Revista Colombiana de Entomología (RCdE) is an open access journal, published online with a continuous periodicity (semiannual). RCdE publishes original research articles, essays, scientific notes, book reviews and obituaries related to the area of insect science in English and Spanish. It also publishes review articles on general entomological topics, called "thematic reviews", however, these are only done by request of the Editorial Committee. The journal focuses on papers in the area of entomology and related fields such as biodiversity, ecology, agriculture, human, veterinary and forensic medicine, physiology, systematics and taxonomy, biogeography and genetics that fall within the following topics: Agricultural entomology. Ecology and behavior. Insect growth and development. Insect anatomy and insect physiology. Systematic entomology. Medical, veterinary and forensic entomology. Microbiology and molecular entomology. For details see Instructions for authors. Submitted articles should not be previously published and are subject to double-blind peer review. The journal requires payment from authors at the time of publication. Fees vary according to the number of published pages (with a special discount fee for SOCOLEN members).
Sociedad Colombiana de Entomología - SOCOLEN y Universidad del Valle - Univalle
Authors retain the copyright on their work and are responsible for the ideas expressed in them. Once a manuscript is approved for publication, authors are asked for a publication license for the term of legal protection, for all territories that allows the use, dissemination and disclosure of the same.
Response of true bug (Hemiptera: Heteroptera) trophic guilds to agricultural management of chayote crop, Sechium edule (Jacq.) Sw. (Cucurbitaceae)
Mexico is a global leader in the production and sale of chayote squash (Sechium edule), an economically important crop. Numerous species of true bugs (Hemiptera: Heteroptera) have been reported in this crop; however, it is not clear how different agricultural management strategies impact their diversity and trophic interactions. This study analyzed the responses of heteropteran trophic guilds to agricultural management in 15 chayote plantations in Ixtaczoquitlan, Veracruz, Mexico. Traps were set and examined bimonthly during 2018. Agricultural management was characterized in terms of its trellis height, ground cover, and agrochemical use. We collected 371 individuals of Heteroptera belonging to 16 families, 44 genera, and 52 species; these were classified in the following guilds: predaceous, phytophagous, and mycophagous. Predator abundance exhibited a positive response to the use of herbicides and fertilizers, but showed a negative response to the height of the plant support structure and plant density. Phytophagous Heteroptera abundance was positively impacted by insecticide use, but negatively when amount of leaf litter and production cycle duration were considered. Species richness and abundance of the mycophagous guild did not respond to any of the management variables considered. These findings provide information important for the sound development of strategies for the management of phytophagous and predaceous true bugs in chayote agroecosystems.
Copyright (c) 2026 Javier Gonzalez-Lucas, Aide Flores-Tecalco, Daniel Reynoso-Velasco, Ehdibaldo Presa-Parra, Ricardo Serna-Lagunes, Miguel A. García-Martínez https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/4.0
Analysis of the spatial distribution of Meteorus laphygmae Viereck, 1913 (Hymenoptera: Braconidae) in Mexico
For the state of Durango, Mexico, parasitoids of the orders Hymenoptera and Diptera have been reported, which contribute to the biological control of economically important pests such as the fall armyworm Spodoptera frugiperda (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae), among others; The genus Meteorus is naturally distributed in some municipalities of the State; however, although morphologically the characters coincide with Meterorus laphygmae and M. arizonensis, the morphometric analysis only allowed to form two groups: males and females, and an overlap in the measurements of their proportions was observed, but without separating both species. Genetically, M. laphygmae reported in Genbank® for Mexico is distant from Meteorus spp. (M. laphygmae and M. arizonensis) from Durango (0.118), where no clear differentiation is observed either. Meteorus laphygmae has a recorded geographic distribution in North America and Latin America. To demonstrate that this species is distributed in several states of Mexico, but not in Durango, the genetic sequences were analyzed, which showed that the group of Meteorus sp. from Durango, Mexico, does not correspond to M. laphygmae recorded in Mexico (center and south) up to Costa Rica, suggesting that it is probably a different species or just M. arizonensis, so its morphological redescription will be essential, which will provide the biological tools necessary to control S. frugiperda and other pests.
Copyright (c) 2026 Ana Karen Serrano-Domínguez, María Berenice González-Maldonado, Miguel Mauricio Correa-Ramírez, Claudio Ríos-Velasco https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/4.0
Evaluation of new-generation insecticides for control of the coffee root mealybugs, Puto barberi (Hemiptera: Putoidae) and Dysmicoccus sp. (Hemiptera: Pseudococcidae)
In Colombia, mealybugs have become important common pests in coffee farming. The predominant species are Puto barberi (Hemiptera: Putoidae) and Dysmicoccus sp. (Hemiptera: Pseudococcidae). The objective of this research was to evaluate insecticides used to control these pests, which are not restricted for use in Colombia or coffee-buying countries. In the laboratory, 18 different formulations of insecticides, originating from mineral, biological, botanical, and chemical sources, were evaluated on both nymphs and adults of P. barberi. After 10 days of treatment, it was found that dinotefuran, pyriproxyfen + acetamiprid, cyantraniliprole, and a mixture of plant extracts from Cymbopogon citratus (DC) Stapf (Poales: Poaceae), Ammothamnus sp., and Pongamia pinnata (L.) Pierre (Fabales: Fabaceae) was effective in causing a mortality rate greater than 80 %. These products, along with spirotetramat, calcium hydroxide, and tiamentoxam (commercial control - CC), were then evaluated in a batch of naturally infested coffee plants by P. barberi and in coffee seedlings in a greenhouse that were artificially infested with Dysmicoccus sp. The study utilized a completely randomized design. The response variable was the number of live individuals per infested plant (LIPIP). On day 14 of treatment, only dinotefuran and the mixture of plant extracts showed statistically similar results to the CC, presenting 6.56 - 6.94 and 6.17 LIPIP for P. barberi. On days 30 and 60, Dysmicoccus sp. had 1.38 and 1.50 LIPIP with dinotefuran, statistically equal to 1.08 and 1.36 LIPIP of the CC; at 30 days, the mixture of plant extracts followed dinotefuran with 3.14 LIPIP. The effectiveness of these insecticides ranged from 73 % to 98 %; they are recommended for controlling coffee root mealybugs.
Copyright (c) 2025 Aníbal Arcila-Moreno, Zulma Nancy Gil-Palacio, Marisol Giraldo-Jaramillo, Rubén Medina, Pablo Benavides-Machado https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/4.0
Biology, behavior, natural enemies and management of the coffee branch-breaking weevil, Ecnomorhinus quasimodus Vanin, 1986 (Coleoptera: Curculionidae: Otidocephalinae)
The weevil Ecnomorhinus quasimodus Vanin, 1986, is an emerging pest in coffee crops in northern Nariño, Colombia, between 1,700 m and 2,200 m above sea level. The larvae sweep the pith and damage the vascular bundles, weakening the branches until they break under the weight of the fruits. Therefore, the biology, behavior, natural enemies, and host plants of E. quasimodus were studied to evaluate the effectiveness of sanitary pruning as a control strategy in infested coffee plantations. The study was conducted over a year in three affected coffee plots on a farm in the municipality of Colón (Nariño). The insect's developmental stages were described, its populations were monitored, natural enemies and hosts were identified, and sanitary pruning was evaluated to reduce its incidence. The weevil's biological cycle was completed in approximately 4.5 months and included the egg, larva, prepupa, pupa, and adult stages, all of which developed within the branches. Peaks in egg laying occurred in May, November, and December, coinciding with increased rainfall. Parasitoids of eggs (Heterospilus sp.) and larvae (Goniozus sp. and Horismenus sp.) were recorded. In addition to coffee (Coffea arabica), eight plant species were identified as alternate hosts. Sanitary pruning reduced the incidence of infestation from 26% to 0.11%. It is recommended to combine this practice with biological conservation control, avoiding the use of insecticides, which could aggravate the problem by affecting the weevil's natural enemies.
Copyright (c) 2025 Angela María Lasso Pareja, Luis Miguel Constantino, Zulma Nancy Gil, Pablo Benavides-Machado https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/4.0
Ant diversity (Hymenoptera: Formicidae) in Durango, Mexico: variation across a vegetation gradient
Ants, as eusocial insects essential to terrestrial ecosystems, are found across a wide range of habitats around the world. In Durango, Mexico, the convergence of Nearctic and Neotropical regions promotes high species diversity. This study analyzed ant diversity patterns across five vegetation types in the state. From August 2016 to September 2017, we collected 1,590 specimens representing 5 subfamilies, 14 tribes, 23 genera, and 36 species. Myrmicinae was the most diverse subfamily (19 species), followed by Formicinae (10 species), Dolichoderinae (5 species), with Ponerinae and Dorylinae each represented by a single species. We assessed alpha diversity using Hill numbers (0D, 1D, 2D) and spatial beta diversity through Jaccard (incidence) and Bray-Curtis (abundance) indices. Results showed that the Xerophytic Shrubland (MX) exhibited the highest species richness (0D) and diversity (1D, 2D). Abundance-based beta diversity ranged from 0.52 % to 0.95 %, indicating significant differences in species composition among habitats. This study highlights the remarkable ant diversity in Durango, influenced by distinct vegetation types, with Xerophytic Shrubland showing the highest diversity. These findings underscore the importance of environmental factors in shaping ant community distribution and richness, providing valuable information for biodiversity conservation.
Copyright (c) 2025 Silvia Areli Aguirre-de la Serna, Daniel Ochoa-García, Miguel Vásques-Bolaños, Isaias Chairez-Hernández, Miguel Angel Soto-Cárdenas https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/4.0
Susceptibility to propoxur in populations of Aedes aegypti (Diptera: Culicidae) in the department of Córdoba, Colombia
In Colombia, the increased use of pyrethroids and organophosphates in response to rising dengue cases and the emergence of chikungunya and Zika has led to the development of resistance in Aedes aegypti. This highlights the need to explore the effectiveness of other insecticides against Ae. aegypti and the diseases it transmits. In this context, we assessed the susceptibility of 15 Ae. aegypti populations from Córdoba, Colombia, to propoxur, a carbamate insecticide. Susceptibility was evaluated using a standardized bottle assay with a diagnostic dose (DD) of 12.5 μg/bottle and a diagnostic time (DT) of 30 minutes, as recommended by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). The results showed that the evaluated populations were susceptible to propoxur, with 100 % mortality. This finding underscores the potential of propoxur for managing Ae. aegypti in areas where there is resistance to traditional insecticides in the department of Córdoba.
Medical, Veterinary and Forensic / Scientific notes
Copyright (c) 2025 Lilian Yovana Jaramillo-González, Darlinson Montes-Castro, María Claudia Atencia-Pineda, Richard Hoyos-López, Alfonso Calderón-Rangel, Diana Díaz-Ortíz, Paula Pareja-Loaiza, Javier García-Leal, Adriana E. Flores, Ronald Maestre Serrano https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/4.0
Effect of organic management on the diversity and function of arthropods associated with cacao (Theobroma cacao L.) in Colombia
Cacao (Theobroma cacao L.) is a high-value commercial crop from which the popular chocolate is derived. Despite its importance, little is known about the associated arthropods and the factors affecting their diversity and functional dynamics. On the other hand, organic farming systems are considered a solution for biodiversity conservation. Consequently, this study aims to compare the abundance and diversity of arthropods, along with their functional roles, evaluating differences between conventional and organic systems. The study was conducted in Nilo, Cundinamarca, Colombia, comparing six conventional and organic cacao plots. Pitfall, interception, Malaise, and floral glue traps were used to recollect arthropods each day over three days in three sampling periods, each attempting to capture a phenological phase of cacao. A total of 273 arthropod families and 15,310 individuals were identified and categorized based on their ecological roles. The results indicate a significant increase in arthropod abundance in organic plots. Additionally, at the functional role level, an effect was found on the abundance of each plot. However, according to the inverse Simpson index, no differences in diversity were found between conventional and organic systems. A negative effect of temperature and precipitation on arthropod abundance was observed across several functional roles. These findings highlight the dynamics of the entomofauna in cacao and how organic management can benefit biodiversity. However, further research is needed to assess its impact on production and societal benefits.
Cocoa; Arthropods; Functional Role; Management System; Organic; Agroecology; Microclimate.
Copyright (c) 2025 Juan Camilo Dorado Suárez, Isabelle Merle, Fabrice Requier, Stephane Dupas https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/4.0
Comparative damage potential of three storage insect pests in stored wheat under laboratory conditions
Stored grain pests differ in their feeding behavior and damage potential. This study evaluated the comparative impact of three key storage pests of wheat Tribolium castaneum (Coleoptera: Tenebrionidae), Trogoderma granarium (Coleoptera: Dermestidae), and Sitophilus oryzae (Coleoptera: Curculionidae) under controlled laboratory conditions. Homogeneous-age insects were introduced separately for each species into vials containing 2 grams of whole wheat grains, with three replicates per species, as experiments were conducted independently for all three species. After 35 days, data were recorded on insect survival, number and weight of damaged grains, number and weight of undamaged grains, and percent weight loss. S. oryzae exhibited the highest mean number of live insects (16.67), followed by T. granarium (9.89) and T. castaneum (6.67). S. oryzae also caused the most grain damage (21.33 damaged grains) and the most significant weight loss (16.75 %), followed by T. castaneum (8.56 grains, 2.07 %) and T. granarium (2.56 grains, 0.74 %). Regression analysis revealed a strong relationship between insect number and weight loss for S. oryzae (R² = 0.57) and T. granarium (R² = 0.46), but a weak relationship for T. castaneum (R² = 0.0044), likely due to its lower survival and superficial feeding behavior. These findings provide comparative insights into species-specific damage patterns and may inform more targeted post-harvest pest management strategies.
Copyright (c) 2025 Tallat Jamshed, Um-i Saleet, Smavia Muzaffar, Muhammad Hassan https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/4.0
Ant community structure and response to disturbances in seasonal semideciduous forest and agricultural matrices in the Brazilian Cerrado
This study examines the structure of epigeic and arboreal ant communities in fragments of Seasonal Semideciduous Forest (SSF) and surrounding matrices (soybean and corn crops and fallow fields) in the Brazilian Cerrado. Ants were collected using baited traps placed along transects perpendicular to the forest fragments. Species specificity and habitat fidelity were evaluated using the indicator species index (IndVal). Environmental variables such as fragment size, litter quantity, and edge proximity did not significantly affect ant richness in SSF. However, non-parametric multidimensional scaling revealed clear differences in community structure between habitats (soil and canopy in SSF, and soil in matrices), and among the three land use states in the matrix (soybean, corn, or uncultivated). Rarefaction curves showed higher ant richness in SSF fragments, in soil and trees. Species composition differed across land uses, in the agricultural matrices, although overall richness did not vary significantly. Based on IndVal, five ant species were identified as indicators of SSF soil, and four as indicators of matrix soil. These patterns demonstrate how land use influences ant communities. Since ants perform vital ecological functions, such as nutrient cycling, seed dispersal and soil structuring, changes in their composition can reflect underlying shifts in ecosystem processes. The presence or absence of specific ant species thus serves as a reliable signal of environmental quality. This reinforces the value of ants as effective bioindicators and highlights the importance of conserving native forest fragments amid expanding agricultural landscapes.
Copyright (c) 2025 Vitor Oliveira Santiago, Enilton José Bernardes Júnior, Ednaldo Cândido Rocha, Flávio Gonçalves De Jesus, Marco Antônio Oliveira, Márcio da Silva Araújo Araújo https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/4.0
Delimitation of Molecular Operational Taxonomic Units (MOTU) and euglossine bees diversity in two altitudinal gradients of northern Colombia
The tribe Euglossini (orchid bees) is vital for tropical pollination, making their diversity and distribution across altitudinal gradients crucial for ecological studies and conservation. This study assesses Euglossini diversity in northern Colombia’s Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta and Serranía del Perijá, focusing on altitudes from 600 to 2200 meters above sea level (m a.s.l.). Using Barcode Index Numbers (BIN) and the COI gene, 1258 male specimens were collected, with 415 individuals sequenced. We identified 21 Molecular Operational Taxonomic Units (MOTUs), from which BOLD: AEF4646 (Eufriesea) was identified as the most variable, BOLD: AEF4645 (Eufriesea) as the most divergent molecular species, and also species like BOLD: AAC0547 (Euglossa) are widely distributed in both SNSM and SP at 800 and 1000 m a.s.l., while BOLD: AAC3172 (Euglossa) is strongly associated with 800 m a.s.l. communities. Additionally, BOLD: ABY5852 (Euglossa) prefers sites between 1400 m and 1800 m a.s.l. Diversity analyses revealed no significant differences in species richness between the gradients, but richness declined with altitude. Eufriesea and Euglossa species were broadly distributed in the Sierra Nevada, while Euglossa and Eulaema dominated the Serranía del Perijá. Beta diversity analyses showed distinct distribution patterns, with intermediate elevations marking a transition zone. Above 2000 m a.s.l., evolutionary processes likely sustain Euglossini populations, emphasizing the role of these regions in bee diversification.
Copyright (c) 2025 Juanita Rodríguez-Serrano, Carlos Prieto, Michael Balke https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/4.0
Spatial distribution of damage by Heilipus lauri (Coleoptera: Curculionidae) and Stenoma catenifer (Lepidoptera: Elachistidae) on avocado Persea americana cv. Hass
Determining the spatial distribution of populations of Heilipus lauri and Stenoma catenifer, insects of economic and quarantine importance in avocado, is a useful information for designing and implementing integrated pest management plans. Aggregate spatial distribution is considered one of the most common patterns in nature, however, it has not been documented for these insect pest species. We propose through spatial statistical methods the analysis of data from periodic monitoring where the number of fruits with damage (FWD) caused by the two insect pests was recorded. The study was conducted between 2019-2020 in four commercial orchards of avocado cv. Hass in the department of Cauca, Colombia. A sampling design was established based on the recognition of damage on previously geopositioned trees. The spatial distribution was determined through Taylorʼs power law and Ripleyʼs K function. Taylorʼs aggregation coefficient (b) was 1.47 and 1.22 for H. lauri and S. catenifer, respectively, indicating aggregation. Ripley's K function identified aggregation points of FWD in a radius range of 3-35 meters, with the aggregation sites being consistent across the two productive cycles. The damage was mapped indicating aggregation sites that will allow the implementation of management strategies for quarantine importance insect pests of avocado in specific sites of the crop, showing the precise location of the greatest concentration of damage and populations of H. lauri and S. catenifer.
Copyright (c) 2025 Juan Camilo Zapata Calero, Arturo Carabali Muñoz, David Arango Londoño https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/4.0
Molecular Characterization of a Native Nematode, Pristionchus pacificus (Nematoda Class: Rhabditida: Diplogastridae) From Avocado Soils in Mexico
Avocado Persea americana Mill., is a crop of great economic importance in Mexico and it is affected by pests that cause significant damage. Traditionally, pest control in avocado crops has been based on the use of organosynthetic pesticides; however, their excessive and indiscriminate use has negative effects on the environment, health, and quality of the fruit. In the search for more sustainable alternatives for the control of agricultural pests, the use of entomopathogenic nematodes (EPNs) as biological control agents is one of the most promising options. To explore possible EPNs associated with avocado crops, soil samples were collected from six avocado orchards in the municipality of Atapan, Michoacán, Mexico, and possible entomopathogenic agents were isolated using the bait insect technique with Galleria mellonella larvae. The molecular characterization through partial sequencing of the SSU (Small Subunit) and ITS (Internal Transcribed Spacer) regions of strain ANP003 confirmed that one of the isolates corresponds to the species Pristionchus pacificus, this represents the first report in Mexico of a nematode associated with avocado crop. The genetic distance analysis of SSU-18S allowed us to know the close relationship of this isolate with the entomopathogenic nematode Pristionchus entomophilus.
Copyright (c) 2025 Luis Enrique Flores-Pantoja, Ma. Guadalupe Sánchez-Saavedra, Oscar Giovanni Gutiérrez-Cárdenas, Isaac Zepeda Jazo https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/4.0
A few things I would like to know about social insects
Looking back over 50 years of studying social insects, this article identifies eight outstanding problems in social insect biology: 1) Can life cycles of individual organisms serve as a reliable model for the colony cycle?; 2) Does the production of workers and sexuals in social hymenopterans fit the bang-bang model?; 3) Do females in social hymenopterans have a smaller individual behavioural repertory than those of solitary hymenopterans?; 4) Is memory in termite workers and soldiers limited to the sensory level?; 5) Do some social wasps and/or bees demonstrate coordinated colony defense?; 6) Is there an induced defense in termite colonies at the level of caste proportions?; 7) Are social wasps passing through a period of global population decrease?; and 8) Is there a relationship between the level of primary production in the habitat and the proportion of social species among the insects?
Copyright (c) 2025 Christopher K. Starr https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/4.0
New geographical records of streblids (Diptera: Streblidae) with the first record of the genus Neotrichobius in Mexico
The first record of Neotrichobius stenopterus (Diptera: Streblidae) for Mexico is presented, as well as four new records of streblid flies for the state of Oaxaca: Anastrebla modestini, Exastinion clovisi, Trichobius dugesii, and Trichobius intermedius. With these new records the list of species of the family Streblidae for Mexico is updated from 61 to 62, of which 32 are in the state of Oaxaca, representing 51.6 % of the species reported for the country.
Copyright (c) 2025 Antonio García Méndez, Liliana Tlapaya Romero, María Magdalena Ramírez Martinez https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/4.0
Evaluación de la patogenicidad de Metarhizium robertsii y Beauveria bassiana contra Chloridea virescens (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae)
In Mexico, Chloridea virescens is a pest of chickpea, tomato and other vegetables causing significant economic losses. To control this pest, three different strains (M1, M2 and M3) of Metarhizium robertsii (Previously Metarhizium anisopliae) and three strains of Beauveria bassiana (B1, B3 and B9) were evaluated under laboratory conditions, based on radial growth parameters, and conidia production and germination. The pathogenicity of the best strains was assessed at concentration of 1×108 conidia/mL, against second and third instar larvae of C. virescens, at 28 ± 1 °C, 70 ± 5 % of relative humidity and a photoperiod of 12 hours light. The six strains caused larvae mortality of C. virescens, ranging from 57 % to 97 %, with statistically significant differences compared with the control (P < 0.02). The M1 strain of M. robertsii exhibited the highest radial growth of 4.79 ± 0.02 cm, a growth rate of 3.33 mm/day, and a production of 6×109 conidia/mL at 14 days, with 96 % of germination at 24 hours. In terms of pathogenicity M1 caused 97 % of total larvae mortality at 7 days with TL50 of 4 days. The M2 and M3 strains caused mortality of 83 % and 77 % with a TL50 of 4 days. Strains B1, B3 and B9 have mortalities of 63 %, 57 % and 70 % with a TL50 of 4,3 days. (M1) M. robertsii had the best performance across all evaluated parameters, and it is therefore recommended for field testing to control of C. virescens.
Copyright (c) 2025 Cipriano García Gutiérrez, Lucía Araceli Manzanarez-Jiménez, Ninfa M, Rosas-García, Antonio Luna González https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/4.0
Effect of six diets during the larval and adult period of Aedes aegypti (Diptera: Culicidae) under laboratory conditions
Rearing the laboratory vector Aedes aegypti (Diptera: Culicidae), a disease vector, necessitated diets nutritionally rich in protein and carbohydrates, yet low in fat. The objective of this study was to evaluate and compare the effects of various diets on larval and adult stages, with a specific focus on wing size. Six diets were compared: CIETROP-CC concentrate, fish-based diets (Nutrafin-NF and Aqua One-AO), carnivore-based diets (Ricocan-RC and Supercat-SC), and brewer's yeast (LV). The development of larval stages was assessed using Kaplan-Meier survival analysis, while wing length was compared using Mood's median test. The developmental duration from larva to adult was consistent across all six diets, averaging 13 days. Larvae fed LV exhibited a lower survival rate (88 %) compared to the other diets (99%). Female wing size ranged from 2.81 to 2.93 mm, with a mean of 2.88 mm and a standard deviation of 0.12, while male wing size ranged from 2.18 to 2.28 mm, with a mean of 2.23 mm and a standard deviation of 0.17. All diets supported satisfactory larval development, with no significant differences observed in larval survival or developmental duration (P > 0.05). Notably, the CIETROP-CC and commercial diets yielded similar results. These findings indicate that the laboratory-prepared diet exhibited comparable performance to the other five diets in terms of survival and developmental rates. Further analysis will enable the determination of its specific nutritional composition. The results underscore the efficacy of commercial diets in supporting larval.
Medical, Veterinary and Forensic / Research paper
Copyright (c) 2025 Carmen Sinti-Hesse, Carlos Tong-Rios, Miguel Angel Farfán-García, Fabiola Díaz-Soria, José Espinoza, Karine Zevallos https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/4.0
Diversity and abundance of mites (Acari: Mesostigmata, Sarcoptiformes and Trombidiformes) on blueberry Vaccinium corymbosum (Ericaceae) in Michoacan, Mexico
In recent years, several species of mites have been reported as an important phytosanitary problem for blueberries. Mexico has become one of the main producers of this crop worldwide, but few studies have focused on the diversity of species present in blueberries in Mexico. Thus, the objective of this research was to report the diversity and abundance of mites associated with V. corymbosum cultivation in Michoacán (Mexico). Plant material was collected in 42 orchards of 18 municipalities of Michoacán. Samples were placed in plastic bags and stored under refrigeration at 4 °C. Mites were processed for mounting in semi-permanent preparations with Hoyer's solution and identified using taxonomic keys. A total of 17 species of mite belonging to 12 genera, five families and three orders were collected. The families with the greatest abundance were Tetranychidae and Tenuipalpidae. Whereas Phytoseiidae was the most diverse with 11 species. The municipality of Peribán and the Biloxi variety were those that presented the greatest diversity and abundance. Of the identified species Oligonychus ilicis, Neoseiulus rufus, Typhlodromips jimenezi and Metaseiulus bidentatus are new records for Mexico. The phytophagous species O. ilicis and Brevipalpus yothersi must be further studied since they can become important pests for the crop. This research will be a starting point for further study of mites in blueberries in Mexico.
Copyright (c) 2025 José De Jesús Ayala-Ortega, Edith Guadalupe Estrada Venegas, Armando Equihua-Martínez, Héctor González-Hernández, Héctor González-Hernández, Margarita Vargas-Sandoval https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/4.0
In Memoriam AMADOR VILLACORTA MOSQUEIRA (1935-2014)
Copyright (c) 2025 Juan F. Barrera, Carlos Daniel Vecco-Giove, Tumoru Sera https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/4.0
Mosquito larvicidal and cytotoxic potentials of the different extracts of the aerial part of Blepharis ciliaris (Acanthaceae) against Culex pipiens (Diptera: Culicidae)
This study explores the larvicidal potential of a hexane extract from Blepharis ciliaris against Culex pipiens mosquitoes, a known vector of various diseases. The study aimed to find an eco-friendly alternative to chemical insecticides. Promising results were obtained, with the extract showing significant larvicidal activity. The LC50, LC90, and LC95 values against C. pipiens were determined as 125.53, 190.5, and 198.76 µg/mL, respectively. Furthermore, histological observations using a light microscope revealed notable changes in the midgut structure of the treated larvae, including degradation of microvilli, degeneration, and protrusion of epithelial cells and peritrophic membrane, loss of nuclei, and irregular microvilli. These findings suggest that the hexane extract from B. ciliaris has the potential as a natural larvicidal agent against C. pipiens mosquitoes. The MTT assay results indicate that the tested extracts did not exhibit cytotoxic effects on Huh-7 cells, and no morphological changes were observed under light microscopy. The findings of this study suggest that B. ciliaris contains bioactive compounds that could serve as potential bio-larvicides for controlling C. pipiens vectors. Further research should be conducted to assess the efficacy of using this botanical insecticide in small-scale field trials to develop environmentally safe interventions for controlling C. pipiens populations.
Copyright (c) 2024 Fahd Almekhlafi, Abdulrahman Zaid M. Almohssin , Nael Abutaha, Abdulmani H. Al-Qahtni, Mohammed A. Wadaan, Mohammed S. Al-Khalifa https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/4.0
An approach to the entomofauna in agroecosystems of the Salvatierra, Guanajuato, Mexico
The municipality of Salvatierra, in Guanajuato, Mexico, develops an agricultural activity of national and regional importance. However, despite this, there needs to be more information on ecologically and economically important faunal groups, such as insects. Therefore, the objective of this study was to have an approximation of the entomofauna in four crops: sorghum, alfalfa, maize, and beans, as well as their composition and the characterization of the functional groups of insects in a dry seasonal tropical environment of the municipality of Salvatierra. The entomofauna for the four crops is composed of nine orders: Coleoptera, Diptera, Dermaptera, Hemiptera, Hymenoptera, Lepidoptera, Mantodea, Neuroptera, and Orthoptera, and 53 families. The highest Simpson Wealth Index value was for alfalfa (0.91) and the lowest for beans (0.84). On the other hand, in terms of its structure and composition, the entomofauna is represented by eight functional groups: Herbivores = H, Predators = D, Parasitoids = PAR, Pollinators = POL, Vectors = V, Decomposers = DES, Xylophages = XIL, and Generalists = G. Phytophagous insects (pests), predators and parasitoids are the most common and abundant in crops. The present work generates new data on the entomofauna present in the agroecosystems of the community of Urireo in the municipality of Salvatierra, Guanajuato state, informing the development of specific studies of demography and ecological interactions between insect-plant and insect-insect.
Copyright (c) 2024 Adrian Leyte Manrique, Rafael Guzmán Mendoza, Manuel Darío Salas Araiza https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/4.0
Effect of pesticides on Beauveria bassiana and gut microbiota used in biorational methods for the control of Anastrepha obliqua (Diptera: Tephritidae)
The implementation of microorganism-based control methods aims to ameliorate the harm caused by pests while simultaneously reducing the unwanted effects caused by synthetic pesticides. However, the interaction between biorational and conventional methods might cause a reciprocal reduction in the efficacy of both methods. Some studies report that pesticides may cause reductions in the pathogenicity of Beauveria bassiana strains and changes in the gut microbiome of some insect species. This is important because B. bassiana is used for fruit fly control, and gut microbiome is known to influence the quality of males reared for autocidal control. The aim of this work was to analyze the toxicity of the herbicide glyphosate and some insecticides on microorganisms used in the control of the fruit fly, Anastrepha obliqua: (1) the entomopathogenic fungus Beauveria bassiana, and (2) the gut microbiome of males of A. obliqua. The results showed that none of the pesticides caused acute toxicity on the evaluated microorganisms. Even though these results suggest that integrating these microorganisms under the current usage of the evaluated pesticides here is feasible, it is relevant to acknowledge that many other environmental variables might be involved. Therefore, field studies are required to complement the findings of this study.
Copyright (c) 2024 Daniel Sánchez, Augusto Campollo-Ovalle, Luis Fernando Rodas-Hilerio, Erik de Jesús Solórzano-Gordillo https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/4.0
Selection of strawberry genotypes resistant to the two-spotted spider mite Tetranychus urticae (Acari: Tetranychidae) using micropropagated plants
The two-spotted spider mite, Tetranichus urticae (Acari: Tetranychidae) is the main strawberry pest in the states of Michoacán and Guanajuato, Mexico. Its management depends mainly on the application of synthetic acaricides, where farmers in Guanajuato make at least 10 applications of acaricide products per season. With the objectives of identifying strawberry genotypes resistant to the mite and testing an infestation technique in micropropagated plants, 48 clones were evaluated, which included foreign varieties and advanced strawberry selections from the INIFAP Product System Genetic Improvement Program. Based on an arbitrary scale from 0 to 10, where 0 was no spiders and 10 a high population, the 48 clones were classified into the following five categories. Extremely resistant: 'Florida Belle', 'Sequoia' 'Fairfax', 98,32, 08,492, F. vesca clone Guanajuato and UC-4; Resistant: 'Capitola', 'Dabreak', 'Solana', '92,1E6', '07,168', '10,37', '99,849', '07,4' and '99,139'; Tolerant: 'San Andreas', 'Tioga', 'Festival', 'Cometa', C-15,3', '07,35', '06,76', '00,142', '10,14', '10,25', '99,185', '07,207 ', '10,40' and '07,90'; Susceptible: 'Aromas', 'Albritton', 'Camarosa', 'Buenavista', 'Dover', '08,268', '99,24', '08,453', '02,81', '08,279' and '07,198'; Extremely susceptible: 'Douglas', 'Andana', 'Seascape', '02,11', '01,150', '01,70' and '10,16'. The infestation of micropropagated plants had several advantages: avoiding the use of mite-infested vegetative material in strawberry mite susceptibility studies, allowing good colonization with induced infestation, and facilitating evaluation of a large group of genotypes in a small space over a period of time. short period of time.
Copyright (c) 2024 Pedro Antonio Dávalos González, Rafael Bujanos Muñiz, José Francisco Rodríguez Rodríguez, Ramón Aguilar García, Alejandro Rodríguez Guillén, Alba Estela Jofre y Garfias, Antonio Marín Jarillo https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/4.0
Effectiveness of insecticides for the control of Plutella xylostella (L.) (Lepidoptera: Plutellidae) and mortality of the parasitoid Diadegma insulare (Cresson) (Hymenoptera: Ichneumonidae) on brassicaceous plants
Crop production of brassicaceous crops in Mexico are affected by the attack of the diamondback moth, Plutella xylostella L. (Lepidoptera: Plutellidae). An inadequate application of insecticides indirectly affects the main parasitoid of this pest, the wasp Diadegma insulare (Cresson) (Hymenoptera: Ichneumonidae). Eight insecticide treatments and one control were evaluated using a completely randomized design with four replications. The objective of this research was to evaluate, under laboratory conditions, three organic insecticides, five synthetic insecticides and a control, to determine their effectiveness in controlling P. xylostella and its effect on the mortality of the parasitoid D. insulare. Broccoli leaf immersion method in solution with insecticides was used. Pyridalil caused the highest mortality (100 %) in the third-instar larval stage of P. xylostella at 48 h after application and mild to moderate mortality (categories 1 and 2 of the IOBC) to D. insulare at 72 hours; Naled obtained 100 % mortality in the larva and adult of P. xylostella, but also caused 100 % mortality in the parasitoid 24 h after treatment. Among the organic insecticides, Pyrethrin produced the highest mortality in P. xylostella larvae (60 %) at 72 h in the two doses used and caused a mortality of 10 % in D. insulare. Pyridalil and Emamectin Benzoate insecticides showed high effectiveness for the control of the insect-pest and had low impact on the parasitoid.
Copyright (c) 2024 Mario Zavala-García, Rafael Bujanos-Muñiz, Carlos Albrerto Núñez-Colín, Juan Carlos Raya-Pérez, César L. Aguirre-Mancilla, Jorge Covarrubias-Prieto https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/4.0
Potential distribution of eight species of Scolytinae and Platypodinae beetles (Coleoptera: Curculionidae) collected in native avocado orchards of Nuevo Leon, Mexico
The subfamilies Scolytinae and Platypodinae (Coleoptera: Curculionidae) include bark and ambrosial beetles considered threats in natural ecosystems and agricultural and forest crops due to their damage's ecological and economic impact. The distribution, population dynamics and diversity of the beetle species are affected by environmental factors, and ecosystem fragmentation. Based on the capture of eight beetle species from these subfamilies collected with multi-funnel tramps baited with ethanol in avocado orchards of Aramberri, Nuevo Leon, Mexico, was projected its potential geographic distribution in Mexico using the Maxent v.3.4.4 software. The identification of the captured beetles was done with taxonomic keys; a database was created with records of its presence in regions of Mexico, to model its distribution considering the climatic variables of greatest influence. The potential distribution maps generated, allow the prediction of these species in regions with optimal climatological conditions for their establishment; this information can be used to expand sampling areas, and implement preventive strategies against introducing exotic species. Araptus schwarzi, Monarthrum gracilior, Xyleborinus gracilis and Xyleborus horridus are new records of Scolytinae subfamily species to Nuevo Leon. Corthylus flagellifer, Euplatypus parallelus, Xyleborus ferrugineus, and Xyleborus volvulus are ambrosia beetle species that should be closely monitored in Mexico since they can be potential sources of dissemination of their symbiont phytopathogenic fungi.
Copyright (c) 2024 Ian Humberto Quiroz-González, Adriana Gutiérrez-Díez, Armando Equihua-Martínez, Salvador Ochoa-Ascencio, Fernando de Jesús Carballo-Méndez, Gerardo Méndez-Zamora, Ivón Montserrat Cerda-Hurtado https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/4.0
Soil arthropod diversity, richness, and abundance in agroecological and conventional cotton production systems in Chaco, Argentina
In Argentina, agroecology has grown in last years as a scientific paradigm that seeks to design and evaluate agroecosystems considering sustainability, complexity, and uncertainty. Diversity is a key factor in the design and management of production systems and a necessary component for conservation biological control and the reduction of agrochemicals use. Cotton (Gossypium hirsutum) crop in northern Argentina is usually managed with high load of agrochemicals: agroecological production arises as an alternative. This study evaluated the diversity, richness, and abundance of soil arthropods using pitfall traps in two experimental cotton plots under conventional (CONV) and agroecological management (AE) in Chaco, Argentina. AE system presented higher diversity and richness of predators compared with CONV, even when natural preparations were used for pest control. The phytophagous arthropods showed higher diversity and richness in CONV, even when pyrethroid insecticides were applied for pest control and preventively. The abundance in AE was lower for predators and higher for phytophagous arthropods. Agroecological production of cotton can be a tool that favors conservative biological control and an alternative for areas where protecting the health of farmers and the ecosystem is a priority.
Copyright (c) 2024 Julieta mariana Rojas, Monica Viviana Spoljaric, Julio Rolando González, Mariángeles Lacava, Luis Fernando García Hernández https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/4.0
Susceptibility of the blowfly, Chrysomya putoria (Diptera: Calliphoridae) to the ethanolic extracts of the medicinal plant Moringa oleifera (Magnoliopsida: Moringaceae)
Topical administration of Moringa oleifera leaf and seed ethanolic extracts concentrations (5, 10, 25, 50, 75, and 100 mg/L) were screened for insecticide activities against Chrysomya putoria (Diptera: Calliphoridae). Results showed that all tested leaf and seed extractconcentrations were toxic, delayed post-embryonic larval development, and reduced weight. As for C. putoria mortality, from newly hatched larvae to the adult period, all concentrations showed larvicidal power. However, above 20% of the mortality rate occurred in those treated with both leaf and seed extract concentrations. The ones treated with M. oleifera leaf extract concentrations presented the respective mortality rates: 50 mg/L (23 %), 75 mg/L (29 %), and 100 mg/L (30 %). While those treated with M. oleifera seed extract concentrations, the mortality rate observed was 25 mg/L (20 %), 50 mg/L (27 %), 75 mg/L (30 %), and 100 mg/L (32 %). The medicinal plant M. oleifera leaf and seed extracts proved to be a viable alternative for the population control of the medical veterinary and sanitary important blowfly C. putoria.
Copyright (c) 2024 Agatha Bastos Sant’Ana da Silva Terto, Rebecca Leal Caetano, César Carriço , Michele Maria dos Santos, Júlio Vianna Barbosa, José Augusto Albuquerque dos Santos, Zeneida Teixeira Pinto https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/4.0
New record of Padaeus trivittatus (Hemiptera: Pentatomidae) as a predator of the monarch butterfly Danaus plexippus (Lepidoptera: Nymphalidae) in Central Mexico
Lepidoptera includes agricultural pests, pollinators, and bioindicators of the environment quality. Adults of Danaus plexippus (Lepidoptera: Nymphalidae) are preyed by some birds, and rodents; in its immature stages are preyed mainly by arthropod predators. Arthropod predation is a factor that decreases the survival of D. plexippus. Two adult males of Padaeus trivittatus (Hemiptera: Pentatomidae) were found preying on D. plexippus for the first time.
Copyright (c) 2024 Simona F. Bernal-Pichardo, Martha M. Zarco-González, Octavio Monroy-Vilchis https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/4.0
Spatial distribution of populations agave weevil Scyphophorus acupunctatus (Coleoptera: Dryophthoridae) in the State of Mexico, Mexico
Agave is one of the most representative plant groups in Mexico. Its importance lies in its ecological, cultural, and economic value. However, it faces several limitations, especially pest infestations, one of the most important of which is the agave weevil Scyphohphorus acupunctatus Gyllenhal (Coleoptera: Dryophthoridae), which has acquired importance because it bores the stalks into the interior of the plant, causing lesions that are subsequently infected by fungi and/or bacteria until the plant dies. The objective of this study was to determine the spatial distribution of agave weevil populations in two localities in the municipality of Malinalco using spatial analysis of the distance index, SADIE. The results showed that the Ia and Ja indices of the agave weevil populations present values greater than 1, which indicates an aggregated type spatial distribution in the two plots where the study was carried out. Short-term spatial and temporal stability was also determined with the Im index. Density maps were generated for each sampling in the two plots, with the maps that were elaborated, the infested surface in each plot was calculated, the results show us the distribution of the pest, and the alternatives for sustainable management of this pest are proposed.
Copyright (c) 2024 Melisa González Dávila , José Francisco Ramírez Dávila, Agustín David Acosta Guadarrama , Dulce Karen Figueroa Figueroa https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/4.0
Development and Thermal Requirements of Abaris basistriata (Coleoptera: Carabidae) Under Laboratory Conditions
The carabid beetle Abaris basistriata (Coleoptera: Carabidae) is noteworthy for its predatory capabilities and its generalist function in the habitat. This study aimed to assess the influence of different temperatures on the development of A. basistriata and determine its thermal requirements. The insect was fed with larvae of Tenebrio molitor (Coleoptera: Tenebrionidae) and maintained at 18, 22, 25, and 28 ± 1 °C, 70 ± 10 % relative humidity, and 14-hour photoperiod. There were significant differences in the development time of stages and instars of A. basistriata as a function of temperature. Threshold temperatures for egg, larva, pupa, and preimaginal development were 10.68, 11.32, 12.67, and 11.73 °C, respectively. The thermal constants were 82.41, 264.83, 84.57, and 664.89 degree-days, respectively. The highest number of A. basistriata individuals reached the adult stage in the shortest time of development at 28 °C, where 70 % of survival was recorded. This finding suggests that 28 °C is the most favorable temperature for rearing this carabid species under laboratory conditions.
Copyright (c) 2024 Maria José Araújo Wanderley, Francisco Jorge Cividanes, Nivânia Pereira da Costa-Menezes, Sidnéia Terezinha Soares de Matos, Rener Luciano de Souza Ferraz https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/4.0
A proposal of a conceptual framework for the development of entomology research projects and related sciences
Planning research projects is a challenge that many students fail to successfully overcome. A lack of formal training in research planning and design, an excessive emphasis on analysis rather than on ideas and a lack of a guide are some of the possible causes of this problem. This essay proposes a conceptual framework that is of didactic utility to guide students in their research projects in entomology and related sciences. Three approximations and three approaches are presented. The proposed approximations are: descriptive, deductive observational and deductive experimental. The first is useful to design descriptive projects, where natural patterns are discovered and determined, and thus it is unnecessary and inaccurate to specify hypotheses and predictions. Deductive approximations use the hypothetical-deductive method and thus need to specify a priori the ideas being tested and the consequences if they are true. In the first deductive approximation, the predictions come from observational data, while in the second they come from experiments. Three approaches proposed are: comparative, associative and manipulative. The first two approaches can be used in both the descriptive and the deductive observational approximations. However, the manipulative approach is necessary if the experimental approximation is used. All these approximations and approaches have strengths and weaknesses; they are complementary rather than exclusive and are illustrated with an ecological study. It is expected that this conceptual framework may be a didactic and useful tool for teachers and students.
Copyright (c) 2019 Alejandro G. Farji-Brener https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/4.0