Insect Taxonomy

Sixteen Cerambycidae (Coleoptera) holotypes from the collection of S. V. Murzin's (Moscow) were examined. Color photographs of all specimens are provided, including labels. Five holotypes described by Miroshnikov deposited in the collection were not discovered. Each name is followed by the original combination, reference to the original description, indication of the type locality, the current valid name of the taxon and texts of all specimens labels.

Borocera cajani Vinson (Lepidoptera: Lasiocampidae) est un papillon séricigène endémique de Madagascar dont la soie est utilisée dans le domaine textile. Ce vers à soie est polyphage et colonise la forêt des hautes plaines centrales constituée principalement de Tapia (Uapaca bojeri). Au sein de ces forêts, les chenilles de B. cajani sont couramment observées sur deux plantes hôtes : le Tapia et le Voafotsy (Aphloia theiformis).Dans cette étude, nous avons évalué des paramètres de différents stades (taux de survie, durée des stades, poids et taille, fécondité des adultes,…) de B. cajani élevé sur ces deux plantes hôtes. Nous avons observé un taux de survie plus élevé de 30 % sur U. bojeri. La durée du développement larvaire et de la nymphose est plus courte pour les individus élevés sur U. bojeri (64,8 ± 1,5 jours) que pour ceux élevés sur A. theiformis (87,4 ± 2,0 jours). La taille et le poids des cocons sont également plus importants lorsque les femelles sont élevées sur U. bojeri. Cette dernière plante se révèle être la plus appropriée pour l'élevage de B. cajani et devrait être privilégiée. Mots clés: Borocera cajani, Uapaca bojeri, Aphloia theiformis, plante hôte, Landibe, durée de développement. Borocera cajani Vinson (Lepidoptera: Lasiocampidae) is a silk moth endemic to Madagascar that is currently used to produce silk textiles. This silk moth is polyphagous and colonizes forests situated in the central highlands, mainly constituted by Tapia trees (Uapaca bojeri). Two host plants are commonly used by the caterpillar of this moth species: Tapia and Voafotsy (Aphloia theiformis). In this work we have evaluated parameters of different stage (survival rate, development duration, weight and size, fecundity…) of B. cajani on both host plants. We have observed a 30% higher survival rate on U. bojeri. Larval and pupae duration were shorter on U. bojeri (64,8 ± 1,5 days) than on A. theiformis (87,4 ± 2,0 days). Cocoons were bigger when obtained from larvae fed on U. bojeri. This plant is therefore better for the development of B. cajani and should be used in intensive rearing of this silk moth.

Taxonomic account of Mimela Kirby, 1823 fauna included within the subfamily Rutelinae recorded from Buxa Tiger Reserve, Dooars, West Bengal, India are dealt herewith. Long term faunistic survey by the authors resulted in the present outcome. Each of the species is redescribed and illustrated, supplemented by digital images. For easy identification of the species, a key has also been provided.

Oniticellini Kolbe, 1905 is a paucispecific tribe of the scarab beetle subfamily Scarabaeinae. The tribe is composed of 256 described species worldwide, while from India, 26 species were recorded to date. Beetles belonging to this tribe are commonly known as paracoprid dung beetles and perform some remarkable ecological functions. Nevertheless, there is a dearth of knowledge on the occurrence of these beetles in the mega diverse tropical forests of the Himalayan foothills located in the north of the West Bengal state of India.A first faunistic account of the tribe Oniticellini Kolbe, 1905 from Baikunthapur Forest, located at the Himalayan foothills of the West Bengal state of India is presented. A total of five species of the tribe distributed over two generaTiniocellusandLiatonguswere recorded during multiple surveys of the scarab fauna of the Forest. All taxa were recorded for the first time from the area, whileTiniocellus spinipes(Roth, 1851) is a new record for the West Bengal S...

In this article, we present 34 new cases of myiasis in Neotropical anurans. Of these, 97% were recorded in Brazil, in the morphoclimatic domains of the Amazon, the Cerrado and the Atlantic Forest. A single case was also documented in a rainforest in Costa Rica. The Hylidae family had the highest richness of species affected by myiasis, followed by Leptodactylidae, Bufonidae, Alsodidae, Brachycephalidae, Cycloramphidae, Aromobatidae, Microhylidae and Ranidae. Additionally, from the literature, we compiled a total of 106 records of cases of myiasis affecting anuran species in the Neotropics, including the new records. Our study expands the spectrum of Neotropical anuran species documented as hosts of fly larvae and demonstrates a significant knowledge gap in the ecology of Neotropical anuran species.

Dragonflies are important predators in freshwater communities and are considered as model organisms for ecological and evolutionary research . Adults stand out as skilled fliers, usually capturing prey in flight with the aid of excellent vision and raptorial legs . They are frequently collected through active capture using aerial nets, usually near sites used as rendezvous, venue where males and females meet as a direct prelude to copulation, and thus a spot with a concentration of individuals (Corbet 1999). Unlike active collecting, capturing adults with general insect traps is reported as ineffective and has rarely been used . However, some dragonflies are frequently "attracted" to certain artifacts that interfere with theirs visual perception, including reflective surfaces of cars , solar panels, and even tombstones ). On the other hand, traps are used with success to passively capture specimens of other insect orders , among them two approaches stand out, the Malaise trap and different models of light traps. Popular among entomologists, Malaise traps act as flight intercepts for winged insects (Matthews & Matthews 1971) and they often capture species which are otherwise not usually obtained (Schauff 2012). In contrast, light traps attract crepuscular and nocturnal insects (and often diurnal individuals which were disturbed at night) using a luminous source with different wavelengths (Schauff 2012). In both methods, capture of dragonflies has been often reported, although specimens are collected in low numbers (e.g. Flint 1996;. Here we report an uncommon diversity of dragonflies collected using different methods at Parque Nacional da Serra do Cipó, Minas Gerais State, in the Brazilian Cerrado. Possible reasons for obtained results are given based on a review of the literature related to each collecting method. Furthermore a few taxonomic notes on captured Gomphidae (clubtails) are also given. Specimens were collected at Parque Nacional da Serra do Cipó (PNSC), which encompass part of Itambé do Mato Dentro, Jaboticatubas, Morro do Pilar, and Santana do Riacho municipalities, Minas Gerais State (Fig. ), between December 9 th and 13 th of 2011 and March 2 th and 5 th of 2013. The region is an ecotone between Atlantic Forest and Cerrado biomes, the latter also known as Brazilian Savannah (see . Although there is no checklist for dragonflies from PNSC, and its assemblage was not intensively studied yet, or even considering invertebrates in general (Fig.

The purpose of this research is to investigate the problems faced by green entrepreneur
traders working in the agricultural sector in their contributions to the green economy and
global climate change, and to offer solutions. The “interview technique”, one of the
qualitative research methods, was used in the research. In the study, interviews were
conducted with 32 farmer entrepreneurs who carry out entrepreneurial activities working
in the agricultural sector in The Southeastern Anatolia Region. The research data were
analyzed with the MAXQDA 2024 program, and the problems encountered by the interview
participants in green entrepreneurship were examined with the word cloud. In the
research, entrepreneur farmers stated that farmer entrepreneurs in Turkey should be
supported by the state, that large-scale entrepreneurs have been earning more, and that
state support for small-scale entrepreneurs in Turkey is very little. They remarked that
production planning should be made to prevent waste of surplus production, and that
those who sell quality agricultural products increase their earnings more.

An experiment was conducted to study the effect of different concentration of Ethrel in comparison with the commercial form of growth promoter ace in promoting growth and yield of black cumin during 2006 and 2007. The experiment was laid out in a Randomized Block Design having 6 treatments replicated thrice. In this experiment growth regulators were Ethrel (50 ppm, 75 ppm, 100 ppm and 125 ppm) along with ace (a commercial bioregulator @ 0.5 ml/lit). Further to get a comparison one untreated control treatment was included to have a clear picture of controlled plants as compared to growth regulator treatment. The results clearly indicated that there was increase in seed yield with all the treatments except the control (untreated) plot. Among all the treatments, Ethrel @ 75 ppm proved to be most effective in promoting growth and gave highest seed yield (6.03 q/ha), followed by Ethrel @ 100 ppm (5.59 q/ha) which was statistically at par.

The expansive, synanthropic moth fly species Clogmia albipunctata is reported for the first time from Finland. Several specimens were seen and photographed in a toilet in Kotka, SE Finland, in September 2018. The record was verified by collecting specimens that were later deposited in the Regional Museum of Lapland. There are three other records from 2015, 2018 and 2019 based on photos, from Kotka and Helsinki. The record of C. albipunctata from Finland is the first from the Nordic countries and is among the northernmost records of this global species. Identification, biology, importance to human and distribution of the species are summarized.

Five subfamilies within Chrysomelidae (leaf beetles) have larvae that retain their feces as a coat or armor which serves for thermoregulation, camouflage, or barrier to enemies. The construction, retention and repair of these fecal structures are associated with specialized larval morphologies in the tortoise beetles (subfamily Cassidinae) and in the Cryptocephalinae + Lamprosomatinae (Camptosomata), but morphology associated with fecal encrustations on larvae in the Blepharida-group flea beetles (Galerucinae: Alticini) and in Criocerinae have not been examined. Experiments with live larvae of Podontia quatuordecimpunctata (L., 1767) (or sineguelas leaf beetle, SLB; Blepharida group) reveal the anus opens dorsally and deposits feces directly to the larva's dorsum; the armor is maintained and is reconstructed. Scanning electron microscopy reveals integumental microtrichia that presumably hold on the feces. This invasive beetle has become an introduced tree-crop pest in the Philippines, so ongoing research seeks to mitigate its population. Insecticidal chemical assays show that fecal armor does not fully protect SLB larvae but delays potency slightly. The study recommends rotating the insecticides (Imidacloprid, Cypermethrin, and Buprofezin) to prevent the development of resistance. Specialized morphology for fecal retention is known in Cassidinae, Camptosomata and is now documented in the Blepharida group. Such morphology and the fecal-building behavior can offer additional phylogenetic information for these beetles.

Bajo las condiciones agroecológicas de los valles de Arica, Región de Arica y Parinacota, Chile, el delfácido del maíz Peregrinus maidis (Ashmead) se comporta como estricto monófago, colonizando cultivos de maíz amiláceo, Zea mays L. var. Amylacea, y maíz dulce, Z. mays L. var. Saccharata. Ambos tipos de maíz se cultivan durante todo el año para consumo como hortaliza (choclo), y su colonización por P. maidis se efectúa con eficacia gracias a la existencia de dos morfotipos alares, i.e. ejemplares macrópteros encargados de la dispersión e individuos braquípteros que cumplen el rol de hacer crecer rápidamente la población local. Observaciones de campo, complementadas con mediciones realizadas en microjaulas, y también sobre ejemplares aislados en laboratorio, permitieron establecer que las hembras macrópteras presentaron un período promedio de preoviposición mayor (17,8 1,2 días) que las hembras braquípteras (12 1,1 días). En cambio, estas últimas mostraron un período promedio de oviposición más largo (20,7 6,7 días) que las hembras macrópteras (8,7 1,5 días). Asimismo, las hembras braquípteras depositaron en promedio un mayor número de huevos (157,8) que las hembras macrópteras (49,7). Analizados estos datos mediante la prueba t de Student, se encontró que para los tres parámetros anteriormente indicados las diferencias estadísticas entre ambos morfotipos alares son muy significativas (P ≤ 0,001). Se concluye que estas diferencias son congruentes con los roles distintos y complementarios que cumplen ambos morfotipos en la dispersión, colonización y explotación del recurso alimentario.

A review of supralitoral species of the genus Trachyscelis in the Western Palaearctic and Afrotropical regions with new data on distribution and morphology of five Palaearctic species is given. The new smallest eyeless and wingless species T. shokhini sp. nov. is described from Agadir (Morocco) and the new species T. kochi sp. nov. with reduced tarsomeres and eyes is described from Socotra Island (Yemen). The latter species is similar to T. subcoecus Koch, 1960, from which it differs by different number of ommatidia, different tarsal formula, different shape of clypeus and different body size. Trachyscelis leoi Lo Cascio & Grita, 2011 and T. litoralis Soldati, 2009 are found on Socotra Island for the first time, T. tenuestriatus Fairmaire, 1886 is new record for Iran. Catalogue of the tribe Trachyscelini of the world with 20 species of 3 genera is given. The key to eight Western Palaearctic and Afrotropical species of Trachyscelis is given.

Among the southern African Trogidae, Trox fumarius Haaf, 1953 is presently considered a junior subjective synonym of Phoberus cyrtus (Haaf, 1953). The availability of more specimens than were seen by previous workers, coupled with thorough removal of cuticular dirt and accumulated debris, allowed in-depth morphological study of these nominal taxa and reassessment of their synonymy. Consistent differences in external morphology and in aedeagal structure are observed. Trox fumarius is removed from synonymy with Phoberus cyrtus, reinstated as a separate species, and transferred to the genus Phoberus MacLeay, 1819. Both species are diagnosed and redescribed. Photographs of their holotypes and of cleaned specimens illustrate them. The distributions of these two putatively sister species are discussed along with their probable habitat associations. The species are allopatric and have non-overlapping associations with biomes and habitats. Phoberus cyrtus is reported from Botswana for the f...

The Strait of Sicily represents a biogeographically rich and complex region. The diverse geological origin and past continental connection of its islands have shaped a highly heterogeneous fauna, mainly composed of both African and European taxa. The Italian sea-slater, Ligia italica (Fabricius, 1798), is a small isopod inhabiting rocky shores of the Mediterranean Sea, Black Sea, and Atlantic Ocean. Despite its wide distribution, the phylogeography of this species is poorly understood, with limited available data suggesting a remarkable level of cryptic diversity. In this study, we investigated the mitochondrial genetic diversity (COX1) of L. italica across nine Italian and Maltese islands across the Strait of Sicily, aiming to clarify the biogeographic patterns underlying the distribution of these insular populations. Our results reveal an unexpectedly high genetic diversity within our study area, with eight different haplogroups, each characterized by low internal genetic variation and mutual distances ranging from 5.5% to 17.9%. These values are comparable to those associated with species-level rank within the genus Ligia. Overall, the phylogenetic relationships between the lineages appear well supported; however, the same relationships are not clearly correlated with geographic proximity or connectivity among the sampled localities. The distribution patterns of some of the detected haplogroups suggest possible passive dispersal mechanisms (e.g., rafting), while others indicate more intricate biogeographic scenarios. The overall diversity of L. italica within the Strait of Sicily, as well as the unclear origin of some insular populations, cannot be fully explained with the current data. In particular, the high genetic structure observed within the Maltese Archipelago, may partially reflect human-mediated dispersal (e.g., maritime transport), possibly involving source populations that remain unsampled or genetically uncharacterized. Our results highlight that the Strait of Sicily can be considered a diversity hot spot for L. italica and support the designation of this taxon as a putative species complex, with a cryptic diversity worthy of an exhaustive taxonomic revision.

Background: The Triatomini and Rhodniini (Hemiptera: Reduviidae) tribes include the most diverse Chagas disease vectors; however, the phylogenetic relationships within the tribes remain obscure. This study provides the most comprehensive phylogeny of Triatomini reported to date. The relationships between all of the Triatomini genera and representatives of the three Rhodniini species groups were examined in a novel molecular phylogenetic analysis based on the following six molecular markers: the mitochondrial 16S; Cytochrome Oxidase I and II (COI and COII) and Cytochrome B (Cyt B); and the nuclear 18S and 28S. Results: Our results show that the Rhodnius prolixus and R. pictipes groups are more closely related to each other than to the R. pallescens group. For Triatomini, we demonstrate that the large complexes within the paraphyletic Triatoma genus are closely associated with their geographical distribution. Additionally, we observe that the divergence within the spinolai and flavida complex clades are higher than in the other Triatoma complexes. We propose that the spinolai and flavida complexes should be ranked under the genera Mepraia and Nesotriatoma. Finally, we conclude that a thorough morphological investigation of the paraphyletic genera Triatoma and Panstrongylus is required to accurately assign queries to natural genera.

Forest fragments in a human-dominated landscape are threatened by anthropogenic activities, especially in regions with high population growth, like Rwanda. Such is the case of the Ibanda Makera forest fragment, which is threatened by human activities, including agricultural encroachment, and drought. To mitigate these threats, an effort has been made to protect the forest's indigenous plant and animal species. In this regard, a study has been undertaken to document the butterfly diversity within the forest to obtain baseline data for future monitoring of environmental change and forest restoration. Butterfly specimens were collected in May and June 2023 using hand sweep nets along transects, baited traps, and opportunistic sampling. A first species checklist of 112 butterfly species is reported from the forest. More sampling is clearly needed; our results showed a bias towards large-bodied species and two important butterfly families Lycaenidae (eight species) and Heperiidae (four species) were under sampled. Additional studies are required to compliment this first baseline assessment, including surveys of additional areas and habitats within the Ibanda Makera forest remnant, and spanning seasonal times.

This article examines the tri-trophic interactions involving hover flies that prey on aphids. Melanostoma orientale (Wiedemann) and Melanostoma univittatum (Wiedemann) consume 9 and 3 aphid species, respectively. All Paragus Latreille species have been documented on 38 aphid species that infest 81 food plant species across 18 states and union territories of India. Among them, the most polyphagous was Paragus serratus (Fabricius), which consumes 23 species of aphids feeding on 59 species of plants, while Paragus tibialis (Fallén) preys on 17 species of aphids infesting 20 species of plants. Similarly, all species of Sphaerophoria Lepeletier & Serville have been documented on 22 aphid species that infest 41 food plant species across 15 states/union territories in India. Among them, the most polyphagous Sphaerophoria indiana Bigot consumes 15 species of aphids that live on 20 species of plants, while Sphaerophoria scripta (Linnaeus) feeds on 13 species of aphids from 27 species of plants. It is noteworthy that documentation efforts for these aphidophagous hover flies in India have been minimal. Numerous regions remain unassessed, emphasising the necessity for a comprehensive survey plan to discover these species in those areas. Research Paper

The predators and parasitoids of cucurbit crop-infesting aphids (Aphididae: Hemiptera) and their distribution across different states and union territories of India are discussed in this article. The majority of them are known to prey on or parasitise Aphis gossypii Glover, Aphis spiraecola Patch and Aphis craccivora Koch. The predators belong to six families of the spiders and five families of insects (Coccinellidae, Syrphidae, Miridae, Chrysopidae, Hemerobiidae). Twelve species of cucurbit aphids, recorded in 16 Indian states and union territories, were fed by a total of 74 predator species from different taxa. The families Coccinellidae (43 species) and Syrphidae (12 species) had the greatest number of predators. Most of the tri-trophic associations (triplets) were reported in Kerala (35 triplets), Jammu & Kashmir (32 triplets), Uttar Pradesh (31 triplets) and Bihar (30 triplets). A total of 10 species of parasitoids were observed parasitising these aphids infesting in 10 states/union territories of India. Aphis gossypii Glover was reported to be parasitised by 6 species of the parasitoids in 6 states/union territories. Most of the tri-trophic associations were reported from Bihar (28 triplets) followed by Uttar Pradesh (15 triplets) and Karnataka (3 triplets). A thorough and comprehensive survey plan is required to document these parasitoids in unexplored regions as such checklist provides an invaluable reference for taxonomists, researchers, academicians, conservation managers, and policymakers to their proper use in natural/biological control programmes against these aphid pests.

This work summarizes both literature and new data on the fauna of Plecoptera (Insecta) of the Vrachanska Planina Mountains, Bulgaria. A total of 20 species and seven €€€€€€€€€€€€€€€€€€€€€€€€€€€€€€€€ Among the 27 species that have been recorded, two are Critically Endangered (CR), one-Endangered (EN) and ten-Vulnerable (VU). From a zoogeographical point of view, one subspecies and four species from the Plecoptera, recorded in Vrachanska Planina Mts., are Balkan endemics: Capnopsis schilleri balcanicaLeuctra balcanica Rauser, Leuctra hirsuta Nemoura braaschi Isoperla belai

Agroforestry habitats, which integrate trees, crops and other vegetation, support diverse insect populations, including moths, which play crucial roles as pollinators, bioindicators, and agricultural pests. This study explores moth diversity in agroforestry landscapes of Dhamtari district, Chhattisgarh, where farming is a primary livelihood and agricultural fields are surrounded by a variety of forest trees. A year-long survey (January–December 2024) recorded 128 moth species using light traps and opportunistic searches. The findings emphasize the significance of agroforestry habitats in sustaining moth populations and highlight the need for planting forest trees near agricultural fields to enhance biodiversity, improve ecosystem stability, and promote sustainable farming practices.

Agroforestry habitats, which integrate trees, crops and other vegetation, support diverse insect populations, including moths, which play crucial roles as pollinators, bioindicators, and agricultural pests. This study explores moth diversity in agroforestry landscapes of Dhamtari district, Chhattisgarh, where farming is a primary livelihood and agricultural fields are surrounded by a variety of forest trees. A year-long survey (January–December 2024) recorded 128 moth species using light traps and opportunistic searches. The findings emphasize the significance of agroforestry habitats in sustaining moth populations and highlight the need for planting forest trees near agricultural fields to enhance biodiversity, improve ecosystem stability, and promote sustainable farming practices.

Agroforestry habitats, which integrate trees, crops and other vegetation, support diverse insect populations, including moths, which play crucial roles as pollinators, bioindicators, and agricultural pests. This study explores moth diversity in agroforestry landscapes of Dhamtari district, Chhattisgarh, where farming is a primary livelihood and agricultural fields are surrounded by a variety of forest trees. A year-long survey (January–December 2024) recorded 128 moth species using light traps and opportunistic searches. The findings emphasize the significance of agroforestry habitats in sustaining moth populations and highlight the need for planting forest trees near agricultural fields to enhance biodiversity, improve ecosystem stability, and promote sustainable farming practices.

Drasteria walshi n. sp. (Noctuidae: Catocalinae) from southeastern Arizona is described and illustrated. The new species belongs to the D. fumosa-D. divergens species group. Drasteria walshi is distinguished from related species of Drasteria by wing color and pattern, and structure of male and female genitalia. Taxonomic problems in Drasteria are discussed. Additional key words: taxonomy, Drasteria, new species, Arizona, Nearctic 22 JOURNAL OF THE LEPIDOPTERISTS’ SOCIETY FIG. 1. Medial surface of Drasteria male valve (based on a left valve of D. pallescens (Grote & Robinson, 1866)) (c – costa; co – conus; cp –costal process; dlcp – dorsal lobe of costal process; hrp – harpe; pulv – pulvinus; scl – sacculus; scle – saccular extension; vlvl – valvula). FIG. 2. Female genitalia of Drasteria (based on D. sinuosa (Staudinger, 1884)) (aa apophyses anteriores; an – antrum; ap apophyses posteriores; bc – bursa copulatrix; col – colliculum; db – ductus bursae; la – lamella antevaginalis; lp ...

Malaria is a disease caused by Plasmodium species that are haemo-protozoans, single-celled, transmitted by mosquito vector. The aim of this study was to determine the prevalence of Plasmodium species infection among pregnant women in Igabi Local Government Area, Kaduna State. A cross-sectional study designed was conducted among four Primary Health Care Centers (PHCC); Miyettti Allah, Taro-Taro, Dan-Mani and Mando in Igabi Local Government Area of Kaduna State. Blood samples were collected intravenously from 210 pregnant women. The samples were examined for Plasmodium species using Rapid Diagnostic Test (RDT), Microscopy and confirmed using Polymerase chain reaction test. Data was analyzed using IBM Statistical Package for Social Sciences (version 26) and Chi-square was used to determine the association at a P-value > 0.05. Result showed that, Plasmodium falciparum caused the infection among the pregnant women in the area. The overall prevalence was 66/210 (31.4%). The highest prevalence was recorded in Taro-Taro PHCC (40.0%). It was found that fever (51.5%) was the most frequent chief complaint and the least was body-ache (11.8%) out of the four encountered. It can be concluded that Plasmodium falciparum is responsible for infection in pregnant women characterized by fever, headache, chills and body-ache.

Objective: The Anopheles maculupennis complex is known to be a vector of malaria in Türkiye. Anopheles sacharovi is a member of the Anopheles maculipennis complex and is a major vector of malaria in Europe and the Middle East capable of transmitting both Plasmodium vivax and P. falciparum. The genetic diversity and population structure of the six populations of Anopheles sacharovi from Türkiye are studied here using the random amplified polymorphic DNA (RAPD) marker. Materials and Methods: Anopheles sacharovi samples were collected from Muğla, Aydın, İzmir, Çanakkale, Balıkesir, and Denizli. Total DNA was extracted using the Lifton method, and a total of 120 individuals were screened using six RAPD primers. Results: A total of 300 loci were observed in the six primers. Very close genetic diversity was observed in the studied populations. The number of alleles (n a) observed for all populations was 1.55 ± 0.49, and the mean number of effective alleles (n e) was 1.23 ± 0.31. The ratio of polymorphic loci for all populations ranged between 50.33%-60.33%, and Nei's genetic diversity (h) ranged between 0.1253-0.1576. The gene flow level (N m) was 2.08, and the genetic differentiation value (G st) was 0.19. The conclusions from the unweighted pair group arithmetic mean analysis (UPGMA) was inclined to be homogeneous on the whole, with the İzmir population being clearly separated from the rest. Conclusion: Regional environmental conditions such as human-mediated transport, agricultural implementations, and discrepancies in vector control strategies might be considered agents in forming the genetic structure of this species in İzmir. Understanding the gene flow rates and phylogenetic relationships between vector species are very important for applying sustainable and effective pest management. This study ensures helpful knowledge for better understanding the population genetic structure of An. sacharovi populations in Türkiye.

Development of an appropriate forewarning system considerably helps to identify the point of time when growth rate of a pest is at its peak to ensure the most effective use of protection measures. Along with this, it also helps to reduce unnecessary application of insecticides as well as environmental pollution. Hence, in the current study, an attempt has been made to identify the optimum time point of insecticidal spraying. Based on different model selection criteria, cubic model is observed to be the best fit and optimum time of spraying insecticides against gundhi bug was found to be at 23 DAT.

Boro paddy is an important crop in Northern districts of West Bengal, but the crop have to pass through various biotic and abiotic stresses among which insect pest is one of the most important limiting factors. For protecting the crops farmers usually rely upon chemical pesticides that gradually hamper non-target organisms, increase cost of production etc. Among the non-pesticidal alternate technologies, indigenous technology may play pivotal role in bringing sustainability in agriculture. A number of indigenous knowledge based pest management module for boro paddy have been formulated and tested in the agro-ecosystem under consideration during boro season of 2015 and 2016. Inspiring results obtained in field trial from two years of study. Insect pest population observed lowest in chemical based pest management module but natural enemy complex found drastically low. Hence, considering the ill effects of pesticidal application in agro- ecosystem and increasing cost of production, the...

Based on newly collected material, we present a comparative redescription of two histerid beetles: Erebidus vlasovi (Reichardt, 1941) and the poorly known E. reichardti (Tishechkin & Lackner, 2012). The study includes a diagnostic key emphasizing subtle morphological characters and a table of principal morphometric parameters for Erebidus species. The study offers the first analysis of female genitalia of both species, revealing gonocoxal similarities between E. reichardti and other Saprininae, while variability in gonocoxal structure within the genus may indicate its polyphyletic nature.

Phase Contrast X-Ray Synchroton Microtomography is a non-destructive technique that allows the microanatomical investigations of Rhodnius prolixus, one of the most important insect vectors of Trypanosoma cruzi. In this work complete series of virtual thin sections through the heads of selected Rhodnius prolixus were obtained. The sections of the head were important to compare the difference in use the spatial resolution of 2µm or 4.5 µm and to see anatomical details that couldn´t be seen with other technique. Three different groups of Rhodnius prolixus were used. One group was fed with defibrinated rabbit blood and after 10 days was sacrificed, other group was sacrificed 4 days after feeding and the last group remained unfed. The results show some differences for each kind of groups and for the different resolutions.

Ommatius fimbriatus and O. subtus are based upon four speClmens embedded m DommlCan amberfrom the El Mamey Formation in the Dominican Republic. The amber is from the Lower Oligorene -Upper Eocene, originating between 25 and 40 million years ago. The specimens are the first reported fossils of Ommatius. Both species are described and compared with modern species. Significant characters are illustrated and/or photographed.

Microplastics are small plastic particles measuring less than 5 mm in diameter, have emerged as a pervasive environmental pollutant in aquatic ecosystems worldwide. Food from aquatic sources has been contaminated. This study investigates the microplastics from food aquatic resources and the potential consequences for human health. By conducting field sampling and laboratory analysis, the researchers evaluate the distribution and prevalence of microplastics in Tilapia and Mussels caught from Laguna de Bay. The researchers utilized the Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy on analysing the data and to create a comprehensive interpretation of results. The results show that microplastics are present in the intestine of the caught samples for both Tilapia and Mussels. These findings provide insight into the composition of the sample, highlighting the presence of Polyethylene Terephthalate (PET), with the Infrared spectrum of the sample matches that of chlorinated polyethylene, which is a type of microplastic. This shows that when cooked and eaten, contaminated aquatic food can deliver microplastics to the human body through bioaccumulation. This could also result to biomagnification of the ingested microplastics as the humans consume more of this aquatic food source. When an individual ingests a microplastics it could manifest to diseases and lead to serious complications like Cardiovascular Disease, Impaired Kidney and Liver function, Development of Metabolic Disorders, Neurological Effects and Reproductive and Developmental Issues. Further evaluation on the types of microplastics present among other aquatic food sources must be investigated as well.

Cyatta abscondita, a new genus and species of fungus-farming ant from Brazil, is described based on morphological study of more than 20 workers, two dealate gynes, one male, and two larvae. Ecological field data are summarized, including natural history, nest architecture, and foraging behavior. Phylogenetic analyses of DNA sequence data from four nuclear genes indicate that Cyatta abscondita is the distant sister taxon of the genus Kalathomyrmex, and that together they comprise the sister group of the remaining neoattine ants, an informal clade that includes the conspicuous and well-known leaf-cutter ants. Morphologically, Cyatta abscondita shares very few obvious character states with Kalathomyrmex. It does, however, possess a number of striking morphological features unique within the fungus-farming tribe Attini. It also shares morphological character states with taxa that span the ancestral node of the Attini. The morphology, behavior, and other biological characters of Cyatta abscondita are potentially informative about plesiomorphic character states within the fungus-farming ants and about the early evolution of ant agriculture.

Objective: Apis mellifera, in the order Hymenoptera, are social insects, also known as honey bees. Türkiye has many different honey bee ecotypes and subspecies. Examination of genetic diversity and evolutionary relationships of colonies in nine different locations in Türkiye was carried out using ISSR primers. Materials and Methods: Apis mellifera samples were collected from Çorum,

The Neutral theory (also known as the theory of genetic drift) means genetic drift and vice-versa. But the Nearly Neutral
theory means genetic drift plus natural selection. However, genetic drift changes the gene frequency randomly and thus
it is non-additive, directionless and thus valueless for evolution. Again, genetic drift works only in small populations and
thus, genetic drift means small population. But small populations have to inbreed and produce homozygous organisms.
Consequently, those populations suffer from various diseases and abnormalities and finally may suddenly extinct. Moreover,
any homozygous organism means zero variation, mutation-genetic drift equilibrium also creates zero variation. But variation is
the raw material of evolution; so, no evolution occurs by the genetic drift. So, evolutionary biologists rejected both the genetic
drift and the small populations for any kind of evolution. Hence, the Neutral theory is opposite to any kind of evolution. Again,
recent experiments of ecological genetics with small populations, 12 biochemical tests, and the data of the DNA sequence, fossil
evidence oppose the Neutral theory. Furthermore, the rate of evolution by the Neutral theory is equal to the rate of mutation.
But mutations are opposite to any kind of evolution. So, biologists rejected the Neutral theory. As the natural selection is not
justified in Nearly Neutral theory; so, Neutral theory=Nearly Neutral theory. Consequently, the rejection of the Neutral theory
means the rejection of the Nearly Neutral theory. Thus, both the Neutral theory and the Nearly Neutral theory are opposite
to any kind of evolution.

Many flies have specially evolved feeding mechanisms to imbibe liquids of specific viscosities. Observations of feeding on atypical liquids are notable because of their rarity. We report the first record of intrusive fluid feeding on vertebrate carrion by Philoliche rondani.

The Kṛmi-nāśana Sūktams of the Atharvaveda represent a comprehensive Vedic approach to eradicating pathogenic organisms referred to as kṛmi including bacteria, viruses, and other harmful microbes. These Sūktams emphasize the power of precisely intoned mantras, supported by yajñas using medicinal substances such as ghṛta, black gram, and sacred plant twigs, to neutralize microbial threats. The mantras describe microbial destruction through recitation, targeting visible and invisible pathogens across various body parts and environments. Notably, they highlight specific mantras for pathogens affecting the muscular system and other vital organs, illustrating an ancient understanding of localized infection and holistic treatment. Recent scientific studies on sound therapy confirm that audible frequencies can influence bacterial proliferation, although they fall short of complete eradication. This parallel suggests the need to explore ancient Vedic methodologies as complementary approaches. If validated scientifically, the Sūktams could offer a novel, non-invasive alternative to conventional antibiotics, especially amidst rising antibiotic resistance. Their integrative approach bridging spiritual practice, acoustic science, and disease control presents a transformative potential for modern medicine. This research invites interdisciplinary exploration into how ancient sound-based therapies may be repurposed for contemporary health challenges, aligning traditional wisdom with innovative, sustainable medical solutions.

Taxonomy of Popillia Dejean, 1821 fauna included within the subfamily Rutelinae recorded from Buxa Tiger Reserve, Dooars, West Bengal, India are dealt herewith. The generated data is the outcome of long term faunistic investigations of the authors. Each of the species is redescribed and illustrated, supplemented by digital images. Further, keys to species are also provided.

The current research provides first-hand information about the flora and vegetation of Siyar Dara, consisting of 332 species and 97 families. Among these, 6 species are gymnosperms, while the remaining 326 species belong to 249 genera of angiosperms. Out of these 326 species, 47 species belong to 42 genera of monocotyledonous plants, and the remaining 279 species belong to 207 genera of dicotyledonous plants. Among all 97 families, Asteraceae was the largest family, with 23 genera (9.05%) and 30 species (9.03%). Following Asteraceae, Poaceae and Lamiaceae had 24 genera (9.44%) and 16 genera (6.29%) respectively, with 25 species (7.53%) and 22 species (6.62%) respectively. Rosaceae had 10 genera (3.93%) and 14 species (4.21%), Solanaceae had 7 genera (2.75%) and 10 species (3.01%), Scrophulariaceae had 6 genera (2.36%), Ranunculaceae had 5 genera (1.96%), and Polygonaceae had 5 genera (1.96%), each with 9 species (2.71%). Boraginaceae had 7 genera, Cucurbitaceae had 5 genera, and Euphorbiaceae had 4 genera (1.57%), each with 8 species (2.409%). Brassicaceae had 6 genera (2.36%), while Amaranthaceae and Apiaceae each had 5 genera (1.96%), and Moraceae had 2 genera (0.78%), all with 6 species (1.80%). Convolvulaceae, Salicaceae, and Valerianaceae each had 2 genera (0.78%) and 3 species (0.90%). Rubiaceae had 3 genera and 3 species. Acanthaceae, Alismataceae, Crassulaceae, Nytiginaceae, Primulaceae, Urticaceae, and Verbenaceae were represented by single genera and species. A total of 90 plants were found to be used for various purposes locally, including medicinal (27.7%), fodder (25.5%), miscellaneous (16.6%), fuelwood (11.1%), timber (8.8%), vegetables (8.8%), and ornamental (1%).

Seventeen species of the family Gryllidae were reviewed and a Modicogryllus sindhensis is described herein as new. Four species, namely Acheta hispanicus Rambur, 1838, Gryllus septentrionalis F. Walker, 1869, Callogryllus saeedi Saeed, 2000, and Miogryllus itaquiensis Orsini & Zefa, 2017 are recorded as new country and state records. Differences between similar species and a taxonomic key to the species of Sindh are provided.

Seventeen species of the family Gryllidae were reviewed and a Modicogryllus sindhensis is described herein as new. Four species, namely Acheta hispanicus Rambur, 1838, Gryllus septentrionalis F. Walker, 1869, Callogryllus saeedi Saeed, 2000, and Miogryllus itaquiensis Orsini & Zefa, 2017 are recorded as new country and state records. Differences between similar species and a taxonomic key to the species of Sindh are provided.