Search

Frankliniella occidentalis, commonly known as the western flower thrips (WFT), is one of the world's most significant cosmopolitan pests. This pest infests many ornamental species, including Alstroemeria, leading to substantial economic losses. F. occidentalis damages flowers, transmits viruses, and causes the rejection of shipments for exports. Farmers have observed variations in the occurrence of F. occidentalis among different Alstroemeria cultivars. It is hypothesized that differences in flower color and odor among cultivars may influence the host-choice behavior of this insect, potentially explaining the observed variations in incidence and damage in the field. To test this hypothesis, we analyzed one year's worth of sampling data for the occurrence of the WFT complex in a commercial Alstroemeria greenhouse crop. This analysis identified cultivars with high and low thrips incidences. The 'Himalaya' and 'Whistler' cultivars exhibited the highest incidence, while the 'Shakira' and 'Nora' cultivars showed the lowest incidence values. To investigate the potential role of host odors in these field incidence differences, we conducted behavioral tests (choice, non-choice, and repellency) using glass boxes where visual stimuli were blocked. These tests confirmed a differential attraction response of thrips to the flowers of Alstroemeria cultivars, although all cultivars were viable options for WFT choice. Preferences under laboratory conditions differed from the incidence observed in the greenhouse, ruling out a repellency effect of some cultivars on insects. This study provides evidence that differential emissions from Alstroemeria flowers can influence host selection by WFT, a phenomenon that warrants further in-depth exploration in future studies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: In recent years, Norway spruce (Picea abies L.) forests in Central Europe have faced escalating threats from bark beetles, primarily Ips typographus (L.), and other species, such as I. duplicatus (Sahlberg). Outbreaks are partially attributed to weakened tree defense resulting from drought periods induced by climate change. This study examines Norway spruce's physiological and metabolic reactions to acute drought stress during the growing season and evaluates its susceptibility to I. typographus and I. duplicatus. Methodology: In order to induce drought stress, mature Norway spruces had their roots covered with a roof in April 2021, depriving them of water. Control trees were left with free access to natural rainwater. Over 5 months of the growing season, soil water potential, bark temperature, tree trunk circumference, and sap flow were monitored. Roofed trees and controls were sampled in July, August, and September and analyzed for non-structural carbohydrates and the two classes of defensive compounds, phenolics and terpenes. Furthermore, two different bioassays in tubes and boxes were performed using adult I. typographus and I. duplicatus beetles to assess host choice and acceptance. Results: Roofed trees exhibited signs of stress as early as July, resulting in decreased tree trunk and a consequent increase in non-structural carbohydrate content. Defensive metabolites remained largely unaffected except for an increase in diterpenes in September. In bioassays, I. typographus preferred boring into the bark of roofed trees in August in tubes and in September in boxes. This increased tree acceptance correlated with increased levels of soluble carbohydrates in the phloem. I. typographus and I. duplicatus beetles showed higher mobility in boxes in August and September on roofed trees but not in July, even though bark surface temperatures were elevated in roof-covered trees during all three bioassay periods. Conclusion: The study revealed rapid physiological responses of trees to acute drought stress, although not many changes were observed in defense traits. Despite the absence of natural bark beetle attacks, drought trees were more accepted by I. typographus than naturally watered trees. This response may indicate the beetles' preference for trees with phloem of higher nutritional quality induced by the acute drought stress conditions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Monosteira unicostata (Mulsant & Rey.) (Poplar lace bug) and Melanophila picta Pall. (Poplar wood borer) are significant pests of poplar and willow trees in Hamadan province. The infestation levels of host plants to the pests were assessed across 11 native and exotic Poplar clones at a research station in Hamadan during 2010-2011. The Poplar clones, including species from Populus alba L., P. nigra L., P. deltoides Marsh ., and P. x euramericana (Dode.), were assessed using a randomized complete block design with three replications. For M. unicostata survey, egg counts were conducted on both sides of the leaves by selecting four leaves of uniform size from the four cardinal directions at about 150-200 cm height in July and August. During the M. picta survey, a mesh fabric was wrapped around the main trunk of the trees, covering a height range of 10-110 cm, and the number of beetles present under the net was tallied weekly from June through August. The data were subjected to a mean comparison using Duncan's test using SPSS v.16.0 software. Results indicated a significant variance in infestation rates among the clones. Specifically, Duncan's test revealed that the clones P. deltoides missouriensis, P. x euramericana 214, P. nigra 75/2, and P. nigra 62/167 exhibited the highest to lowest numbers of M. picta on the trunks, respectively. Conversely, the clones P. alba 57/58 and P. nigra 62/149 had the highest and lowest counts of M. unicostata eggs on the leaves, respectively. Based on the findings of this study, P. nigra 62/149, P. nigra 62/167, and P. nigra 74/1 clones demonstrated the greatest adaptability and yeild, exhibiting a less infection to these two critical Poplar pests. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Herbivorous insects assess and choose their potential host plants based on traits that may correlate with host suitability or quality. These traits may operate as cues for better resources, noxious chemicals, or fewer competitors and enemies. Interactions between insects and their host plants may also be modulated by the nutritional value of the plant, by plant chemical stimuli, or by physical traits such as trichomes. Differences in chemical or physical cues among plants may convey information about diet suitability. Several studies have addressed the topic of differences in plant traits between host and non-host plants; fewer have addressed these differences among potential host plants. We have studied the effect of chemical and physical plant traits on the feeding and oviposition preferences of the oligophagous herbivore Epilachna paenulata (Coleoptera: Coccinellidae) and two of its host plants, Cucurbita maxima and Cucurbita moschata (Cucurbitaceae). We first typified the volatile and non-volatile chemical profiles and the trichome distribution of the plants. Then, using behavioral assays, we evaluated feeding and oviposition preferences of E. paenulata. Further, to assess a correlation between oviposition preferences and offspring survival, we measured larval performance as indicated by survival, mass, and time to complete each instar. Female longevity in both Cucurbita host plants was also evaluated. Our results show that the congeneric plants bear differences in their chemical profiles, including volatile organic compounds, leaf waxes, and leaf parenchyma metabolites. Trichome abundance was also different, with C. maxima presenting fewer hairs. Epilachna paenulata females laid significantly more eggs in C. maxima, regardless of the plant they were raised as larvae. Female longevity on C. maxima was higher, but larval performance showed no difference between both plants. The proximate causes mediating female oviposition preferences may then involve trichome abundance, oviposition deterrents, toxic substances, or a combination of these factors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The agave weevil Scyphophorus acupunctatus is a polyphagous pest of agave, yucca and related taxa. Although its many host species differ in their mortality rates, little is known about the factors involved in host selection by the weevil and the defensive response of the infested plants. We compared the suitability of Agave americana subsp. americana, A. americana var. franzosini and A. oteroi as a food source for adult individuals of S. acupunctatus. Feeding rates on leaf samples of the selected taxa were measured under laboratory conditions. The amount of the flavonoids flavone and kaempferol in the leaves was also quantified. The observed consumption rates were significantly lower for A. americana var. franzosini, but only for measurements made on a fresh weight basis and not when consumption was adjusted to leaf dry weight. The leaves of the three agave taxa did not differ in the contents of the two selected flavonoids. We conclude that the three agave taxa are equally suitable as a food source for the weevil, but the observed differences in the consumption of fresh material provides evidence that agaves can differ in the amount of damage caused by the feeding activities of S. acupunctatus. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The orange wheat blossom midge, Sitodiplosis mosellana (Géhin) (Diptera: Cecidomyiidae), is a significant wheat pest in the Prairie Provinces of Canada and northern regions of the USA. Wheat phenology plays a critical role in wheat midge oviposition. We hypothesized that S. mosellana oviposition behaviour is influenced by volatile organic compounds (VOCs) emitted by wheat at two adjacent wheat growth stages: preanthesis and postanthesis. A higher number of S. mosellana eggs laid on preanthesis than postanthesis spikes in an oviposition choice experiment using the susceptible spring wheat cultivar 'Roblin'. In preanthesis, wheat emitted higher amounts of Z-3-hexenyl acetate (Z3-06:OAc) than at the postanthesis stage. Higher amounts of methyl ketones such as 2-tridecanone, 2-pentadecanone, and 2-undecanone were emitted by wheat in the postanthesis stage and these VOCs were sensitive to S. mosellana antennae used in the Gas Chromatography-Electroantennographic Detection. Females were attracted to synthetic Z3-06:OAc but were deterred by 2-tridecanone relative to the solvent control in the vertical Y-tube olfactometer. 2-Undecanone and 2-pentadecanone did not show any attractiveness or deterrence. In a no-choice oviposition experiment, fewer eggs were laid in preanthesis wheat exposed to a synthetic VOC blend of Z3-06:OAc, 2-undecanone, 2-tridecanone, and 2-pentadecanone at the concentrations released by postanthesis spikes. This study shows that the reduction of Z3-06:OAc, in the VOC mix, and possibly the increase in 2-tridecanone, are likely responsible for the reduction in oviposition on postanthesis wheat. These results elucidate for the first time the role of specific VOCs mediating S. mosellana oviposition in preanthesis and postanthesis wheat. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary: Drought affects the complex interactions between Norway spruce, the bark beetle Ips typographus and associated microorganisms. We investigated the interplay of tree water status, defense and carbohydrate reserves with the incidence of bark beetle attack and infection of associated fungi in mature spruce trees.We installed roofs to induce a 2‐yr moderate drought in a managed spruce stand to examine a maximum of 10 roof and 10 control trees for resin flow (RF), predawn twig water potentials, terpene, phenolic and carbohydrate bark concentrations, and bark beetle borings in field bioassays before and after inoculation with Endoconidiophora polonica and Grosmannia penicillata.Drought‐stressed trees showed more attacks and significantly longer fungal lesions than controls, but maintained terpene resin defenses at predrought levels. Reduced RF and lower mono‐ and diterpene, but not phenolic concentrations were linked with increased host selection. Bark beetle attack and fungi stimulated chemical defenses, yet G. penicillata reduced phenolic and carbohydrate contents.Chemical defenses did not decrease under mild, prolonged drought in our simulated small‐scale biotic infestations. However, during natural mass attacks, reductions in carbon fixation under drought, in combination with fungal consumption of carbohydrates, may deplete tree defenses and facilitate colonization by I. typographus. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Chinese Journal of Applied Entomology is the property of Chinese Journal of Applied Entomology, Editorial Department 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.)

Fleas frequently parasitize rodents and serve as major vectors for many zoonotic diseases. The Alxa Desert in Inner Mongolia, China, is a typical arid region in Asia, which is suitable for the coexistence of a variety of rodents in this environment. Understanding the host selection of fleas among these rodents and the factors influencing this selection is crucial for comprehending rodent-borne diseases and the vector roles of fleas. This study utilized live-trap methods to capture rodents coexisting in the Alxa Desert from April to October 2022. Body surface fleas were collected and analyzed for abundance across different hosts, sexes, and reproductive statuses. The results indicated that: (1) there were significant differences in the species and abundance of parasitic fleas on different rodent species, with Ophthalmopsylla kiritschenkoi and Mesopsylla hebes preferring the Dipus sagitta and Orientallactaga sibirica as their hosts, and Xenopsylla conformis preferring Meriones meridianus as its host. (2) Fleas exhibited sex-preferential host selection, showing a greater preference for male hosts. (3) Among rodents of different reproductive states, most fleas prefer to parasitize individuals in non-reproductive periods. (4) The mean abundance of fleas varied significantly between seasons (P

Despite being sessile, plants nonetheless forage for resources by modulating their growth. Adaptative foraging in response to changes in resource availability and presence of neighbours has strong implications for performance and fitness. It is an even more pressing issue for parasitic plants, which draw resources directly from other plants. Indeed, parasitic plants were demonstrated over the years to direct their growth towards preferred hosts and invest resources in parasitism relative to host quality. In contrast to root parasites that rely mostly on chemical cues, some shoot parasites seem to profit from the ability to integrate different types of abiotic and biotic cues. While significant progress in this field has been made recently, there are still many open questions regarding the molecular perception and the integration of diverse signalling pathways under different ecological contexts. Addressing how different cues are integrated in parasitic plants will be important when unravelling variations in plant interaction pathways, and essential to predict the spread of parasites in natural and agricultural environments. In this review, we discuss this with a focus on Cuscuta species as an emerging parasitic model, and provide research perspectives based on the recent advances in the topic and plant–plant interactions in general. Summary statement: In this review, selective foraging is discussed with a focus on Cuscuta species as an emerging parasitic model. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The western tarnished plant bug, Lygus hesperus (Knight), has emerged as a pest of potatoes (Solanum tuberosum L.) in the Lower Columbia Basin of Oregon and Washington. This species is generally found infesting several other field-grown crops in the region; however, their host preference is poorly understood. Thus, greenhouse cage experiments were conducted to evaluate L. hesperus host preference by simultaneously presenting adults with 4 host plants: potato, alfalfa, Medicago sativa L., carrot, Daucus carota L., and pea, Pisum sativum L. In addition, an oviposition test was conducted.The results indicated that L. hesperus actively chose as a host and as an oviposition substrate among the 4 host plants. We found a significantly higher number of adults on alfalfa and potato plants over carrot or pea plants at 6 h, 24 h, and 48 h after adults were released into the cage. However, 96 h after release, more L. hesperus were found in alfalfa. In addition, female L. hesperus strongly preferred potato and alfalfa plants as an oviposition substrate over carrot and pea plants at 96 h after release. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The ambrosia beetle Platypus quercivorus is a vector of a pathogenic fungus that causes Japanese oak wilt. Its host is Fagaceae trees; however, these beetles also erroneously bore into unsuitable, non‐host tree species, which can be affected by neighbouring host tree species and the size of the non‐host.We attached sticky sheets to the host and non‐host tree species of P. quercivorus and counted the number of beetles that landed weekly, in a season of beetle dispersal. We quantified the density of the host canopy above, the basal area of surrounding hosts and the diameter at breast height (DBH) of each non‐host tree.The host canopy density affected the probability of beetles landing on non‐hosts, and the host basal area and non‐host DBH affected the number of beetles landing on non‐hosts. Thus, P. quercivorus is probably initially attracted to a dense host canopy, secondly attracted to the high density of the host and thereafter aggregate onto thick trees, including non‐host species.The number of beetles landing on the surrounding host also affected beetle landing on the non‐hosts, suggesting that landing on non‐hosts is an error that occurs in high frequency during the seasons when many beetles land on the hosts. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Frankliniella occidentalis, commonly known as the western flower thrips (WFT), is one of the world’s most significant cosmopolitan pests. This pest infests many ornamental species, including Alstroemeria, leading to substantial economic losses. F. occidentalis damages flowers, transmits viruses, and causes the rejection of shipments for exports. Farmers have observed variations in the occurrence of F. occidentalis among different Alstroemeria cultivars. It is hypothesized that differences in flower color and odor among cultivars may influence the host-choice behavior of this insect, potentially explaining the observed variations in incidence and damage in the field. To test this hypothesis, we analyzed one year’s worth of sampling data for the occurrence of the WFT complex in a commercial Alstroemeria greenhouse crop. This analysis identified cultivars with high and low thrips incidences. The ‘Himalaya’ and ‘Whistler’ cultivars exhibited the highest incidence, while the ‘Shakira’ and ‘Nora’ cultivars showed the lowest incidence values. To investigate the potential role of host odors in these field incidence differences, we conducted behavioral tests (choice, non-choice, and repellency) using glass boxes where visual stimuli were blocked. These tests confirmed a differential attraction response of thrips to the flowers of Alstroemeria cultivars, although all cultivars were viable options for WFT choice. Preferences under laboratory conditions differed from the incidence observed in the greenhouse, ruling out a repellency effect of some cultivars on insects. This study provides evidence that differential emissions from Alstroemeria flowers can influence host selection by WFT, a phenomenon that warrants further in-depth exploration in future studies.

The knowledge of the interactions between endophytic entomopathogenic fungi and forage plants and their influence on Spodoptera frugiperda, an emerging pest of pastoral systems, is important to elucidate the multifunctionality of these microorganisms and their benefits to agroecosystems. This study investigated the influence of endophytic colonization with different isolates of Metarhizium anisopliae on Cynodon dactylon (L.) Pers (Poaceae) cv. Tifton 85 on biological and behavioral aspects of S. frugiperda. The application of a suspension of isolates (1 × 108 conidia ml−1) to the base (soil drench) of C. dactylon seedlings was effective to promote endophytic colonization. Spodoptera frugiperda caterpillars fed throughout their larval stage with leaves of plants colonized endophytically by the three isolates studied (CEPAF_ENT 25, CEPAF_ENT 27, and IBCB 425) of M. anisopliae showed considerable reduction in their biological performance, especially in parameters of their fertility life table. However, the tested isolates did not show pronounced effects on feeding and oviposition preference, although there was a trend of preference of caterpillars and moths for colonized plants, especially in no-choice tests. Thus, applications of mycoinsecticides based on M. anisopliae for the management of the spittlebug complex (its main use currently) may lead to the endophytic colonization of C. dactylon cv. Tifton 85 and influence S. frugiperda population density as well as the impact this pest causes to pastures. The isolates used in this study exhibit multiple spectrums of action and potential to produce new biological products for the market. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Appreciation for the role of cryptofauna in ecological systems has increased dramatically over the past decade. The impacts blood-feeding arthropods, such as ticks and mosquitos, have on terrestrial communities are the subject of hundreds of papers annually. However, blood-feeding arthropods have been largely ignored in marine environments. Gnathiid isopods, often referred to as "ticks of the sea", are temporary external parasites of fishes. They are found in all marine environments and have many consequential impacts on host fitness. Because they are highly mobile and only associated with their hosts while obtaining a blood meal, their broader trophic connections are difficult to discern. Conventional methods rely heavily on detecting gnathiids on wild-caught fishes. However, this approach typically yields few gnathiids and does not account for hosts that avoid capture. To overcome this limitation, we sequenced blood meals of free-living gnathiids collected in light traps to assess the host range and community-dependent exploitation of Caribbean gnathiid isopods. Using fish-specific COI (cox1) primers, sequencing individual blood meals from 1060 gnathiids resulted in the identification of 70 host fish species from 27 families. Comparisons of fish assemblages to blood meal identification frequencies at four collection sites indicated that fishes within the families Haemulidae (grunts) and Lutjanidae (snappers) were exploited more frequently than expected based on their biomass, and Labrid parrotfishes were exploited less frequently than expected. The broad host range along with the biased exploitation of diel-migratory species has important implications for the role gnathiid isopods play in Caribbean coral reef communities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The production of therapeutic recombinant toxins requires careful host cell selection. Bacteria, yeast, and mammalian cells are common choices, but no universal solution exists. Achieving the delicate balance in toxin production is crucial due to potential self-intoxication. Recombinant toxins from various sources find applications in antimicrobials, biotechnology, cancer drugs, and vaccines. "Toxin-based therapy" targets diseased cells using three strategies. Targeted cancer therapy, like antibody–toxin conjugates, fusion toxins, or "suicide gene therapy", can selectively eliminate cancer cells, leaving healthy cells unharmed. Notable toxins from various biological sources may be used as full-length toxins, as plant (saporin) or animal (melittin) toxins, or as isolated domains that are typical of bacterial toxins, including Pseudomonas Exotoxin A (PE) and diphtheria toxin (DT). This paper outlines toxin expression methods and system advantages and disadvantages, emphasizing host cell selection's critical role. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary: Predicting and managing the structure and function of plant microbiomes requires quantitative understanding of community assembly and predictive models of spatial distributions at broad geographic scales.Here, we quantified the relative contribution of abiotic and biotic factors to the assembly of phyllosphere bacterial communities, and developed spatial distribution models for keystone bacterial taxa along a latitudinal gradient, by analyzing 16S rRNA gene sequences from 1453 leaf samples taken from 329 plant species in China.We demonstrated a latitudinal gradient in phyllosphere bacterial diversity and community composition, which was mostly explained by climate and host plant factors. We found that host‐related factors were increasingly important in explaining bacterial assembly at higher latitudes while nonhost factors including abiotic environments, spatial proximity and plant neighbors were more important at lower latitudes. We further showed that local plant–bacteria associations were interconnected by hub bacteria taxa to form metacommunity‐level networks, and the spatial distribution of these hub taxa was controlled by hosts and spatial factors with varying importance across latitudes.For the first time, we documented a latitude‐dependent importance in the driving factors of phyllosphere bacteria assembly and distribution, serving as a baseline for predicting future changes in plant phyllosphere microbiomes under global change and human activities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary: Eggplant (Solanum melongena) suffers severe losses due to a multi‐insecticide‐resistant lepidopteran pest, shoot and fruit borer (SFB, Leucinodes orbonalis). Heavy and combinatorial application of pesticides for SFB control renders eggplant risky for human consumption. We observed that gravid SFB females do not oviposit on Himalayan eggplant variety RC‐RL‐22 (RL22). We hypothesized that RL22 contained an antixenosis factor.Females' behavior indicated that the RL22 cue they perceived was olfactory. To identify it, leaf volatile blends of seven eggplant varieties were profiled using solid phase microextraction and gas chromatography mass spectrometry.Seven RL22‐specific compounds were detected in the plant headspace. In choice assays, oviposition deterrence efficacies of these candidate compounds were independently tested by their foliar application on SFB‐susceptible varieties. Complementation of geraniol, which was exclusively found in RL22, reduced oviposition (> 90%). To validate geraniol's role in RL22's SFB‐deterrence, we characterized RL22's geraniol synthase and silenced its gene in planta, using virus‐induced gene silencing. Geraniol biosynthesis suppression rendered RL22 SFB‐susceptible; foliar geraniol application on the geraniol synthase‐silenced plants restored oviposition deterrence.We infer that geraniol is RL22's SFB oviposition deterrent. The use of natural compounds like geraniol, which influence the chemical ecology of oviposition, can reduce the load of hazardous synthetic larvicides. See also the Commentary on this article by Byers, 240: 915–917. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Larvae of Anastrepha ludens (Loew) (Diptera: Tephritidae) are non‐native hosts of the parasitoid Diachasmimorpha longicaudata (Ashmead) (Hymenoptera: Braconidae). These hosts appear to be a very good resource for the development of D. longicaudata in a wide range of larval weights. Therefore, the present study aimed to evaluate whether the larval weight of A. ludens influences the emergence and mass‐rearing parameters of D. longicaudata, including the parasitoid's adult attributes and host selection capacity. Three mean larval weights of 29, 25, and 21 mg were considered as high, medium, and low categories for the analysis. The tests included the effect of management of host larvae in the mass rearing of the parasitoids. In addition, evaluations of flight ability, survival, fecundity, and size were carried out in the adults that emerged from the larvae of the various weight categories. There was a direct relationship between host larval weight and parasitoid pupal weight, but there was no relationship with the emergence of adult parasitoids. However, a high percentage of females emerged from heavier larvae. Similarly, although adults that developed in the heaviest larval category were larger, adult quality parameters were not affected. In the evaluations of host selection, the parasitoids oviposited randomly in the larvae from the various weight categories; there was only selection if larvae of different weights were mixed. In addition, superparasitism did not differ between larval weight categories. In the evaluation of competition for hosts in cages under field conditions, larger female parasitoids that developed in the heaviest host larvae landed more frequently on infested fruit, but oviposition was similar between females of different sizes. In conclusion, the larval weight of A. ludens influenced the size of the host puparia and of adults of D. longicaudata, but the emergence and attributes of the developed adults were similar. Therefore, it can be concluded that the low larval weights of A. ludens evaluated in this study are within the range for proper development of D. longicaudata in mass rearing. This allows several options to produce hosts at a lower cost without negatively affecting the quality of parasitoid production. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Velvet longhorned beetle Trichoferus campestris (Faldermann) (Coleoptera: Cerambycidae) is native to Asia. It is reported to be polyphagous in its native range, but hosts have not been screened in its introduced range in the United States.We conducted choice and no‐choice host experiments. For choice assays, gravid T. campestris oviposited freely on cut branches of four tree species: Juglans nigra, Malus domestica, Acer saccharum, and Pinus strobus. We investigated oviposition between apple branches with and without cankers. Half of the choice trials underwent winter temperatures.For no‐choice assays, eggs were placed on cut branches of these same four species. Half of these branches were later dissected to measure larval development. The rest were exposed to winter temperatures and T. campestris emergence was quantified.Overall, Trichoferus campestris oviposition and development occur more readily on J. nigra and M. domestica than on A. saccharum or P. strobus. The insect oviposited more on cankered than uncankered apple wood. Cold exposure during an overwintering period benefitted insect development in adults.The insect's high degree of polyphagy and ability to reproduce in dry wood has likely facilitated its establishment in multiple locales around the world. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Forest Research is the property of Forest Research Editorial Office 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.)

The whiteflies of Bemisia tabaci complex, composed of >44 cryptic species, are economically important pests of tomatoes for their direct feeding and virus transmission. The present study aimed to evaluate the impact of leaf trichomes on the host selection and development of whitefly; comparative invasiveness between B. tabaci Q and A cryptic species; and the ability of weeds as hosts of the population of insect whitefly. We carried out our investigation through adult host selection and oviposition in multi-choice conditions, immature development and survival, and adult survival and oviposition in no-choice conditions. We investigated leaf trichomes type and densities on the leaves of four tomato varieties and two weed species. Results showed that the leaf trichomes of tomatoes and weeds impact the host selection and immature development differently on the cryptic species B. tabaci Q and A. In the multi-choice case, B. tabaci Q adults preferred tomato varieties Ao-Ni-Er and He-Fen for both settling and oviposition whereas B. tabaci A preferred Ao-Ni-Er, He-Fen, and Billy-Goat-Weed for settling but oviposited more eggs on both weed species Billy-Goat-Weed and False-Mallow. Both B. tabaci Q and A adults refused Ye-Sheng either settling or oviposition. In the case of immature development, B. tabaci Q developed faster than B. tabaci A. Concerning plant, B. tabaci Q developed faster on Ao-Ni-Er, He-Fen and Billy-Goat-Weed but B. tabaci A on Billy-Goat-Weed, False-Mallow and Ao-Ni-Er. The immature survival of Q was higher than that of A. Immature of B. tabaci Q survived well (68.6–86.8%) on all plants except Ye-Sheng (49.3%) but B. tabaci A survived very less (0–17.6%) on any tomatoes where 70.4% on Billy-Goat-Weed and 60.5% on False-Mallow. After seven days of adult infestation, both B. tabaci Q and A died on Ye-Sheng where 52.5–78.1% survivorships were observed on other plants. In seven days, B. tabaci Q laid more eggs compared to B. tabaci A. Considering the plants, both species laid more eggs on Ao-Ni-Er, He-Fen and False-Mallow, whereas the lowest number was laid on Ye-Sheng. The highest number of glandular trichome Type IV was observed on Ye-Sheng which showed resistance against both B. tabaci Q and A cryptic species. The cryptic species B. tabaci Q showed a wider range adaptation ability on plants than that of A. Weeds can play a significant role as an infestation source of whiteflies to tomatoes and other crops. These findings suggest that glandular trichomes may be used in plant breeding programmes for the development of whitefly-resistant crop cultivars.

The coffee white stem borer, Xylotrechus quadripes Chevrolat, 1863 (Coleoptera: Cerambycidae) – here removed from the synonymy with X. javanicus (Laporte & Gory, 1841) – is the most notorious pest in Arabica coffee plantations in many southeast Asian countries. It can cause damage up to 80% in various gardens. The borer is reported on 16 different host plants other than coffee. The severity of the pest was more commonly recorded on the Arabica coffee than on other species. More pest intensity on the coffee may be due to its innate evolutionary relation compared to other host plants. Studies revealed that the borer is more specific and attracted to the volatile of coffee plants but it is still needs a strong supporting data. Some of the behavioural and ecological-adaptations of borers leads to avoid predation and chemical-pesticides reaching them. Hence, no single method gives perfect control of this pest; therefore, harmonic use of different tools such as cultural, mechanical, physical, bio-control and chemical methods are the best way to combat this pest. Though the pest is economically important, the information on chemical and ecological behaviour, host plant resistance and recent advancements in the pest management are scanty. The present article is an endeavour to shed a light on biology, behaviour, host selection and management of X. quadripes with multiple instances, that will give a new avenue for the researchers to work on the least concerned fields to develop strong management practice and alert against future pest outbreak.

Plant molecular farming (PMF) has been promoted since the 1990s as a rapid, cost-effective and (most of all) safe alternative to the cultivation of bacteria or animal cells for the production of biopharmaceutical proteins. Numerous plant species have been investigated for the production of a broad range of protein-based drug candidates. The inherent safety of these products is frequently highlighted as an advantage of PMF because plant viruses do not replicate in humans and vice versa. However, a more nuanced analysis of this principle is required when considering other pathogens because toxic compounds pose a risk even in the absence of replication. Similarly, it is necessary to assess the risks associated with the host system (e.g., the presence of toxic secondary metabolites) and the production approach (e.g., transient expression based on bacterial infiltration substantially increases the endotoxin load). This review considers the most relevant host systems in terms of their toxicity profile, including the presence of secondary metabolites, and the risks arising from the persistence of these substances after downstream processing and product purification. Similarly, we discuss a range of plant pathogens and disease vectors that can influence product safety, for example, due to the release of toxins. The ability of downstream unit operations to remove contaminants and process-related toxic impurities such as endotoxins is also addressed. This overview of plant-based production, focusing on product safety aspects, provides recommendations that will allow stakeholders to choose the most appropriate strategies for process development.

The redbay ambrosia beetle, Xyleborus glabratus Eichhoff (Coleoptera: Curculionidae: Scolytinae), vectors the mycopathogen that causes laurel wilt, a lethal vascular disease of trees in the Lauraceae. Since being detected in Georgia, USA in 2002, this invasive pest has become established in 11 additional states.With continued spread, X. glabratus will likely enter Mexico. In advance of this event, this study was initiated to assess the risk posed to eight native laurels and Hass avocados, the predominant cultivar grown in Mexico.Wood bolts from each species were used in (a) field tests to determine the relative attraction of female X. glabratus, (b) laboratory bioassays to evaluate boring preferences, and (c) GC–MS analyses to identify host kairomones. For comparison, tests included control bolt treatments consisting of silkbay (an attractive U.S. laurel) and Simmonds avocado (a Florida cultivar susceptible to laurel wilt).Hass avocado and two native laurels (Persea schiedeana and Ocotea heribertoi vel aff.) were highly attractive to females and elicited strong boring responses. These species were high in sesquiterpene hydrocarbons, including α‐copaene and α‐cubebene.Results of this study suggest that X. glabratus could become a serious agricultural and forest pest upon incursion into Mexico, with severe economic and ecological impacts. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Mosquito-borne viruses are emerging or re-emerging globally, afflicting millions of people around the world. Aedes aegypti, the yellow fever mosquito, is the principal vector of dengue, Zika, and chikungunya viruses, and has well-established populations across tropical and subtropical urban areas of the Americas, including the southern United States. While intense arboviral epidemics have occurred in Mexico and further south in the Americas, local transmission in the United States has been minimal. Here, we study Ae. aegypti and Culex quinquefasciatus host feeding patterns and vertebrate host communities in residential environments of South Texas to identify host-utilization relative to availability. Only 31% of Ae. aegypti blood meals were derived from humans, while 50% were from dogs and 19% from other wild and domestic animals. In Cx. quinquefasciatus, 67% of blood meals were derived from chicken, 22% came from dogs, 9% from various wild avian species, and 2% from other mammals including one human, one cat, and one pig. We developed a model for the reproductive number, R0, for Zika virus (ZIKV) in South Texas relative to northern Mexico using human disease data from Tamaulipas, Mexico. We show that ZIKV R0 in South Texas communities could be greater than one if the risk of human exposure to Ae. aegypti bites in these communities is at least 60% that of Northern Mexico communities. The high utilization of non-human vertebrates and low risk of human exposure in South Texas diminishes the outbreak potential for human-amplified urban arboviruses transmitted by Ae. aegypti.

The energy used by cloud data centers (CDCs) to support large volumes of data storage and computation is dramatically increasing as the scope of cloud services continues to expand. This puts a greater burden on the environment and results in higher expenses for cloud providers. Virtualization migration and consolidation have been widely used in current CDCs to achieve service consolidation and reduce energy consumption (EC). This study divides the fundamental tasks of virtual machine (VM) migration into three portions: determining migration timing, choosing the VMs to migrate out, and selecting the migration destination hosts. An EC levels-based adaptive dynamic threshold method for determining migration timing was proposed, as well as a correlation and utilization-based strategy for selecting the VMs to migrate out and an improved EC-aware best-fit algorithm for selecting the migration destination hosts. The pro-posed algorithms were evaluated using the CloudSim toolbox, and the real VM workload traces from PlanetLab were used as experimental data. According to the experiments, the proposed algorithms reduce EC, service level agreement violation (SLAV), and the number of VM migrations by an average of 15.49%, 7.85%, and 83.32% in comparison to the related state-of-the-art methods and benchmark algorithms. This suggests that the proposed methods outperform other techniques for VM migration, even when the workload necessitates a significant number of VMs or a greater amount of host resources, and improve the quality of service while optimizing energy consumption. However, the experiments were conducted in a simulation platform, which has some drawbacks, leading to the experimental results varying slightly from the actual environment.

Abstract Background The establishment of the gut microbiota in early life is a critical process that influences the development and fitness of vertebrates. However, the relative influence of transmission from the early social environment and host selection throughout host ontogeny remains understudied, particularly in avian species. We conducted conspecific and heterospecific cross-fostering experiments in zebra finches (Taeniopygia guttata) and Bengalese finches (Lonchura striata domestica) under controlled conditions and repeatedly sampled the faecal microbiota of these birds over the first 3 months of life. We thus documented the development of the gut microbiota and characterised the relative impacts of the early social environment and host selection due to species-specific characteristics and individual genetic backgrounds across ontogeny by using 16S ribosomal RNA gene sequencing. Results The taxonomic composition and community structure of the gut microbiota changed across ontogenetic stages; juvenile zebra finches exhibited higher alpha diversity than adults at the post-breeding stage. Furthermore, in early development, the microbial communities of juveniles raised by conspecific and heterospecific foster parents resembled those of their foster family, emphasising the importance of the social environment. In later stages, the social environment continued to influence the gut microbiota, but host selection increased in importance. Conclusions We provided a baseline description of the developmental succession of gut microbiota in zebra finches and Bengalese finches, which is a necessary first step for understanding the impact of the early gut microbiota on host fitness. Furthermore, for the first time in avian species, we showed that the relative strengths of the two forces that shape the establishment and maintenance of the gut microbiota (i.e. host selection and dispersal from the social environment) change during development, with host selection increasing in importance. This finding should be considered when experimentally manipulating the early-life gut microbiota. Our findings also provide new insights into the mechanisms of host selection. Video Abstract

The larvae of Clanis bilineata tsingtauica, a special species of Chinese edible insect, are of great nutritional, medicinal and economic value to humans. This study aimed to clarify the effect of different soybean varieties (Guandou-3 (G3), Ruidou-1 (R1), September cold (SC)) on the nutritional quality and feeding selection behavior of C. bilineata tsingtauica larvae. The results showed that soybean isoleucine (Ile) and phenylalanine (Phe) were positively correlated with larval host selection (HS) and protein content. The order of soybean plants selected by C. bilineata tsingtauica larvae was R1 > SC > G3, and they selected R1 significantly higher than SC and G3 by 50.55% and 109.01%, respectively. The protein content of the larvae fed on R1 was also the highest among the three cultivars. In addition, a total of 17 volatiles belonging to 5 classes were detected from soybeans: aldehydes, esters, alcohols, ketones, and heterocyclic compounds. Pearson's analysis showed that soybean methyl salicylate was positively correlated with larval HS and their protein content, and soybean 3-octenol was negatively correlated with larval HS and their palmitic acid content. In conclusion, C. bilineata tsingtauica larvae are more adapted to R1 than to the other two soybean species. This study provides a theoretical basis for the production of more protein-rich C. bilineata tsingtauica in the food industry. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Objectives] To investigate the oviposition preferences of gall midge, Gephyraulus lycantha Jiao & Kolesik (Diptera: Cecidomyiidae), females with respect to three different Lycium spp. host plants, and thereby clarify the effect of semiochemicals on host selection. [Methods] Oviposition preferences for three host plants, L. barbarum, L. chinense and L. ruthenicum, were determined in both choice and no-choice experiments. The preference of gravid females for specific volatiles emitted from these three different host plant species was measured in a Y-tube olfactometer under laboratory conditions. Dynamic headspace collection and gas chromatography-mass spectrometry were used to analyze differences in the composition of volatiles emitted from the three different host plant species. [Results] L. barbarum was the preferred host species with a significantly (P<0.05) higher oviposition selection rate and number of eggs laid on the young flower buds of this species than on L. chinense or L. ruthenicum. The results of Y-tube olfactory experiments showed that females also significantly (P<0.05) preferred volatiles from bud-bearing branches of L. barbarum to those of the other two species. There were significant differences in the volatiles emitted from healthy flower buds of the three Lycium species. Volatile components of L. barbarum and L. chinense were relatively similar in that both contain a higher proportion of esters, whereas L. ruthenicum volatiles were low in esters and high in ketones. [Conclusion] G. lycantha significantly preferred ovipositing on L. barbarum to L. chinense or L. ruthenicum. Differences in the volatiles emitted from flower buds of L. barbarum might be responsible for this preference. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To determine the preferences of adult rape stem weevils, Ceuthorrhynchus asper Roel for plant volatiles from different varieties of oilseed rape in order to identify the varieties most attractive to this pest, and thereby provide a basis for developing environmentally-friendly control measures. [Methods] Y-type olfactometers were used to determine the preferences of C. asper for volatiles from different varieties of oilseed rape. Volatile components of different rape varieties were extracted and identified using headspace solid-phase microextraction and gas chromatography-mass spectrometry. Important volatile components of rape varieties were analyzed with Principal Component Analysis (PCA) and Partial Least Squares Discriminant Analysis (PLS-DA). [Results] Adult rape stem weevils significantly preferred volatiles from the CKE58 and Qingza 5 varieties to those from the other two varieties tested. A total of 47 volatile compounds were identified, including esters, alcohols, aldehydes, terpenoids, alkenes and alkanes. Esters were the predominant volatile in every variety, comprising > 81% of all volatiles. PCA and PLS-DA analyses indicate significant differences in volatile compounds and their contents among the different oilseed rape varieties. Important or characteristic volatile compounds included (Z)-3-hexyenyl acetate, 1-undecanol, hexyl acetate, (E)-3-hexen-1-ol and (E)-2-dodecene, etc. [Conclusion] The rape stem beetle is attracted to the CKE58 and Qingza 5 varieties of oil seed rape. Characteristic volatile components of these varieties, include (Z)-3-hexenyl acetate, 1-undecanol, hexyl acetate and €-3-hexen-1-ol, and may play a key role in the host selection behavior of C. asper. These results provide a basis for developing new monitoring and environmentally-friendly control methods for C. asper. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In natural habitats, there is a strong evolutionary selection pressure on herbivorous insects to avoid danger and choose suitable host plants. Similar selection pressures may drive movement and choices of oviposition hosts by herbivorous insects living in agricultural cropping systems, in which insecticides are often used. In this study, we quantified movement responses and nymph emergence (collectively referred to as bio-responses) of western-tarnished plant bug (Lygus hesperus Knight (Hemiptera: Miridae)) individuals when exposed to environments associated with a perceived "risk" (experimental insecticide treatments and their corresponding controls). We introduce a novel analytical approach in which treatments (risk environments) are ranked in ascending order based on bio-responses (movement or nymph emergence). Consequently, linear regression coefficients were generated and used to interpret bio-responses of Lygus individuals in different life stages to risk environments. Initially, we predicted movement by Lygus individuals to be positively associated with environmental risk and nymph emergence to be negatively associated with environmental risk. Overall, based on a comprehensive combination of no- and two-choice bioassays, we found that: (1) In no-choice bioassays, movement parameters (both total distance moved and movement percentage) by all three life stages were lowest in low-risk environments and highest when Lygus individuals were exposed to either malathion or Grandevo. Accordingly, environments involving malathion or Grandevo were considered high-risk. (2) No-choice movement bioassays also revealed that Lygus males moved significantly more (based on comparison of regression intercepts) than other life stages, and that they responded significantly more (based on comparison of regression slopes) than conspecific females and nymphs. (3) In two-choice movement bioassays, neem elicited the most consistent movement responses by Lygus individuals, and adult life stages showed the strongest response. Two-choice movement bioassays also revealed that Lygus adults, compared to nymphs, were more likely to spend time in low-risk areas of the test arenas. (4) Nymph emergence was markedly lower in no-choice compared to two-choice bioassays, and in two-choice bioassays, Grandevo and malathion elicited especially biased nymph emergence from low-risk beans. To our knowledge, this is the first study in which movement bioassays have been used to quantify and characterize behavioral responses by Lygus life stages to environments associated with varying degrees of risk. The novel analytical approach presented in this study provides a high degree of complementarity to more traditional performance-testing methods used to evaluate responses to insecticides. Furthermore, we believe that this analytical approach can be of considerable relevance to studies of animal phenomics and behavioral studies of animals more broadly, in which adaptation and fitness parameters are examined in response to environmental risk and heterogeneity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The production of therapeutic recombinant toxins requires careful host cell selection. Bacteria, yeast, and mammalian cells are common choices, but no universal solution exists. Achieving the delicate balance in toxin production is crucial due to potential self-intoxication. Recombinant toxins from various sources find applications in antimicrobials, biotechnology, cancer drugs, and vaccines. “Toxin-based therapy” targets diseased cells using three strategies. Targeted cancer therapy, like antibody–toxin conjugates, fusion toxins, or “suicide gene therapy”, can selectively eliminate cancer cells, leaving healthy cells unharmed. Notable toxins from various biological sources may be used as full-length toxins, as plant (saporin) or animal (melittin) toxins, or as isolated domains that are typical of bacterial toxins, including Pseudomonas Exotoxin A (PE) and diphtheria toxin (DT). This paper outlines toxin expression methods and system advantages and disadvantages, emphasizing host cell selection’s critical role.

Copyright of Mycosystema is the property of Mycosystema Editorial Board 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.)

Background: The establishment of the gut microbiota in early life is a critical process that influences the development and fitness of vertebrates. However, the relative influence of transmission from the early social environment and host selection throughout host ontogeny remains understudied, particularly in avian species. We conducted conspecific and heterospecific cross-fostering experiments in zebra finches (Taeniopygia guttata) and Bengalese finches (Lonchura striata domestica) under controlled conditions and repeatedly sampled the faecal microbiota of these birds over the first 3 months of life. We thus documented the development of the gut microbiota and characterised the relative impacts of the early social environment and host selection due to species-specific characteristics and individual genetic backgrounds across ontogeny by using 16S ribosomal RNA gene sequencing. Results: The taxonomic composition and community structure of the gut microbiota changed across ontogenetic stages; juvenile zebra finches exhibited higher alpha diversity than adults at the post-breeding stage. Furthermore, in early development, the microbial communities of juveniles raised by conspecific and heterospecific foster parents resembled those of their foster family, emphasising the importance of the social environment. In later stages, the social environment continued to influence the gut microbiota, but host selection increased in importance. Conclusions: We provided a baseline description of the developmental succession of gut microbiota in zebra finches and Bengalese finches, which is a necessary first step for understanding the impact of the early gut microbiota on host fitness. Furthermore, for the first time in avian species, we showed that the relative strengths of the two forces that shape the establishment and maintenance of the gut microbiota (i.e. host selection and dispersal from the social environment) change during development, with host selection increasing in importance. This finding should be considered when experimentally manipulating the early-life gut microbiota. Our findings also provide new insights into the mechanisms of host selection. 4x-f55mVgZjxYEQSwqmnyL Video Abstract [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The life cycles of bark beetles are intimately linked to their host species. Therefore, bark beetle species are expected to show traits that vary among host species and across geographic ranges. The taxonomic proximity of host tree species can also influence host selection. Abies species (Pinaceae) native to Japan are genetically classified into three phylogenetic groups. Their natural distributions are separated by a distinct biogeographic boundary in Japan (i.e., the Tsugaru Strait, also referred to as Blakiston's Line). Therefore, I investigated the host preference of Polygraphus proximus Blandford (Coleoptera: Curculionidae, Scolytinae) within four allopatrically distributed Abies species across north and south of the Tsugaru Strait through field surveys and field choice experiments. Abies sachalinensis (F. Schmidt) Mast. is the only species native to Hokkaido, north of the Tsugaru Strait. Field observations and field host‐choice bioassays showed that A. sachalinensis was less severely attacked by P. proximus than was Abies veitchii Lindl. on both sides of the Tsugaru Strait. The beetles also preferred to attack Abies firma Siebold & Zucc. – which belongs to a genetically distinct group (i.e., section Momi) from that of A. veitchii and A. sachalinensis (i.e., section Balsamea) – over A. sachalinensis in both Hokkaido and Honshu. Although Abies homolepis Siebold & Zucc. also belongs to the section Momi, A. firma and A. veitchii had more attacks than A. homolepis. The results provide evidence that P. proximus does not show specialization across the various parts of their geographic range where the host species are different, and there is no positive correlation between taxonomic proximity and host preference for P. proximus. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The colour preference of the plum psyllid, Cacopsylla pruni (Hemiptera, Psyllidae), is yet poorly studied. This species is the only known vector of the 'Candidatus Phytoplasma prunorum', the agent of European stone fruit yellows (ESFY), a devastating disease of several cultivated Prunus species in Europe. As ESFY is still uncurable, vector control, thus vector monitoring, is pivotal to protect these trees. Cacopsylla pruni is a univoltine, host-shelter-alternating species; overwintered adults migrate from conifer to wild or cultivated Prunus species (family Rosaceae) in late winter-early spring. To select the most effective colour indicating the arrivals of the immigrants, yellow, fluorescent yellow, white, red and transparent sticky traps were deployed in an apricot orchard in Hungary. The two most abundant species in sticky traps were C. pruni and C. melanoneura. Catches of white traps were significantly biased towards C. pruni as compared to C. melanoneura specimens. Moreover, white sticky traps were better at catching plum psyllids than the other colours. Attraction to white was strongest when immigrants from shelter plants kept arriving in the orchard, coinciding with the blooming principal phenophase of apricot trees. When the host flowering growth stage was over, catches of C. pruni in white traps declined sharply to the level of yellow traps that was highest during this post-blooming period. We recommended white sticky traps for promptly monitoring C. pruni in apricot orchards because it is more potent and more selective than yellow ones during the critically important early flowering interval. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Insect herbivores frequently must balance host plant quality and the risk of attack by their natural enemies when making oviposition decisions. Yet, which factor is more important remains unresolved in plant–insect ecology. Here, we report the oviposition preference and larval performance of the brassicaceous specialist Plutella xylostella, in the context of plant quality (cabbage Brassica oleracea vs. mustard B. juncea) and associated natural enemies. Despite the greater larval weight and adult lifespan on cabbage, ovipositing females strongly preferred mustard. Both the egg parasitoid Trichogrammatoidea bactrae and the larval ectoparasitoid Bracon brevicornis are more likely to attack P. xylostella that feed on cabbage; thus, mustard represents enemy-reduced space from these two parasitoids. However, larval diet had no impact on the parasitism rate of specialist Cotesia vestalis. Feeding on mustard improved larval immune responses. The total hemocyte number, diversity, and phenoloxidase activity were higher in mustard-fed larvae which increased their survival against the entomopathogen, Bacillus thuringiensis. Interestingly, host plants altered the larval body odor profile. Mustard-fed larvae emitted allyl isothiocyanate (AITC) and butyl isothiocyanate (BITC) while cabbage-fed larvae emitted dimethyl disulphide (DMDS) and dimethyl trisulphide (DMTS) that served as short-range cues for larval parasitoids. For B. brevicornis, host body odor guided oviposition choice was crucial as their fitness was affected by the host larval diet. Although C. vestalis showed a clear preference towards volatiles emitted by mustard fed larvae, their fitness was unaltered. Taken together, our results illustrate that P. xylostella prefers to lay eggs on mustard plants providing enemy-reduced space from some, but not all, natural enemies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Fleas frequently parasitize rodents and serve as major vectors for many zoonotic diseases. The Alxa Desert in Inner Mongolia, China, is a typical arid region in Asia, which is suitable for the coexistence of a variety of rodents in this environment. Understanding the host selection of fleas among these rodents and the factors influencing this selection is crucial for comprehending rodent-borne diseases and the vector roles of fleas. This study utilized live-trap methods to capture rodents coexisting in the Alxa Desert from April to October 2022. Body surface fleas were collected and analyzed for abundance across different hosts, sexes, and reproductive statuses. The results indicated that: (1) there were significant differences in the species and abundance of parasitic fleas on different rodent species, with Ophthalmopsylla kiritschenkoi and Mesopsylla hebes preferring the Dipus sagitta and Orientallactaga sibirica as their hosts, and Xenopsylla conformis preferring Meriones meridianus as its host. (2) Fleas exhibited sex-preferential host selection, showing a greater preference for male hosts. (3) Among rodents of different reproductive states, most fleas prefer to parasitize individuals in non-reproductive periods. (4) The mean abundance of fleas varied significantly between seasons ( P  < 0.05), with spring and autumn being the peak periods for flea parasitism. (5) Factors influencing the mean abundance of fleas included host species, sex, reproductive status, and season, with host species having the greatest impact., Competing Interests: All authors disclosed no relevant relationships., (© 2024 The Authors. Published by Elsevier Ltd on behalf of Australian Society for Parasitology.)

Phage lysins, bacteriophage-encoded enzymes tasked with degrading their host's cell wall, are increasingly investigated and engineered as novel antibacterials across diverse applications. Their rapid action, tuneable specificity, and low likelihood of resistance development make them particularly interesting. Despite numerous application-focused lysin studies, the art of their recombinant production remains relatively undiscussed. Here, we provide an overview of the available expression systems for phage lysin production and discuss key considerations guiding the choice of a suitable recombinant host. We systematically surveyed recent literature to evaluate the hosts used in the lysin field and cover various recombinant systems, including the well-known bacterial host Escherichia coli or yeast Saccharomyces cerevisiae, as well as plant, mammalian, and cell-free systems. Careful analysis of the limited studies expressing lysins in various hosts suggests a host-dependent effect on activity. Nonetheless, the multitude of available expression systems should be further leveraged to accommodate the growing interest in phage lysins and their expanding range of applications., (© 2024 The Author(s).)

ABSTRACT Distinct plant associated microbiomes live in rhizosphere soil, roots, and leaves. However, the differences in community assembly of fungi and bacteria along soil-plant continuum are less documented in ecosystems. We examined fungal and bacterial communities associated with leaves, roots, and rhizosphere soil of the dominant arbuscular mycorrhizal (AM) plants Taraxacum mongolicum and Elymus nutans and non-AM plant Carex enervis in the Zoige Wetland by using high throughput sequencing techniques. The operational taxonomic unit (OTU) richness of fungi and bacteria was significantly higher in rhizosphere soil than in roots and leaves, and their community compositions were significantly different in the rhizosphere soil, roots, and leaves in each plant species. The co-occurrence network analysis revealed that the sensitive fungal and bacterial OTUs with various taxonomic positions were mainly clustered into different modules according to rhizosphere soil, roots, and leaves in each plant species. Along the soil-plant continuum, the rhizosphere soil pool contributed more source on bacterial than on fungal communities in roots and leaves of the three plant species, and more source on bacterial and fungal communities in leaves of T. mongolicum and E. nutans compared with C. enervis. Furthermore, the root pool contributed more source on bacterial than on fungal communities in leaves of T. mongolicum and E. nutans but not that of C. enervis. This study highlights that the host plant selection intensity is higher in fungal than in bacterial communities in roots and leaves from rhizosphere soil in each plant species, and differs in fungal and bacterial communities along the soil-plant continuum in AM plants T. mongolicum and E. nutans and non-AM plant C. enervis in the Zoige Wetland. IMPORTANCE Elucidating the community microbiome assemblage alone the soil-plant continuum will help to better understand the biodiversity maintenance and ecosystem functioning. Here, we examined the fungal and bacterial communities in rhizosphere soil, roots, and leaves of two dominant AM plants and a non-AM plant in Zoige Wetland. We found that along the soil – plant continuum, host plant selection intensity is higher in fungal than in bacterial communities in roots and leaves from rhizosphere soil in each plant species, and differs in fungal and bacterial communities in the AM- and non-AM plants. This is the first report provides evidence of different assembly patterns of fungal and bacterial communities along the soil-plant continuum in the AM- and non-AM plants in the Zoige Wetland.

Comparing gene expressions among parasitic plants infecting different host species can have significant implications for understanding host–parasite interactions. Taxillus nigrans is a common hemiparasitic species in Southwest China that parasitizes a variety of host species. However, a lack of nucleotide sequence data to date has hindered transcriptome-level research on T. nigrans. In this study, the transcriptomes of T. nigrans individuals parasitizing four typical host species (Broussonetia papyrifera (Bpap), a broad-leaved tree species; Cryptomeria fortunei (Cfor), a coniferous tree species; Cinnamomum septentrionale (Csep), an evergreen tree species; and Ginkgo biloba (Gbil), a deciduous-coniferous tree species) were sequenced, and the expression profiles and metabolic pathways were compared among hosts. A total of greater than 400 million reads were generated in nine cDNA libraries. These were de novo assembled into 293823 transcripts with an N50 value of 1790 bp. A large number of differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were identified when comparing T. nigrans individuals on different host species: Bpap vs. Cfor (1253 DEGs), Bpap vs. Csep (864), Bpap vs. Gbil (517), Cfor vs. Csep (259), Cfor vs. Gbil (95), and Csep vs. Gbil (40). Four hundred and fifteen unigenes were common to all six pairwise comparisons; these were primarily associated with Cytochrome P450 and environmental adaptation, as determined in a KEGG enrichment analysis. Unique unigenes were also identified, specific to Bpap vs. Cfor (808 unigenes), Bpap vs. Csep (329 unigenes), Bpap vs. Gbil (87 unigenes), Cfor vs. Csep (108 unigenes), Cfor vs. Gbil (32 unigenes), and Csep vs. Gbil comparisons (23 unigenes); partial unigenes were associated with the metabolism of terpenoids and polyketides regarding plant hormone signal transduction. Weighted gene co-expression network analysis (WGCNA) revealed four modules that were associated with the hosts. These results provide a foundation for further exploration of the detailed molecular mechanisms involved in plant parasitism. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Search behavior of parasitoids can be triggered by fruit volatiles' perception and modified through pre‐imaginal and/or imaginal conditioning. Ganaspis pelleranoi (Brèthes) (Hymenoptera: Figitidae) is an endoparasitoid of tephritid fruit flies of economic importance. Despite its relevance to agroecosystems, no studies about its learning processes have been done. Therefore, we conducted chemotaxis and parasitism bioassays to evaluate pre‐imaginal and imaginal learning, and memory retention of G. pelleranoi females to volatiles of guava (Psidium guajava L., Myrtaceae) and apple (Malus domestica Borkh., Rosaceae). Parasitoids conditioned as immatures were obtained from Anastrepha fraterculus (Wiedemann) (Diptera: Tephritidae) larvae reared in apple or artificial diet. Parasitoids conditioned as adults were exposed to an apple substrate for 24 or 48 h, and tested after 1, 12, and 24 h. In the olfactometer, parasitoids were given a choice between guava and apple fruits (infested and uninfested). To assess parasitism, three units of parasitism were offered, which consisted of A. fraterculus larvae brushed with water, or with apple or guava pulp. Females preferred guava volatiles regardless of their pre‐imaginal conditioning. When adults were exposed to an apple substrate for 48 h, they preferred volatiles from this fruit for up to 12 h. Females that were conditioned for 24 or 48 h on apple volatiles parasitized more larvae in units with this substrate. Also, the number of flies that emerged from units with apple was lower for females conditioned for 48 h on the same fruit. Therefore, we conclude that pre‐imaginal conditioning in infested fruits was less important than the parasitoid experience to chemicals of fruit volatiles during the adult stage. Also, the longer the exposure of adults to odors, the greater the attraction to those odors and memory retention. Conditioning of G. pelleranoi females could be used as a strategy to improve future biocontrol programs of fruit flies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The life history and reproductive ecology of an autumn‐spawning bitterling Acheilognathus typus were studied under natural and experimental conditions. In the study pond, the embryos of A. typus emerged from mussels in May and grew rapidly until August, whereas overwintered age‐1 fish grew slowly. Adult A. typus in the pond was smaller (32–47 mm in standard length) than they were in other habitats and mainly spawned in smaller mussels. The number of A. typus embryos in mussels was negatively correlated with the shell length of the mussel, and a lower number of embryos were observed in larger mussels (over 110 mm in shell length). In the mussel size‐choice experiment conducted in an enclosure, smaller A. typus selected smaller mussels, and larger A. typus selected larger mussels for spawning. In some cases, smaller A. typus spawned in larger mussels and the number of spawned eggs ejected increased by over four times compared with other cases. These results of the enclosure experiment explained the lower number of embryos in larger mussels in the study pond. In addition, reproductive traits such as ovipositor length and the number of ovulated eggs of female A. typus, which are considered to contribute to their size‐dependent host utilization, were positively correlated with their standard length. Because A. typus is geologically or seasonally isolated from other bitterling species, this size‐dependent host utilization contributes to a reduction in intraspecies rather than interspecies competition. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Spodoptera frugiperda (J. E. Smith) (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae) is an invasive pest in China that can feed on many different crops. However, its host selection and adaptability to Chinese rice cultivars are largely unknown. It is assumed that S. frugiperda can achieve food adaptation within several generations. Life time parameters, such as survival rate, body weight, developmental time, and the number of eggs laid, were compared across different generations (F1 and F3) for insects fed on two different rice cultivars, i.e., japonica and indica, and on corn, i.e., the main host. The results revealed that the two cultivars differed in their suitability for S. frugiperda, and this insect was more adaptable to japonica rice than indica rice in the first generation of their host change. Compared to corn, the growth, development, and survival of insects on rice cultivars were much lower and longer in both of the tested generations. Although S. frugiperda can complete its growth and development on japonica or indica rice cultivars, this insect pest had a significant preference for corn plants for adult oviposition and larvae food selection. The long-term development of three generations on the non-preferred hosts could influence an insects’ life parameters and possibly make them more adaptable to the new feeding environment. Further studies of the host selection and utilization of S. frugiperda on various rice cultivars is necessary to determine the threat this pest poses to rice, and to develop sustainable pest management practices. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Experimental and population genetic approaches have reshaped our view of how fungal pathogens reproduce, with consequences for our understanding of fungal invasions. Puccinia striiformis f. sp. tritici, the causal agent of stripe rust, poses a severe threat to wheat production worldwide. The sexual stage of P. striiformis f. sp. tritici was discovered >10 years ago, but how it affects the evolution of the pathogen, especially the emergence of the new virulent races, remains largely unknown. Here, using population genetic analyses, we demonstrate that sexual reproduction plays an important role in the evolution of P. striiformis f. sp. tritici races in China, specifically the newly emerged and devastating race virulent to resistance gene Yr26, which is widely used in China and exerts strong selective pressure on the pathogen population. Association analysis identified six genes encoding secreted proteins as candidates for virulence on wheat cultivars carrying the Yr26 resistance gene. Our results highlight the important role of sexual reproduction and selection exerted by hosts in the emergence of new virulent races in China. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Substrate variety and host preference of the epizoic limpet Lottia tenuisculpta were investigated based on specimen and field observations. Specimen observation revealed the presence of the limpet on 33 species of Mollusca and two species of Crustacea, and it predominantly used Tegulidae and Muricidae throughout its geographic range. Some of the substrate molluscs had radula traces and home scars probably engraved by L. tenuisculpta. Field observations conducted on the rocky shore of Shirahama, Wakayama, Japan, revealed the presence of L. tenuisculpta on 12 species of molluscs. The tegulid Omphalius nigerrimus and the muricid Reishia clavigera were its major substrates in the locality. The results of both sets of observations suggest that L. tenuisculpta is a host-general facultative epizoite and its host preference is family-specific. The choice of host species by L. tenuisculpta might be determined by the abundance and morphological and biological restrictions of the preferred substrates in each locality. The host-general and facultative nature of the limpet allows it to show geographical host conversion and contribute to favouring epizoic behaviour. Home scars of L. tenuisculpta on the hosts suggest that the limpet inhabits the same individual of the substrate species for an extended period. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]