Search

Simple Summary: Aphids are pests worldwide, but also an important part of ecosystems in temperate zones, as insects feeding on chlorophyllous plants. There are, however, plants that have lost their ability to photosynthesize and obtain nutrients from other plants via their symbiotic fungi. There are few accounts of aphids feeding on such plants, and here we present the case of an aphid species not only feeding on achlorophyllous, parasitic plants but also involved in mutualistic relation with ants. We discuss the results in respect to aphid taxonomy, parasitism and connections between various species–plants, fungi and insects involved in this interaction. The paper presents the first report and morphological description of aphids feeding on the mycoheterotrophic plant Monotropa hypophegea Wallr. of the family Ericaceae. This is the first known case of aphids feeding on a mycoheterotrophic plant, additionally involved in mutualistic relation with ants Lasius niger (Hymenoptera, Formicinae). This observation took place on an overgrown, postmining spoil tip in southern Poland (Europe). Barcode COI sequencing and morphological examination indicated that the collected specimens of aphids belong to A. fabae s. lat., a group of closely related species. The discussion focuses on taxonomic issues concerning the species identity of the collected aphids and the ecological interactions between insects, plants, and fungi involved in the observed association. The presence of ants attending aphids indicates the possibility of ants serving as pollinators of M. hypophegea. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Leaf herbivory in Miconia albicans (Melastomataceae): an evaluation of leaf position and age – Abstract: Herbivory represents a critical interaction between insects and plants, involving physical defenses like trichomes that enhance plant resistance to herbivorous attacks, while galls—plant tumors— can drain nutrients from healthy tissues. This study aimed to assess foliar herbivory rates and analyze gall incidence in Miconia albicans in a cerrado stricto sensu area near Uberlândia, Minas Gerais, Brazil. From December 2013 to March 2014, herbivory rates were documented biweekly using a digital camera, with subsequent analysis performed using ImageJ software. A Wilcoxon signed-rank test was used to determine significant differences in herbivory rates between young and old leaves, while a GLMM test with beta error distribution followed by a Wald chi-square test examined variations in herbivory rates between high and low leaves. Fifteen plants were selected, marking one young and one old leaf, alongside one high and one low leaf. The incidence of galls was assessed across 50 randomly chosen plants, and the average number of galls per leaf was quantified in another 20 plants. The difference between galled and non-galled branches was analyzed using the Mann-Whitney test. Findings indicated no significant difference in herbivory rates between young and old leaves; however, higher leaves exhibited reduced herbivory rates compared to those in the lower strata, suggesting that leaf position significantly influences herbivory. Galls averaged 19 ± 9 per leaf, predominantly on older leaves. The shaded microclimates of lower strata likely contribute to increased herbivorous insect abundance, underscoring the impact of leaf position on herbivory rates. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The genus Eustigmaeus Berlese, 1910 represents the unique phytophagous group within the superfamily Raphignathoidea. Four species within this genus have been known to inhabit mosses and feed on them as larvae, nymphs, and adults. However, the interactions with mosses have remained poorly understood. In order to reveal the diversity and host-plant use of the moss-feeding species, we conducted an extensive field study in Japan. This study revealed an array of moss-feeding species inhabiting various moss species, with 10 morphologically distinctive species newly documented in Japan. Through DNA barcoding based on cytochrome c oxidase subunit I (COI) sequences, these morphospecies were recovered as distinct entities. Notably, the host-plant use of four species was elucidated. Among these, Eustigmaeus sp. 9 exhibited polyphagy, while three species (Eustigmaeus spp. 1–3) demonstrated varying degrees of host specificity, each using moss species from the Hypnales, Philonotis, and Dicranidae, respectively. While a few moss-feeding species were frequently found in the same geographic area, more than one species rarely co-occurred within the same moss colonies. Eustigmaeus offers a unique study system, with its diverse moss-feeding species and indications of specific host plant use. Consequently, the moss-feeding Eustigmaeus serves as a valuable model for exploring the macroevolutionary patterns underlying diversification in moss-feeding arthropods. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ceutorhynchinae Gistel are a diverse weevil subfamily of almost worldwide distribution and considerable economic importance. Nevertheless, the classification of Ceutorhynchinae and their phylogenetic relationships are not yet fully resolved. Here, we sequenced the mitogenomes of 54 ceutorhynchine species. Phylogenetic analyses by maximum likelihood and Bayesian inference were performed on a dataset of 13 protein‐coding and two ribosomal genes. All analyses recovered three well supported clades A–C. A principal component analysis shows that codon usage differs considerably between these clades, indicating a compositional asymmetry in ceutorhynchine mitogenomes. This increased the challenge of resolving the early relationships among the three clades. The resolution of the later diversification was more robust, and the resulting topologies were largely compatible with each other and with the current taxonomic classification. Exceptions are the genera Micrelus Thomson, which is transferred from the tribe Ceutorhynchini to Egriini Pajni and Kohli (new position) and Amalus Schoenherr, which is transferred to Phytobiini Gistel (new position). Amalini Wagner 1936 is a junior synonym of Phytobiini Gistel 1848 (syn. n.). Coeliodini Lacordaire (new status), a tribe previously regarded as junior synonym of Ceutorhynchini, is re‐established. Our analyses also clarified the difficult assignments of taxa to the tribes Scleropterini Schultze and Phytobiini. All taxa with the ability to jump as adult beetles belong to clade B, which comprises the tribes Cnemogonini Colonnelli, Hypurini Schultze, Mecysmoderini Wagner and Phytobiini. With dense taxon sampling and appropriate analytical methods, mitogenome data provide a phylogeny well suited to improve the traditional classification of this neglected and species‐rich taxon. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Ryukyu Archipelago of Japan is a biodiversity hotspot with a remarkable diversity of endemic plants and animals. Although recent biodiversity surveys have highlighted that gall midges (Diptera: Cecidomyiidae) are the most species-rich taxon of insects worldwide, only 43 species are known presently in the Ryukyus. In this study, an undescribed gall midge developing in the flower buds of Pongamia pinnata (Fabaceae) was found on Ishigaki Island, southern Ryukyus, Okinawa Prefecture, Japan. Morphologically, the gall midge belongs to the supertribe Cecidomyiidi (Cecidomyiidae: Cecidomyiinae), but it does not fit the definition of any of the tribes and genera classified of Cecidomyiidi. A molecular phylogenetic analysis including the main tribes of Cecidomyiidi was conducted and reinforced the results of morphological examination. Therefore, Ishigakidiplosis karamae Elsayed, gen. nov. et sp. nov. was introduced for what is no doubt a previously unnamed species. This new genus sheds light on the unique gall midges of the Ryukyus and highlights the importance of conducting further surveys to elucidate their diversity and evolutionary relationships to other known gall midges. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Rosalia funebris (RFUNE; Cerambycidae), the banded alder borer, is a longhorn beetle whose larvae feed on the wood of various economically and ecologically significant trees in western North America. Adults are short-lived and not known to consume plant material substantially. We sequenced, assembled, and annotated the RFUNE genome using HiFi and RNASeq data. We documented genome architecture and gene content, focusing on genes putatively involved in plant feeding (phytophagy). Comparisons were made to the well-studied genome of the Asian longhorned beetle (AGLAB; Anoplophora glabripennis) and other Cerambycidae. The 814 Mb RFUNE genome assembly was distributed across 42 contigs, with an N50 of 30.18 Mb. Repetitive sequences comprised 60.27% of the genome, and 99.0% of expected single-copy orthologous genes were fully assembled. We identified 12,657 genes, fewer than in the four other species studied, and 46.4% fewer than for Aromia moschata (same subfamily as RFUNE). Of the 7,258 orthogroups shared between RFUNE and AGLAB, 1,461 had more copies in AGLAB and 1,023 had more copies in RFUNE. We identified 240 genes in RFUNE that putatively arose via horizontal transfer events. The RFUNE genome encoded substantially fewer putative plant cell wall degrading enzymes than AGLAB, which may relate to the longer-lived plant-feeding adults of the latter species. The RFUNE genome provides new insights into cerambycid genome architecture and gene content and provides a new vantage point from which to study the evolution and genomic basis of phytophagy in beetles. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The rise of angiosperms to ecological dominance and the breakup of Gondwana during the Mesozoic marked major transitions in the evolutionary history of insect-plant interactions. To elucidate how contemporary trophic interactions were influenced by host plant shifts and palaeogeographical events, we integrated molecular data with information from the fossil record to construct a time tree for ancient phytophagous weevils of the beetle family Belidae. Our analyses indicate that crown-group Belidae originated approximately 138 Ma ago in Gondwana, associated with Pinopsida (conifer) host plants, with larvae likely developing in dead/decaying branches. Belids tracked their host plants as major plate movements occurred during Gondwana’s breakup, surviving on distant, disjunct landmasses. Some belids shifted to Angiospermae and Cycadopsida when and where conifers declined, evolving new trophic interactions, including brood-pollination mutualisms with cycads and associations with achlorophyllous parasitic angiosperms. Extant radiations of belids in the genera Rhinotia (Australian region) and Proterhinus (Hawaiian Islands) have relatively recent origins.

New genus and species of eurynotoidiid actinopterygians (Eurynotoidiformes), Kluchevichthys praeclarus gen. et sp. nov., is described from the uppermost Urzhumian (Kluchevskoy Ovrag locality), Tetushi District, Republic of Tatarstan. The holotype of а new form is an almost complete, non-deformed skeleton. The diagnostic characters of K. praeclarus were obtained in the morphology of the skull roof bones, dental system, scales and fins. The morphology of the marginal dentition, combining the tricuspid pattern of tooth crowns with the conical shape of all their apices allows positioning of a new taxon at the base of most phylogenetic branches of herbivorous Eurynotoidiformes having more specialized condition of the dental system, which corresponds well to stratigraphic data.

The Diaprepes root weevil (DRW), Diaprepes abbreviatus , is a broadly polyphagous invasive pest of agriculture in the southern United States and the Caribbean. Its genome was sequenced, assembled, and annotated to study genomic correlates of specialized plant-feeding and invasiveness and to facilitate the development of new methods for DRW control. The 1.69 Gb D. abbreviatus genome assembly was distributed across 653 contigs, with an N50 of 7.8 Mb and the largest contig of 62 Mb. Most of the genome was comprised of repetitive sequences, with 66.17% in transposable elements, 5.75% in macrosatellites, and 2.06% in microsatellites. Most expected orthologous genes were present and fully assembled, with 99.5% of BUSCO genes present and 1.5% duplicated. One hundred and nine contigs (27.19 Mb) were identified as putative fragments of the X and Y sex chromosomes, and homology assessment with other beetle X chromosomes indicated a possible sex chromosome turnover event. Genome annotation identified 18,412 genes, including 43 putative horizontally transferred (HT) loci. Notably, 258 genes were identified from gene families known to encode plant cell wall degrading enzymes and invertases, including carbohydrate esterases, polysaccharide lyases, and glycoside hydrolases (GH). GH genes were unusually numerous, with 239 putative genes representing 19 GH families. Interestingly, several other beetle species with large numbers of GH genes are (like D. abbreviatus) successful invasive pests of agriculture or forestry. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Five species of Psyllinae are recognised from Gunung Kinabalu, all previously unknown, and are formally described and named: Cacopsylla graciliforceps sp. nov., C. kinabaluensis sp. nov., C. myrsines sp. nov., C. photiniae sp. nov. and Psylla cirrita sp. nov. Another species similar to P. cirrita remains undescribed due to lack of sufficient material. Two Philippine species closely related to C. kinabaluensis are transferred to Cacopsylla as Cacopsylla aranetae (Miyatake, 1972), comb. nov. and Cacopsylla bakeri (Crawford, 1919), comb. nov. (both from Psylla). Three of the Cacopsylla species probably represent Palaearctic faunal elements (Cacopsylla graciliforceps, C. myrsines and C. photiniae). Host information is available only for Cacopsylla myrsines and C. photiniae, viz. Myrsine dasyphylla (Primulaceae) and Photinia davidiana (Rosaceae), respectively. Myrsine has not been previously reported as host genus of Psylloidea. The five new species bring the number of known Psylloidea species from Gunung Kinabalu to 22. The biogeographic relationships found in the flora, i.e. Oriental elements predominate at lower altitudes, and Himalayan and Australian elements are dominant at altitudes above 2500 m, are reflected in the psyllid fauna (Oriental 4 spp.; Australian 13 spp., Himalayan 3 spp.; unknown 2 spp.). Of the 22 species known from Gunung Kinabalu, 18 are only known from there. This high number is probably only partly due to endemism and is partly due to insufficient knowledge of the psyllid fauna of Borneo and of the tropics in general. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The tremendous diversity of Hymenoptera is commonly attributed to the evolution of parasitoidism in the last common ancestor of parasitoid sawflies (Orussidae) and wasp-waisted Hymenoptera (Apocrita). However, Apocrita and Orussidae differ dramatically in their species richness, indicating that the diversification of Apocrita was promoted by additional traits. These traits have remained elusive due to a paucity of sawfly genome sequences, in particular those of parasitoid sawflies. Here, we present comparative analyses of draft genomes of the primarily phytophagous sawfly Athalia rosae and the parasitoid sawfly Orussus abietinus. Our analyses revealed that the ancestral hymenopteran genome exhibited traits that were previously considered unique to eusocial Apocrita (e.g., low transposable element content and activity) and a wider gene repertoire than previously thought (e.g., genes for CO2 detection). Moreover, we discovered that Apocrita evolved a significantly larger array of odorant receptors than sawflies, which could be relevant to the remarkable diversification of Apocrita by enabling efficient detection and reliable identification of hosts.

Omnivorous insects make foraging decisions between plant and prey resources depending on their accessibility, availability, and nutritional value. This shapes the stability and complexity of food webs, but also pest control services in agroecosystems. The mirid bug Lygus pratensis is a common cotton pest in China, but it also feeds on a variety of prey species. However, little is known about how different types of available resources affect its fitness and foraging behaviour. In laboratory experiments, we measured the fitness (survival, longevity and fecundity) of L. pratensis fed with bean pod only, bean and Aphis gossypii nymphs, or bean and Helicoverpa armigera eggs, and we also conducted focal observations of its foraging behaviour when provided the latter two. Adding H. armigera to its diet increased its fitness (both survival and fecundity), while adding A. gossypii was marginally detrimental. The different diets did not affect the time spent walking (searching for food resources) or preying, but significantly affected the time spent sapping bean tissue depending on L. pratensis life stage. Nymphs spent more time sapping plant when provided with H. armigera than A. gossypii (possibly through higher efficiency of handling prey). In addition, adults spent less time sapping plant than did nymphs (possibly through good efficiency of handling A. gossypii mobile prey and due to higher protein requirements). This special case of life-history omnivory highlights the complexity of natural food webs, where a major crop pest at the juvenile stage may become a biological control agent at the adult stage. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: Plant-feeding gall mites of the superfamily Eriophyoidea are serious pests in agriculture because they are capable of transmitting viruses and causing growth abnormalities in plants. Evolutionary archaic gall mites are associated with ancient conifer hosts, while more derived forms inhabit flowering plants. In this study, we investigate the morphology and phylogeny of a new species of the subfamily Nothopodinae, Nothopoda todeica n. sp., collected in South Africa from a fern, Todea barbara. This fern has an ancient distribution in Africa and Australasia and belongs to the Gondwanan royal fern family Osmundaceae. We show that the new species is not in a basal position in Nothopodinae. It is very similar and closely related to other members of Nothopoda, associated with derived groups of Asian flowering plants. This contradicts the expectation that the ancient host plant (fern) should be associated with a primitive mite. We also obtained a complete sequence of the mitochondrial DNA of N. todeica n. sp. And demonstrated that it has the same, but differently ordered, mitochondrial genes that were previously found in other eriophyoid mites. Our study contributes to the problem of the history of symbiotic relations of eriophyoid mites with plants, and provides new data that are important for better understanding their evolution. Eriophyoidea is a group of phytoparasitic mites with poorly resolved phylogeny. Previous studies inferred Eriophyidae s.l. as the largest molecular clade of Eriophyoidea, and Nothopodinae as the basal divergence of Eriophyidae s.l. We investigate the morphology and molecular phylogeny of Nothopoda todeica n. sp. (Nothopodinae, Nothopodini), associated with a disjunct Afro-Australasian fern Todea barbara (Osmundaceae) from South Africa. Our analyses (1) determine new erroneous sequences (KF782375, KF782475, KF782586) wrongly assigned to Nothopodinae instead of Phyllocoptinae, (2) confirm the basal position of Nothopodinae in Eriophyoidea s.l., (3) question the monophyly of the Colopodacini and Nothopodini tribes, and (4) show the nested position of African fern-associated Nothopoda within a clade dominated by Asian nothopodines from angiosperms, which implies (a) a secondary association of nothopodines with ferns and (b) no relation between geography (continents) and the phylogenetic relationships of Nothopodinae species. Finally, we obtained a first complete mitochondrial genome for Nothopodinae and revealed a new gene order in the mitogenome of N. todeica n. sp., notably deviating from those in other investigated eriophyoids. Our results contribute to resolving the phylogeny of Eriophyoidea and provide an example of an integrative study of a new taxon belonging to an economically important group of acariform mites. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BackgroundThe Hemiptera (aphids, cicadas, and true bugs) are a key insect order, with high diversity for feeding ecology and excellent experimental tractability for molecular genetics. Building upon recent sequencing of hemipteran pests such as phloem-feeding aphids and blood-feeding bed bugs, we present the genome sequence and comparative analyses centered on the milkweed bug Oncopeltus fasciatus, a seed feeder of the family Lygaeidae.ResultsThe 926-Mb Oncopeltus genome is well represented by the current assembly and official gene set. We use our genomic and RNA-seq data not only to characterize the protein-coding gene repertoire and perform isoform-specific RNAi, but also to elucidate patterns of molecular evolution and physiology. We find ongoing, lineage-specific expansion and diversification of repressive C2H2 zinc finger proteins. The discovery of intron gain and turnover specific to the Hemiptera also prompted the evaluation of lineage and genome size as predictors of gene structure evolution. Furthermore, we identify enzymatic gains and losses that correlate with feeding biology, particularly for reductions associated with derived, fluid nutrition feeding.ConclusionsWith the milkweed bug, we now have a critical mass of sequenced species for a hemimetabolous insect order and close outgroup to the Holometabola, substantially improving the diversity of insect genomics. We thereby define commonalities among the Hemiptera and delve into how hemipteran genomes reflect distinct feeding ecologies. Given Oncopeltus's strength as an experimental model, these new sequence resources bolster the foundation for molecular research and highlight technical considerations for the analysis of medium-sized invertebrate genomes.

Zoophytophagous bugs feed on both arthropod pests and plants, and can survive or reproduce solely on particular plants. This characteristic ensures their survival when released as natural enemies when the density of target pests is low. When using zoophytophagous bugs, exotic species or strains should be avoided as biological control agents due to their ecological risks. This study reviews investigations of indigenous Orius species and indigenous strains of N. tenuis and their exploitations as biological control agents in Japan. Orius strigicollis, which can reproduce under short-day conditions, is recommended for augmentative biological control in greenhouses. Orius sauteri, the predominant and most abundant species in the field, is not recommended for releases in greenhouses because it enters diapause under short-day conditions. However, this species can be used for conservation biological control in the field, where the bug can be preserved through the use of selective pesticides or by conserving companion plants. Violet light illumination is a promising tool to manipulate the movement of this species in the field. Nesidiocoris tenuis occurs only in the southern region of Japan, and its density in the field is low. This bug can be used for augmentative biological control in greenhouses. It can reproduce on specific plants, including Sesamum indicum, Cleome hassleriana, Verbena × hybrida, and Scaevola aemula. These plants can be used as banker plants to improve the establishment and reproduction of N. tenuis in greenhouses. Indigenous Orius species and Nesidiocoris tenuis are promising biological control agents in Japan. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Several biological control agents of the hemipteran insect families Miridae, Anthocoridae and Pentatomidae, as well as mites of the family Phytoseiidae are known as zoophytophagous predators, a subset of omnivores, which are primarily predaceous but also feed on plants. It has been recently demonstrated that zoophytophagous predators are capable of inducing defenses in plants through their phytophagy. Despite the vast fundamental knowledge on plant defense mechanisms in response to herbivores, our understanding of defense induction by zoophytophagous predators and applied implications is relatively poor. In this review, we present the physiological basis of the defense mechanisms that these predators activate in plants. Current knowledge on zoophytophagous predator-induced plant defenses is summarized by groups and species for the predators of economic importance. Within each group, feeding habits and the effects of their induced-plant defenses on pests and natural enemies are detailed. Also, the ecological implications of how the induction of defenses mediated by zoophytophagous predators can interact with other plant interactors such as beneficial soil microorganisms and plant viruses are addressed. Based on the above, we propose three approaches to exploit zoophytophagous predator-induced defenses in crop protection and to guide future research. These include using predators as vaccination agents, employing biotechnological approaches, as well as applying elicitors to elicit/mimic predator-induced defenses. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A new genus of a Neotropical gall inducing tetrastichine eulophid on Araceae is described and confirmed using Ultraconserved Elements (UCE) phylogenomic data. Arastichus Gates, Hanson, Jansen-González & Zhang, gen. nov., includes two new species and one species transferred from Aprostocetus Westwood: A. capipunctata Gates, Hanson, Jansen-González & Zhang, sp. nov., A. gallicola (Ferrière), comb. nov., and A. gibernau, Gates, Hanson, Jansen-González & Zhang, sp. nov. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Besides its importance as an ornamental plant, Justicia betonica L. is also used as a medicinal plant for the treatment of several human disorders. However, the population size and abundance of the plant species are very low in Indian states, including West Bengal. The breeding system and pollination ecology of J. betonica are still unclear. Therefore, some reproductive aspects were investigated in order to provide important information for the sustainability of the species. The flowering duration spanned from December to May, with its peak in February–March. Flower opening time was much earlier (5.00–8.00 a.m.) on a hot day (in April–May) than on a cold day (10.00 a.m.–12.00 p.m. in December–January). The time of anther dehiscence coincided with the flower opening time; however, the stigma became receptive later. The plant species is self‐compatible but dependent on pollinators for fruit and seed sets. Members of different insect groups like ants, bees, butterflies, flies, moths and wasps visit the flowers. Among them, Allorhynchium metallicum and Halictus acrocephalus are the primary pollinators (based on the "relative pollinator service"). The plant species showed a significant pollination deficit (coefficient of pollination deficit [D] = 0.32) in the open condition. Larvae of the florivorous moth Gatesclarkeana erotias significantly reduced reproductive success by eating their floral parts, ovules and immature seeds. In conclusion, combining the pollination deficit and the feeding activity of phytophagous insects (moth larvae) may reduce the reproductive fitness of J. betonica in the study regions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Mesophthirus engeli (Mesophthiridae incerti ordinis), described as a feather-feeding parasite of dinosaurs, has recently been reinterpreted as an early instar nymph (crawler) of a primitive scale insect. Mesophthirus has no specific similarities to bird lice, although life on feathers should modify parasites in a similar way. Based on re-examination of photographs of the type specimens of M. engeli, the subfamily Mesophthirinae stat. nov. is assigned to the archaic extant family Xylococcidae s.l. (recorded since the Hauterivian), next to the extant subfamilies Xylococcinae and Stigmacoccinae. Xylococcid honeydew is an important food resource for birds and other arboreal vertebrates. Like their modern relatives, Mesophthirinae lived under the bark of trees and produced copious honeydew. Early birds and their precursors, small feathered dinosaurs, may well have fed on honeydew and the mesophthirines themselves. Scale insect crawlers are adapted to wind transport and phoresy on insects and vertebrates, so finding Mesophthirus on feathers is expected. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Background Gastrodia elata is a fully mycoheterotrophic orchid and has long been used in traditional Chinese medicine. The life cycle of G. elata requires an association with two different fungi-Mycena for seed germination and Armillaria for tuber growth. The association with Armillaria is representative of the phytophagous type of orchid mycorrhiza: the intracellular hyphae are lysed without forming condensed pelotons. However, whether the association with Mycena during seed germination belongs to the same type of orchid mycorrhiza is unknown. Results Histological and ultrastructural studies revealed several notable features in different developmental stages. First, a thickened cell wall with papillae-like structures appeared during fungal penetration in the suspensor end cell, epidermal cells and cortical cells of germinating embryos. In addition, the formation of two distinctive cell types in the colonized region of a protocorm (i.e., the passage canal cell filled with actively growing fungal hyphae) can be observed in the epidermal cell, and the distinctive digestion cell with a dense cytoplasm appears in the cortex. Finally, within the digestion cell, numerous electron-dense tubules form a radial system and attach to degrading fungal hyphae. The fungal hyphae appear to be digested through endocytosis. Conclusions The present study provides important structural evidence for the phytophagous type of orchid mycorrhiza in the symbiotic germination of G. elata with Mycena. This case demonstrates a particular nutrient transfer network between G. elata and its litter-decaying fungal partner.

Insects are incapable of biosynthesising sterols de novo so they need to obtain them from their diets or, in certain cases, from symbiotic microorganisms. Sterols serve a structural role in cellular membranes and act as precursors for signalling molecules and defence compounds. Many phytophagous insects dealkylate phytosterols to yield primarily cholesterol, which is also the main sterol that carnivorous and omnivorous insects obtain in their diets. Some phytophagous species have secondarily lost the capacity to dealkylate and consequently use phytosterols for structural and functional roles. The polyhydroxylated steroid hormones of insects, the ecdysteroids, are derived from cholesterol (or phytosterols in non-dealkylating phytophagous species) and regulate many crucial aspects of insect development and reproduction by means of precisely regulated titres resulting from controlled synthesis, storage and further metabolism/excretion. Ecdysteroids differ significantly from vertebrate steroid hormones in their chemical, biochemical and biological properties. Defensive steroids (cardenolides, bufadienolides, cucurbitacins and ecdysteroids) can be accumulated from host plants or biosynthesised within the insect, depending on species, stored in significant amounts in the insect and released when it is attacked. Other allelochemical steroids serve as pheromones. Vertebrate-type steroids have also been conclusively identified from insect sources, but debate continues about their significance. Side chain dealkylation of phytosterols, ecdysteroid metabolism and ecdysteroid mode of action are targets of potential insect control strategies., (© 2024. All color figures to remain in the eBook and to be printed in color.)

Tetraopes are aposematic longhorn beetles (Cerambycidae) that feed primarily on toxic plants in the genus Asclepias (milkweeds). Studies of Tetraopes and their host plants have revealed compelling evidence for insect-plant coevolution and cospeciation. We sequenced, assembled and annotated the genome of the common red milkweed beetle, Tetraopes tetrophthalmus, and explored gene content and evolution, focusing on annotated genes putatively involved in chemosensation, allelochemical detoxification, and phytophagy. Comparisons were made to the Asian longhorned beetle (Anoplophora glabripennis) genome. The genome assembly comprised 779 Mb distributed across 1057 contigs, with an N50 of 2.21 Mb and 13,089 putative genes, including 97.3% of expected single-copy orthologs. Manual curation identified 122 putative odorant receptors (OR) and 162 gustatory receptors (GR), the former number similar to A. glabripennis but the latter only 69% of the A. glabripennis suite. We also documented a greater percentage of pseudogenic GRs and ORs compared to A. glabripennis, suggesting an ongoing reduction in chemosensory function, perhaps related to host specialization. We found lower diversity within certain well-studied gene families predicted to encode putative plant cell wall degrading enzymes in the T. tetrophthalmus genome, perhaps also due to host specialization. Exploring genes relevant to stress and allelochemical detoxification revealed evidence of an abundance of ABC-family genes in the T. tetrophthalmus genome, which may be related to sequestering toxic cardiac glycosides. Our studies further illuminate the genomic basis and evolution of chemosensation in longhorn beetles and provide a new vantage point from which to explore the ecology and evolution of specialized plant-feeding in Tetraopes and other phytophagous beetles., (© The Author(s) 2024. Published by Oxford University Press on behalf of The American Genetic Association. All rights reserved. For commercial re-use, please contact reprints@oup.com for reprints and translation rights for reprints. All other permissions can be obtained through our RightsLink service via the Permissions link on the article page on our site—for further information please contact journals.permissions@oup.com.)

Eryngiofaga perrara sp. nov. is described, diagnosed and illustrated from two adult specimens found on Mount Pilatus (Switzerland, Obwalden). The new species is morphologically most similar to E. matura (Loginova, 1972), a species from Mongolia, from which it differs in the light genal processes and in details of the terminalia. Eryngiofaga consists of 13 previously described species of which five occur in Central and Western Europe. Up to now, the genus was not known from Switzerland or the Alps. The host plant of E. perrara remains unknown, but Bupleurum ranunculoides L. (Apiaceae) is a likely candidate. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Eurytoma tomentosae sp. nov., included in the Eurytoma amygdali species-group, is described from South Korea. This species could potentially be an economically important pest, as it interferes with reproduction by attacking the seeds of the garden plant P. tomentosae. A key to the two Eurytoma species feeding on Prunus in South Korea is provided. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the present note, we document an extension of the geographic range of Prodecatoma philodendri Ferrière, 1924 to the state of São Paulo, Brazil, based on examination of specimens obtained in fruits of Philodendron bipinnatifidum Schott ex Endl. (Araceae) in the locality “Sertão do Cacau”, municipality of São Sebastião, state of São Paulo, Brazil. Also, we provide a list of Prodecatoma species, with their distribution and the known host plants. In addition, we discuss a new host plant family for Prodecatoma, which reinforces the thesis that the species of the genus presents a phytophagous habit.

The first hostplant record on Prosopis tamarugo (Fabaceae) is given for the Chilean green stink bug Chinavia chilensis. Observations were made in San Pedro de Atacama, Antofagasta Region, Chile. It was recorded that the females oviposite on the three. Later, nymphs develop on the fruits. The significance of this finding is discussed and it is concluded that C. chilensis may be highly specialized to feed on this vegetal species.

Abstract Background The Hemiptera (aphids, cicadas, and true bugs) are a key insect order, with high diversity for feeding ecology and excellent experimental tractability for molecular genetics. Building upon recent sequencing of hemipteran pests such as phloem-feeding aphids and blood-feeding bed bugs, we present the genome sequence and comparative analyses centered on the milkweed bug Oncopeltus fasciatus, a seed feeder of the family Lygaeidae. Results The 926-Mb Oncopeltus genome is well represented by the current assembly and official gene set. We use our genomic and RNA-seq data not only to characterize the protein-coding gene repertoire and perform isoform-specific RNAi, but also to elucidate patterns of molecular evolution and physiology. We find ongoing, lineage-specific expansion and diversification of repressive C2H2 zinc finger proteins. The discovery of intron gain and turnover specific to the Hemiptera also prompted the evaluation of lineage and genome size as predictors of gene structure evolution. Furthermore, we identify enzymatic gains and losses that correlate with feeding biology, particularly for reductions associated with derived, fluid nutrition feeding. Conclusions With the milkweed bug, we now have a critical mass of sequenced species for a hemimetabolous insect order and close outgroup to the Holometabola, substantially improving the diversity of insect genomics. We thereby define commonalities among the Hemiptera and delve into how hemipteran genomes reflect distinct feeding ecologies. Given Oncopeltus’s strength as an experimental model, these new sequence resources bolster the foundation for molecular research and highlight technical considerations for the analysis of medium-sized invertebrate genomes.

Half a million species of herbivorous insects have been described. Most of them are diet specialists, using only a few plant species as hosts. Biologists suspect that their specificity is key to their diversity. But why do herbivorous insects tend to be diet specialists? In this review, we catalog a broad range of explanations. We review the evidence for each and suggest lines of research to obtain the evidence we lack. We then draw attention to a second major question, namely how changes in diet breadth affect the rest of a species' biology. In particular, we know little about how changes in diet breadth feed back on genetic architecture, the population genetic environment, and other aspects of a species' ecology. Knowing more about how generalists and specialists differ should go a long way toward sorting out potential explanations of specificity, and yield a deeper understanding of herbivorous insect diversity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In August 2018, unidentified damages were reported on cranberries in a conventional bog located in Quebec (Eastern Canada). Following a field inspection, high percentage of nibbled fruits as well as katydids (Orthoptera: Tettigoniidae) were observed. Several individuals (nymphs and adults) were seen feeding directly on the fruits. Specimens were captured and sent to the "Laboratoire d'expertise et de diagnostic en phytoprotection" of the "Quebec Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food" (LEDP‐MAPAQ). They were identified as Scudderia pistillata Brunner von Wattenwyl (Orthoptera: Tettigoniidae). Subsequently, a systematic fruit sampling was realized into the beds where damages were observed to assess spatial patterns of infestation. To our knowledge, it constitutes the first mention of significant damages associated to this species in cranberry bogs and, in some cases, up to 5% damages to the fruits were observed. This observation suggests that S. pistillata represents a potential pest for this crop. Additionally, a decrease of damage rates was observed when distancing from the north‐eastern corner of the bog. Hypothesis in regards of damages' spatial pattern is discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The genus Eumerus Meigen 1822 (Diptera: Syrphidae) is widely distributed in the Old World, though recently introduced into America, and their larvae feed on decaying vegetal material and/or inside underground storage organs of many plants, sometimes generating economic losses as pests. However, little is known about Eumerus larval cycles and their interactions with host plants. Here, immatures of three Eumerus species from different continents are described, noting their feeding habits and host plants. Larvae of Eumerus figurans Walker 1859 were obtained from Hawaiian cultured ginger roots; puparium of Eumerus alpinus Rondani 1857 originated from larvae collected in Asphodelus ramosus L. in France; puparia of Eumerus superbus Shannon 1927 were reared from larvae found in two Zamiaceae species from Australia. Mitochondrial COI sequences served for diagnosing E. figurans larvae. Optical and scanning electron microscopy were used to describe body features, head skeletons, anterior spiracles, pupal spiracles, and posterior respiratory processes. Overall, E. alpinus resembles E. nudus Loew 1848 immatures. Eumerus superbus has a remarkable morphology among all described immatures of the genus, being the only Eumerus reported from gymnosperms. Head skeleton of E. figurans suggests this species is a filtering one. Present findings show that larvae of Eumerus can be separated at the species level and that this genus is polyphagous, feeding on a wide range of plant tissues and taxa, including commercial species. This study emphasizes immature stages and breeding sites as important means to understand species life cycles and the interactions with their host plants and ecosystems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Classic research on elevational gradients in plant–herbivore interactions holds that insect herbivore pressure is stronger under warmer climates of low elevations. However, recent work has questioned this paradigm, arguing that it oversimplifies the ecological complexity in which plant–insect herbivore interactions are embedded. Knowledge of antagonistic networks of plants and herbivores is however crucial for understanding the mechanisms that govern ecosystem functioning. We examined herbivore damage and insect herbivores of eight species of genus Ficus (105 saplings) and plant constitutive defensive traits of two of these species, along a rain forest elevational gradient of Mt. Wilhelm (200–2,700 m a.s.l.), in tropical Papua New Guinea. We report overall herbivore damage 2.4% of leaf area, ranging from 0.03% in Ficus endochaete at 1,700 m a.s.l. to 6.1% in F. hombroniana at 700 m a.s.l. Herbivore damage and herbivore abundances varied significantly with elevation, as well as among the tree species, and between the wet and dry season. Community‐wide herbivore damage followed a hump‐shaped pattern with the peak between 700 and 1,200 m a.s.l. and this pattern corresponded with abundance of herbivores. For two tree species surveyed in detail, we observed decreasing and hump‐shaped patterns in herbivory, in general matching the trends found in the set of plant defenses measured here. Our results imply that vegetation growing at mid‐elevations of the elevational gradient, that is at the climatically most favorable elevations where water is abundant, and temperatures still relatively warm, suffers the maximum amount of herbivorous damage which changes seasonally, reflecting the water availability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A new morphotype of multicuspid teeth belonging to the actinopterygian order Eurynotoidiformes and supposedly associated with Isadia opokiensis A. Minich et Andrushkevich, 2017 was found in the terminal deposits of the East European Severodvinian Stage (Maryushkina Sluda-C locality, Vologda Region). The original description of this species was based upon isolated scales obtained from the stratigraphically and geographically adjacent Mutovino locality. Teeth of the I. opokiensis morphotype are robust and are characterized by a powerful buttress and a wide crown bearing numerous (up to eight) spade-shaped cusps with high acrodine caps. Cusp tips form a slightly curved occlusal surface. Labially, these tips bear well defined facets formed by lifetime wear that suggest algal scraping as the predominant feeding mode. Tooth structure in Isadia opokiensis is morphologically transitional between that of I. suchonensis and I. arefievi, suggesting a morphoevolutionary succession. The similar (flat) crown shape in another Isadia species, I. aristoviensis, may have originated convergently by modification of a more primitive morphotype found in Urzhumian eurynotoidids. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Gastrodia elata is a fully mycoheterotrophic orchid and has long been used in traditional Chinese medicine. The life cycle of G. elata requires an association with two different fungi-Mycena for seed germination and Armillaria for tuber growth. The association with Armillaria is representative of the phytophagous type of orchid mycorrhiza: the intracellular hyphae are lysed without forming condensed pelotons. However, whether the association with Mycena during seed germination belongs to the same type of orchid mycorrhiza is unknown. Results: Histological and ultrastructural studies revealed several notable features in different developmental stages. First, a thickened cell wall with papillae-like structures appeared during fungal penetration in the suspensor end cell, epidermal cells and cortical cells of germinating embryos. In addition, the formation of two distinctive cell types in the colonized region of a protocorm (i.e., the passage canal cell filled with actively growing fungal hyphae) can be observed in the epidermal cell, and the distinctive digestion cell with a dense cytoplasm appears in the cortex. Finally, within the digestion cell, numerous electron-dense tubules form a radial system and attach to degrading fungal hyphae. The fungal hyphae appear to be digested through endocytosis. Conclusions: The present study provides important structural evidence for the phytophagous type of orchid mycorrhiza in the symbiotic germination of G. elata with Mycena. This case demonstrates a particular nutrient transfer network between G. elata and its litter-decaying fungal partner. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Polypedilum johannseni Sublette & Sublette (= Chironomus (Polypedilum) anticus Johannsen), described from Indonesia, is recorded from Australia, where larvae are newly reported to feed on species of the aquatic fern Azolla Lam. (Salviniaceae). We extend the Australian distribution for the species that was reported previously as Polypedilum 'nr seorsus' from northern Australia. Review of the species in Asia shows previously known presence in Singapore as Polypedilum anticus and in Thailand and the Philippines, where the larva was reported to feed on Azolla. In China, Polypedilum johannseni is reported from a diverse range of aquatic host plants, including Azolla. We also newly report the species from Japan, where larvae feed on hybrid Azolla cristata × Azolla filiculoides and Trapa japonica Flerow (Lythraceae). We review the taxonomy, provide new illustrations, record and map the wider distribution and comment on morphological variation. Here, we also redescribe the Australian Polypedilum seorsus (Skuse) with which P. johannseni has been confused, and from China, we redescribe Polypedilum tigrinum Hashimoto, the larva of which is a proven aquatic phytophage that co‐occurs with several species of Polypedilum, including P. johannseni. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Meligethes (Odonthogethes) chinensis is a common Chinese phytophagous species in the family Nitidulidae. Its main larval host plant is Rubus idaeus L. (Rosaceae), and adults feed on pollen and other floral parts. In this study, we used scanning electron microscopy (SEM) to observe and study the fine morphology of sensilla on the antennae and mouthparts of M. chinensis. The results show that there are six types and twelve subtypes of sensilla on male antennae; seven types and fourteen subtypes on female antennae; seven types and seventeen subtypes on male mouthparts; seven types and sixteen subtypes on female mouthparts. Sensilla coeloconica (SCo) are found on the female antennae of M. chinensis only, and they are also reported on the antennae of Nitidulidae for the first time. SCo2 on the labrum present sexual dimorphism, and one subtype of sensilla basiconica (SB6) is presented on the tip of maxillary and labial palps of the male only, while other types of sensilla are very similar on the mouthparts of male and female. Finally, by comparing similar sensilla in other insects, we also attempted to discuss the functions of all sensilla on the antennae and mouthparts of M. chinensis.

The braconid subfamily Doryctinae is a cosmopolitan, highly diverse group of wasps mainly represented by parasitoid species. In this subfamily, however, there is a group of mainly Neotropical genera whose species are associated with galls of several vascular plant families. Previous molecular phylogenetic studies based on a few markers consistently recovered the monophyly of this group, though various relationships among genera and the monophyly of its most speciose genus, Allorhogas Gahan, remained unresolved. We characterized the mitogenomes of 13 representative species of the gall-associated doryctine clade and performed a phylogenomic analysis with both mitogenome and ultraconserved element (UCE) DNA sequence data to assess the classification of Doryctinae and to examine the evolution of phytophagy within the group. We found different patterns of tRNA gene rearrangements, two of which are present in most of the ingroup taxa. All phylogenetic analyses yielded highly similar, well-supported topologies that are congruent with relationships reported in previous studies. The resulting phylogenies confirmed Percnobracon as sister to the remaining genera and supported two separate clades whose genera are exclusively associated with Ficus (Moraceae). Allorhogas is confirmed to be polyphyletic. The combined evidence also supported a main Allorhogas clade composed of multiple phytophagous species that feed on at least five different host plant families. Further rearing records and phylogenetic studies are needed to examine host plant shifts and to broaden our understanding of a poorly studied radiation of gall-associated wasps. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Zoophytophagous predators provide biocontrol services in various major crops of modern horticulture due to the combination of its predatory capacity and the induction of plant defenses derived from its phytophagy. However, under certain conditions of prey scarcity, these natural enemies can inflict plant damage. Exploitation of genetic variation and subsequent selective breeding on foraging traits is a potential alternative to overcome this inconvenience. In this study, we quantified the genetic variation of phytophagy and zoophagy of Nesidiocoristenuis (Reuter) (Hemiptera: Miridae), a zoophytophagous predator widely used in tomato crops to suppress key pests. We compared nine isofemale lines on their capacity to produce necrotic rings and wilting on tomato plants as a proxy for phytophagy, as well as their efficacy to prey on Ephestia kuehniella Zeller (Lepidoptera: Pyralidae) eggs, as a proxy for zoophagy. Differences between isofemale lines in phytophagy and zoophagy indicated a genetic basis. Variation found in the zoophagy levels was larger than that in phytophagy levels. Our results showed that there is a genetic basis for the variation observed in the feeding behavior of isofemale lines of N.tenuis, highlighting the potential importance of selective breeding for such traits of biocontrol interest.

Abstract: BACKGROUND: In addition to their services as predators, mirid predators are able to induce plant defences by phytophagy. However, whether this induction occurs in sweet pepper and whether it could be an additional benefit to their role as a biological control agent in this crop remain unknown. Here, these questions were investigated in two model insects, the mirids Nesidiocoris tenuis and Macrolophus pygmaeus. RESULTS: Plant feeding behaviour was observed in both N. tenuis and M. pygmaeus on sweet pepper and occupied 33% and 14% of total time spent on the plant, respectively. The punctures caused by mirid plant feeding induced the release of a blend of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) which repelled the herbivore pests Frankliniella occidentalis and Bemisia tabaci and attracted the whitefly parasitoid Encarsia formosa. The repellent effect on B. tabaci was observed for at least 7 days after initial exposure of the plant to N. tenuis, and attraction of E. formosa remained functional for 14 days. CONCLUSION: Plant defences induced by the feeding of mirid predators, their subsequent effects on the behaviour of both pests and natural enemies, and the persistence of these observed effects open the door to new control strategies in the sweet pepper crop. Further application of this research is discussed, such as the vaccination of plants by zoophytophagous mirids in the nursery before transplantation. © 2017 Society of Chemical Industry [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Jatropha curcas has a high biofuel oil content, which could replace polluting fuels, and has great potential for large scale monoculture cultivation in the conventional system. We explored the occurrence, spatial distribution and the functional response of the main phytophagous species of this plant and their natural enemies to explore the potential for conservative biological control. We began sampling phytophagous species and predators when J. curcas plants were six months old. The most common species of phytophagous insects were nymphs and adults of Empoasca kraemeri, followed by Frankliniella schultzei and Myzus persicae. Among the predators, Ricoseius loxocheles, Iphiseioides zuluagai, Araneidae, larvae and adults of Psyllobora vigintimaculata and Anthicus sp. were the most frequently encountered. The most common parasitoids were the families Encyrtidae and Braconidae. The highest densities of E. kraemeri and F. schultzei on the edges of the J. curcas crop follow spatial patterns similar to those of their natural enemies I. zuluagai and Anthicus sp. These arthropods can be considered efficient predators of immature stages of E. kraemeri and F. schultzei on J. curcas.

Insect-aroid interaction studies have focused largely on pollination systems; however, few report trophic interactions with other herbivores. This study features the endophagous insect community in reproductive aroid structures of a tropical rainforest of Mexico, and the shifting that occurs along an altitudinal gradient and among different hosts. In three sites of the Los Tuxtlas Biosphere Reserve in Mexico, we surveyed eight aroid species over a yearly cycle. The insects found were reared in the laboratory, quantified and identified. Data were analyzed through species interaction networks. We recorded 34 endophagous species from 21 families belonging to four insect orders. The community was highly specialized at both network and species levels. Along the altitudinal gradient, there was a reduction in richness and a high turnover of species, while the assemblage among hosts was also highly specific, with different dominant species. Our findings suggest that intrinsic plant factors could influence their occupation, and that the coexistence of distinct insect species in the assemblage could exert a direct or indirect influence on their ability to colonize such resources.

To obtain a better understanding of feeding adaptations, the fine structure of the mouthparts in adults of Cheilocapsus nigrescens Liu and Wang, including the sculpture and interlocking mechanisms of the stylets and distribution and abundance of sensilla located on the labium, were studied using scanning electron microscopy. The mouthparts are similar to those of previously studied mirid species in most aspects and composed of a cone-shaped labrum, a tube-like, four-segmented labium with a deep groove on the anterior side, and a stylet fascicle consisting of two mandibular and two maxillary stylets. Each mandibular stylet tip has about 6−8 indistinctive notches, which help in penetrating the leaf surface. A series of transverse squamous textures are present on the adaxial surface of the mandibular stylets. The maxillary stylets interlock to form a food canal and a salivary canal, equipped with an external longitudinal process that engages grooves in the mandibular stylets. Three kinds of sensilla, including four types of sensilla basiconica (I, II, III, and IV), four types of sensilla trichodea (I, II, III, and IV), and one type of sensillum campaniformium, occur at different locations on the labium. Among them, sensilla trichodea I and II are the most abundant; sensilla basiconica II occurs between the first segment and second segment, and between the third and fourth segment. The tripartite apex of the labium consists of two lateral lobes and an apical plate. Each lateral lobe possesses a field of 11 sensilla basiconica IV and 1 sensillum trichodeum IV. The morphology of the mouthparts and the distribution of sensilla located on the labium in C. nigrescens are discussed with respect to their possible taxonomic and functional significance. In particular, the indistinct notches of the mandibular stylet and smooth inner surface of the right maxillary stylets are suited primarily for phytophagy.

Parasite–host and insect–plant research have divergent traditions despite the fact that most phytophagous insects live parasitically on their host plants. In parasitology it is a traditional assumption that parasites are typically highly specialized; cospeciation between parasites and hosts is a frequently expressed default expectation. Insect–plant theory has been more concerned with host shifts than with cospeciation, and more with hierarchies among hosts than with extreme specialization. We suggest that the divergent assumptions in the respective fields have hidden a fundamental similarity with an important role for potential as well as actual hosts, and hence for host colonizations via ecological fitting. A common research program is proposed which better prepares us for the challenges from introduced species and global change. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Heteroptera have diverse feeding habits with phytophagous, zoophagous, and haematophagous species. This dietary diversity associated with the monophyly of Heteroptera makes these insects a good object for comparative studies of the digestive tract. This work compares the ultrastructure of the middle midgut region in the phytophagous Coptosoma scutellatum (Plataspidae), Graphosoma lineatum (Pentatomidae), Kleidocerys resedae (Lygaeidae), and zoophagous Rhynocoris iracundus (Reduviidae), Nabis rugosus (Nabidae), and Himacerus apterus (Nabidae), to verify if diet affects midgut cells in phylogenetically related insects. The middle region of the midgut was used for comparison because it is the main site for digestion and absorption of the midgut. The digestive cell ultrastructure was similar in the six species, with features of secretory, absorptive, transport, storage, and excretory cells, suggesting a stronger correlation of middle digestive cell ultrastructure with the phylogeny of these species than with the different heteropteran feeding habits. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]