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The article reports on the first occurrence of the ectoparasitic genus Tropilaelaps in Russia. Tropilaelaps mites are known to damage honey bee brood and nests. The study found specimens of Tropilaelaps mercedesae in Western Siberia, Russia, which closely matched the incomplete description provided by previous researchers. The article highlights the need for further taxonomic analysis and emphasizes the importance of early detection and monitoring to mitigate the potential spread of Tropilaelaps mites. [Extracted from the article]

Spiromesifen is an agrochemical used to control sucking insect pests worldwide including Pakistan. Musca domestica is an important pest in both medical and veterinary entomology. It is a vector for many detrimental diseases in humans and animals. In this study, inheritance, and mechanism of resistance to spiromesifen were examined. After 13 rounds of selection with spiromesifen, significant increase (1092.72-fold) in resistance was observed in spiromesifen selected strain of M. domestica (SPIRO-SEL) as compared to susceptible population (SPIRO-SS). Spiromesifen toxicity was evaluated by the feeding bioassay method. Bioassays with synergists piperonyl butoxide (PBO) and S,S,S tributyl phosphorotrithioate (DEF) revealed that LC50 decreased when spiromesifen along DEF applied on SPIRO-SEL compared with spiromesifen alone that might be due to involvement of esterases. The synergistic ratios for synergists PBO and DEF to SPIRO-SEL were 1.36 and 4.36, respectively. No significant difference was observed between LC50 values of F1 and Fˆ1, which is an indication that resistance is not sex-linked. Values for degree of dominance were 0.20 and 0.23 for F1 and Fˆ1, respectively. Our results showed that inheritance of spiromesifen resistance is autosomal, polygenic, and incompletely dominant. Information obtained from these results will be helpful in developing better proactive insecticide resistance management program for M. domestica. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In medical, veterinary and forensic entomology, the ease and affordability of image data acquisition have resulted in whole‐image analysis becoming an invaluable approach for species identification. Krawtchouk moment invariants are a classical mathematical transformation that can extract local features from an image, thus allowing subtle species‐specific biological variations to be accentuated for subsequent analyses. We extracted Krawtchouk moment invariant features from binarised wing images of 759 male fly specimens from the Calliphoridae, Sarcophagidae and Muscidae families (13 species and a species variant). Subsequently, we trained the Generalized, Unbiased, Interaction Detection and Estimation random forests classifier using linear discriminants derived from these features and inferred the species identity of specimens from the test samples. Fivefold cross‐validation results show a 98.56 ± 0.38% (standard error) mean identification accuracy at the family level and a 91.04 ± 1.33% mean identification accuracy at the species level. The mean F1‐score of 0.89 ± 0.02 reflects good balance of precision and recall properties of the model. The present study consolidates findings from previous small pilot studies of the usefulness of wing venation patterns for inferring species identities. Thus, the stage is set for the development of a mature data analytic ecosystem for routine computer image‐based identification of fly species that are of medical, veterinary and forensic importance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: Sarcophaga crassipalpis Macquart, 1839 (Diptera: Sarcophagidae) is a flesh fly species of medical, veterinary, and forensic importance. It is often used in the laboratory for several biological studies. In the current research, we investigate its life history under changing temperatures ranging from 15.7 to 31.1 °C, with an average of 24.55 °C, and the relative humidity ranges from 31.4 to 82.8% and at six fixed temperatures of 15, 20, 25, 30, 32, and then 35 °C. Also, pteridine from the head was used to assess adult age grading. Our results revealed that the life history and development rate of S. crassipalpis under changing temperatures were very close to those observed at a fixed temperature of 25 °C. The longest and shortest growing times were found at a low rearing temperature of 15 °C and higher temperature of 32 °C, respectively. The pattern of pteridine increase differed depending on the temperature. By employing a changing temperature model in the current study, we aim to provide information on the life history of S. crassipalpis that will be useful in future research. Flesh flies (Diptera: Sarcophagidae) are regarded as significant in medical and veterinary entomology, and their development models can be utilized as considerable markers to ascertain the minimum postmortem interval (PMImin). In this research, we explored the growth cycle and larval body length of Sarcophaga crassipalpis Macquart 1839 (Diptera: Sarcophagidae) reared under variable temperatures ranging from 15.7 to 31.1 °C, with an average of 24.55 °C and relative humidity ranges from 31.4 to 82.8% and at six fixed temperatures of 15, 20, 25, 30, 32, and then 35 °C. Moreover, pteridine from the head was used to assess adult age grading. Our results allowed us to provide three development models: the isomorphen chart, the isomegalen chart, and the thermal summation models. The time taken for S. crassipalpis to complete its development from larviposition to adult emergence at constant temperatures of 15, 20, 25, 30, 32, and 35 °C was 1256.3 ± 124.2, 698.6 ± 15.1, 481.8 ± 35.7, 366.0 ± 13.5, and 295.8 ± 20.5 h, respectively, except 35 °C, where all pupae were unable to attain adulthood. They lasted 485.8 ± 5.4 h under variable temperatures. The minimum developmental limit (D0) temperature and the thermal summation constant (K) of S. crassipalpis were 9.31 ± 0.55 °C and 7290.0 ± 388.4 degree hours, respectively. The increase in pteridine content exhibited variations across different temperatures. There was quite a considerable distinction in the pteridine contents of male and female S. crassipalpis at 15 °C (p = 0.0075) and 25 °C (p = 0.0213). At 32 °C and variable temperatures, the pteridine content between female and male S. crassipalpis was not statistically divergent. However, temperature and gender remain the main factors influencing the pteridine content in the head of S. crassipalpis. We aim to provide detailed developmental data on S. crassipalpis that can be used as a valuable resource for future research and PMI estimation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Research on medical and veterinary entomology (MVE) is especially needed in the Caribbean islands, which are threatened by the burden of several arthropod species due to their tropical climate and environment. Identifying relevant MVE-related scientific activity in these countries and examining the characteristics of its outputs can aid in the analysis of trends, knowledge gaps and decision-making in vector-borne disease research management. This study used bibliometric methods to understand how research in this discipline developed in the insular Caribbean countries during the first two decades of this century. Data were extracted from the Web of Science Core Collection™ and SciELO Citation Index™. During the study period, the region's scientific MVE production grew at a steady rate. Most studies focused on the order Diptera and the family Culicidae. Cuba is the largest regional producer. The predominance and growing trend of international scientific collaboration were observed. These scientific results are scattered and mainly published in journals in the United States and European countries. Recent MVE studies in the insular Caribbean have been promising; it is crucial to ensure knowledge transfer across generations of researchers to generate trained human resources that will allow these studies to continue in each country in the future. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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The article presents the discussion on articles published in ENTOMON will be in digital, online, free of charge, and free of most copyright. Topics include ENTOMON published articles on agricultural entomology, aquatic entomology, acarology and arachnology, entomophagy, forensic entomology; and increase in the cost of digitalisation, page making, proof reading/ corrections and materials.

This paper presents a retrospective analysis (2012-2016) of the spread of strongylatosis invasion of horses in the Tyumen region (Russia) in the context of districts. The disease was diagnosed based on the results of coproscopic studies of horse fecal samples using Fulleborn's method in the laboratory of entomoses and helminthiasis of animals of the All-Russian Science and Research Institute of Veterinary Entomology and Arachnology, a branch of the Tyumen Scientific Center of the Siberian Branch of the Russian Academy of Sciences and district state veterinary laboratories of the Tyumen region. The causative agents of horse strongylatosis were identified in the farms of the Abatsky, Armizonsky, Berdyuzhsky, Vagaysky, Vikulovsky, Zavodoukovsky, Isetsky, Ishimsky, Kazansky, Nizhnetavdinsky, Omutinsky, Sorokinsky, Tyumen, Uvatsky, Yurginsky, Yalutorovsky, and Yarkovsky districts. In the farms of the Uporovsky, Tobolsky, Sladkovsky, Golyshmanovsky, and Aromashevsky districts of the region, during the study of samples of horse feces, eggs of pathogens that cause strongylatosis were not found in the gastrointestinal tract. During the study period, the extent of invasion varied from 21.19 (2013) to 24.55% (2014), the incidence of disease in animals in disadvantaged areas of the region was uneven, and in most of the study areas, it was characterized by periodic rise and subsequent decline. However, in two areas, namely in the Berdyuzhsky and Zavodokovsky districts, there was a steady trend towards an increase in morbidity horses by the above group of parasites. With a decrease in prevalence to 5% in the farms of the Abatsky, Vagaysky, and Uvatsky districts and the Vikulovsky and Isetsky districts to 20.0 and 24.82%, in subsequent years, the invasion of horses with pathogens of strongylatoses of the gastrointestinal tract was not revealed. It is necessary to carry out epizootological monitoring, and timely antiparasitic treatments, with mandatory consideration of the results, for a timely response to the formation of resistance in parasites. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Old World screwworm ( I Chrysomya bezziana i ) (OWS) myiasis was once a serious problem in Middle Eastern countries following the introduction of the pest into the region and the occurrence of disease outbreaks in the 1990s. The present situation of screwworm myiasis in the Middle East was exemplified by the situation in 10 countries for two consecutive years, 2020 and 2021 (Table 1). 7 Hall, M.J.R., Edge, W., Testa, J.M., Adams, Z.J.O. & Ready, P.D. (2001) Old World screwworm fly, Chrysomya bezziana, occurs as two geographical races. [Extracted from the article]

The stagnation of our fight against malaria in recent years, mainly due to the development of mosquito insecticide resistance, argues for the urgent development of new weapons. The dramatic evolution of molecular tools in the last few decades led to a better understanding of parasite–mosquito interactions and coalesced in the development of novel tools namely, mosquito transgenesis and paratransgenesis. Here we provide a historical view of the development of these new tools and point to some remaining challenges for their implementation in the field. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, we estimated exposure for Scrub typhus (STG), Typhus (TG) and Spotted fever groups (SFG) rickettsia using serology at a fine scale (a whole sub-district administration level) of local communities in Nan Province, Thailand. Geographical characteristics of the sub-district were divided into two landscape types: lowland agricultural area in an urbanized setting (lowland-urbanized area) and upland agricultural area located close to a protected area of National Park (upland-forested area). This provided an ideal contrast between the two landscapes with low and high levels of human-altered habitats to study in differences in disease ecology. In total, 824 serum samples of participants residing in the eight villages were tested by screening IgG ELISA, and subsequently confirmed by the gold standard IgG Immunofluorescent Assay (IFA). STG and TG IgG positivity were highest with seroprevalence of 9.8% and 9.0%, respectively; whereas SFG positivity rate was lower at 6.9%. Inhabitants from the villages located in upland-forested area demonstrated significantly higher STG exposure, compared to those villages in the lowland-urbanized area (chi-square = 51.97, p < 0.0001). In contrast, TG exposure was significantly higher in those villagers living in lowland-urbanized area (chi-square = 28.26, p < 0.0001). In addition to the effect of landscape types, generalized linear model (GLM) analysis identified socio-demographic parameters, i.e., gender, occupation, age, educational level, domestic animal ownership (dog, cattle and poultry) as influential factors to explain the level of rickettsial exposure (antibody titers) in the communities. Our findings raise the public health awareness of rickettsiosis as a cause of undiagnosed febrile illness in the communities. Author summary: Evidence of human exposures to rickettsial pathogens were reported from a cross-sectional study at a whole sub-district scale of local communities in Nan Province, Thailand. Seroprevalence and level of rickettsial exposures demonstrated differences between the habitat types, ecological aspects and socio-demographic factors. In addition, abundance of domestic animals in the community appeared to be one of significant factors influencing levels of human exposure to rickettsial pathogens. Our findings will benefit the local public health by raising awareness of rickettsial infections as one of potential health concerns in the community. Inclusion of rickettsioses in routine laboratory diagnosis would help to differentiate unknown febrile illness and guide appropriate treatment. Further studies are required, particularly in the fields of disease ecology as well as medical and veterinary entomology, in order to better understand epidemiology and potential zoonotic transmission of these neglected rickettsioses in endemic areas. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ants intercepted by the Hawaii Department of Agriculture in 2018 and 2019 identified as Solenopsis spp., and possibly S. invicta, were submitted to the United States Department of Agriculture-Agricultural Research Service-Center for Medical, Agricultural and Veterinary Entomology, Imported Fire Ant and Household Insects Research Unit for further taxonomic assessment using genetic and chemical methods. The 2018 sample consisted of 1 worker ant, and the 2019 sample consisted of 3 worker ants. Thoraces were used for genetic assessment and gasters were used for venom analyses. It was determined readily from genetic and chemical analyses that the intercepted ants were not S. invicta or S. richteri. Mitochondrial COX1 gene sequences were compared with previously published data from Solenopsis species. The closest match for the 2018 sample was S. xyloni, which is native to the shipment's origin (San Diego, California, USA). The 2 major alkaloids found were characteristic of the S. geminata species group. In addition, the alkaloid ratio closely matched that of S. xyloni. Therefore, the alkaloid analysis of the 2018 intercepted ant concurs with the genetic data that the ant was an S. xyloni worker. The COX1 gene sequences of the 2019 interceptions most closely matched S. geminata. The corresponding venom alkaloid profile also eliminated S. invicta and S. richteri as possibilities. However, 1 major alkaloid was unusual (Fig. 2) and normally is found only in trace amounts. We suggest the 2019 specimens are an unusual variant of S. geminata. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In Nkayi district, I X. brasiliensis i flea species was associated with different rodent species whereas in Umzingwane district, all the recorded flea species were associated with only one rodent species, i.e I M. natalensis i . Keywords: flea diversity; Nkayi district; rodent-flea association; rodents and fleas; rodents' diversity; Umzingwane district EN flea diversity Nkayi district rodent-flea association rodents and fleas rodents' diversity Umzingwane district 755 759 5 09/01/21 20210901 NES 210901 INTRODUCTION Co-occurrence data still remain a neglected source of information in modelling species distributions irrespective of the historical importance in community ecology. Flea diversity, Nkayi district, rodent-flea association, rodents and fleas, rodents' diversity, Umzingwane district The role and extent of species diversity for both rodents and fleas and their association especially in plague disease occurrence is of interest given that greater rodent diversity has been attributed to reduce plague disease occurrence in people due to the dilution effect (Vora, 2008). [Extracted from the article]

Evidence synthesis and knowledge translation are scientific methodological approaches used across different disciplines for combining results from individual studies, interpreting them based on the body of evidence and with the objective of supporting decision-making. Systematic, rapid, and scoping reviews have a direct application in human health and social care, but also in veterinary medicine, which are areas that can overlap with medical and veterinary entomology. As a scientific field, the objective of medical and veterinary entomology is to identify and quantify the role of insects as transmitters of important arthropod-borne pathogens, thus contributing to the study of human and veterinary issues of public health importance. The main objectives of this review are to introduce to entomologists the most common knowledge translation and synthesis methods described in the literature, to then review the use of systematic, rapid, and scoping reviews applied in the medical and veterinary entomology field, using a systematized review approach. We found 120 relevant articles in the literature addressing topics related to medical and veterinary entomology and using systematic reviews of the literature or other evidence synthesis methods, which is concurrent with the ongoing trend towards the use of these methodologies. The application of unbiased approaches to entomology in general, and to medical and veterinary entomology in particular, will strengthen science- and evidence-based conclusions to be used as a tool for informing policy, decisions, and interventions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

During the last two decades, the study of forensic entomology has evolved in leaps and bounds. 2 Grzywacz, A., Hall, M.J.R. & Pape, T. (2015) Morphology successfully separates third instar larvae of Muscina. Novel identification tools allow for increased accuracy in identification of new, and classification of current, species that may be of medical, veterinary and forensic importance (Grzywacz et al., [2]; Szpila et al., [7], [6], [8]). [Extracted from the article]

Many flies are considered serious pests of livestock, poultry, and equids. These pests can negatively impact animal welfare and contribute to considerable production losses. Management of filth fly pests in particular, including the house fly (Musca domestica L.), stable fly (Stomoxys calcitrans (L.)), horn fly (Haematobia irritans (L.)), face fly (Musca autumnalis De Geer) (Diptera: Muscidae), and little or lesser house fly (Fannia canicularis (L.) (Diptera: Fanniidae)), has been a research and Extension priority of veterinary entomologists for many decades. However, ongoing changes to animal husbandry and production practices, coupled with an increasing development of behavioral and physiological resistance to insecticides require renewed focus on new and more effective management strategies. This article is the first in a series of updates to these historical reports and the purpose is to serve as a resource for veterinary practitioners, consultants, funding agencies, veterinary entomologists, industry, commodity groups, and the scientific community working towards control of these pests. Companion articles will review individual filth fly species of importance to animal agriculture in the United States [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Veterinary and medical entomologists who are involved in research on pest control often need to perform dose–response bioassays and analyze the results. This article is meant as a beginner's guide for doing this and includes instructions for using the free program R for the analyses. The bioassays and analyses are described using previously unpublished data from bioassays on house flies, Musca domestica Linnaeus (Diptera: Muscidae), but can be used on a wide range of pest species. Flies were exposed topically to beta-cyfluthrin, a pyrethroid, or exposed to spinosad or spinetoram in sugar to encourage consumption. LD50 values for beta-cyfluthrin in a susceptible strain were similar regardless of whether mortality was assessed at 24 or 48 h, consistent with it being a relatively quick-acting insecticide. Based on LC50 values, spinetoram was about twice as toxic as spinosad in a susceptible strain, suggesting a benefit to formulating spinetoram for house fly control, although spinetoram was no more toxic than spinosad for a pyrethroid-resistant strain. Results were consistent with previous reports of spinosad exhibiting little cross-resistance. For both spinosad and spinetoram, LC50 values were not greatly different between the pyrethroid-resistant strain and the susceptible strain. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Successfully preparing for and conducting on-animal ectoparasiticidal evaluations is key in providing accurate results and inferences on product performance. However, the procedures associated with designing sound-reliable research projects while using animal test subjects can become complex. The current manuscript offers insights towards the characterization of different evaluation types highlighting key considerations and potential problematic barriers that may otherwise be overlooked by researchers new to the area of on-animal product evaluation. Furthermore, recommendations on reporting inferences from findings based on various study designs are discussed. The authors of the current manuscript offer these considerations in the hopes of maintaining harmony in future reports used to develop and evaluate on-animal ectoparsiticidal products in the field of veterinary entomology. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: After Action Reviews (AAR) with a One Health perspective were performed in Slovenia, Italy, Serbia and Greece following a severe West Nile virus (WNV) transmission season in 2018. A protocol combining traditional techniques and organizational process analysis was developed and then implemented in each country. Results: In 2018, response to the unusually intense transmission season of WNV in Slovenia, Italy, Serbia and Greece took place through routine response mechanisms. None of the four countries declared a national or subnational emergency. We found a very strong consensus on the strengths identified in responding to this event. All countries indicated the availability of One Health Plans for surveillance and response; very high laboratory diagnostic capacity in the human, veterinary and entomology sectors and strong inter-sectoral collaboration with strong commitment of engaged institutions as critical in the management of the event. Finally, countries implementing One Health surveillance for WNV (in terms of early warning and early activation of prevention measures) consistently reported a positive impact on their activities, in particular when combining mosquito and bird surveillance with surveillance of cases in humans and equids. Recurring priority areas for improvement included: increasing knowledge on vector-control measures, ensuring the sustainability of vector monitoring and surveillance, and improving capacity to manage media pressure. Conclusions: The AARs presented here demonstrate the benefit of cross-sectoral and cross-disciplinary approaches to preparedness for West Nile virus outbreaks in Europe. In the coming years, priorities include fostering and strengthening arrangements that: enable coordinated One Health surveillance and response during WNV transmission seasons; ensure adequate laboratory capacities; strengthen risk communication; and fund longer-term research to address the knowledge gaps identified in this study. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The effective management of mosquito vectors is a timely challenge for medical and veterinary entomology. In this study, we evaluated the acoustic Larvasonic device to control young instars of the mosquito Aedes aegypti in diverse freshwater environments. Under laboratory conditions, we investigated the effect of exposure time and distance from the transducer on the mortality of larvae and pupae of Ae. aegypti. Furthermore, we evaluated the effectiveness of the ultrasound window of the electromagnetic spectrum under different field conditions. Results showed that first and second instar larvae were more sensitive to the frequency range of 18–30 kHz of the Larvasonic device. Ultrasonic waves applied for 180 s at a frequency from 18 to 30 kHz caused 100% larval mortality at a distance of 60 cm from the transducer. No mortality was observed in the non-target copepod Megacyclops formosanus. The exposure to the soundwaves produced by the acoustic larvicidal device over different distances effectively damaged Ae. aegypti through destruction of the larval dorsal tracheal trunk, thorax and abdomen. Overall, results indicated that the Larvasonic device tested can provide an alternative tool to reduce young instar populations of Ae. aegypti, without any effects on non-target aquatic invertebrates like copepods. It turned out to be a useful device for mosquito biocontrol. This technology has a relevant potential to fight the spread of mosquito-borne diseases. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This report describes the structure, contents and outcomes of the first Annual Entomological Network Meeting organized by VectorNet, a European Network for Medical and Veterinary Entomology, held 10–12 March 2020 in Amersfoort the Netherlands. In this meeting, entomological network members and national public and animal health professionals were introduced to the project, the contracting organizations (EFSA, ECDC) and the members of the VectorNet consortium. The focus of the meeting was on VectorNet networking strategies and the involvement of the entomological network members in risk assessments. An overview of ongoing and planned work was given and discussed. The objectives of the project include consolidating the existing European network, to provide scientific support to both ECDC and EFSA in their risk assessments of vectors and vector‐borne diseases and to update information on the geographic distribution, abundance and seasonality of targeted arthropod vectors in EU/EEA and neighbouring countries. The target vector groups are mosquitoes, ticks, biting midges, sand flies, and a group of 'others', including fleas and lice. VectorNet will contribute to systematic reviews and the integration of existing databases on vector distribution. The creation of a strong connection between medical and veterinary entomologists is an important step towards implementation of the one health paradigm to fight against and prevent the emergence and spread of VBDs to new areas in Europe. Operating on an open data platform, the project welcomes entomologists to contribute data on vector presence and density. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Lucilia sericata and Phormia regina do not vary significantly in their microbiome. • Bacilli and Gammaproteobacteria were the two most dominant bacterial classes. • Proteus was at a higher abundance in Phormia regina. • Phormia regina potentially plays a greater role in insect colonization. Blow flies are common primary colonizers of carrion, play an important role in the transfer of microbes between environments, and serve as a vector for many human pathogens. While some investigation has begun regarding the bacteria associated with different life stages of blow flies, a well replicated study is currently not available for the majority of blow flies. This study investigated bacteria associated with successive life stages of blow fly species Lucilia sericata and Phormia regina. A total of 38 samples were collected from four true replicates of L. sericata and P. regina. Variable region four (V4) of 16S ribosomal DNA (16S rDNA) was amplified and sequenced on MiSeq FGx sequencing platform using universal 16S rDNA primers and dual-index sequencing strategy. Bacterial communities associated with different life stages of L. sericata and P. regina didn't differ significantly from each other. In both blow fly species, Bacilli (e.g., Lactococcus) and Gammaproteobacteria (e.g., Providencia) constituted >95% of all bacterial classes across all life stages. At the genus level, Vagococcus and Leuconostoc were present at relatively high abundances in L. sericata whereas Yersinia and Proteus were present at comparatively high abundances in P. regina. Overall, information on bacterial structures associated with various life stages of blow flies can help scientists in better understanding or management of vector-borne pathogen dispersal and in increasing the accuracy of microbial evidence based postmortem interval (PMI) prediction models. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The effect of spraying cattle hair with Delcid on the number of midges was studied. The attack of bloodsucking midges decreases the milk productivity of cattle. According to literature data, losses can range from 5.19 to 53.4%. In Russia, synthetic pyrethroids are widely used to protect livestock from midges. Among the drugs in this group, Delcid (4% emulsifiable deltamethrin concentrate) has proven itself effective. The present research aimed to study the effect of spraying cattle hair with Delcid on the number of midges on pastures and the milk productivity of cows. Studies were conducted in livestock farms in the south of the Tyumen region in 2003–2005 and 2008. Cows before pasture were sprayed with 0.001% (by active substance) Delcid water emulsion in medium volume (0.5 l per animal) using the universal horizontal single-pipe spraying booms installed at the pen gate and developed at the All-Russian Scientific Research Institute of Veterinary Entomology and Arachnology. Midges were counted using an entomological net with removable sacks. The entomological efficiency of treatments was assessed by comparing the number of midges at the test and control pastures. Losses in milk productivity were calculated based on the “Method for determining the harmfulness of insects of the ‘gnat’ type for cattle” developed by the authors of the present research. The research revealed that the loss of milk productivity of cows in the south of the Tyumen region can reach 9.88% in some years. Systematic spraying of the hair of grazing cattle with a 0.001% aqueous Delcid emulsion reduced the total number of midges on the pasture by a factor of 1.7-7 and, accordingly, shortened the period of their mass swarming. This allowed getting additional 0,231 l of milk per day or 1.45% from each cow, thus increasing the profitability of cattle breeding. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Furthermore, the collection of a "gravid" female I L. fortisetosa i from a mouflon in Germany indicates that mouflon can serve as a breeding host for I L. fortisetosa i (Rehbein I et al i ., 2016). However, it appears that only the records for I L. cervi i , I L. fortisetosa i , I L. couturieri i and I L. capreoli i are currently applicable. (2020) to be recorded in Europe, namely I L. arianae i Maa, 1969, I L. capreoli i Rondani, 1878, I L. cervi i (Linnaeus, 1758), I L. couturieri i Séguy, 1935 and I L. fortisetosa i Maa, 1965. In a recently published article entitled "Deer keds on wild ungulates in northern Italy, with a taxonomic key for the identification of I Lipoptena i spp. of Europe" (Salvetti et al., Med. [Extracted from the article]

Surprisingly, I H. longipennis i was described at high prevalence on domestic dogs being walked in municipality parks in cities in central Poland as one of four species of hippoboscids infesting the dogs (Sokól & Galecki, 2017). In a recently published article entitled 'First report of the dog louse fly I Hippobosca longipennis i in Romania' (Mihalca I et al i ., Med. According to observations by dog owners and veterinary practitioners in Germany, I L. fortisetosa i infested dogs exhibited substantial discomfort, itching and irritation (Rehbein I et al i ., 2015), which probably questions the role of dogs as a suitable host. [Extracted from the article]

The effective control of tsetse flies (Diptera; Glossinidae), the biological vectors of trypanosome parasites that cause human African trypanosomosis and African animal trypanosomosis throughout sub-Saharan Africa, is crucial for the development of productive livestock systems. The degree of genetic isolation of the targeted populations, which indicate reinvasion potential from uncontrolled areas, will be critical to establish a control strategy. Molecular and morphometrics markers were used to assess the degree of genetic isolation between seemingly fragmented populations of Glossina brevipalpis Newstead and Glossina austeni Newstead present in South Africa. These populations were also compared with flies from adjacent areas in Mozambique and Eswatini. For the molecular markers, deoxyribonucleic acid was extracted, a r16S2 Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) was performed and the PCR product sequenced. Nine landmarks were used for the morphometrics study as defined by vein intersections in the right wings of female flies. Generalised Procrustes analyses and regression on centroid size were used to determine the Cartesian coordinates for comparison between populations. Both methods indicated an absence of significant barriers to gene flow between the G. brevipalpis and G. austeni populations of South Africa and southern Mozambique. Sustainable control can only be achieved if implemented following an area-wide management approach against the entire G. brevipalpis and G. austeni populations of South Africa and southern Mozambique. Limited gene flow detected between the G. austeni population from Eswatini and that of South Africa or Mozambique may imply that these two populations are in the proses of becoming isolated.

The article offers information on the 2019 Annual General Meeting (AGM) and members' day of Amateur Entomologists' Society (AES) which was held at Bristol Museum and Art Gallery in Bristol, England on April 13, 2019. Topics discussed include information regarding acoustic defences of deaf moths and veterinary entomology; information on entomological exhibits which involved stick insects, and moths; and protective coloration used by moths.

The effective control of tsetse flies (Diptera; Glossinidae), the biological vectors of trypanosome parasites that cause human African trypanosomosis and African animal trypanosomosis throughout sub-Saharan Africa, is crucial for the development of productive livestock systems. The degree of genetic isolation of the targeted populations, which indicate reinvasion potential from uncontrolled areas, will be critical to establish a control strategy. Molecular and morphometrics markers were used to assess the degree of genetic isolation between seemingly fragmented populations of Glossina brevipalpis Newstead and Glossina austeni Newstead present in South Africa. These populations were also compared with flies from adjacent areas in Mozambique and Eswatini. For the molecular markers, deoxyribonucleic acid was extracted, a r16S2 Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) was performed and the PCR product sequenced. Nine landmarks were used for the morphometrics study as defined by vein intersections in the right wings of female flies. Generalised Procrustes analyses and regression on centroid size were used to determine the Cartesian coordinates for comparison between populations. Both methods indicated an absence of significant barriers to gene flow between the G. brevipalpis and G. austeni populations of South Africa and southern Mozambique. Sustainable control can only be achieved if implemented following an area-wide management approach against the entire G. brevipalpis and G. austeni populations of South Africa and southern Mozambique. Limited gene flow detected between the G. austeni population from Eswatini and that of South Africa or Mozambique may imply that these two populations are in the proses of becoming isolated. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Mites comprise a group of key agricultural pests on a wide range of crops. They cause harm through feeding on the plant and transferring dangerous pathogens, and the rapid evolution of pesticide resistance in mites highlights the need for novel control methods. Currently, RNA interference (RNAi) shows great potential for insect pest control. Here, we review the literature regarding RNAi in mite pests. We discuss different target genes and RNAi efficiency in various mite species, a promising Varroa control program using RNAi, the synergy of RNAi with plant defense mechanisms and microorganisms, and current understanding of systemic movement of double‐stranded RNA (dsRNA). On the basis of this evidence, we can conclude that there is clear potential for application of RNAi‐based mite control, but further research on several aspects of RNAi in mites is needed, including: (i) the factors influencing RNAi efficiency, (ii) the mechanism of environmental RNAi and cross‐kingdom dsRNA trafficking, (iii) the mechanism of possible systemic and parental RNAi, and (iv) non‐target effects, specifically in predatory mites, which should be considered during RNAi target selection. © 2018 Society of Chemical Industry This review discusses RNAi efficiency in mite species, a promising control program in Varroa, synergy of RNAi with other strategies, systemic RNAi, and prospects for enhancing the RNAi‐based strategy in mite pest management. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BACKGROUND: The Spodoptera cosmioides (Walker, 1858) population has increased in Bacillus thuringiensis Berliner (Bt) soybean crops in Argentina. As there are no registered products for its control, the recommended insecticides for S. frugiperda are used. The aim of this study was therefore to determine the lethal concentration (LC) of chlorantraniliprole and its sublethal effects on the biological and reproductive functions of S. cosmioides, an emerging soybean pest in Argentina. RESULTS: An ingestion toxicity bioassay showed that chlorantraniliprole was active against larvae of the second instar, and after 48 h of exposure LC50 was 0.054 µg mL−1 H2O. In the study of sublethal effect, chlorantraniliprole induced changes in the life cycle of exposed S. cosmioides, which required more time to complete all stages of development (larval, pupal and adult stages). Pupal weight was also higher in larvae exposed to sublethal concentrations of chlorantraniliprole. Adult fecundity was decreased: the number of eggs laid by each adult female moth, as compared with control females, was two (LC15) and eight (LC30) times lower. CONCLUSION: These results indicate that chlorantraniliprole has toxicity against S. cosmioides larvae. Sublethal effects on the biological and reproductive performance of this species can help optimize integrated pest management programs. © 2018 Society of Chemical Industry The control of agricultural pests is carried out through insecticides. This article demonstrates the effectiveness of chlorantraniliprole on Spodoptera cosmioides, and the sublethal effects that can affect the pest cycle. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BACKGROUND: Although mating disruption is increasingly being used to control the worldwide grapevine pest vine mealybug, Planococcus ficus (Signoret) (Hemiptera: Pseudococcidae), its mode of action remains unclear. A 3‐year field experiment was carried out to investigate the effects of mating disruption on the development and reproduction of the vine mealybug. The influence of mating disruption applied over consecutive years on the pest population density was also evaluated. RESULTS: The percentage of ovipositing females was significantly reduced in disrupted plots by 18.8–66.2%, depending on the year. The absence of ovipositing females in disrupted plots in the autumn of the second and third years indicates the effectiveness of mating disruption throughout the whole growing season. Mating disruption consistently prolonged the pre‐oviposition period in all years by up to 12.5 days. CONCLUSION: Our findings provide new insights into the mechanisms underlying the pheromone‐based control of the vine mealybug and indicate that the reduction of the pest population density is attributable to both a decrease and a delay in female mating. In addition, the population density of vine mealybugs under mating disruption decreased over the years, indicating that consecutive applications of this control strategy would significantly increase the effectiveness of control of the vine mealybug by mating disruption. © 2018 Society of Chemical Industry This study demonstrates the efficacy of mating disruption in reducing the population density of Planococcus ficus by both decreasing and delaying mating. Mating disruption increased in effectiveness when applied in consecutive years. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BACKGROUND: The endophytic bacteria Bacillus cereus BCM2 has shown great potential as a defense against the parasitic nematode Meloidogyne incognita. Here, we studied endophytic bacteria‐mediated plant defense against M. incognita and searched for defense‐related candidate genes using RNA‐Seq. RESULTS: The induced systemic resistance of BCM2 against M. incognita was tested using the split‐root method. Pre‐inoculated BCM2 on the inducer side was associated with a dramatic reduction in galls and egg masses on the responder side, but inoculated BCM2 alone did not produce the same effect. In order to investigate which plant defense‐related genes are specifically activated by BCM2, four RNA samples from tomato roots were sequenced, and four high‐quality total clean bases were obtained, ranging from 6.64 to 6.75 Gb, with an average of 21 558 total genes. The 34 candidate defense‐related genes were identified by pair‐wise comparison among libraries, representing the targets for BCM2 priming resistance against M. incognita. Functional characterization revealed that the plant–pathogen interaction pathway (ID: ko04626) was significantly enriched for BCM2‐mediated M. incognita resistance. CONCLUSION: This study demonstrates that B. cereus BCM2 maintains a harmonious host–microbe relationship with tomato, but appeared to prime the plant, resulting in more vigorous defense response toward the infection nematode. © 2018 Society of Chemical Industry This study focused on a defense‐related gene that triggered endophytic bacteria defense against a plant–parasitic nematode. The findings highlight good candidates for use in endophytic bacteria‐mediated crop protection. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BACKGROUND: Elevated CO2 can alter the leaf damage caused by insect herbivores. Frankliniella occidentalis (Pergande) is highly destructive invasive pest of crop production worldwide. To investigate how elevated CO2 affects F. occidentalis fed with Phaseolus vulgaris and, in particular, the interaction between plant defense and thrips anti‐defense, nutrient content and antioxidant enzyme activity of P. vulgaris were measured, as well as the detoxifying enzyme activity of adult thrips. RESULTS: Elevated CO2 increased the soluble sugar, soluble protein and free amino acid content in non thrip‐infested plants, and decreased superoxide dismutase (SOD) and peroxidase (POD) activity in these plants. Feeding thrips reduced the nutrient content in plants, and increased their SOD, catalase and POD activity. Variations in nutrient content and antioxidant enzyme activity in plants showed an opposite tendency over thrip feeding time. After feeding, acetylcholinesterase, carboxylesterase, and mixed‐function oxidase activity in thrips increased to counter the plant defenses. Greater thrip densities induced stronger plant defenses and, in turn, detoxifying enzyme levels in thrips increased over thrip numbers. CONCLUSION: Our study revealed that F. occidentalis can induce not only an antioxidant‐associated plant defense, but also detoxifying enzymes in thrips. Elevated CO2 might both enhance plant defense against thrip attack, and increase thrip anti‐defense against plant defenses. © 2018 Society of Chemical Industry Elevated CO2 alters the leaf damage and plant defense responses caused by insect herbivores. This article presents an analysis of antioxidant‐associated plant defense and detoxifying‐associated thrips anti‐defense. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]