and survival rate within 24 h to 48 h were recorded for both the methods. The trials were performed using variousvolumes from 10 to 1000 µl to check larvicidal activity. The roots and stem extracts of T. erecta for 25 µl kill 100% larvae within 24 h whereas 50 µl of T. patula flowers, roots and stem extract effectively kill only 50% of the larvae in 48 h. A mini nursery evaluation were conducted by direct spraying method on larvae growing on jowar saplings, which displayed 100% mortality of larvae within 24 h for 25 µl of T. erecta leaf and flower extracts and T. patula flower extract. From these trials, it can be inferred that the extracts of T. patula and T. erecta provided effective outcomes as larvicides of S. litura and C. cephalonica. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the present work, laboratory assays were performed to appraise the biocontrol potential of Metarhabditis amsactae, a Rhabditid nematode, against fifth instar larvae of Corcyra cephalonica. Virulence was tested at four different doses, i.e. 20, 40, 80 and 160 IJs/L (infective juveniles per larva) and mortality was documented from 24 up to 96 h of nematode treatment. Concentration and time-based enhancement in larval mortality was observed with 100% mortality recorded at 160 IJs/L after 96 h. Even at 20 IJs/L concentration, 60% and 76.7% larval mortality was recorded after 72 and 96 h, respectively. At 80 IJs/L, the mortality increased from 33.3% at 48 h to more than 90% at 96 h of nematode inoculation. Whereas, at 40 IJs/L, it enhanced from 16.7% at 48 h to 83.3% at 96 h. The effect of M. amsactae infection on the immune system of C. cephalonica was also evaluated at a dose of 100 IJs/L after 12, 24, 36 and 48 h time intervals. Insect larvae displayed augmented levels of antioxidant and detoxifying enzymes. The peak activities of superoxide dismutase, catalase, ascorbate peroxidase, phenol oxidase and glutathione-S-transferase in infected larvae were observed after 36 h, whereas acetylcholine esterase levels peaked after 48 h, as compared to control. Malondialdehyde content was also increased post nematode infection. Thus the current study is the first report that depicts the significant bioefficacy and immunomodulatory effects of M. amsactae against C. cephalonica under laboratory conditions. However, further research to assess its efficiency under field conditions is required. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The bethylid wasp Goniozus omanensis has been identified as a key natural enemy of Batrachedra amydraula Meyrick (Lepidoptera: Batrachedridae), an important pest of date palm. Efficient rearing of natural enemies can be an important part of biological pest control programmes but cultures of G. omanensis are challenging to maintain on B. amydraula. We evaluate two readily available species of Pyralid moths, Corcyra cephalonica and Galleria mellonella, as potential factitious hosts. We find that G. omanensis can develop on the larvae of either species, but the probability of failure is circa 75% overall. Both trialled host species were approximately equally suitable, but failures were typically during the early stages of brood production when presented with C. cephalonica and during the later stages when presented with G. mellonella. This suggests that C. cephalonica larvae may be more difficult to suppress and that G. mellonella larvae may be of lower nutritional value. The average production of adult parasitoids per host provided was approximately 1 and, given the observed female biased sex ratio, the average number of females was around 0.8. We suggest potential routes to improving the efficiency of rearing G. omanensis on these factitious hosts. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Rice grains are often infested by Sitophilus oryzae and Corcyra cephalonica, causing quality and quantity losses. In this study, the insecticidal effects of inert dust (diatomaceous earth (DE), calcium carbonate, kaolin (KA), rock phosphate and silica gel) on S. oryzae adults and C. cephalonica larvae were assayed. Four concentrations of each inert dust were tested at 2,3,4 and 5% on rice grains. Results indicated that diatomaceous earth and phosphate rock 5% lead to the highest insecticidal action with adult mortality of 98.3 and 96.6% for S. oryzae adults, 15 days post-treatment, respectively. As well, diatomaceous earth and phosphate rock 5% lead to the highest insecticidal action with larval mortality of 100.0% for C. cephalonica larvae after 7 days. On the contrary, treatment with 5% silica gel recorded the lowest toxicity to S. oryzae adults (65.66%) after 15 days of exposure. While calcium carbonate 5% resulted from the lowest toxicity C. cephalonica larvae (61.2%) after 7-day exposure. According to the obtained results, the highest reduction in the progeny of S. oryzae adults was registered in treatments with diatomaceous earth (5%) and kaolin (5%), being 91.4 and 91.3%, respectively. As for the highest reductions in the progeny of C. cephalonica larvae, in treatments with diatomaceous earth (5%) and phosphate rock (5%), those were 97.4and 97.2%, respectively. All treatments with inert dust caused a reduction of weight loss and damage of rice grains 60 days post-treatment in comparison with untreated grains. Results showed that all the tested inert dusts treatments except silica gel increased germination percentages of seeds than the control. The obtained results indicated that inert dusts may be considered, safe and available in the local environment, so, they are used as alternatives to insecticides for the control of S. oryzae and C. cephalonica infestations to stored rice grains. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Utilizing parasitoids for augmentative biological control frequently depends on the physiological state of the parasitoids and the pest population density at the time of release. Trichogramma chilonis Ishii (Hymenoptera: Trichogrammatidae) is commonly used as an egg parasitoid for biological insect pest control via augmentation and field release. A crucial component of mass production programmes is the host's nutritional compatibility. So, the investigations were carried out to study the effect of diet composition of Corcyra cephalonica (Stainton) (Lepidoptera: Pyralidae) on developmental and reproductive parameters of Trichogramma chilonis Ishii. The T. chilonis was reared on Corcyra cephalonica fed on different diets (D1-D7) in the laboratory at 25°C±1°C with 75±5% RH. Based on pooled data of two generations T. chilonis had shown significantly highest parasitization of 85.80%, adult emergence percentage 75.00% and sex-ratio 1.62:1 on rice moth eggs obtained from Maize (48.5%) + Sorghum (48.5%) + Groundnut (3%) diet (D5). Trichogramma adult's emergence was observed earlier (3.10 days) on the host's eggs reared on the Bajra (100%) diet (D1). In case of adult longevity, the maximum longevity of 7.70 days was recorded on the host's egg obtained from the D5 diet over the others. These findings may help to improve the developmental and reproductive performance of T. chilonis and an optimized D5 diet may be useful for mass rearing of this egg parasitoid. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present study was designed and conducted to evaluate the influence of methoxyfenozide on the reproductive potential of 1st, 2nd, 3rd and 4th instars larvae, as a safe and suitable alternative for the conventional organic insecticide. Results showed that the highest concentration i.e. 15 ppm of methoxyfenozide caused maximum reduction in fecundity i.e. 118.43 ± 6.08 eggs laid/ female and hatchability i.e. 31.52 ± 1.18% when both males and females were crossed emerged from treated culture in case of 1st instar exposed larvae. Such pairs showed maximum sterility also when emerged from 15 ppm concentration of food in 1st instar exposure. Fecundity, fertility and sterility comparatively decreased in 2nd, 3rd and 4thinstar larvae due to their comparatively poor exposure duration. Such knowledge may offcourse be beneficial for the effective control of rice-moth in particular and lepidopterous pest in general in eco-friendly way.

The eggs of Corcyra cephalonica (Stainton) (Lepidoptera: Pyralidae) remain mixed with insect scales and broken insect body parts in the oviposition containers while doing mass rearing in the insectaries, which necessitate its cleaning. An innovative mechanical device was invented, developed and standardized for cleaning of Corcyra eggs and to maintain a hygienic environment in the insectaries. This device consists of a tubular column, a specialized funnel, and it is operated with the help of a vacuum cleaner. The device offers a clean and efficient method of collection and cleaning of eggs, obviating health hazards to workers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study investigates the dynamics of hyperparasitism within the Bethylidae family, focusing on the interaction between Sclerodermus cereicollis and Goniozus legneri, two parasitoid wasp species characterized by different sociality and aggressivity towards conspecifics. Experimental trials were conducted using Corcyra cephalonica larvae as hosts, with different setups to stimulate competition. The results revealed unexpected behaviors, especially by S. cereicollis, including aggressive interactions, cannibalism, and hyperparasitism. In contrast, despite the typically aggressive nature of G. legneri, no particular hostility was observed toward S. cereicollis. The study highlights the complex dynamics of competition for resources among parasitoids, shedding light on the adaptive strategies and fitness costs associated with hyperparasitism. These findings contribute to a deeper understanding of the ecological interactions within parasitoid wasp communities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The experiment was conducted at the Acarology Laboratory, Department of Entomology and Agricultural Zoology, Institute of Agricultural Sciences, Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi, India. The results of morphometric measurements revealed that the mean egg length and breadth were 0.58 and 0.33 mm, respectively. The mean length of different instars namely first, second, third, fourth, fifth and sixth was found to be 1.15, 1.36, 2.79, 4.98, 5.79 and 8.43 mm, respectively and the average breadth was 0.16, 0.23, 0.33, 0.67, 0.84 and 1.46 mm, respectively. The mean length of the pupa was 8.04 mm, and the breadth was 1.23 mm. The mean measurement across the expanded wings of male moths was 17.44 mm and in females it was 19.17 mm, whereas the mean body length of males was 9.43 mm and in females, it was 10.22 mm. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study investigates the dynamics of hyperparasitism within the Bethylidae family, focusing on the interaction between Sclerodermus cereicollis and Goniozus legneri, two parasitoid wasp species characterized by different sociality and aggressivity towards conspecifics. Experimental trials were conducted using Corcyra cephalonica larvae as hosts, with different setups to stimulate competition. The results revealed unexpected behaviors, especially by S. cereicollis, including aggressive interactions, cannibalism, and hyperparasitism. In contrast, despite the typically aggressive nature of G. legneri, no particular hostility was observed toward S. cereicollis. The study highlights the complex dynamics of competition for resources among parasitoids, shedding light on the adaptive strategies and fitness costs associated with hyperparasitism. These findings contribute to a deeper understanding of the ecological interactions within parasitoid wasp communities.

A laboratory study was carried out to assess the residual toxicity of certain insecticides to egg parasitoids of Spodoptera frugiperda (J E Smith), Trichogramma chilonis Ishii, T. pretiosum Riley (Hymenoptera: Trichogrammatidae), and Telenomus remus Nixon (Hymenoptera: Scelioniadae). The median lethal concentrations were recorded at 24 and 48 hr after exposure period to adults of egg parasitoids to nine insecticides. Among the tested spinetoram was found to be "dangerous", however, chlorantraniliprole, chlorantraniliprole + lambdacyhalothrin, chlorpyriphos + cypermethrin, indoxacarb, cyantraniliprole, emamectin benzoate, thiamethoxam + lambdacyhalothrin and azadirachtin were found to be "slightly to moderately toxic" to T. chilonis and T. pretiosum. Chlorantraniliprole, emamectin benzoate, indoxacarb and spinetoram were found to be "dangerous", however, chlorpyriphos + cypermethrin, thiamethoxam + lambdacyhalothrin, chlorantraniliprole + lambdacyhalothrin, cyantraniliprole and azadirachtin were "slightly to moderately toxic" to T. remus. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Present study was carried out with the aim to develop quality parasitoids in insectaries to improve its quality by studying the biological parameters of Trichogramma chilonis Ishii adults such as parasitism abilities, emergence and longevity, at Biocontrol Laboratory, Department of Entomology, N. M. College of Agriculture, NAU, Navsari, India during the year 2022-23. The results revealed that the parasitic potential of T. chilonis on Corcyra cephalonica (Stainton) eggs was 86.50±5.09 per cent. The adult emergence of T. chilonis from C. cephalonica eggs was 88.30±4.42 per cent. The adult female and male T. chilonis emerged from the C. cephalonica eggs and survived for 5.70±1.59 and 5.15±1.04 days, respectively. The parasitic potential of T. chilonis on eggs of C. cephalonica in F1 generation showed that the percent egg parasitization of T. chilonis was 84.40±5.21 per cent on C. cephalonica eggs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Background The mass production of natural predators with prolonged shelf life is a prerequisite for their field application as pest control agents. The traditional methods used for the mass production of Serangium japonicum rely heavily on the consistent supply of natural prey. This study explains the effects of B. tabaci (natural prey) and C. cephalonica eggs (alternative food) on life history and transcriptome profile of S. japanicum. Methods This study compares the effects of B. tabaci (natural prey) and C. cephalonica eggs (alternative food) on biology, reproduction, and predatory efficacy, and transcriptome profile of S. japanicum. Results This study revealed that S. japonicum was able to successfully complete its life cycle while feeding on B. tabaci (natural prey) and C. cephalonica eggs (alternative food). The C. cephalonica eggs fed S. japonicum individuals had longer developmental period and lower fecundity as compared to those feeding on whitefly but the survival rates (3rd instar nymphs, 4th instar nymphs and pupae) and predatory efficacy of C. cephalonica eggs fed S. japonicum individuals were significantly similar to to those feeding on whitefly.Transcriptome analysis showed that when faced with dietary changes, S. japanicum could successfully feed on C. cephalonica eggs by regulating genes related to nutrient transport, metabolism, and detoxification. Moreover, S. japanicum degraded excess cellular components through ribosomal autophagy and apoptosis, which provided sufficient materials and energy for survival and basic metabolism. Conclusion Corcyra cephalonica eggs can be used as an alternate host for the predator, Serangium japonicum, as the survival rates and predatory efficacy of the predator are similar to those feeding on the natural host (B.tabaci). When faced with dietary changes, S. japanicum could successfully feed on C. cephalonica eggs as revealed by upregulation of genes related to nutrient transport, metabolism, and detoxification. These findings are of great significance for studying the functional evolution of S. japonicum in response to dietary changes.

Abstract Background Biological control of insect pests is an economic, eco-friendly and harmless approach to integrated pest management strategies. Bracon hebetor (Say) (Hymenoptera: Braconidae) considers a polyphagous ectoparasitoid of various pests of the order Lepidoptera. The parasitized host insects' defense mechanisms are triggered as a result of the parasitic wasps' injury and penetration. Thus, induce the host cellular and humoral immune responses through a blend of secretions injected into the host body. The present study was designed to evaluate the efficacy of B. hebetor on the immune response of the parasitized full grown larval instar of the rice moth, Corcyra cephalonica (Stainton) (Lepidoptera: Pyralidae) under natural envenomation. Results On cellular level, the ultrastructure examination of the hemocytes displayed a considerable structural deformation in hemocyte morphology of the detected types of the hemocytes. Moreover, the effects of parasitism on both differential hemocyte counts (DHCs) and total hemocyte counts (THCs) were investigated. The number of prohemocytes (PR) (40.33 ± 5.61, 43 ± 8.33 and 26 ± 2.31) was statistically differed after (24, 48 and 72 h) of parasitism, respectively, compared to unparasitized (31.33 ± 6.49) larvae. Similar observations were recorded in plasmatocytes (PL) before and after the parasitism. However, Spherulocytes (SP) and Oenocytoids (OE) were recorded in the hemolymph with little abundance. On the other side, the quantitative analysis of total hemolymph proteins (THP) provoked a significant effect of considering parasitized and non-parasitized larvae. As the Phenoloxidase (PO) cascade plays a critical role in immune defenses, so the substantial activation of PO in the host's hemolymph following successive hours of parasitism compared to unparasitized larvae using L-DOPA as a substrate indicated the induction of larval immune system. The parasitized larvae showed a gradual increase in the PO activity (0.442 ± 0.103) after 24 h reached up to (1.482 ± 0.272) at the end of parasitism (72 h) in comparable to unparasitized larvae (0.177 ± 0.0.044). Conclusion The present investigations clarified the efficacy of B. hebetor parasitism on the host immune mechanism, which will enable the progress of sustainable stored product protection approaches for the control of an important pest rice moth C. cephalonica.

Salah satu hama yang menyerang beras simpanan ialah Corcyra cephalonica. Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk mengetahui pertumbuhan populasi dan perkembangan C. cephalonica pada beras hitam dengan proporsi bentuk yang berbeda. Penelitian dilaksanakan di Laboratorium Hama Tumbuhan, Departemen Hama dan Penyakit Tumbuhan, Fakultas Pertanian, Universitas Brawijaya. Penelitian ini terdiri dari 12 perlakuan yang diulang sebanyak tiga kali untuk pengamatan pertumbuhan populasi dan sepuluh kali untuk pengamatan perkembangan. Penelitian ini disusun dalam Rancangan Acak Lengkap (RAL). Pada pengamatan pertumbuhan populasi diinfestasikan 100 butir telur pada 100 g pakan perlakuan, sedangkan pada pengamatan perkembangan digunakan 1 butir telur pada 6 g pakan perlakuan. Variabel yang diamati pada penelitian ini yaitu pengamatan jumlah larva, pupa, imago, fekunditas, fertilitas, stadium telur, larva, pupa, praoviposisi, oviposisi, pascaoviposisi, pradewasa, dan siklus hidup. Hasil penelitian menunjukkan bahwa perbedaan proporsi bentuk beras hitam tidak berpengaruh nyata terhadap jumlah larva, pupa, imago, stadium telur, stadium pupa, praoviposisi, oviposisi, pascaoviposisi, fertilitas, dan lama hidup imago, namun berpengaruh nyata terhadap stadium larva, pradewasa, fekunditas dan siklus hidup.

The egg parasitoid, Trichogramma chilonis Ishii (Hymenoptera Trichogrammatidae), is an important biocontrol agent of lepidopteran pests and is generally mass-reared on the eggs of Corcyra cephalonica (Stainton) (Lepidoptera Pyralidae). In this study, eggs from two factitious hosts, eri silkworm (ESW), Samia cynthia ricini Drury (Lepidoptera Saturniidae), and C. cephalonica, were used for mass rearing T. chilonis. The field efficacy of T. chilonis reared from the two different hosts was evaluated against sugarcane borers, Chilo infuscatellus Snellen (Lepidoptera Crambidae) and Chilo sacchariphagus indicus (Kapur) (Lepidoptera Crambidae). Weekly releases of T. chilonis reared from ESW and C. cephalonica eggs showed a similar parasitism rate and were effective in reducing crop damage by both sugarcane borers. We found no significant difference between the parasitism levels by T. chilonis reared from ESW (10.53%) and C. cephalonica (7.81%). A higher percentage of millable canes was obtained when parasitoids from either kind of eggs were released in a field compared to no release of parasitoids. There was no significant difference in the percentage of millable canes obtained from the fields with T. chilonis reared from ESW (77.99%) or C. cephalonica (70.23%). Producing T. chilonis from ESW eggs reduced rearing costs by 50% compared to using C. cephalonica eggs. Consequently, the production of T. chilonis using large-sized ESW eggs is more suitable for on-farm production and C. cephalonica could be used for commercial insectaries or research institutes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A study was conducted to examine the parasitic efficiency of different egg parasitoids viz., Trichogramma chilonis Ishii, Trichogramma pretiosum Riley (Hymenoptera: Trichogrammatidae) and Telenomus remus Nixon (Hymenoptera: Scelionadae) of Spodoptera frugiperda J.E. Smith (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae) and Corcyra cephalonica Stainton (Lepidoptera: Pyralidae), respectively under the laboratory condition at 28 ± 3oC. The investigation showed that T. chilonis displayed a parasitic efficiency ranging from 85 to 87 per cent, T. pretiosum from 80 to 89 per cent, and T. remus from 7 to 90 per cent. Both host species were accepted for parasitization, but C. cephalonica was identified as more suitable for the development of T. chilonis and T. pretiosum, while S. frugiperda was deemed the most suitable host for rearing T. remus. These findings contribute valuable insights into the host preferences and parasitic efficiencies of these parasitoids, essential information for potential applications in biological control strategies against agricultural pests. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The mass production of natural predators with prolonged shelf life is a prerequisite for their field application as pest control agents. The traditional methods used for the mass production of Serangium japonicum rely heavily on the consistent supply of natural prey. This study explains the effects of B. tabaci (natural prey) and C. cephalonica eggs (alternative food) on life history and transcriptome profile of S. japanicum. Methods: This study compares the effects of B. tabaci (natural prey) and C. cephalonica eggs (alternative food) on biology, reproduction, and predatory efficacy, and transcriptome profile of S. japanicum. Results: This study revealed that S. japonicum was able to successfully complete its life cycle while feeding on B. tabaci (natural prey) and C. cephalonica eggs (alternative food). The C. cephalonica eggs fed S. japonicum individuals had longer developmental period and lower fecundity as compared to those feeding on whitefly but the survival rates (3rd instar nymphs, 4th instar nymphs and pupae) and predatory efficacy of C. cephalonica eggs fed S. japonicum individuals were significantly similar to to those feeding on whitefly.Transcriptome analysis showed that when faced with dietary changes, S. japanicum could successfully feed on C. cephalonica eggs by regulating genes related to nutrient transport, metabolism, and detoxification. Moreover, S. japanicum degraded excess cellular components through ribosomal autophagy and apoptosis, which provided sufficient materials and energy for survival and basic metabolism. Conclusion: Corcyra cephalonica eggs can be used as an alternate host for the predator, Serangium japonicum, as the survival rates and predatory efficacy of the predator are similar to those feeding on the natural host (B.tabaci). When faced with dietary changes, S. japanicum could successfully feed on C. cephalonica eggs as revealed by upregulation of genes related to nutrient transport, metabolism, and detoxification. These findings are of great significance for studying the functional evolution of S. japonicum in response to dietary changes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Biological control of insect pests is an economic, eco-friendly and harmless approach to integrated pest management strategies. Bracon hebetor (Say) (Hymenoptera: Braconidae) considers a polyphagous ectoparasitoid of various pests of the order Lepidoptera. The parasitized host insects' defense mechanisms are triggered as a result of the parasitic wasps' injury and penetration. Thus, induce the host cellular and humoral immune responses through a blend of secretions injected into the host body. The present study was designed to evaluate the efficacy of B. hebetor on the immune response of the parasitized full grown larval instar of the rice moth, Corcyra cephalonica (Stainton) (Lepidoptera: Pyralidae) under natural envenomation. Results: On cellular level, the ultrastructure examination of the hemocytes displayed a considerable structural deformation in hemocyte morphology of the detected types of the hemocytes. Moreover, the effects of parasitism on both differential hemocyte counts (DHCs) and total hemocyte counts (THCs) were investigated. The number of prohemocytes (PR) (40.33 ± 5.61, 43 ± 8.33 and 26 ± 2.31) was statistically differed after (24, 48 and 72 h) of parasitism, respectively, compared to unparasitized (31.33 ± 6.49) larvae. Similar observations were recorded in plasmatocytes (PL) before and after the parasitism. However, Spherulocytes (SP) and Oenocytoids (OE) were recorded in the hemolymph with little abundance. On the other side, the quantitative analysis of total hemolymph proteins (THP) provoked a significant effect of considering parasitized and non-parasitized larvae. As the Phenoloxidase (PO) cascade plays a critical role in immune defenses, so the substantial activation of PO in the host's hemolymph following successive hours of parasitism compared to unparasitized larvae using L-DOPA as a substrate indicated the induction of larval immune system. The parasitized larvae showed a gradual increase in the PO activity (0.442 ± 0.103) after 24 h reached up to (1.482 ± 0.272) at the end of parasitism (72 h) in comparable to unparasitized larvae (0.177 ± 0.0.044). Conclusion: The present investigations clarified the efficacy of B. hebetor parasitism on the host immune mechanism, which will enable the progress of sustainable stored product protection approaches for the control of an important pest rice moth C. cephalonica. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The eggs, larvae and pupae of the rice moth, Corcyra cephalonica (Lepidoptera, Pyralidae), have been found to serve as facti- tious/alternative hosts for mass-production of at least 78 species of natural enemies – 60 parasitoids, 18 predators – belonging to 35 genera in 18 families under 8 orders that include Hymenoptera, Diptera, Arachnida and Nematoda for parasitoids while Coleoptera, Hemiptera, Hyme- noptera and Neuroptera for predators. A list of these natural enemies is provided. Thus, though C. cephalonica is a serious pest of stored grains under natural conditions, it is a boon in laboratories as a factitious host for economic mass production of a variety of parasitoids and predators like Trichogramma, Chrysoperla, etc., which are extensively utilized in augmentative biological control. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The study aimed to evaluate different rearing media for mass production of rice moth Corcyra cephalonica Stainton (Lepidoptera: Pyralidae), an important host insect for several bio-control agents. The development and reproductive performance of C. cephalonica was evaluated on six different combinations of rearing media containing maize, wheat, rice, jowar, ragi, sugar and groundnut. Results showed that the larval period, pupal period, adult emergence fecundity, adult longevity and fecundity were highest and true generation time was shortest in Diet VI (Wheat, yeast, groundnut). Hence, Diet VI is the most suitable rearing media for mass production of C. cephalonica. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Entomopathogenic nematodes (EPNs) are key biocontrol agents against various insect pests such as pests of stored foods, when other control measures, such as pesticides are not appropriate. We evaluated the virulence and reproductive potential of four EPN isolates: Heterorhabditis bacteriophora MK263023, H. bacteriophora MK256358, H. bacteriophora MK256378 and S. cholashanense MH128155 against the larvae of the rice meal moth. These isolates were highly effective against the 4th instar larvae of the insect. All the isolates killed 100% of the insects within 24–48 h using 200 infective juveniles (IJs)/larvae. Similar mortality rates were observed at lower nematode concentrations, but more time was required. Heterorhabditis bacteriophora MK256358 and S. cholashanense MH128155 showed the best performance in killing and reproductive potential. Our results open new avenues for the potential of indigenous EPNs to effectively control this insect and set the basis for establishing safe strategy in its management programs in India. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The prey preference of the generalist predator, Eocanthecona furcellata (Wolff.) (Heteroptera: Pentatomidae) was assessed during the year 2019–2020, against three insect pests. The main goal of investigation was to figure out the role of physical and olfactory cues in prey selection by predator. So in this study E. furcellata nymphs and adults were tested against live larvae and larval extracts of Spodoptera litura, Spilarctia obliqua and Corcyra cephalonica. The study revealed that the nymphs and adults of the predatory bug have a strong preference for the larvae of S. litura, followed by C. cephalonica and S. obliqua. The olfactory response of predatory bug revealed that 48 ± 3.71 percent of the predatory bugs oriented towards S. litura larval extract with an approaching time of 18.54 ± 0.59 min, followed by the extract of S. obliqua larval (32 ± 4.89 percent) with an approaching time of 38.66 ± 0.95 min and C. cephalonica larval extract (14 ± 2.44 percent) with an approaching time of 48.34 ± 1.20 min. The current study will be helpful to understand the preference and olfactory response of predatory bug, E. furcellata in selecting its preferred host and their utilization in proper mass rearing under in-vitro conditions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Bioassays were carried out to evaluate the effect of sub-lethal concentration (LC50) of mesoporous silica nanoparticles (MSNs), cinnamon oil encapsulated with silica nanoparticles (CESN), cinnamon oil and silica gel on some biological parameters of the 6th instar larvae of Corcyra cephalonica. Pupation percentage, pupal duration, percent of adult emergence and adult longevity decreased in all treatments compared with the control. Pupation percentage recorded 47.5, 45.0 and 37.5% after treatment with silica gel, both of MSNs and CESN and cinnamon oil, respectively, compared to 90% in control. CESN and cinnamon oil prevent all pupae from emergence, while the longevity of adult females and males of larvae treated with MSNs and silica gel decreased as compared to control. Furthermore, the protein profile of the treated larvae was evaluated to explain the mode of action of the tested compounds. The total protein contents were 28.88, 28.65, 28.2 and 30.23 mg/ml after treatment with MSNs, CECN, cinnamon oil and silica gel, respectively, compared to 32.56 mg/ml in the untreated control. Electrophoretic analysis of total proteins evaluated inhibitory action of the used compounds on the protein contents, as the appearance as well as the loss of certain protein fractions.

Due to the deleterious effect of chemical pesticides on human and environment, accelerated researchers to find a novel environmental friendly alternatives. Chitinase enzyme is a promising biocontrol agent against various crop pests including insects, nematodes and pathogenic fungi. In this context, here we elucidate the molecular toxicity of chitinase against the crop pest Corcyra cephalonica. Genotoxic effects of chitinase in C. cephalonica was evaluated and analyzed by estimation of Reactive Oxygen Species (ROS), Flow cytometry, DNA fragmentation and Comet assay. The results revealed that chitinase is able to induce oxidative stress followed by ROS generation (33,101.63 AU at the dose of 500 ppm), DNA damage and apoptosis (in live cell 70.09% and early apoptotic 28.07%). Moreover, by off target effects of chitinase on murine cell lines (L929) by cell viability method. The assay showed that chitinase doesn't exhibit negative effects in L929 cells. Overall the present study conclude that chitinase cause genotoxic effects in the larvae of C. cephalonica. Therefore, chitinase can be utilized as a potent biocontrol agent against various crop pests. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A fungal culture was isolated with a view to evaluate its potentiality for an effective pest management programme. The fungal culture was characterized at molecular level by using rDNA ITS universal primer. The fungal culture was identified as Beauveria bassiana (Bals.) Vuill. and the ~ 550 bp rDNA-ITS sequence was submitted to the Gene bank and obtained accession number as KR855715. The biological parameters of KR855715 were compared with MTCC strains of Beauveria bassiana (Bals.) Vuill and evaluate its efficacy against sixth instar of Corcyra cephalonica (Stainton) (Lepidoptera: Pyralidae), a major stored grain pest of rice under laboratory condition at temperature 30 ± 1 °C and relative humidity 85–90 %. The biological parameters and efficacy of all these strains were tested at different concentrations viz.., 1 × 107to 1 × 109 conidia/ml. Among these strains, KR855715 showed the highest conidial density (8.13 × 107 conidia/ml) at concentration of 1 × 107 conidia/ml. However, the germination (83.68 %), and mortality (60.00 %) was found to be highest at concentration 1 × 109 conidia/ml. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present study aimed to evaluate the effect of prey density on the biology and functional response of green lacewing, Mallada boninensis (Okamato) (Neuroptera: Chrysopidae). Newly emerged larvae of M. boninensis were fed 20, 30, 40, 50, 60, 70, 80, 90 and 100 fresh eggs of Corcyra cephalonica (Lepidoptera: Gelechiidae) in plastic vials. It was observed that the prey density had a significant effect on the positive consumption rate, development, and fecundity of M. boninensis. In general, maximum consumption with shortest developmental time, maximum fecundity, and most extended adult longevity was observed as prey density increased. The predatory potential was high when the prey density was raised. The daily predation rate of M. boninensis increased slowly during the first two instars and reached its peak in the third larval instar. The results indicated that M. boninensis feeding potential and developmental period might vary from 6.00 to 11.33 days based on food density and having a difference in per day consumption. The 100 Corcyra eggs/day treatment had the highest egg intake of 87.88 eggs per day, followed by 90 eggs/day (79.33 eggs) and 80 egg day-1 (69.75 eggs). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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Corcyra cephalonica (Stainton), rice moth larvae were used for biodegradation of low density polyethylene (LDPE). The role of larval gut microorganisms in LDPE biodegradation was studied by force feeding the larvae with a cocktail of antibiotic solution. After force feeding, the larvae were left in contact with LDPE films. Larvae which were unfed with antibiotic solution were used as controls. Degradation rate was checked by measuring the weight loss after 20 day period of contact with LDPE films in insect rearing bottles. The DNA of both antibiotic fed and unfed larvae was isolated. There was no DNA band of antibiotic fed larvae which indicated the gut microorganisms were eliminated. Larvae fed with antibiotic digested 21 % and those which were unfed with antibiotic showed 25 % weight loss of LDPE films. We report the gut microorganisms were not solely responsible for biodegradation of LDPE. The digestive enzymes could also play a major role in digesting the plastic in insect’s gut.

Trichogrammatoidea eldanae Viggiani (Hymenoptera: Trichogrammatidae) is an egg parasitoid of several lepidopteran insect pests in West Africa. In this study, we assessed the suitability of three different host species viz; Eldana saccharina Walker (Lepidoptera: Pyralidae), Sesamia calamistis Hampson (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae) and Corcyra cephalonica Stainton (Lepidoptera: Pyralidae) as potential host for mass-rearing T. eldanae. This was done by determining the biological parameters of the parasitoid on the different host species. The effect of rearing host species on the performance of T. eldanae was also investigated. The parasitoid successfully developed on all tested host species. However, the biological parameters including fecundity, number of adults emerged per parasitised egg, progeny and developmental period varied significantly with host species. The number of parasitised eggs and the progeny per female were highest on Corcyra cephalonica (80 ± 10.72 and 103.66 ± 13.44, respectively) and there was no significant difference between E. saccharina (35.44 ± 7.11 and 38.44 ± 9.01, respectively) and S. calamistis (32.33 ± 5.94 and 57.33 ± 10.02, respectively). The shortest developmental period (9.17 ± 0.026) was recorded on C. cephalonica and the longest on E. saccharina (9.20 ± 0.051). The highest intrinsic rate of increase (0.37 ± 0.02) was recorded on C. cephalonica and the lowest (0.32 ± 0.01) was recorded on E. saccharina. Moreover, the host species used to rear T. eldanae did not affect its reproductive potential. It resulted from this study that C. cephalonica was the most suitable host and can be used to mass-rear T. eldanae for augmentative purpose to control cereal stemborers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Eocanthecona furcellata (Wolff) is a potential native predator of lepidopteran larvae that can be easily reared under laboratory conditions and released in augmentative biocontrol for management of pests in various crops. For successful mass production of any predator cannibalism under crowded rearing conditions is the major limiting factor. In the present study, attempts were made to know the ideal population considered for group rearing with minimal or no cannibalism. It was recorded that the predator population of 5 to 25 on Corcyra cephalonica (S.) and Galleria mellonella L. and 5 to 30 on Samia cynthia ricini Boisd. and Spodoptera litura F. was feasible for group rearing with higher percent survival rate when reared in different group arenas. The survival percent was higher on hosts, C. cephalonica, G. mellonella, S. litura and recorded lower on S. cynthia ricini under group rearing condition. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Under laboratory conditions, the virulence of the Kashmir isolate of EPN, Heterorhabditis bacteriophora (SKUASTK-EPN- Hr 01) to Galeria mellonella, Corcyra cephalonica and Bombyx mori showed that after 48-72 h, 100% mortality was recorded in all the test insects. Considering 48 h time and 20 IJs/larva as standard against G. mellonella, C. cephalonica and B. mori, the LC50 and LT50 values for the EPN were 10.17, 28.72 and 23.81 IJs/larva, and 38.64, 53.04 and 49.20 h after exposure, respectively. Again its virulence to the larvae of three different sizes of these insects, viz., small (0.12g, 0.04g, 0.17g), medium (0.18g, 0.05g, 0.59g) and large (0.22g, 0.07g, 2.58g) sized larvae showed that all the three sizes of G. mellonella were more susceptible than that of B. mori and C. cephalonica. Considering 20 IJs/ larva as standard against small, medium and large sized larvae, the LT50 value for the EPN was 25.00, 26.45 and 27.21 h; 47.73, 48.92 and 53.16 h, and 46.04, 47.48 and 48.92 h for G. mellonella, C. cephalonica and B. mori, respectively. The production of nematode infective juveniles per larvae was directly proportional to the size and/or body weight of the insect species tested. The average production of nematode infective juveniles per gram of host body weight ranged from 1557.79 to 1933.55 x 10³, 217.38 to 335.43 x 10³ and 71.03 to 128.00 x 10³ in G. mellonella, C. cephalonica and B. mori, respectively. The total time period between the larval mortality and the initiation of emergence, and between larval mortality and the cessation of emergence of nematode infective juveniles from the cadavers ranged from 7-10, 6-8 and 9-12 days, and 19-28, 16-24 and 23-41 days in G. mellonella, C. cephalonica and B. mori, respectively. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Phytochemicals with insect antifeedant potential can be used as a safer alternative to harmful chemicals that are used as grain protectants. The insect antifeedant effect of the extracts and fractions of Hemidesmus indicus root were tested against the stored grain insect pest Corcyra cephalonica Stainton. Bioactivity-guided study of ethanol extract of Hemidesmus indicus root led to isolation and identification of a triterpenoid, Lupeol with insect antifeedant potential. Although Lupeol showed insect antifeedant potential the ethanol extract was found to be more effective as an antifeedant. This implies that the synergistic action of compounds present in the ethanol extract of H. indicus root is responsible for the higher antifeedant potential. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]