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The article in Acta Zoologica Bulgarica from December 2024 honors the late Professor Mitko Subchev, a renowned Bulgarian zoologist recognized for his research in insect chemical ecology, particularly focusing on crayfish worms and insect chemical communication, including pheromones. Subchev's extensive publications and collaborations with international researchers have greatly advanced the field of zoology. The document details a comprehensive list of sex attractants for various Lepidoptera species, such as moths and butterflies, crucial for monitoring and studying their behavior. Professor Subchev's research, along with his colleagues, has significantly enhanced the understanding of pheromone communication systems in these insects, identifying specific compounds and ratios effective for attracting them for research purposes. [Extracted from the article]

Aiming to assess the role of leaf waxy cuticle and its chemical composition on citrus leafminer, Phyllocnistis citrella (Lepidoptera: Gracillariidae) larval feeding, six citrus cultivars were selected. Our findings showed that the larval density was higher at 59.5% on Mayer lime followed by 53.6% on Kinnow and the least activity of CLM was found (19.3-38.4%) on Musambi. The cuticular wax layer was found greater (67.6 µg/cm2) in Tangerine (Fairchild) followed by 59.6 µg/cm2 in Succari and 56.0 µg/cm2 in Musambi. The results showed that the epicuticular wax layer had negative and significant (P < 0.05) relation with the larval density. Other chemical compounds; aldehyde, alcohol, fatty acid, and hydrocarbon showed non-significant relation with the CLM larval density. Multiple regression analysis showed a 33.5% role of epicuticular wax with CLM larval density. The cultivars such as Succari and Musambi with a greater amount of leaf wax showed a lower density of CLM larvae. The study provides important information on wax related compounds involved in citrus-CLM interaction, which can help in developing an efficient control strategy for this destructive pest. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Caloptilia roscipennella (Hübner, 1796) is a leaf‐mining moth native to Central and Southern Europe. In this publication, we provide the first report of the occurrence of Caloptilia roscipennella in India. The identification was performed using an integrative approach, combining molecular (barcoding, COI) and morphological analysis (forewing pattern). In 2020, the larvae were initially found scraping in the silvery‐white mine and later feeding in folded or rolled leaves of the common walnut Juglans regia L. In the subsequent years, the species was found only in the same places. Two generations were recorded per year (May–June and August–September) and leaf miners overwintered as adults and reappeared in the early spring. Damage ranging from 15% to 20% was observed on the leaves of J. regia. Further efforts related to C. roscipennella should concentrate on evaluating its geographic distribution and its impact on walnut trees. Several species of parasitoids were reared from infested mines, with specimens belonging to the genus Chrysocharis Förster, 1856 (Hymenoptera: Eulophidae) and Itoplectis maculator (Fabricius, 1775) (Hymenoptera: Ichneumonidae). These species provided excellent control of leaf miner larvae, and out of 10 larvae, seven were found parasitized by the parasitoids and higher numbers of specimens were found with relative higher frequencies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article presents the results of a study of the Lepidoptera fauna in the North Kazakhstan region in the late autumn field season of 2024. An annotated checklist includes 54 species from 14 families, including Lycaenidae, Nymphalidae, Geometridae, Lasiocampidae, Sphingidae, Erebidae, Noctuidae, Gracillariidae, Pterophoridae, Depressariidae, Pyralidae, Crambidae, Crambinae, Tortricidae. 15 species are reported to the North Kazakhstan region for the first time, including rare and little-known late Autumn species Lignyoptera fumidaria (Hubner, 1825) which had not previously been recorded on the territory of the West Siberian Plain.

A survey of the parasitoid species of the citrus leafminer (CLM), Phyllocnistis citrella Stainton (Lepidoptera: Gracillariidae), a cosmopolitan pest of citrus, was carried out in 2019 and 2020 in the major citrus production area of Tunisia. Four different Eulophidae species were found: Citrostichus phyllocnistoides (Narayanan), representing 81.82% of the identified parasitoids, Semielacher petiolatus (Girault) (9.40%) and the native species Pnigalio pectinicornis (L.) (2.82%). Cirrospilus ingenuus Gahan (Hymenoptera: Eulophidae) is a new report for the parasitoid entomofauna of P. citrella in the country, representing 5.96% of the identified parasitoids. It has probably spread naturally from other Mediterranean regions. Predation by generalist predators is the main mortality factor of CLM (up to 59.11% of the mortality was caused by natural enemies), followed by parasitism (oviposition) (22.47%) and host-feeding (18.42%). Second and third instar larvae of the CLM were the preferred stages for parasitism. Host-feeding and generalist predators' attacks were most common on first and second instars. Data highlighting the ability for C. phyllocnistoides to develop and disperse clearly predominates in Tunisian citrus orchards. Citrostichus phyllocnistoides may compete with S. petiolatus, exerting a complementary action to that of C. phyllocnistoides, particularly earlier in the season when the densities of the latter species are low. Further studies focusing on inter-specific relationships between these two exotic parasitoids are needed in order to test whether the observed field results could have been estimated from laboratory assays. This will be helpful in critically evaluating the results of the classical biological control programme developed against CLM in Tunisia. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The leaf-mining microlepidopteran, Macrosaccus morrisella (Fitch) (Lepidoptera: Gracillariidae), has emerged as a new pest of soybean, Glycine max (L.) Merrill (Fabales: Fabaceae), in Canada and the United States, but little is known about its life history traits. Thus, this study was conducted to assess the immature developmental rate of M. morrisella , from egg to adult emergence, on soybean at different temperatures, and the longevity of adults supplied with water and/or honey at different temperatures. The time to 50% emergence of adults was 71.90, 36.33, 24.62, and 17.83 days at 15, 20, 25, and 30 °C, respectively. The lower developmental threshold of M. morrisella was estimated at 8.96 °C, with 425.04 degree-days required for egg-to-adult development. For adult longevity, time to 50% mortality at 25 °C was 15.00, 4.00, and 2.00 days when adults were provided with 25% (v/v) honey–water solution, water, or nothing, respectively. In a follow-up experiment, time to 50% mortality at 25 °C was 24.00, 6.00, 3.00, and 3.00 days when adults were provided with honey and water (offered separately), honey, water, or nothing, respectively, with a synergistic effect when honey and water were offered simultaneously as opposed to honey or water alone. Finally, when fed 25% (v/v) honey–water solution and maintained at 20, 25, and 30 °C, time to 50% mortality of adults was 26.50, 15.00, and 15.00 days. These results inform the understanding of the basic biology of M. morrisella and will help inform the future development of management programs for this insect in soybean. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The effect of the 20th-century functional extinction of the American Chestnut (Fagaceae: Castanea dentata (Marshall) Borkh) on associated herbivorous insects is unknown. These insects include leafminers that spend at least part of their larval phase feeding between the epidermises of leaves. We surveyed leafminers on C. dentata , nonnative Castanea spp. and hybrids on Long Island, NY. We found 10 leafminer species feeding on Castanea spp. A first New York State record was documented for Stigmella castaneaefoliella (Chambers) (Lepidoptera: Nepticulidae). New host records are established for 6 lepidopterans, including a new host genus for Phyllonorycter basistrigella (Clemens) (Lepidoptera: Gracillariidae). We found no significant differences in the mean intensity of S. castaneaefoliella leaf mines on native and nonnative Castanea spp.; however, our sample size was small. Thus, we guardedly conclude that nonnative Castanea spp. can serve as refugia for C. dentata leafminers native to North America while acknowledging that the extent to which nonnative species are utilized requires further investigation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Phyllocnistis citrella Stainton, commonly known as the citrus leafminer, threatens global citrus production. This study focuses on elucidating the population dynamics and spatial distribution of P. citrella in lemon orchards located in Northern Portugal. From May to December, using delta traps with sexual pheromones, the levels of the adult population were monitored, and aggregation indices were calculated. Five distinct density peaks are observed, with the highest recorded in late July to early August. Spatial distribution consistently indicated an aggregated pattern. However, temporal variation in distribution was observed on specific dates. According to our results, it is suggested deploying two or three traps per hectare during peak density periods. This study significantly advances our understanding of P. citrella dynamics, emphasizing the need to consider spatial and temporal patterns for effective pest management. The outcomes underscore the importance of further exploration into factors influencing distribution patterns to refine control strategies. These insights are crucial for devising targeted and efficient measures to mitigate the impact of P. citrella on citrus orchards globally. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The micromoth Cremastobombycia socoromaensis sp. nov. (Lepidoptera, Gracillariidae, Lithocolletinae) from the arid highlands of the western slope of the Andes of northern Chile is described and illustrated. Larvae construct bulged leaf mines on the shrub Baccharis tola Phil. (Asteraceae). Pupation occurs in a silk cocoon constructed by the last instar larva inside the mine. The cocoon and the mine surface are pierced by the frontal process of the pupa to allow adult emergence. This discovery represents the first record of Cremastobombycia Braun, 1908 in South America. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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A leafmining yucca moth, Prodoxus phylloryctus Wagner and Powell, was documented for the first time in Mesa County, Colorado. P. phylloryctus was recently given the common name banana yucca leafminer by the Entomological Society of America. When first detected near Dove Creek, Colorado, banana yucca leafminer was interacting with wild banana yucca (Yucca baccata) in the Four Corners area. In 2022, banana yucca leafminer was documented at several sites within the cities of Grand Junction and Fruita, Colorado. In all samples, larvae were found feeding within leaves of ornamental banana yucca planted by landscapers and were then identified at CSU Extension Tri-River Area-Mesa Office by the horticulture team. Una polilla minadora de Yucca baccata, Prodoxus phylloryctus (Wagner y Powell), fue documentada por primera vez en el condado Mesa, Colorado. Prodoxus phylloryctus recientemente recibió el nombre común de minador de hojas de Yucca baccata por parte de la Sociedad Entomológica de América. La primera vez que se detectó el minador de hojas fue durante una interacción con plantas de Y. baccata en el área de Four Corners cerca de Dove Creek, Colorado. En 2022, se documentó el minador en varios sitios en Grand Junction y Fruita, Colorado, donde se encontró interactuando con la yuca ornamental plantada por paisajistas e identificada en la oficina de CSU Extension Tri-River Area-Mesa por el equipo de horticultura. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Dialectica hedemanni (Rebel, 1896) (Gracillariidae) is reported new to the UK from Middlesex (vice-county vC21) - a female was collected on 7 June 2018. the species is normally resident in Macaronesia. the identification is confirmed by genital morphology and by DNA barcoding. A 100% match in the DNA barcode ties its origin to Spain (e.g. Canary Islands: La Palma) rather than Portugal (Madeira), according to available COI-5P sequences on BOLD. It is unknown if this specimen was an adventive or is breeding on Malvaceae species locally. We discuss its relationships with and separation from other Dialectica species. D. hedemanni is quite divergent from the other two Dialectica species now confirmed to be breeding on species of Boraginaceae in the UK. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Liocrobyla Meyrick, 1916 is a relatively small genus within the family Gracillariidae, consisting of nine species worldwide, including five species in Korea.In this study, we recognise five species belonging to the genus Liocrobyla Meyrick, 1916 from Korea. Amongst them, one species, L. indigofera Liu, Wang & Wang, 2018, is reported for the first time in Korea. Figures of adults, male and female genitalia, along with a key to the species of Liocrobyla in Korea, are provided.

The paper reports the first finding of Macrosaccus robiniella (Clemens, 1859) (Lepidoptera, Gracillariidae) and Obolodiplosis robiniae Haldeman, 1847 (Diptera, Cecidomyiidae) on the territory of the Voronezh State Natural Biosphere Reserve. Some features of the biology of the local M. robiniella population are discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Experiments were conducted to know the efficacy of different insecticides (Cyantraniliprole 10.26 % OD @ 1.8 ml L-1, Dinotefuran 20 % SG @ 0.3 g L-1, Chlorfenapyr 10 % SC @ 1.5 ml L-1, Imidacloprid 17.8 % SL @ 0.3 ml L-1, Thiamethoxam 25 % WG @ 0.3 g L-1, Lambda cyhalothrin 2.5 % EC @1 ml L-1) against cashew leaf miner, Acrocercops syngramma Meyrick under field condition and under nursery condition Among the different insecticides evaluated, under field condition, Lambda cyhalothrin was found to be statistically superior over all other treatments recording 83.39 per cent reduction over control. Imidacloprid was found least effective against leaf miner (46.41% reduction of over control). Under nursery condition, Lambda cyhalothrin recorded 79.13 per cent reduction whereas Imidacloprid recorded only 20.31 per cent. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Leaf miners are increasingly causing damage to plants, often causing their death. There are about 10 thousand species of leaf miners in the world. The purpose of this study is to establish the location, species diversity, as well as the degree of damage caused by leaf miners to the leaves of Ulmus L. genus trees in the Pavlodar Region. In the course of the study, a visual inspection of the affected areas was used, as well as the selection, drying of damaged foliage and, subsequently, the removal of larvae and adult insects from it, followed by their study. During the vegetation seasons in 2019–2022, in Pavlodar, Ekibastuz and Aksu cities, as well as in Zhelezinka and Koktobe villages, elm leaves were studied for the presence of leaf miners, a visual inspection of the damage locations was conducted, and samples were taken, which later became the material for growing and detailed study of insects at different development stages. The article considers phyllophagous insects mining elm leaves in the North-East of Kazakhstan (Pavlodar Region) in 2019–2022. In the course of the conducted studies on the territory of the Pavlodar Region, 8 species belonging to 5 genera were identified: Stigmella Schrank, 1802, Orchestes Illiger, 1798, Fenusa Leach, 1817, Bucculatrix Zeller, 1839 and Phyllonorycter Hubner, 1822. Leaf miners that belong to the Agromyza genus of the Agromyzidae family were also identified. All representatives are obligate leaf miners, developing at the larval stage in the mesophyll of elm leaves. Most of the leaf-mining insects are represented by Agromyza and Stigmella species. They are among the most dangerous for the biocoenosis of the Pavlodar Region. Moreover, Agromyza insects have high plasticity and may become a problem in other regions. The obtained data will help to contribute to further studies in this direction, and also show the development degree of an understudied problem: the influence of leaf miners on the nature of Kazakhstan.

Background: Temperature alters host suitability for the development of parasitoids through direct (thermal effect) and indirect (parental effect) pathways. The effects of three temperature regimes on the development and survival of two parasitoid species, Citrostichusphyllocnistoides (Narayanan) and Cirrospilusingenuus Gahan (Eulophidae: Hymenoptera) of the citrus leafminer, Phyllocnistiscitrella Stainton (Lepidoptera: Gracillariidae) was evaluated. The experiment was conducted at 20, 25, and 30°C temperatures with 65 ± 2% relative humidity (R.H.) and 16h: 8h (L: D) photoperiod. Results: In C.phyllocnistoides, the pre-ovipositional period was longer at 20°C, while non- significant difference was observed in the pre-ovipositional period of C.ingenuus under the effect of different temperatures (P > 0.05). The ovipositional period of C.phyllocnistoides and C.ingenuus was higher at 20°C and gradually decreased by increasing the temperature. Non- significant (P > 0.05) difference was found in post-ovipositional period of both parasitoid species. Both species exhibited the maximum fecundity at 25°C, while, the minimum fecundity was recorded at 30°C. However, the adult longevity of both parasitoid species was highest at 20°C and gradually decreased by increasing the temperature. In both parasitoids, the parasitism rate was highest at 25°C. Conclusion: This study highlighted the importance of thermal effects on some parasitoid species of insect pests to predict the future of trophic dynamics in global warming situations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of SHILAP Revista de Lepidopterologia is the property of Sociedad Hispano-Luso-Americana de Lepidopterologia and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Antioxidant enzymatic activity and soluble protein content in Robinia pseudoacacia L. (black locust), invasive tree in Europe, plants were determined under feeding conditions of the caterpillars of Parectopa robiniella Clemens, 1863, invasive miner in Europe, in trees of three (I, II, III) age groups (5–10, 15–25, and 40 years). Biochemical analysis data showed significant differences between reference and experimental leaf samples in different urban ecosystems. There was no association between changes in catalase and peroxidase activity and protein content under the influence of leaf blotch miners depending on the tree age. Significant variability of proteins under P. robiniella influence was noted; the highest of its values were recorded in the leaves of ІІІ-aged trees. In most plantings (and especially in trees of age group III), an increase (1.2 to 2.7 times) in GPx activity or the absence of its changes was registered both in the ecologically favorable zone and in the locations affected by emissions from road transport and industrial enterprises. Plants of age groups I and II in the emission areas of metallurgical, pipe-rolling, and chemical industries experienced a significant decrease in GPx activity (by 20.2–44.6%) in the leaves damaged by the phytophage. In most of the plantings studied, catalase showed an increase/stability of its activity in all age groups of trees under condition of pest attack. The highest increase in САТ activity (2.1 times) was recorded in young R. pseudoacacia plants in an ecologically favorable area of the city.

In the wake of climate change and invasive insects it is important to study the different life stages of insect pests in economically important crops. Eteoryctis syngramma (Meyrick 1914) (Gracillariidae: Lepidoptera) is an important pest of Mangifera indica Linnaeus (1753) and Anacardium occidentale Linnaeus (1753) in India. Larva mines the dorsal side of the tender leaves and cause significant damage to the crop. The morphology of immature and adults of E. syngramma was studied. Hitherto, the undescribed larval chaetotaxy, a pupa and adult genitalia of E. syngramma is presented. Further, the mitochondrial cytochrome oxidase I sequence of E. syngramma under study exhibited 99.04% similarity with differences in five nucleotides to a population from Bangalore, India and varied by 7.69 per cent with a closely related species of E. deversa (Meyrick 1922). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: This study focused on developing an artificial diet for rearing the cocoa pod borer, a pest insect that affects cocoa plants. The researchers compared the success rates of two diets, MM1 and MM4, jointly developed by Mars Wrigley and the Malaysian Cocoa Board. They analyzed the nutritional composition of the diets and their effects on the overall development and success rates of the cocoa pod borer. The modifications made to the MM1 diet resulted in the latest MM4 version. The results showed significant improvements in all stages of the cocoa pod borer development, including increased egg hatching rates, larval development, pupation success rates, and adult emergence. The duration of larval and pupal development was also reduced. The findings suggest that the MM4 diet could be a viable method for laboratory rearing of the cocoa pod borer. This research contributes to the understanding of insect diet development and provides practical implications for pest management strategies in the field. The development of artificial diets for the cocoa pod borer Conopomorpha cramerella, a major pest of cocoa plants, has undergone significant advancements. In this study, we present the success rates of two diet formulations, MM1 and MM4, which have been progressively improved. Nutritional composition analysis revealed that the MM1 diet differed from the natural host, cocoa pods, in several aspects, including protein, carbohydrate, and vitamin C content. To address these differences, modifications were made to the diet compositions, leading to the MM4 diet version. These modifications resulted in improved diet quality and reduced contamination, leading to enhanced success rates in all stages of C. cramerella development. Larval development, pupation success rates, and adult emergence rates were significantly higher in the MM4 diet compared with the MM1 diet. Moreover, the duration of larval development and pupal stage decreased, while adult longevity increased with the MM4 diet. The overall development success of diet-reared insects from egg to adult was comparable with that of insects reared on cocoa pods. However, the cocoon formation, body length and fresh weight of the adults reared on the artificial diets were lower than those reared on cocoa pods. This diet formulation provides a promising approach for laboratory rearing of C. cramerella and opens avenues for further research and mass-rearing initiatives to mitigate the impact of this pest on cocoa production. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: The leaf-mining moth Chrysaster ostensackenella (Fitch, 1859) (Lepidoptera: Gracillariidae) is the North American species that damages the leaves of Robinia spp. (Fabaceae). Recently, it was detected on the introduced North American black locust Robinia pseudoacacia (Fabaceae) in East Asia (China, South Korea, Japan) and Europe (Italy). In July 2022, Ch. ostensackenella was for the first time found on the territory of Russia, in Primorsky Krai. We studied the bionomics of this invasive moth and highlighted the characteristics of leaf damage by which the presence of Ch. ostensackenella can be detected early. Furthermore, we DNA barcoded three moth specimens from Primorsky Krai and analyzed them against DNA barcodes of Ch. ostensackenella from invaded countries in Europe (Italy) and East Asia (South Korea and Japan) and the native range (North America). Overall, our findings suggest that Ch. ostensackenella distributed to East Asia from the USA directly, not through Europe, whereas to the Russian Far East, this invasive moth spread from early invaded East Asian countries, in particularly Japan. Here, we report the first detection of the North American leaf-mining moth Chrysaster ostensackenella (Fitch, 1859) (Lepidoptera: Gracillariidae) on North American black locust Robinia pseudoacacia (Fabaceae) in Primorsky Krai (the Russian Far East) in July 2022. Overall, six moths were reared from the leaf mines and identified based on adult morphology (forewing pattern and male genitalia) and three of them were DNA barcoding. Description of the leaf mines that allowed us to distinguish the damage of Ch. ostensackenella from other gracillariids associated with R. pseudoacacia is provided. The phylogeographic analysis comparing the DNA barcodes from Russia with those from other invaded countries in Europe (Italy) and East Asia (South Korea and Japan) and from the native range (North America) was performed. Intraspecific genetic diversity reached 3.29%. Altogether, 10 haplotypes were revealed among 21 studied specimens in the Holarctic. The detection of one haplotype common for Japan and the USA (North Carolina) suggests that the invasion to East Asia could have happened from the USA directly, rather than through Europe. A shared haplotype defined for Japan and the Russian Far East points at a possible moth species' spread to Primorsky Krai from earlier invaded Hokkaido. Further distribution of Ch. ostensackenella in East Asia and Europe is expected, bearing in mind the wide planting of R. pseudoacacia in these continents. Furthermore, an accidental introduction of the moth to the Southern Hemisphere, where black locust was introduced, is not ruled out. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The citrus leaf miner (Phyllocnistis citrella) Stainton is one of the key pests of acid lime. A field experiment on the efficacy of selected new molecules of insecticides against citrus leaf miner revealed that two applications of spinosad 45 SC (0.30 ml/l) and flonicamid 50 WG (0.30 g/l) were significantly effective. Other insecticides viz., thiamethoxam 25 WG (0.25 g/l), emamectin benzoate 5SG (0.40 g/l) and chlorantraniliprole 18.5 SC (0.10 ml/l) were found moderately effective in control of the pest. The imidacloprid 70 WG (0.30 g/l) and fipronil 5 SC (1.00 ml/l) were found to be least effective against citrus leaf miner. The effective insecticides can be used in scheduling for control of citrus leaf miner on acid lime. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Citrus leafminer (CLM), Phyllocnistis citrella Stainton (Lepidoptera: Gracillariidae), and European corn borer (ECB), Ostrinia nubilalis (Hübner) (Lepidoptera: Crambidae), are two key pests of young citrus and maize plants in Iran, respectively. In this study, the effects of sub‐sterilizing doses of gamma radiation (100–250 Gy for CLM, 90–180 Gy for ECB) on the biological and reproductive parameters of F1 progeny from irradiated males were determined. The results indicated that males irradiated at doses of ≥200 and ≥150 Gy produced highly sterile F1 descents for CLM and ECB, respectively. No adverse effects of radiation doses applied to males were observed on the F1 pupal emergence for both species, nor on the adult longevity of male and female ECB moths. However, the life span of CLM F1 male and female adults decreased with increasing doses. The sex ratio of emerged adults of F1 progeny from irradiated males was skewed towards males with increasing doses; the proportion of males to all emerged adults reached 0.52 and 0.54 at doses of 250 and 150 Gy for CLM and ECB, compared to 0.44 and 0.49 in the controls, respectively. The competitiveness index of irradiated and F1 males of both species fluctuated in acceptable ranges and in general F1 males were stronger competitors than their irradiated male parents. The results of the field cage experiments showed that the larval infestation in all cages including the released irradiated CLM and ECB moths decreased compared to the control treatment – the percentage of damaged leaves and stems in the cages with ratios of 20:1 and 7:1 irradiated‐to‐normal insects (highest ratios assayed) reached half and one‐third of the control for CLM and ECB, respectively. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The study of the leafmining moth of the chestnut miner (Cameraria ohridella Deschka & Dymić, 1986) was carried out through the planting of the common horse chestnut (Aesculus hippocastanum L.) in the Main Botanical Garden of the Russian Academy of Sciences. The effect of various degrees of insolation of horse chestnut plants on leaf morphology and the composition of secondary metabolites, as well as the relationship of these parameters with the number and density of C. ohridella populations during the growing season, was studied. The solar influence, it was noted, had a significant impact. Thus, the largest number of the pests was recorded on the leaves of the sunlit side of the tree crown, and the smallest on the leaves of the shady part of the crown. The low content of polyphenols in the pool of secondary metabolites in the tissues of the A. hippocastanum leaves did not deter C. ohridella and poorly protected the plants from this miner, while the significant content of carbohydrates in the leaves reduced the resistance of chestnut plants to damage by the Ohrid leaf miner. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, four species of the genus Gracillaria Haworth, 1828 (Lepidoptera: Gracillariidae), are recognized from Korea. Among them, two species, G. albicapitata Issiki, 1930 and G. arsenievi (Ermolaev, 1977), are reported for the first time from Korea. All the known species are enumerated with their available information. Adults and genitalia of all species are redescribed and illustrated.

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Conopomorpha sinensis Bradley is a destructive pest that causes severe economic damage to litchi and longan. Previous C. sinensis research has focused on population life tables, oviposition selectivity, pest population prediction, and control technology. However, there are few studies on its mitogenome and phylogenetic evolution. In this study, we sequenced the whole mitogenome of C. sinensis by the third-generation sequencing, and analyzed the characteristics of its mitogenome by comparative genome. The complete mitogenome of C. sinensis is a typical circular and double-stranded structure. The ENC-plot analyses revealed that natural selection could affect the information of codon bias of the protein-coding genes in the mitogenome of C. sinensis in the evolutionary process. Compared with 12 other Tineoidea species, the trnA-trnF gene cluster of tRNA in the C. sinensis mitogenome appears to have a new arrangement pattern. This new arrangement has not been found in other Tineoidea or other Lepidoptera, which needs further exploration. Meanwhile, a long AT repeated sequence was inserted between trnR and trnA, trnE and trnF, ND1 and trnS in the mitogenome of C. sinensis, and the reason for this sequence remains to be further studied. Furthermore, the results of phylogenetic analysis showed that the litchi fruit borer belonged to Gracillariidae, and Gracillariidae was monophyletic. The results will contribute to an improved understanding of the complex mitogenome and phylogeny of C. sinensis. It also will provide a molecular basis for further research on the genetic diversity and population differentiation of C. sinensis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article discusses the confusion surrounding the taxonomic status of the gracillariid taxon "hauderi" in Britain. Topics include examines it was believed to be a British species called Calybites hauderi, but later research revealed that it is not present in the British Isles and it was found that Caloptilia semifascia has populations in the UK that exhibit two annual generations, with the first generation producing adults described as f.hauderi.

Successful searches for the mines of Phyllonorycter ulicicolella (Stainton, 1851) during the winters of 2020, 2021 and 2022, suggest that the species is widespread, though very under-recorded, in a variety of habitats in the south of England. Data on mine distribution collected at two sites in oxfordshire suggest that less vigorous bushes with thinner stems are preferred by the moth. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A total of 781 species of Microlepidoptera belonging to 41 families are reported for the territory of Omsk Region. The most numerous is the Tortricidae family represented by 255 species, then Crambidae (94 species), Gelechiidae (70), Pyralidae (66), Pterophoridae (44), Depressariidae (32), Gracillariidae (29), Tineidae (25), Elachistidae (14), Adelidae and Elachistidae (8 species in each family), Yponomeutidae, Ypsolophidae, Ethmiidae and Cosmopterigidae (7 species in each family), Scythrididae and Oecophoridae (6 species in each family), Eriocraniidae (4), Nepticulidae, Momphidae and Epermeniidae (3 species in each family), Prodoxidae, Glyphipterigidae, Lyonetiidae and Choreutidae (2 species in each family), Opostegidae, Incurvariidae, Roeslerstammiidae, Argyresthiidae, Plutelliidae, Acrolepiidae, Bedelliidae, Parametriotidae, Chimabachidae, Cryptolechiidae, Batrachedridae, Blastobasidae, Autostichidae, Galacticidae (1 species in each family). 10 species are new to the Omsk Region. Agonopterix purpurea (Haworth, 1811) and Aethes flagellana (Duponchel, 1836) are reported from the territory of Omsk Region as new to the Asian Part of Russia; Fomoria weaveri (Stainton, 1855) reported from the territory of West Siberia for the first time.

Simple Summary: The horse-chestnut leaf miner, Cameraria ohridella Deschka and Dimić, 1986 (Lepidoptera: Gracillariidae), is an ornamental invasive alien insect pest that invaded Russia in the beginning of the 21st century. With the help of volunteers, we clarified the secondary range of species in the European part of Russia and performed extensive sampling of insect specimens for molecular genetic analysis. The pest was confirmed in 24 administrative regions in the European part of Russia. In southern Russia, it produced spectacular outbreaks in 2021. The DNA barcoding data obtained for 201 specimens from European Russia indicates the presence of two haplotypes, which are also known from the secondary range of this species in Eastern and Western Europe. Based on the intensive monitoring conducted by our team and volunteers in 2021, the secondary range of an alien horse-chestnut leaf miner, Cameraria ohridella Deschka & Dimić, 1986 (Lepidoptera: Gracillariidae), was specified in European Russia. This invasive pest was confirmed in 24 out of 58 administrative regions of Russia, which it has occupied for approximately 16 years. Analysis of the COI mtDNA gene sequenced in 201 specimens collected in 21 regions of the European part of Russia indicates the occurrence of two haplotypes (A and B), which are also present in the secondary range of C. ohridella in Eastern and Western Europe. The haplotype A dominated and was present in 87.5% of specimens from European Russia. In 2021, C. ohridella produced spectacular outbreaks in Aesculus hippocastanum in southern Russia, where it damaged more than 50% of the leaves in trees in 24 out of 30 distant localities. In the south of the country, the pest infested Acer pseudoplatanus, whereas other species of Acer of European, East Asian, and North American origin showed no signs of attacks. Taking into account that Ae. hippocastanum is present in most regions of European Russia, we expect a further range expansion of C. ohridella up to the Ural Mountains. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Phyllocnistis valentinensis Hering, 1936 (Lepidoptera: Gracillariidae) is reported for the first time from Romania (Transsylvania), and hitherto unknown early Hungarian records of this species are provided. Coptodisca lucifluella (Clemens, 1861) (Lepidoptera: Heliozelidae), an introduced Nearctic species already known from Romania, is newly recorded from Transsylvania. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: Caloptilia is a genus of the family Gracillariidae, one of the most diverse groups of Microlepidoptera, with more than 2000 described species worldwide. The species of this family are known as leafminers because they mine into the leaves of various host plants. Caloptilia has been poorly studied in Korea, with 50% fewer known species than those in the neighboring countries, viz., China, Russia, and Japan. In this study, we aimed to clarify fauna of the genus Caloptilia in Korea by describing three new species and seven newly recorded species in the country. In addition, we list all known species from Korea, along with images of the adult specimens and genitalia. In this study, 29 species of Caloptilia Hübner, 1825, belonging to the family Gracillariidae, were recognized in Korea. Among these, three species, i.e., C. purpureus sp. nov., C. koreana sp. nov., and C. xanthos sp. nov., are described as new to science. In addition, seven species of this genus are reported for the first time in Korea. All known species were enumerated, based on their available information. Adult specimens and genitalia of the new and newly recorded species were examined and described using all available information. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The study reports infestation of leaf miner Phyllocnistis unipunctella (Stephens, 1834) (Lepidoptera, Gracillariidae) on Populus deltoides Marsh (Salicaceae) in the UT of Jammu and Kashmir, India. The serpentine mining of leaves by larvae caused the leaves to dry out and turn brown, which lead to premature leaf drop, especially in severe infestations. Large populations rendered a silvery hue to the appearance of infested poplars when viewed from a distance. Pupation occurred inside the mine within a silken cell. Adults emerged after a period of 10-14 days. The infestation by this moth on poplars in the field was observed from the month of July to September. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Gracillariidae is one of the richest families of leaf mining moths, known by its ornamental and orchard plant pests expanding their primary ranges. We here provide a revised checklist of Gracillariidae (Lepidoptera) of Slovenia that presently accounts for 123 species. Among them, four species, Dialectica imperialella (Zeller, 1847), Phyllonorycter abrasella (Duponchel, 1843), Ph. trifoliella (Gerasimov, 1933), and Phyllocnistis valentinensis M. Hering, 1936, are new records for the country. The distribution of the other three species in Slovenia, Caloptilia honoratella (Rebel, 1914), Dialectica scalariella (Zeller, 1850), and Ph. messaniella (Zeller, 1846), is clarified. For the above seven species, short synopses of the bionomics, a current range, and images of biotopes, adult moths and their genitalia are provided. For P. valentinensis sampled at a larval stage, the DNA barcode was obtained to confirm the species identification. Given the known distribution of some of the newly recorded moths in Europe, we believe that these species do not represent a new invasion but rather are discoveries of native species, except for the newly documented Ph. trifoliella in Slovenia, which is likely to be an alien species for the country. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A preliminary chemical analysis of the OLFE extract did not detect any of the four known pheromone components or precursors, but further study is needed to understand the interaction between the pheromone and the kairomone attractants. In several species, host volatiles mediate male attraction to mating sites in advance of female emissions of sex pheromones or can synergistically increase the attraction of males when they co-occur with the pheromones [[38], [40], [42]]. When tests 1 and 2 were pulled together, no significant differences were noticeable between the concentrated kairomone and the pheromone lures, while the kairomone lure attracted more than the unbaited traps (H SB 3,60 sb = 24.748; I p i = 0.000) (Figure 3). Keywords: cocoa pod borer; Conopomorpha cramerella; kairomone; pheromone; lure development; monitoring tool EN cocoa pod borer Conopomorpha cramerella kairomone pheromone lure development monitoring tool N.PAG N.PAG 11 09/27/22 20220901 NES 220901 1. [Extracted from the article]

The paper presents the results on resistance of Aesculus hippocastanum Linnaeus, 1753 trees to Cameraria ohridella Deschka & Dimi'c, 1986 (Lepidoptera, Gracillariidae) impact under conditions of a modern urban environment on the example of Dnipro city as the largest industrial city in Ukraine. Field experiments were conducted in all park areas of the city, which allowed covering the full gradient of the existing urban environment and considered the different degrees of the tree settlement by the invasive insect species. The research of the impact of C. ohridella caterpillars' vital activity on the photosynthetic apparatus state was carried out by applying a chlorophyll fluorescence induction technique. Diagnosis of photosynthetic dysfunction of fresh Ae. hippocastanum leaves was conducted using a portable "Floratest" fluorometer manufactured in Ukraine. Interpretation of the obtained Kautsky curves showed that significant changes in their critical parameters associated with the degree of leaf damage by C. ohridella caterpillars were not detected. The influence of tree growth site conditions on the following 4 main indicators of chlorophyll fluorescence induction was established: the initial value of fluorescence induction after irradiation; the value of "plateau" fluorescence induction; the maximum value of fluorescence induction; the stationary value of fluorescence induction after light adaptation of the plant leaf. It was found that the efficiency coefficients of photochemical processes in Ae. hippocastanum trees growing in low terrain levels differed significantly, which can probably be interpreted as their response to the specific characteristics of the urban environment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The lime leaf miner Phyllonorycter issikii (Kumata) (Lepidoptera: Gracillariidae) is an east Asian pest, which has recently distributed across the Palaearctic. Here, we provide the novel data on the diversity of its parasitoids in the Russian Far East (native region) and western Siberia (invaded region). Overall, 19 parasitoids from the Eulophidae (17 species) and Braconidae (2 species) reared from the Ph. issikii larvae and pupae were identified based on morphology and/or DNA barcoding. Among them, 12 species were detected in the Primorskiy Territory (Russian Far East) and 10 species in the Novosibirsk Province (Western Siberia), with only 3 shared species, namely Chrysocharis laomedon (Walker), Elachertus inunctus Nees and Sympiesis gordius (Walker). Pleurotroppopsis japonica (Kamijo) is a novel record for Russia, whereas the other eight eulophids are novel for the Novosibisk Province and two for the Primorskiy Territory. The eulophid Mischotetrastichus nadezhdae (Kostjukov) was recorded as a parasitoid of Ph. issikii for the first time. Four new species were described from the Primorskiy Territory: Achrysocharoides nagasawi sp. nov., A. carinatus sp. nov., Cirrospilus ussuriensis sp. nov., Pholetesor nataliae sp. nov. For all parasitoids, the distribution and hosts are listed; the majority of the species are illustrated. In addition, a checklist of the Ph. issikii parasitoids counting 79 species is compiled for the Palaearctic region. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Incidence of mango stem miner Spulerina isonoma (Meyrick) (Lepidoptera: Gracillariidae), a poorly known pest, is recorded from Tamil Nadu, India. Details on the symptoms of damage and life stages of the pest are given and illustrated. Chelonus sp. (Hymenoptera: Braconidae) is recorded as its parasitoid for the first time. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The complete mitochondrial genome of Phyllonorycter ringoniella (Matsumura, 1931) is characterized by a circular with 15,729 bp in size, containing 37 encoded genes and a control region. The gene order and nucleotide composition are similar to the known gracillariid mitogenomes. All protein-coding genes (PCGs) initiate with ATN and terminate with TAN, while cox1 starts with CGA, cox1, cox2, nad3, and nad5 terminate with an incomplete codon TA– or T–. All transfer RNA genes (tRNAs) can fold into typical clover-leaf structure, except for trnS1 (AGN), in which dihydrouridine stem is simplified to form a loop structure. The control region is located between 12S rRNA and trnM with relatively strong AT bias. The phylogenetic trees reveal that two subfamilies Oecophyllembiinae and Acrocercopinae were clustered together, and that clade was sister to the subfamily Lithocolletinae. All species of the genus Phyllonorycter grouped into a monophyletic clade and the P. ringoniella was closely related to P. platani.

The importance of plant chemistry in the host specialization of phytophagous insects has been emphasized. However, only a few chemicals associated with host shifting have been characterized. Herein, we focus on the leaf-mining moth Acrocercops transecta (Gracillariidae) consisting of ancestral Juglans (Juglandaceae)- and derived Lyonia (Ericaceae)-associated host races. The females of the Lyonia race laid eggs on a cover glass treated with an L. ovalifolia leaf extract; the extract was fractionated using silica gel and ODS column chromatography to isolate the oviposition stimulants. From a separated fraction, two analogous Lyonia-specific triterpenoid glycosides were characterized as oviposition stimulants. Furthermore, we observed probable contact chemosensilla on the distal portion of the female antennae. Lyonia race females laid their eggs on the non-host Juglans after the leaves were treated with a Lyonia-specific oviposition stimulant, although they do not lay eggs on Juglans. These results suggest that Lyonia race females do not lay eggs on Juglans leaves because the leaves do not contain specific oviposition stimulant(s). Otherwise, the activity of the oviposition stimulants overcomes oviposition deterrents contained in Juglans leaves. This paper describes the roles of plant chemicals in the different preferences between host races associated with distantly related plant taxa. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The citrus leafminer (CLM) Phyllocnistis citrella Stainton (Lepidoptera; Gracillariidae) is an important citrus pest. The population dynamic was monitored to assess the infestation state during summer-autumn seasons in a citrus-growing area of Algeria (Mitidja). The densities were estimated using immature stages sampling and male moth catches in pheromone-baited traps. The analysis of both methods showed that the presence of the CLM did not differ significantly between years but differs significantly between months. The monitoring of the population revealed that the incidence of this pest has considerably decreased compared to its first introduction in the area. The insect has developed 4 generations for both years considered; 2 in summer and another 2 in autumn. The mean density of CLM per leaf recorded was 1.42 in 2017 and 1.24 in 2018. The number of moth caught in pheromone-baited traps showed an important density and was predictive for the immature stages' population. No significant relationship was found between moth catches and larval densities during the successive years studied. However, a significant relationship was found between larval densities and infested flushes on one hand, and on the other hand, between total flushes density and flushes infested. The moths catches using pheromone-baited traps could present a complementary variability source to help measure population and predict infestations. However, they do not necessarily reflect the actual immature stages densities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: We have investigated the efficacy of six different pheromone lures for the cocoa pod borer in Indonesia. The lures provided by the USDA captured more males than the lures manufactured by Alpha Scents when loaded with a 0.1 mg pheromone blend. We increased the lure longevity to 7 months by increasing the Alpha Scents pheromone load to 1 mg. The long-life pheromone lure may be particularly useful in monitoring large-scale cocoa farms and developing new mitigation technologies that would necessitate high longevity powerful attractant. The previously identified female sex pheromone of cocoa pod borer (CPB), Conopomorpha cramerella (Snellen) (Lepidoptera: Gracillariidae), was re-evaluated for male attraction using six different pheromone formulations in Indonesian cocoa plantations. In a dose-response experiment, the 0.1 mg pheromone load was significantly more attractive to male CPB than the lower doses tested. Additionally, during the first four-week trapping period, USDA (Beltsville, MD, USA) lures containing 0.1 mg of synthetic pheromone blend exhibited significantly better attraction than the commercial lure obtained from Alpha Scents, Inc. (Canby, OR, USA) with the same pheromone load (0.1 mg). Although the 1.0 mg lure did not show any higher attraction than the 0.1 mg lure during the first month, it was significantly attractive for CPB males with the same weekly average capture efficacy for the whole twenty-seven weeks in field conditions in 2018. A long-life pheromone lure can be particularly useful in monitoring large-scale cocoa farms. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The spread and outbreaks of phytophagous pests are often associated with global warming. In addition to economic interest, these species may be of interest in terms of biological indication of climate changes. In this context, we considered the locust digitate leafminer Parectopa robiniella Clemens, 1863 (Lepidoptera: Gracillariidae). This phytophage was first discovered in Europe in 1970 near Milano in Italy. Since then, it has been spreading across the continent. In Ukraine, it was recorded for the first time in 2003. In 2020–2021, we found areas of massive leaf damage caused by the black locust (Robinia pseudoacacia) in locations on Trukhaniv Island in Kyiv and some places in the Kyiv administrative region. Using 1041 georeferenced records of P. robiniella across Europe and a Bayesian additive regression trees algorithm (BART), we modeled the distribution of the moth. Predictors of current climate (WorldClim v.2, CliMond v.1.2 and ENVIREM) and a black locust habitat suitability raster were employed. Sets of SDMs built for P. robiniella with and without the habitat suitability raster for the host tree performed equally well. Amongst the factors that determine the niche of the locust digitate leafminer, most important are temperature-related conditions assumed to facilitate the spread and naturalization of the pest. In Ukraine, the appearance of the moth has coincided with increasing mean annual temperatures. Particularly favorable for the species are areas in the west and south-west of the country, and Transcarpathia. In the near future, the moth could reach locations in Nordic countries, Estonia, the British Isles, Black Sea coastal areas in Turkey, further into Russia, etc. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The spread of phytophagous pests are often associated with global warming. These species may be of interest in terms of biological indications of climate change. We considered the locust digitate leafminer P. robiniella. In Ukraine it was first recorded in 2003. In 2020–2021, we found areas of massive R. pseudoacacia leaf damage caused by the pest on Trukhaniv island (Kyiv) and some places in the region. Using 592 georeferenced records of P. robiniella across Europe and a Bayesian additive regression trees algorithm, we modeled the distribution of the moth. As predictors, a current climate (WorldClim v.2) and a black locust habitat suitability map were employed. Western and south-western regions of Ukraine and Transcarpathia are considered the most favorable for the pest. Amongst the factors determining its niche, summer moisture and warm conditions are the most important for facilitating the spread and naturalization of the moth. Under progressing climate change, the species is expected to move eastward. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Gracillariidae is the most taxonomically diverse cosmopolitan leaf‐mining moth family, consisting of nearly 2000 named species in 105 described genera, classified into eight extant subfamilies. The majority of gracillariid species are internal plant feeders as larvae, creating mines and galls in plant tissue. Despite their diversity and ecological adaptations, their phylogenetic relationships, especially among subfamilies, remain uncertain. Genomic data (83 taxa, 589 loci) were integrated with Sanger data (130 taxa, 22 loci), to reconstruct a phylogeny of Gracillariidae. Based on analyses of both datasets combined and analyzed separately, monophyly of Gracillariidae and all its subfamilies, monophyly of the clade "LAMPO" (subfamilies: Lithocolletinae, Acrocercopinae, Marmarinae, Phyllocnistinae, and Oecophyllembiinae) and relationships of its subclade "AMO" (subfamilies: Acrocercopinae, Marmarinae, and Oecophyllembiinae) were strongly supported. A sister‐group relationship of Ornixolinae to the remainder of the family, and a monophyletic leaf roller lineage (Callicercops Vári + Parornichinae) + Gracillariinae, as sister to the "LAMPO" clade were supported by the most likely tree. Dating analyses indicate a mid‐Cretaceous (105.3 Ma) origin of the family, followed by a rapid diversification into the nine subfamilies predating the Cretaceous–Palaeogene extinction. We hypothesize that advanced larval behaviours, such as making keeled or tentiform blotch mines, rolling leaves and galling, allowed gracillariids to better avoid larval parasitoids allowing them to further diversify. Finally, we stabilize the classification by formally re‐establishing the subfamily ranks of Marmarinae stat.rev., Oecophyllembiinae stat.rev. and Parornichinae stat.rev., and erect a new subfamily, Callicercopinae Li, Ohshima and Kawahara to accommodate the enigmatic genus Callicercops. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The horse chestnut leafminer, Cameraria ohridella, Deschka and Dimić, is a moth that has invaded most of Europe since it was first recorded in Macedonia near Lake Ohrid in 1985. It attacks horse chestnut trees and causes aesthetic and vitality problems. The parasitism rate, other mortality rates, and parasitoid structure were studied during a five-year survey at six sites in the Czech Republic. The results showed that the total parasitism rates varied from 1.9% to 20.5%, with an average of 7.2%, similar to other those published studies. The parasitism rate was significantly related to year, the developmental stage of C. ohridella, latitude, and greenery maintenance but not to C. ohridella population density, altitude, or area size. In contrast, the total other mortality rates varied from 13.7% to 59.5%, with an average of 31%, but overall temporal changes in the values indicated a declining trend. The parasitoid complex was predominantly polyphagous parasitoids of the family Eulophidae, similar to that found previously in south-eastern Europe. The results further revealed that the most abundant parasitoid species, Minotetrastichus frontalis (Nees), was gradually replaced by Pediobius saulius (Walker). The increasing abundance of P. saulius is thus an interesting adaptation of an autochthonous parasitoid to a new host. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]