Entomological Communications

(337 Artigos indexados)

First record of bird and spider species preying on dung beetles (Coleoptera: Scarabaeidae: Scarabaeinae) in the Amazon Forest - (2026)

Renato P. Salomão, Cleiton Valentim, Andre F. A. Lira

Volume: 8 - Issue: 0

Resumo. Predator-prey relationships are critical for establishing trophic networks, but our understanding of these interactions is hindered by a lack of records in tropical rainforest ecosystems. Although literature indicates that dung beetles may be preyed by a wide range of animal species, surprisingly, there are no such antagonistic records between dung beetles and other species in the Amazon forest. The objective of this study is to present two records of such interactions in the Amazon, involving a bird and a spider species preying on dung beetles. The bird Galbula albirostris Latham, 1790 (Aves: Galbulidae) was observed feeding on a Deltochilini dung beetle (Coleoptera: Scarabaeidae) in a terra firme forest, while a Canthidum sp. was captured in a Trichonephila sp. (Araneae: Nephilidae) spider web on an artificial island also located in a terra firme forest. While birds are the most commonly recorded predators of dung beetles in the literature, there are few records of such predation events with spider species. The scarcity of data regarding predatory behavior on dung beetles in the Amazon forest underscores the need to assess these interactions to establish their importance in maintaining food webs.

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First record of Hister cavifrons Marseul, 1854 (Coleoptera: Histeridae) for Santa Catarina's Island, Brazil - (2026)

Maria E. S. Varela, Sol G. Hesseln, Fernando W. T. Leivas, Carlos J. C. Pinto

Volume: 8 - Issue: 0

Resumo. Hister cavifrons Marseul, 1854 (Coleoptera: Histeridae) is a common species in Brazilian territory mostly associated with animal carcasses that has previously been recorded in the Amazon, Atlantic Forest, and Cerrado biomes across several Brazilian states, ranging from the North to the South of the country. The highest number of records is from the state of Paraná, while Santa Catarina has only two records from inland municipalities. This note presents the first record of H. cavifrons on the coast of Santa Catarina specifically in the municipality of Florianópolis and the third for the state. The species was sampled in Biguá [Nannopterum brasilianum (Gmelin, 1789) (Suliformes: Phalacrocoracidae)] carcass, an aquatic bird commonly found along the Santa Catarina coast, marking the first record of this species associated with this animal, during the month of April (autumn season).

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First record of Oxycarenus hyalinipennis (Costa, 1847) (Hemiptera: Oxycarenidae) on Hibiscus sabdariffa L. (Malvales: Malvaceae) in Brazil and characterization of plant injuries - (2026)

Kelly I. S. Silva, Lucas J. B. Soares, Gleice A. de S. Gonçalves, Antonio H. de Souza, Juliana M. Oliveira, Ítalo Marcossi, Marinalva W. Pedrosa

Volume: 8 - Issue: 0

Resumo. Roselle (Hibiscus sabdariffa L.), also known as red sorrel, is an unconventional food plant (UFP) recognized for its nutritional, medicinal, and economic importance. Its primary commercial product is the calyx, which is susceptible to attack by the cotton seed bug [CSB; Oxycarenus hyalinipennis (Costa, 1847) (Hemiptera: Oxycarenidae)], a pest associated with Malvaceae crops such as cotton. However, until now, there have been no records of this pest causing damage to roselle plants in Brazil. This study aims to report the occurrence of O. hyalinipennis on roselle and to describe the injuries inflicted by this pest. Observations were conducted in June 2024 at the Campo Experimental Santa Rita of EPAMIG Centro-Oeste, in Prudente de Morais, Minas Gerais, on an organically cultivated crop. The damage initially appeared as translucent spots on the surface of developing calyces, progressing to darkened cracks, deformations, necrosis, fruit abortion, and weight loss, which rendered the calyces unmarketable. CSB individuals were observed at various developmental stages, primarily inside the calyces near the seeds. Initially, the symptoms were misdiagnosed as a fungal disease; however, the correct association with the insect was only established during post-harvest inspection. This constitutes the first record of O. hyalinipennis causing damage to roselle in Brazil, underscoring the importance of monitoring this crop to prevent losses and ensure the quality of the final product.

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First record of the spider Isigonia limbata Simon, 1897 (Araneae, Anyphaenidae) for Northeast Brazil, with notes on natural history - (2026)

Fláildo S. Araújo, Ruth S. Mendes, Sthefany M. Santos, Luís C. Pereira, Jober F. Sobczak

Volume: 8 - Issue: 0

Resumo. This study presents the first record of the spider Isigonia limbata Simon, 1897 (Araneae, Anyphaenidae) in the state of Ceará, extending the species distribution to the Northeast region of Brazil. The research was conducted in a semideciduous montane forest at Sítio São Luíz, in the municipality of Pacoti, located within the Serra de Baturité Environmental Protection Area (APA). The region is characterized by a high-altitude environment that supports the maintenance of isolated humid forests, forming vegetation enclaves surrounded by the semi-arid Caatinga and serving as important biodiversity refugia. During field expeditions conducted in August 2024 and February 2025, male and female specimens of the species were collected, and behavioral observations provided information on its natural history. The I. limbata female constructs three-dimensional silk retreats on the inferior surface of perforated leaves, using the opening as an ambush point to capture prey on the superior surface. During the reproductive period, the spider seeks out intact leaves and constructs a completely sealed retreat in which the female remains with the eggs until they hatch. The construction of these reinforced, isolated shelters suggests a protective strategy against predators, parasitoids, and microclimatic variations, evidencing parental care behavior. The presence of I. limbata in the Northeast, previously recorded only in dense forest areas such as the Amazon, may reflect climatic events that occurred during the Pleistocene, while also reinforcing the importance of these areas for understanding the distribution of the genus Isigonia Simon, 1897 and revealing new occurrences.

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First record of Trichopoda ypiranga (Dios & Nihei, 2017) (Diptera: Tachinidae) parasitizing Diceraeus melacanthus (Dallas, 1851) (Hemiptera: Pentatomidae) - (2026)

Suellen K. A. Barros, Camila S. de Oliveira, Rodrigo de V. P. Dios, Ana P. M. da Silva, Rafael M. Pitta

Volume: 8 - Issue: 0

Resumo. Trichopoda ypiranga (Dios & Nihei, 2017) (Diptera: Tachinidae) is a parasitoid of adult stink bugs and represents a promising natural enemy for integrated pest management programs. The natural occurrence of T. ypiranga parasitizing adults of Diceraeus melacanthus (Dallas, 1851) (Hemiptera: Pentatomidae) was investigated in croplands in the mid-north region of Mato Grosso, Brazil, from October 2021 to February 2025. Forty-three samples were collected from soybean, cowpea, millet, sesame, and weeds. In total, 7,754 stink bugs were collected, of which 703 were parasitized, resulting in an overall parasitism rate of 9.06%. The parasitism rate ranged from 1.04% to 30.83%, with the highest rates observed between March and May, particularly in millet (30.8%) and sesame (17.0%) crops. The most abundant parasitoid species was T. ypiranga, accounting for approximately 84% of emergences, with consistent records throughout the sampling period. Other species, such as Cylindromyia brasiliana (Guimarães, 1983), Gymnoclytia sp., and Phasia sp. (Diptera: Tachinidae), were less frequently observed. Despite the widespread presence of T. ypiranga, the parasitism rate was considered moderate, potentially influenced by intensive insecticide use in the region. These findings highlight the ecological relevance of T. ypiranga and reinforce its potential role in biological control strategies within integrated pest management programs.

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First report of Anastrepha obliqua (Macquart, 1835) (Diptera: Tephritidae) infesting pitaya (Selenicereus undatus (Haw.) D.R. Hunt) in Brazil - (2026)

Luiza C. F. Zazycki, Daniel L. da Silva, José V. da Silva, Flávio R. M. Garcia, Adriana C. C. da Silva

Volume: 8 - Issue: 0

Resumo. Fruit flies are insects with a high destructive potential and require a management and control plan in various fruit crops. Among them, pitaya cultivation (Selenicereus undatus (Haw.) D.R. Hunt – Cactaceae), which has been increasing in the state of Mato Grosso do Sul e in the all Brazil. Pitaya containing Diptera larvae were collected in the municipality of Costa Rica, state of Mato Grosso do Sul, Brazil and taken to the laboratory to adult insect obtention. The adults emerged was identified as Anastrepha obliqua (Macquart, 1835) (Diptera: Tephritidae). This work is the first report of A. obliqua associated with pitaya fruits in Brazil.

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First report of Andrallus spinidens (Fabricius, 1787) (Hemiptera: Asopinae) in rice crops in Brazil - (2026)

Matheus H. F. Lima, Jocélia Grazia, Lurdiana D. Barros, Ricardo Brugnera, Pedro L. E. R. Cardoso, Roberto S. Graça-Júnior, Ellen C. C. de Araujo, Alaide P. Lima, João V. S. Camara, John J. S. Ausique, Joseane R. de Souza

Volume: 8 - Issue: 0

Resumo. Este estudo relata pela primeira vez a ocorrência de Andrallus spinidens (Fabricius, 1787) (Hemiptera: Asopinae) no Brasil (Itapecuru-Mirim, Maranhão). O percevejo foi encontrado predando larvas de Mocis latipes (Guenée, 1852) (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae) em arrozais. Esta espécie é polífaga e comumente encontrada em diversas espécies de gramíneas. M. latipes possui ampla distribuição no continente americano e, em safras recentes, tem demonstrado potencial para causar danos significativos à produção de arroz no estado do Maranhão. Adultos de A. spinidens foram registrados durante a safra 2021-2022, representando o primeiro registro recente desta espécie no Brasil. Adicionalmente, destacamos um espécime da espécie coletado em 1981 em Roraima, também encontrado em arrozais. Este registro contribui para o enriquecimento das informações sobre a distribuição mundial deste asopídeo e sua relevância como agente de controle biológico de pragas do arroz no Brasil.

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First report of Crematogaster acuta (Fabricius, 1804) (Hymenoptera: Formicidae) in association with palm-aphid on solitary açaí palm seedlings (Euterpe precatoria Martius) in Acre, Brazil - (2026)

Ketlen Bona, Rodrigo S. Santos, Luane K. Fontenele, Kauã M. de Souza, Rodrigo M. Feitosa, Fernando A. Schmidt

Volume: 8 - Issue: 0

Resumo. Ant-hemipteran mutualisms are widespread in tropical ecosystems yet remain undocumented in many Amazonian plant species. Here, we report the first record of a trophobiotic association between the acrobat ant Crematogaster acuta (Fabricius, 1804) and the palm-aphid Cerataphis brasiliensis (Hempel, 1901) on seedlings of Euterpe precatoria Martius, 1842 (Arecaceae) in the state of Acre, Brazil. Ants were observed tending aphid colonies, collecting honeydew, and exhibiting protective behaviors against potential predators. This novel record adds to the growing knowledge of ant-aphid interactions in Amazonian palms and suggests potential ecological implications for aphid persistence and solitary açaí palm seedling health.

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First report of Delia sanctijacobi (Bigot, 1885) (Diptera: Anthomyiidae) in soybean in Brazil - (2026)

Glauber R. Stürmer, Delmar B. dos Santos, Nayane S. França, Henrique Pozebon, Jonas A. Arnemann

Volume: 8 - Issue: 0

Resumo. The root maggot fly, Delia sanctijacobi (Bigot, 1885) (Diptera: Anthomyiidae) is an important pest of several commercial crops. In this note we report for the first time the occurrence of D. sanctijacobi damaging soybean (Glycine max (L.)) crops in Brazil. The specimens were collected from commercial soybean fields in Saldanha Marinho and Cruz Alta, both in Rio Grande do Sul state, Brazil. The attacked soybean plants showed damaged roots, bored stem and reduced plant stand. The species was confirmed by morphological traits and DNA sequencing. The first detection of D. sanctijacobi on soybean in Brazil raises an alert to growers and highlights the need for development of efficient and sustainable management strategies for this emergent pest.

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First report of Watshamia Bouček, 1974 (Hymenoptera: Chalcidoidea: Pirenidae) from the New World, with description of a new species - (2026)

Paul E. Hanson, Sergio Jansen-González

Volume: 8 - Issue: 0

Resumo. Only six out of a total of 25 genera of Pirenidae have been recorded from the New World. Here we report the presence of a seventh genus, Watshamia (subfamily Pireninae), and describe Watshamia sasa Hanson & Jansen-González, sp. nov. from Costa Rica This finding suggests that additional genera of Pirenidae may eventually be found in the Neotropics and that in attempting to identify genera of poorly studied taxa, Old World genera should not be discounted. A brief discussion is provided of characters used to separate Pireninae from Tridyminae, as well as an updated summary of the biology of Pirenidae.

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From my Backyard to the World: Phenacoccus solenopsis Tinsley, 1898 (Hemiptera: Pseudococcidae) on a Medicinal Plant in Brazil - (2026)

Nyeppson S. Soares, Roberto A. Zucchi, Thiago H. R. Pádua, Ana L. B. G. Peronti, Marcoandre Savaris

Volume: 8 - Issue: 0

Resumo. The solenopsis mealybug, Phenacoccus solenopsis Tinsley, 1898 (Hemiptera: Pseudococcidae), is widely distributed globally and is a significant polyphagous pest affecting a variety of plants of agricultural, medicinal, and ornamental value, including certain weeds. In this study, we present, for the first time, the occurrence and damage caused by P. solenopsis on false lemon balm, Lippia alba (Mill.). N.E. Br. ex Britton & P. Wilson (Verbenaceae) in Brazil. Specimens of the solenopsis mealybug were collected and examined on L. alba in a residential area of Floriano city, Piauí state, Brazil, from July to November 2025. The damage caused by the mealybug primarily manifests on the branches of false lemon balm, resulting in yellowing and desiccation, with a comparatively lesser impact on the host’s leaves. Throughout our observations, the solenopsis mealybug population on the host declined by November 2025. This represents the first documented instance of P. solenopsis in Piauí, thereby increasing the total number of Brazilian states reporting occurrences of this pest to 11. Additionally, we noted the mutualistic relationship between P. solenopsis and Dorymyrmex sp. (Hymenoptera: Formicidae: Dolichoderinae). This study also updates information regarding the distribution and host plants of P. solenopsis in Brazil.

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Impact of a Bt-based bioinsecticide on the predatory capacity of Ceraeochrysa cincta (Schneider, 1851) (Neuroptera: Chrysopidae) on Spodoptera frugiperda (J. E. Smith, 1797) (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae) - (2026)

Sarah C. da Silva, Danrley da R. Pacheco, Isabela C. de O. Pimenta, Dagmara G. Ramalho, Sergio A. De Bortoli

Volume: 8 - Issue: 0

Resumo. Green lacewings (Neuroptera: Chrysopidae) are predatory insects during their larval stages, feeding on a variety of insect pests including psyllids, miner bugs, whiteflies, mealybugs, and the eggs and larvae of lepidopterans. These predators are integral to various agricultural systems. Spodoptera frugiperda (J.E. Smith, 1797) (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae), commonly known as the fall armyworm, is a significant corn pest in Brazil and damages other crops like soybeans, cotton, and tomatoes. To control this pest, strategies such as Bacillus thuringiensis Berliner, 1915 (Bt)-based bioinsecticides and Bt transgenic plants are used. However, the rapid development of resistance hinders control, making the integration of different management tactics essential. This study examines the impact of the Bt-based bioinsecticide on the predatory behavior of the first, second, and third larval instars of Ceraeochrysa cincta (Schneider, 1851) (Neuroptera: Chrysopidae) through functional response analyses, using neonate S. frugiperda larvae as prey. Distinct functional responses were observed among larval instars. First-instar larvae exhibited a Type III response in both control and Bt-based bioinsecticide (Crystal®) treatments. In contrast, second- and third-instar larvae showed a Type I response in the control and a Type III response under bioinsecticide exposure. The highest attack rates occurred in first- and third-instar larvae in the control treatment, while handling time did not differ among instars or treatments. In conclusion, although the Bt-based bioinsecticide altered the functional response pattern of second- and third-instar larvae, it did not compromise the overall predatory capacity of C. cincta, supporting its compatibility with integrated pest management programs against S. frugiperda.

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Influence of acclimation time on laboratory-recorded social behaviors of the termite Nasutitermes corniger (Motschulsky, 1855) (Termitidae: Nasutitermitinae) - (2026)

Sara Y. M. Watanabe, Derick Lira, Lázaro Q. Lira Filho, Paulo F. Cristaldo

Volume: 8 - Issue: 0

Resumo. Behavioral assays are widely used to investigate social interactions in termites; however, methodological factors such as acclimation time prior to observation remain poorly standardized. Handling and confinement may induce transient stress responses that bias behavioral measurements, yet empirical assessments of this effect are scarce. Here, we evaluated the influence of short-term acclimation time on the expression of social behaviors in the termite Nasutitermes corniger (Motschulsky, 1855) (Termitidae: Nasutitermitinae) under laboratory conditions. Groups of termites were observed after different acclimation periods (5, 30 and 60 min.), and the frequencies of antennation, vibration, grooming, and trophallaxis were video recorded for posterior quantification. Acclimation time significantly affected vibration behavior, which was more frequent immediately after handling and declined following longer acclimation periods. In contrast, antennation, grooming, and trophallaxis were not significantly influenced by acclimation time. These results indicate that vibration is particularly sensitive to handling-induced stress, whereas other social behaviors are comparatively robust to short-term experimental disturbance. Our findings highlight the importance of reporting and standardizing acclimation time in termite behavioral assays and provide practical guidance for improving methodological consistency and comparability across studies.

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New record of Cyrtobagous salviniae Calder & Sands, 1985 (Coleoptera: Curculionidae) from southeastern Brazil with comments on its dispersal among freshwater ponds - (2026)

Glauco C. de S. Oliveira, Adaiane C. M. Jacobina, Letícia Vieira, Guilherme R. Demetrio

Volume: 8 - Issue: 0

Resumo. Cyrtobagous salviniae Calder & Sands, 1985 (Coleoptera: Curculionidae) is a weevil native to South America and distributed worldwide as a biocontrol agent of aquatic weeds of the genus Salvinia Ség. Native populations and aspects of this weevil biology, such as dispersal mechanisms, are still poorly known, especially in southeastern Brazil. Here, we report the first record voucher-based of C. salviniae for the state of Minas Gerais, which not only extends its distribution westward in the southeastern region, but also documents the dispersal of individuals among freshwater ponds via mats of Salvinia auriculata Aubl. displaced during a regional river flood, and briefly discuss the ecological importance of such processes.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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