Entomological Communications

(337 Artigos indexados)

New records of Teratomyzidae (Diptera, Sphaeroceroidea) for the Brazilian fauna - (2026)

João P. V. Rodrigues, Lucas Rossito, Claudio J. B. de Carvalho

Volume: 8 - Issue: 0

Resumo. For the first time, Teratoptera chilensis Malloch, 1933 is recorded from Brazil. Additionally, we discuss the geographical distribution of the family.
Telebasis vulcanoae (Machado, 1980) (Odonata: Coenagrionidae): discovery of a population in Northeastern Brazil and potential distribution in South America - (2026)

Antonio B. S. Farias, Thiago C. Gomes, Henrique Venâncio, Jean C. Santos

Volume: 8 - Issue: 0

Resumo. In this study, we report the first record of Telebasis vulcanoae (Machado 1980) in the state of Sergipe, Northeastern Brazil, expanding its known distribution previously restricted to Minas Gerais and Bahia. Specimens were collected on the campus of the Federal University of Sergipe in areas with temporary rainwater pools and small semi-deciduous forest fragments. We also investigated the potential distribution of species in South America using a niche modelling procedure that adopted the described occurrence records and bioclimatic variables. Eighteen specimens (10 females and eight males) were sampled. Niche modelling revealed that T. vulcanoae has high environmental suitability in the northern and central-western regions of Brazil, mainly in coastal and forested areas. Our study contributes to future research on the conservation status of T. vulcanoae, which is currently classified as Data Deficient in the IUCN Threatened Species List.
A Low-Cost Shape-from-Focus Workflow for 3D Geometric Morphometrics: Proof of Concept Using Trypoxylus dichotomus (Linnaeus, 1771) (Coleoptera: Scarabaeidae) Genitalia - (2025)

Wonseok Choi

Volume: 7 - Issue: 0

Resumo. Two-dimensional (2D) photography is widely used in geometric morphometrics (GM), but loss of information and orientation errors remain concerns in volumetric structures. Three-dimensional (3D) imaging provides more accurate shape representations for such structures, but it typically requires expensive equipment. We developed a low-cost automated workflow based on a shape-from-focus (SFF) algorithm to reconstruct partial 3D surfaces from uniformly stepped focus stacks. As a proof of concept, we applied this method to the male genitalia of Trypoxylus dichotomus (Linnaeus, 1771) (Coleoptera: Scarabaeidae), comparing 2D and 3D landmark analyses. The reconstructed 3D models yielded reliable regions for landmark and semilandmark placement. Both 2D and 3D analyses revealed consistent hypoallometric scaling, but the choice of size proxy (3D centroid size versus linear length) had a greater impact on allometric inference than the dimensionality of landmarks. The SFF workflow provides a rapid and inexpensive alternative for generating 3D models suitable for GM, and highlights the importance of validating 2D measures against centroid-based proxies.
A new species of Heimbra Cameron, 1909 (Hymenoptera: Eurytomidae) from Eastern Uruguay - (2025)

Nelson W. Perioto, Rogéria I. R. Lara

Volume: 7 - Issue: 0

Resumo. A new species of Heimbra Cameron, 1909 (Hymenoptera, Eurytomidae) from eastern Uruguay, is described and illustrated. The species is diagnosed and differentiated from its congeners by the following combination of characters: mesopleuron contiguously punctate, appearing dull along the posterior margin; male tergite 7 lacking a transverse groove; and the mesoscutellum orange-brown laterally with a dorsal, longitudinal dark band. The description is based on four male specimens collected with Malaise traps in the municipality of Castillos, Departamento de Rocha, Uruguay. A revised key to the species of Heimbra, incorporating the newly described species, is provided. This discovery increases the number of known Heimbra species to nine and represents the second species of this genus recorded for Uruguay.
A rare trophic interaction: Carnivory by Helicogonus princeps (Brölemann, 1902) (Diplopoda, Spirostreptida, Spirostreptidae) on the frog Physalaemus cuvieri Fitzinger, 1826 (Anura, Leptodactylidae) in Brazil - (2025)

Juan C. Diaz-Ricaurte, João P. S. Vieira-Alencar, Luiz F. M. Iniesta, Rodrigo S. Bouzan, Márcio Martins

Volume: 7 - Issue: 0

Resumo. Millipedes (Diplopoda) are predominantly detritivores, and reports of carnivory in the group remain rare. Here, we describe a potential case of perimortem predation involving the frog Physalaemus cuvieri Fitzinger, 1826 (Anura, Leptodactylidae) and the millipede Helicogonus princeps (Brölemann, 1902) (Diplopoda, Spirostreptida, Spirostreptidae) in Brazil. Two adult females of H. princeps were observed tightly coiled around the frog and consuming its tissues over a 20-hour period. Although it was not possible to determine whether the frog was alive at the onset of the interaction, the behavior suggests either opportunistic predation or carrion feeding. This event represents one of the few documented instances of vertebrate consumption by millipedes and highlights the need for further investigation into the trophic ecology of this understudied group.
A Scarab Feeding on Another Scarab: First Observation of Necrophagy by Canthon histrio (Saint-Fargeau & Audinet-Serville, 1828) on a Dead Passalidae - (2025)

Clemensou Dos-Reis, Fernando Z. Vaz-de-Mello, Jacques H. C. Delabie

Volume: 7 - Issue: 0

Resumo. Besides the widely known behavior of Atta predation by Canthon spp., knowledge of the dietary range of Canthon species is scarce. This note documents the first observation of necrophagy by the dung beetle Canthon histrio on a recently dead Passalidae beetle. The dung beetle exhibited typical nesting behavior by digging into the substrate beneath the Passalidae, although it faced challenges due to the compacted soil. This observation highlights the diverse dietary habits of Canthon species, suggesting that necrophagy may be more widespread than previously documented.
Absence of Anastrepha grandis (Macquart, 1846) (Diptera: Tephritidae) in the coastal plain of Piauí, Brazil - (2025)

Maria E. S. Valentim, Lanna L. G. S. O. Rocha, Gerane C. D. Bezerra-Silva, Márcio A. Silva

Volume: 7 - Issue: 0

Resumo. Brazil is a large producer of cucurbits; despite the productive advantage, the country still has a low insertion in the international market due to the quarantine restrictions imposed by the Anastrepha grandis (Macquart, 1846) (Diptera: Tephritidae) presence. In this context, we conducted a study using McPhail traps and fruit sampling for three consecutive harvests to investigate the presence of A. grandis in commercial watermelon cultivation located in the Irrigation District of the Coastal Plateau of Piauí, Northeast Brazil. Anastrepha grandis was not registered in the coastal plain of Piauí, demonstrating the potential to establish a Pest Free Area. For this purpose, developing a pilot project on a larger time scale covering several properties and municipalities in Piauí is necessary.
Another brick in the wall: new record and key to Anastrepha Schiner, 1868 (Diptera, Tephritidae) from Pará, Brazil - (2025)

Roberto A. Zucchi, Alexandre S. Araújo, Aprigio L. de Oliveira-Filho, Israel de S. Pinto, Mateus S. L. Aurélio, Marcoandre Savaris

Volume: 7 - Issue: 0

Resumo. Despite advances in studies on fruit flies belonging to the genus Anastrepha Schiner, 1868 (Diptera: Tephritidae) in the state of Pará, Brazil, over the past two decades, knowledge of their diversity remains incipient, particularly when considering the vast geographical expanse of the state. Only 35% of the documented species have been associated with their respective hosts. Anyway, for Anastrepha parishi Stone, 1942, which is reported for the first time in Pará State, all records of this species in Brazil have been associated with their designated hosts. In addition to this new record, we discuss the distribution of Anastrepha consobrina (Loew, 1873) in Pará, whose original description was based on specimens collected in the state in the early 19th century. Since then, A. consobrina has not been collected in Pará. A key to the 40 species of Anastrepha known in Pará is presented.
Ant nests found in mature pods of Cassia fistula L. and the extended phenotype of herbivores as house to opportunistic twig dwellers - (2025)

Felipe G. Gonçalves, Maycon R. Silva, Gustavo Tsujimoto, José M. S. Bento, Marcoandre Savaris

Volume: 7 - Issue: 0

Resumo. Ants can present specialized or opportunistic nesting habits; the latter not being restricted to a single or a narrow set of host species in an ecological interaction. Herein we report ant colonies belonging to seven species and four genera inside ripe pods of Cassia fistula L. (Fabaceae) with signs of previous occupation by herbivores. Among the species found nesting in pods previously excavated by phytophagous insects are Cephalotes targionii (Emery, 1894); Cephalotes eduarduli (Forel, 1912); Crematogaster aff. victima Smith, 1858 and Crematogaster sp. (Myrmicinae); Myrmelachista nodigera Mayr, 1887 (Hymenoptera: Formicidae: Formicinae); Pseudomyrmex gracilis (Fabricius, 1804) (Hymenoptera: Formicidae: Pseudomyrmecinae) and Tapinoma sp. (Hymenoptera: Formicidae: Dolichoderinae), all of which showed opportunistic behavior by using pods previously hollowed and holed by phytophagous insects. This is the first record of Cephalotes Latreille, 1802 ants nesting in structures other than trunks and branches.
Armadilha atrativa padronizada e de baixo custo para coleta de Diptera (Insecta) atraídos por substratos proteicos - (2025)

Alex S. B. de Souza, Nelson L. M. Fernandes

Volume: 7 - Issue: 0

Resumo. The use of baited traps is essential for sampling necrophagous Diptera Linnaeus, 1758 in both ecological and forensic studies. Ferreira's trap is a widely used model in Brazil; however, traditional versions can present logistical challenges under field conditions. This study proposes a simple, cost-effective modification to the original design, using standard plastic honey jars as the new apparatus. The modified trap is characterized by its portability, ease of assembly, and the ability to allow rapid specimen retrieval. The effectiveness of the modified trap was successfully demonstrated during field collections. The system is designed for use by a single researcher and has proven to enable efficient specimen capture comparable to that achieved with classical traps. This design is especially recommended for sampling blowflies and other Diptera attracted to decomposing organic matter.
Armored Scale Insects (Hemiptera: Diaspididae) on Dypsis lutescens and Phoenix roebelenii (Arecaceae) in Urban Environments of Costa Rica - (2025)

Minor V. Solano-Gutiérrez, Paul Hanson

Volume: 7 - Issue: 0

Resumo. Armored scales (Hemiptera: Diaspididae) were collected from Dypsis lutescens (H. Wendl) Beentje & J. Dransf., 1995, and Phoenix roebelenii O’Brien, 1889, in urban Costa Rica. Lopholeucaspis cockerelli (Grandpré & Charmoy, 1899), previously known only from intercepted plant material, was found on both palms (P. roebelenii—new host record). Pseudischnaspis bowreyi (Cockerell, 1893), also previously recorded only from interceptions, was identified on both species (new host records). Ischnaspis longirostris (Signoret, 1882) was identified on both palms, Selenaspidus articulatus (Morgan, 1889) on P. roebelenii (new host record), Hemiberlesia cyanophylli Signoret, 1869 on P. roebelenii (new host record) and D. lutescens, H. palmae (Cockerell, 1893) on P. roebelenii (new host record) and D. lutescens, Pinnaspis strachani (Cooley, 1899) on D. lutescens, Pinnaspis apidistrae (Signoret, 1869) on D. lutescens and P. roebelenii (new host record), Diaspis boisduvalii Signoret, 1869 on P. roebelenii, Chrysomphalus dictyospermi (Morgan, 1889) on both palms (new host records), Lepidosaphes gloverii (Packard, 1869) on P. roebelenii (new host record), and Aspidiotus destructor Signoret, 1869 on both palms. Among parasitoids, Aphytis sp. (Hymenoptera: Aphelinidae) was reared from C. dictyospermi and I. longirostris, and Signiphora sp. (Hymenoptera: Signiphoridae) from H. cyanophylli and I. longirostris. This is the first record of a species of Signiphora Ashmead, 1880 parasitizing I. longirostris. The identified armored scales are highly polyphagous and not exclusive to palms, highlighting the need for further research on their diversity and ecology, as well as their natural enemies, in tropical urban environments.
Breaking a 120-year gap: Isosomodes kopenawai sp. nov. (Hymenoptera, Eurytomidae), a newly discovered species from the Brazilian Amazon Rainforest - (2025)

Nelson W. Perioto, Rogéria I. R. Lara

Volume: 7 - Issue: 0

Resumo. In this study, Isosomodes kopenawai Perioto & Lara, sp. nov. (Hymenoptera, Eurytomidae) is described and illustrated, based on a female specimen collected near Manaus, Amazonas, Brazil. The new species is distinguished by a combination of morphological characters, including head coloration (brown to orange), mesosomal orange pigmentation, and propodeal structure (foveate with a deep, narrow, laterally carinate median channel). An updated identification key to Isosomodes species is provided.
Checklist of Ganaspis Förster, 1869 species from Brazil, with a new record and redescription of Ganaspis hookerii Crawford, 1913 (Hymenoptera: Figitidae) - (2025)

Fabiana E. Gallardo, Vanina A. Reche, Nikolas G. Cipola

Volume: 7 - Issue: 0

Resumo. This study provides a checklist of Ganaspis Förster, 1869 species recorded in Brazil, including data on their hosts and distribution within the country. Additionally, Ganaspis hookeri Crawford, 1913 is recorded for the first time in Brazil (Paraná State) and is redescribed. In Brazil, Ganaspis now has five recorded species.
Comunidade de formigas associadas à cochonilha-rosada da cana-de-açúcar em sistemas convencional e orgânico de produção - (2025)

Maiara A. Cruz, Rodrigo M. Feitosa, Ana Lúcia B. G. Peronti, Nilza M. Martinelli

Volume: 7 - Issue: 0

Resumo.  In agroecosystems, the interaction between ants (Hymenoptera: Formicidae) and hemipterans can increase populations of these phytophagous insects, promoting injuries and damage caused by them to crops. The aim of this study was to list the species of ants associated with the mealybug Saccharicoccus sacchari (Cockerell, 1895) (Hemiptera: Pseudococcidae), classifying them according to their presence in the different parts of sugarcane plants. In addition, we verified whether the adopted cultivation system could alter the ant community associated with mealybugs. The experiment was carried out in 2018/19 agricultural harvest, in two sugarcane stands, variety CTC4, in conventional and organic system, both in the municipality of Jardinópolis, SP, Brazil. Ants were collected in the mealybug colonies fixed in different plant structures and sugarcane development stages, including preliminary inspections on the roots of clumps and during plant development, evaluating aerial structures: sprouts, tillers and stalks. Eighteen species of ants were recorded. From these, eight were recorded exclusively in the conventional system, two only in the organic system and eight ant species were common for both systems. It is noteworthy that, for each of the plant structures, clumps and stems, six species of ants occurred exclusively foraging in the mealybug colonies. For sprouting, mealybugs and ants were not observed. We conclude that the cultivation system adopted in the cane field seems to influence ant community associated with S. sacchari. These results can help us to advance in the knowledge about how associated ants can alter the infestation indices of the mealybug in sugarcane fields.
Confirmation of Acutaspis albopicta (Cockerell, 1898) (Hemiptera: Diaspididae) in Brazil: occurrence on baru (Dipteryx alata Vogel, Fabaceae), a native Cerrado plant species - (2025)

Marcelo T. Castro, Sandro C. L. Montalvão, Vera R. S. Wolff

Volume: 7 - Issue: 0

Resumo. Recent research has been shown that Cerrado hosts a high richness of scale insects (Hemiptera: Coccomorpha) associated with native and exotic plants from different families and botanical species. This work aimed to report for the first time an association of an armored scale insect (Diaspididae), Acutaspis albopicta (Cockerell, 1898), with baru (Dipteryx alata Vogel, Fabaceae), a native tree from Cerrado biome, in Federal District, Brazil. Additionally, this is the first occurrence of this species of Diaspididae in Central Brazil. Acutaspis albopicta was first mentioned in Brazil in Rio de Janeiro, associated with Cocos nucifera (L.) (Arecaceae), but, until now, there was no evidence of its occurrence in the country. In this work, there is a confirmation of A. albopicta in Brazil, and macroscopic and microscopic descriptions and illustrations are presented.
Damage caused by the mite Brevipalpus yothersi Baker, 1949 (Acari: Tenuipalpidae) on 'Cortibel' guava fruits (Psidium guajava) in northeastern São Paulo State - (2025)

Daniel J. de Andrade, Vinícius Dorigan

Volume: 7 - Issue: 0

Resumo. This study reports damages caused by Brevipalpus yothersi Baker, 1949 (Acari: Tenuipalpidae) mites in guava fruits in northeastern São Paulo State, Brazil. High population densities of B. yothersi were observed, primarily infesting green peduncles and young fruits of guava (cv. Cortibel RG). The mites caused dark spots on the fruit skin, rendering them unsuitable for in natura market sale.
First record of Brachymeria pandora (Crawford, 1914) and Conura aff. flavicans Spinola, 1837 (Hymenoptera, Chalcididae) in cocoon of Rothschildia erycina (Shaw, 1796) (Lepidoptera, Saturniidae): multiparasitoidism or hyperparasitoidism? - (2025)

Gilcélia M. Lourido, Marcelo T. Tavares, Amanda Galvão, Marcio L. de Oliveira

Volume: 7 - Issue: 0

Resumo. We report the first record of the parasitoid Brachymeria pandora (Crawford, 1914) (Hymenoptera, Chalcididae) emerging from a cocoon of Rothschildia erycina (Shaw, 1796) (Lepidoptera, Saturniidae). This interaction was observed on Eriotheca candolleana (K. Schum.) A. Robyns (Malvaceae), which also constitutes the first record of this plant as a host for R. erycina. These findings are from Alter do Chão, Santarém, state of Pará, Brazil. Additionally, a female of Conura aff. flavicans Spinola, 1837 (Hymenoptera: Chalcididae) was observed exhibiting oviposition behavior on the same cocoon, from which the pupa responded with a trembling defensive reaction, but no individuals of this species were obtained. However, no individuals of C. aff. flavicans emerged, and its role as a primary parasitoid of the moth or a hyperparasitoid of B. pandora is discussed.
First record of Megninia ginglymura (Mégnin, 1877) (Sarcoptiformes: Analgidae) in the state of Pernambuco, Brazil, associated with hen poultry systems - (2025)

Maria B. G. Duarte, Iasmyn V. C. Galvão, Lidia R. A. Silva, Juan S. D. Cáceres, Antônio A. Paz-Neto, Noeli J. Ferla, José W. S. Melo

Volume: 7 - Issue: 0

Resumo. Mites of the genus Megninia Berlese, 1883 (Sarcoptiformes: Analgidae) are known ectoparasites of birds in intensive production systems, however, their distribution in Brazil remains poorly documented. This study reports the first record of the feather mite Megninia ginglymura (Mégnin, 1877) (Sarcoptiformes: Analgidae) in the state of Pernambuco, Brazil. Samples were collected from two farms with different rearing systems: Vertical Automatic, Californian and Cage Free. Monthly surveys were conducted between January and November 2024, totalizing 11 collections. M. ginglymura appears to be prevalent among poultry farms in Brazil; however, limited efforts has been made to mitigate its impacts, primarily due to a lack of targeted research. Baseline studies such as this are essential for guiding future research aimed at characterizing populations in poultry systems and reducing the impacts caused by Megninia mites.
First record of phoresy by Parachernes setiger Mahnert, 1979 (Pseudoscorpiones, Chernetidae) on the fly Artemita amenides (Walker, 1849) (Diptera, Stratiomyidae, Pachygastrinae) in the Central Amazon - (2025)

Cleiton R. Guimarães, Jasmine D. N. Sena, Everton Tizo-Pedroso, José R. Pujol-Luz, José A. Rafael

Volume: 7 - Issue: 0

Resumo. Pseudoscorpions can attach themselves to various mobile arthropods. This interaction is known as phoresy. We report for the first time the phoretic interaction between pseudoscorpion (Arachnida) and Stratiomyidae (Diptera) in the New World, as well as the first phoretic interaction involving Parachernes setiger Mahnert, 1979 (Pseudoscorpiones, Chernetidae), in this case with Artemita amenides (Walker, 1849). Three specimens were attached to the fly's mid tibia (1 specimen) and hind tibia (2 specimens on the same side).
First record of Tetranychus musae Auger, Migeon & Flechtmann, 2008 (Prostigmata: Tetranychidae) on Musa sp. (Musaceae) from Pará State, Brazil - (2025)

Aloyséia C. S. Noronha, Noeli J. Ferla, Iury S. Castro, Magali B. de Oliveira, Izabela F. de Oliveira

Volume: 7 - Issue: 0

Resumo. This study reports the occurrence of the spider mite Tetranychus musae Auger, Migeon & Flechtmann, 2008 (Acari: Tetranychidae) on banana (Musa sp.: Musaceae) in Brazil. Specimens were collected from banana leaves grown in an intercropping system with cacao (Theobroma cacao L. - Malvaceae) at an experimental site in the municipality of Moju, Pará State. This represents the first confirmed record of T. musae in Brazil.
First Record of the Flower Bud Fly Dasiops inedulis Steyskal, 1980 (Diptera: Lonchaeidae) in Northeastern Brazil - (2025)

Gabriel R. Barros, Laura J. Gisloti, Francisca L. da C. Silveira, Érica C. Calvet

Volume: 7 - Issue: 0

Resumo. Passion fruit cultivation in Northeastern Brazil stands out in terms of both production and productivity when compared to other regions of the country. However, the incidence of arthropod pests during crop management poses a significant challenge. Among the various pest species, the presence of dipterans commonly known as flower bud flies, belonging to the genera Dasiops Rondani (1856) and Neosilba McAlpine (1962) (Diptera: Lonchaeidae), is particularly noteworthy. Both genera have been reported on plants in the Passifloraceae, with species from the genus Dasiops being primarily associated with the abscission of reproductive structures, which represents the main limiting factor in achieving high yields. In this context, the aim of this study was to identify the main species of flower bud fly present in passion fruit plantations in producing regions of the state of Ceará. To this end, five collections of infested flower buds were carried out. In Brazil, the species Dasiops inedulis Steyskal, 1980 has already been recorded in six states; this study represents the first record of the species in the state of Ceará.
First record of Trichotrombidium muscarum (Riley, 1878) (Trombidiformes: Microtrombidiidae) in South America, with morphometric data and host association - (2025)

Bianca P. Valério, Leopoldo F.O. Bernardi, Livia M. S. Ataide, Ricardo Bassini-Silva

Volume: 7 - Issue: 0

Resumo. The genus Trichotrombidium Kobulej, 1951 (Microtrombidiidae) includes ectoparasitic mites associated with dipteran species. However, their life cycle remains poorly understood, as only immature stages have been described. In this study, we report the first record of Trichotrombidium muscarum (Riley, 1878) in South America, specifically in Brazil, parasitizing the stable fly, Stomoxys calcitrans (L., 1758) (Diptera: Muscidae). The mites were collected using a pan- trap near a poultry farm in Nepomuceno, Minas Gerais State, Brazil. Morphometric data are provided, expanding the knowledge of this species.
First report of Idalus agastus (Dyar, 1910) (Lepidoptera: Erebidae: Arctiinae) attacking native Myrtaceae seedlings in nurseries in Brazil - (2025)

Gabriel R. Abib, Jennifer L. da Silva, Dori E. Nava

Volume: 7 - Issue: 0

Resumo. This study reports, for the first time, attack of Idalus agastus (Dyar, 1910) (Lepidoptera: Erebidae: Arctiinae) on the seedlings of Myrtaceae family plants grown in nurseries in southern Brazil. This arctiid is common in the state of Rio Grande do Sul and is a secondary pest of eucalyptus. However, reports of damage to native fruit species in nurseries are unprecedented in this region. Infestation and foliage damage have been observed in Psidium cattleyanum Sabine (strawberry guava), Myrcianthes pungens (O. Berg.) D. Legrand (guabiyu), Myrciaria cauliflora Mart. (jabuticaba), and Eugenia uvalha Cambess. (uvaia) trees during the September/October 2023.
First report of the invasive species and potential pest Zaprionus tuberculatus Malloch, 1932 (Diptera, Drosophilidae) in Pará, Brazil - (2025)

Mayara F. Mendes, Carlos J. E. Lamas

Volume: 7 - Issue: 0

Resumo. This paper reports the first occurrence of the potential pest Zaprionus tuberculatus Malloch, 1932 (Diptera, Drosophilidae) in the municipality of Belém, Pará, Brazil, specifically in the Amazon region at the vicinity of the Museu Paraense Emílio Goeldi. This report is crucial for collecting data on the geographic distribution and population growth of this invasive species, which will aid in the development of strategies for pest management programs. Furthermore, new points records for the invasive species in Brasília are presented for the first time, extending the spread of Z. tuberculatus across Brazil.
Foraging Activity in Polybia striata (Fabricius, 1787) (Hymenoptera: Vespidae) - (2025)

Izabella Schaefer, Wilker Morais, Lucas R. Oliveira, Bruno C. Barbosa, Fábio Prezoto

Volume: 7 - Issue: 0

Resumo. Foraging ensures resource acquisition for feeding, nest construction, and colony maintenance in social wasps. This study examined the foraging activity and dripping behavior of Polybia striata (Fabricius, 1787) (Hymenoptera: Vespidae) in an urban environment, analyzing their correlation with temperature and humidity. Observations took place on the campus of the Federal University of Juiz de Fora, totaling 50 hours between January and February 2018. Every 30 minutes, departures and returns to the nest were recorded, along with climatic variables. Foraging activity peaked between 9:00 and 13:30, the hottest period of the day. The number of departures increased with temperature and decreased with humidity, suggesting that hottest conditions favor foraging while high humidity inhibits it. Always after rainfall, wasps engaged in dripping behavior, regurgitating small water droplets from the nest structure. This behavior occurred more frequently in the morning and was linked to nest maintenance. In addition to advancing knowledge of the species' ecology, this study may inform management strategies in urban areas.