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Articles 391 - 420 of 1129

Full-Text Articles in Entomology

Temperature-Dependent Development And Survival Of Immature Stages Of The Coffee Berry Borer Hypothenemus Hampei (Coleoptera: Curculionidae), A. G.A. Azrag, A. A. Yusuf, C. W.W. Pirk, S. Niassy, K. K. Mbugua, R. Babin Apr 2020

Temperature-Dependent Development And Survival Of Immature Stages Of The Coffee Berry Borer Hypothenemus Hampei (Coleoptera: Curculionidae), A. G.A. Azrag, A. A. Yusuf, C. W.W. Pirk, S. Niassy, K. K. Mbugua, R. Babin

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Although the coffee berry borer, Hypothenemus hampei (Ferrari) (Coleoptera: Curculionidae: Scolytinae) is the most destructive insect pest of coffee worldwide, there is much to learn about its thermal biology. This study aimed to develop temperature-based models for H. hampei development and to provide the thermal requirements of immature stages in the laboratory. Using a new observation method, larval development and survival were monitored daily on fresh Arabica coffee seeds, under seven constant temperatures in the range 15-35°C, with 80 ± 5% RH and 12:12 L:D photoperiod. Linear and non-linear functions were fitted to the development data plotted against temperature, using …

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Immunocompetence Of Gynaikothrips Uzeli (Thysanoptera: Phlaeothripidae) Populations From Different Latitudes Against Beauveria Bassiana (Hypocreales: Cordycipitaceae), Deyi Yu, Peng Huang, Yongwen Lin, Jinai Yao, Yanyang Lan, Komivi Senyo Akutse, Xiangyu Hou Mar 2020

Immunocompetence Of Gynaikothrips Uzeli (Thysanoptera: Phlaeothripidae) Populations From Different Latitudes Against Beauveria Bassiana (Hypocreales: Cordycipitaceae), Deyi Yu, Peng Huang, Yongwen Lin, Jinai Yao, Yanyang Lan, Komivi Senyo Akutse, Xiangyu Hou

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Gynaikothrips uzeli gall thrips are protected from insecticide exposure by their leaf gall habitat. A biocontrol strategy based on entomopathogenic fungi is an alternative approach for the control of G. uzeli. Higher temperatures can promote the reproduction and spread of pests; however, the impact of higher temperatures on biological control is unclear. We studied the immunocompetence of thrips from different latitudes and determined the effect of degree days on thrips immunity. We examined the potential impact of temperature on the biocontrol provided by entomopathogenic fungi. Beauveria bassiana pathogenicity against thrips increased with decreasing latitude, suggesting that immunity of thrips increased …

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Influence Of Seeing A Red Face During The Male–Male Encounters Of Mosquito-Specialist Spiders, Fiona R. Cross, Robert R. Jackson, Lisa A. Taylor Mar 2020

Influence Of Seeing A Red Face During The Male–Male Encounters Of Mosquito-Specialist Spiders, Fiona R. Cross, Robert R. Jackson, Lisa A. Taylor

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Males of Evarcha culicivora, an East African jumping spider (Salticidae), have bright red faces. Here, we investigated how seeing a red face might influence a male’s behaviour during encounters with another male. We applied black eyeliner to conceal the red on a male’s face and measured the spectral properties of male faces with and without the eyeliner. Only the faces without eyeliner reflected in the long-wavelength range corresponding to red. In experiments over 2 days, where eyeliner was absent on the first day and present on the second, we compared how two groups of males responded to their mirror images. …

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The Impact Of Conventional And Organic Farming On Soil Biodiversity Conservation: A Case Study On Termites In The Long-Term Farming Systems Comparison Trials In Kenya, John J. Anyango, David Bautze, Komi K.M. Fiaboe, Zipporah O. Lagat, Anne W. Muriuki, Sibylle Stöckli, Judith Riedel, Gladys K. Onyambu, Martha W. Musyoka, Edward N. Karanja, Noah Adamtey Feb 2020

The Impact Of Conventional And Organic Farming On Soil Biodiversity Conservation: A Case Study On Termites In The Long-Term Farming Systems Comparison Trials In Kenya, John J. Anyango, David Bautze, Komi K.M. Fiaboe, Zipporah O. Lagat, Anne W. Muriuki, Sibylle Stöckli, Judith Riedel, Gladys K. Onyambu, Martha W. Musyoka, Edward N. Karanja, Noah Adamtey

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Background: A long-term experiment at two trial sites in Kenya has been on-going since 2007 to assess the effect of organic and conventional farming systems on productivity, profitability and sustainability. During these trials the presence of significant numbers of termites (Isoptera) was observed. Termites are major soil macrofauna and within literature they are either depict as 'pests' or as important indicator for environmental sustainability. The extent by which termites may be managed to avoid crop damage, but improve sustainability of farming systems is worthwhile to understand. Therefore, a study on termites was added to the long-term experiments in Kenya. The …

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Plant Community Composition And Functional Characteristics Define Invasion And Infestation Of Termites In Cocoa Agroforestry Systems, T. C.L. Djuideu, D. H.B. Bisseleua, S. Kekeunou, M. J. Meupia, F. G. Difouo, C. F. Ambele Feb 2020

Plant Community Composition And Functional Characteristics Define Invasion And Infestation Of Termites In Cocoa Agroforestry Systems, T. C.L. Djuideu, D. H.B. Bisseleua, S. Kekeunou, M. J. Meupia, F. G. Difouo, C. F. Ambele

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The effects of farm management on non-native species and the structure and function of native communities and ecosystems on crop yield is poorly documented especially in the cocoa agroforestry systems of West Africa. We assessed termite damages, cocoa plantations structural characteristic and local farmer knowledge to refine the critical role of shade trees management on subterranean crops pests and the consequences on marketable yield in five cocoa agroforestry systems. Farmers recognized termites as the most damaging subterranean pests and clearly described the type of damages they cause on cocoa trees and seedlings. Complete shade removal or very heavy shade on …

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Modelling And Manipulation Of Aphid-Mediated Spread Of Non-Persistently Transmitted Viruses, John P. Carr, Trisna Tungadi, Ruairí Donnelly, Ana Bravo-Cazar, Sun Ju Rhee, Lewis G. Watt, J. Musembi Mutuku, Francis O. Wamonje, Alex M. Murphy, Warren Arinaitwe, Adrienne E. Pate, Nik J. Cunniffe, Christopher A. Gilligan Feb 2020

Modelling And Manipulation Of Aphid-Mediated Spread Of Non-Persistently Transmitted Viruses, John P. Carr, Trisna Tungadi, Ruairí Donnelly, Ana Bravo-Cazar, Sun Ju Rhee, Lewis G. Watt, J. Musembi Mutuku, Francis O. Wamonje, Alex M. Murphy, Warren Arinaitwe, Adrienne E. Pate, Nik J. Cunniffe, Christopher A. Gilligan

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Aphids vector many plant viruses in a non-persistent manner i.e., virus particles bind loosely to the insect mouthparts (stylet). This means that acquisition of virus particles from infected plants, and inoculation of uninfected plants by viruliferous aphids, are rapid processes that require only brief probes of the plant's epidermal cells. Virus infection alters plant biochemistry, which causes changes in emission of volatile organic compounds and altered accumulation of nutrients and defence compounds in host tissues. These virus-induced biochemical changes can influence the migration, settling and feeding behaviours of aphids. Working mainly with cucumber mosaic virus and several potyviruses, a number …

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Different Plant Viruses Induce Changes In Feeding Behavior Of Specialist And Generalist Aphids On Common Bean That Are Likely To Enhance Virus Transmission, Francis O. Wamonje, Ruairí Donnelly, Trisna D. Tungadi, Alex M. Murphy, Adrienne E. Pate, Christine Woodcock, John Caulfield, J. Musembi Mutuku, Toby J.A. Bruce, Christopher A. Gilligan, John A. Pickett, John P. Carr Jan 2020

Different Plant Viruses Induce Changes In Feeding Behavior Of Specialist And Generalist Aphids On Common Bean That Are Likely To Enhance Virus Transmission, Francis O. Wamonje, Ruairí Donnelly, Trisna D. Tungadi, Alex M. Murphy, Adrienne E. Pate, Christine Woodcock, John Caulfield, J. Musembi Mutuku, Toby J.A. Bruce, Christopher A. Gilligan, John A. Pickett, John P. Carr

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Bean common mosaic virus (BCMV), bean common mosaic necrosis virus (BCMNV), and cucumber mosaic virus (CMV) cause serious epidemics in common bean (Phaseolus vulgaris), a vital food security crop in many low-to-medium income countries, particularly in Sub-Saharan Africa. Aphids transmit these viruses “non-persistently,” i.e., virions attach loosely to the insects' stylets. Viruses may manipulate aphid-host interactions to enhance transmission. We used direct observation and electrical penetration graph measurements to see if the three viruses induced similar or distinct changes in feeding behaviors of two aphid species, Aphis fabae and Myzus persicae. Both aphids vector BCMV, BCMNV, and CMV but A. …

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Stable Flies, Stomoxys Calcitrans L. (Diptera: Muscidae), Improve Offspring Fitness By Avoiding Oviposition Substrates With Competitors Or Parasites, Steve B.S. Baleba, Baldwyn Torto, Daniel Masiga, Merid N. Getahun, Christopher W. Weldon Jan 2020

Stable Flies, Stomoxys Calcitrans L. (Diptera: Muscidae), Improve Offspring Fitness By Avoiding Oviposition Substrates With Competitors Or Parasites, Steve B.S. Baleba, Baldwyn Torto, Daniel Masiga, Merid N. Getahun, Christopher W. Weldon

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Oviposition site selection by gravid female insects is an important determinant in species distribution, abundance, and population dynamics. Females may assess the suitability of a potential oviposition substrate by using cues from conspecific or heterospecific individuals already present. Here, we assessed whether the presence of conspecific or heterospecific larvae and parasites influenced oviposition decisions by the stable fly, Stomoxys calcitrans (Linneaus). Using dual and multiple-choice oviposition bioassays, we found that gravid female S. calcitrans avoided substrates with conspecific larvae, the larvae of house flies, Musca domestica (Linneaus), and the mite Macrocheles muscaedomesticae (Scopoli). Avoidance of conspecific and heterospecific larvae persisted …

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Role Of Egg-Laying Behavior, Virulence And Local Adaptation In A Parasitoid's Chances Of Reproducing In A New Host, R. Benoist, S. Paquet, F. Decourcelle, J. Guez, R. Jeannette, P. A. Calatayud, B. Le Ru, F. Mougel, L. Kaiser Jan 2020

Role Of Egg-Laying Behavior, Virulence And Local Adaptation In A Parasitoid's Chances Of Reproducing In A New Host, R. Benoist, S. Paquet, F. Decourcelle, J. Guez, R. Jeannette, P. A. Calatayud, B. Le Ru, F. Mougel, L. Kaiser

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Understanding the ability of parasitoid insects to succeed in new host populations is a relevant question for biological control and adaptive mechanisms. Cotesia typhae is an African parasitoid specialized on the moth Sesamiae nonagrioides, also called the Mediterranean corn borer. Two Kenyan strains of C. typhae differ in their virulence against a new host population from France. We explored behavioral and physiological hypotheses about this differentiation. Cotesia genus belongs to a group of Hymenoptera in which females inject a domesticated virus in their host to overcome its resistance. Since viral particles are injected along with eggs and since the strain …

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Population Genetics Of The Mediterranean Corn Borer (Sesamia Nonagrioides) Differs Between Wild And Cultivated Plants, Abdel Kader Naino Jika, B. Le Ru, C. Capdevielle-Dulac, F. Chardonnet, J. F. Silvain, L. Kaiser, S. Dupas Jan 2020

Population Genetics Of The Mediterranean Corn Borer (Sesamia Nonagrioides) Differs Between Wild And Cultivated Plants, Abdel Kader Naino Jika, B. Le Ru, C. Capdevielle-Dulac, F. Chardonnet, J. F. Silvain, L. Kaiser, S. Dupas

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The population genetic structure of crop pest populations gives information about their spatial ecology, which helps in designing management strategies. In this paper, we investigated the genetic structure of the Mediterranean Corn Borer (MCB), Sesamia nonagrioides Lefèbvre (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae), one of the most important maize pests in the Mediterranean countries, using microsatellite markers for the first time in this species. Insects were collected in twenty-five locations in southwest and southeast France from cultivated and wild host plants (Zea mays, Sorghum halepense and Typha domingensis). Contrary to what has been reported so far in France, we found that MCB populations could …

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Morphology, Development And Reproduction Of Atractomorpha Acutipennis (Guérin-Méneville, 1844) (Orthoptera: Pyrgomorphidae), Sévilor Kekeunou, Marcelle Mbadjoun-Nziké, Alain Christel Wandji, Steve Bernard Soh-Baleba, Alfiery Laurel Djomnang-Nkwala, Alain Simeu-Noutchom, Charly Oumarou-Ngoute, Philene Corine Aude Um-Nyobe, Linda Gaelle Guiadem-Simo, Patrick Ntonga Akono Jan 2020

Morphology, Development And Reproduction Of Atractomorpha Acutipennis (Guérin-Méneville, 1844) (Orthoptera: Pyrgomorphidae), Sévilor Kekeunou, Marcelle Mbadjoun-Nziké, Alain Christel Wandji, Steve Bernard Soh-Baleba, Alfiery Laurel Djomnang-Nkwala, Alain Simeu-Noutchom, Charly Oumarou-Ngoute, Philene Corine Aude Um-Nyobe, Linda Gaelle Guiadem-Simo, Patrick Ntonga Akono

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For a better knowledge of Atractomorpha acutipennis bio-ecology and to facilitate its identification, we studied the morphology, development and reproduction of this grasshopper on Manihot esculenta under laboratory conditions. Five hundred and fifty-one first nymphal stages obtained in the laboratory were reared in cages. Some body parts allowed a clear identification of different nymphal instars. Post-embryonic development passed through six stages (males) and seven stages (females). Mean nymphal development time was 17.14 ± 0.62, 12.91 ± 0.62, 13.45 ± 0.69, 13.80 ± 0.68, 15.23 ± 0.55 days respectively in males nymphal instars 1 to 5 and 16.18 ± 0.54, 13.13 …

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Changes In Chemical And Microbiological Quality Of Semi-Processed Black Soldier Fly (Hermetia Illucens L.) Larval Meal During Storage, E. Kamau, C. Mutungi, J. Kinyuru, S. Imathiu, S. Ekesi, S. Ekesi, D. Nakimbugwe, K. K.M. Fiaboe Jan 2020

Changes In Chemical And Microbiological Quality Of Semi-Processed Black Soldier Fly (Hermetia Illucens L.) Larval Meal During Storage, E. Kamau, C. Mutungi, J. Kinyuru, S. Imathiu, S. Ekesi, S. Ekesi, D. Nakimbugwe, K. K.M. Fiaboe

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Edible insects are receiving attention as a protein source in the food and feed sector. However, successful commercialisation requires mass production matched with appropriate processing and storage techniques. The quality of dried and pulverised black soldier fly larvae stored in woven polypropylene (PP) sacks, polyethylene (PE) bags and plastic containers with screw lid (PL) in ambient and refrigerated environments was monitored over six months. Chemical indicators (oxidation, fatty acid profile), microbiological parameters (total viable counts, yeast and moulds, Enterobacteriaceae, presumptive coliforms, Salmonella) and colour change were examined. Temperature and relative humidity of the storage environments were monitored. In the ambient …

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A Cross-Sectional Observational Study Investigating The Association Between Sedges (Swamp Grasses, Cyperaceae) And The Prevalence Of Immature Malaria Vectors In Aquatic Habitats Along The Shore Of Lake Victoria, Western Kenya, Getachew E. Bokore, Paul Ouma, Patrick O. Onyango, Tullu Bukhari, Ulrike Fillinger Jan 2020

A Cross-Sectional Observational Study Investigating The Association Between Sedges (Swamp Grasses, Cyperaceae) And The Prevalence Of Immature Malaria Vectors In Aquatic Habitats Along The Shore Of Lake Victoria, Western Kenya, Getachew E. Bokore, Paul Ouma, Patrick O. Onyango, Tullu Bukhari, Ulrike Fillinger

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Background: Strategies that involve manipulations of the odour-orientation of gravid malaria vectors could lead to novel attract-and-kill interventions. Recent work has highlighted the potential involvement of graminoid plants in luring vectors to oviposition sites. This study aimed to analyse the association between water-indicating graminoid plants (Cyperaceae, sedges), other abiotic and biotic factors and the presence and abundance of early instar Anopheles larvae in aquatic habitats as a proxy indicator for oviposition. Methods: A cross-sectional survey of 110 aquatic habitats along the shores of Lake Victoria was done during the rainy season. Habitats were sampled for mosquito larvae using the sweep-net …

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Diversity Of Fall Armyworm, Spodoptera Frugiperda And Their Gut Bacterial Community In Kenya, Joseph Gichuhi, Subramanian Sevgan, Fathiya Khamis, Johnnie Van Den Berg, Hannalene Du Plessis, Sunday Ekesi, Jeremy K. Herren Jan 2020

Diversity Of Fall Armyworm, Spodoptera Frugiperda And Their Gut Bacterial Community In Kenya, Joseph Gichuhi, Subramanian Sevgan, Fathiya Khamis, Johnnie Van Den Berg, Hannalene Du Plessis, Sunday Ekesi, Jeremy K. Herren

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Background: The invasive fall armyworm, Spodoptera frugiperda (J.E. Smith) is a polyphagous pest that causes widespread damage particularly to maize and sorghum in Africa. The microbiome associated with S. frugiperda could play a role in the insects' success and adaptability. However, bacterial communities in S. frugiperda remain poorly studied. Methods: We investigated the composition, abundance and diversity of microbiomes associated with larval and adult specimens of S. frugiperda collected from four maize growing regions in Kenya through high throughput sequencing of the bacterial 16S rRNA gene. The population structure of S. frugiperda in Kenya was assessed through amplification of the …

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Impact Of Integrated Fruit Fly Management Strategy On Food Security Among Smallholder Mango Farmers In Kenya, P. N. Nyang'au, B. W. Muriithi, J. M. Nzuma, P. Irungu, H. M. Gichungi, G. Diiro Jan 2020

Impact Of Integrated Fruit Fly Management Strategy On Food Security Among Smallholder Mango Farmers In Kenya, P. N. Nyang'au, B. W. Muriithi, J. M. Nzuma, P. Irungu, H. M. Gichungi, G. Diiro

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Adoption of agricultural innovations is perceived as a key avenue for poverty reduction and improved food and nutritional security in developing countries. The International Centre for Insect Physiology and Ecology (icipe) has developed and implemented a set of Integrated Pest Management (IPM) strategies in several sub-Saharan African countries aimed at controlling mango infesting fruit flies (Bactrocera dorsalis). Although positive returns from the use of fruit fly IPM have already been documented, the impact of these technologies on food security is not well understood. This study evaluated the impact of the IPM strategy on food security with the help of a …

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Smallholder Farmers' Knowledge And Willingness To Pay For Insect-Based Feeds In Kenya, Shaphan Y. Chia, John Macharia, Gracious M. Diiro, Menale Kassie, Sunday Ekesi, Joop J.A. Van Loon, Marcel Dicke, Chrysantus M. Tanga Jan 2020

Smallholder Farmers' Knowledge And Willingness To Pay For Insect-Based Feeds In Kenya, Shaphan Y. Chia, John Macharia, Gracious M. Diiro, Menale Kassie, Sunday Ekesi, Joop J.A. Van Loon, Marcel Dicke, Chrysantus M. Tanga

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Edible insects are increasingly being considered as sustainable alternatives to fish and soybean meals in animal feed because of their high nutritional quality and environmental benefits. However, successful introduction of a new product to the market depends on the target user's acceptance. Thus, evaluating the potential demand of insect-based feeds would provide relevant information for policy development. The present study assessed farmers' knowledge on edible insects as feed, their acceptance of integrating insect meals in animal feeds and willingness to pay (WTP) for insect-based feed (IBF) using a contingent valuation method. A household survey was conducted among 957 randomly selected …

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Tuta Absoluta (Lepidoptera: Gelechiidae) Invasion In Nigeria: First Report Of Its Distribution, Pascal Osa Aigbedion-Atalor, Abiola O. Oke, Abiola A. Oladigbolu, Adejumo A. Layade, Igho B. Igbinosa, Samira A. Mohamed Dec 2019

Tuta Absoluta (Lepidoptera: Gelechiidae) Invasion In Nigeria: First Report Of Its Distribution, Pascal Osa Aigbedion-Atalor, Abiola O. Oke, Abiola A. Oladigbolu, Adejumo A. Layade, Igho B. Igbinosa, Samira A. Mohamed

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The South America tomato pinworm Tuta absoluta is a serious invasive species in Nigeria. Its impacts on crop production are well understood, but its distribution in the country is unclear. Here, between March 2017 and July 2018, mapping surveys of the distribution of T. absoluta were conducted in 528 different locations across 11 states in Nigeria. Results showed that T. absoluta is present and established in all 360 sites surveyed in the northern and south-western parts of Nigeria. However, it was not recorded at all locations surveyed in two states, Edo and Delta, further south of the country. The implications …

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Towards A Global Dna Barcode Reference Library For Quarantine Identifications Of Lepidopteran Stemborers, With An Emphasis On Sugarcane Pests, Timothy R.C. Lee, Stacey J. Anderson, Lucy T.T. Tran-Nguyen, Nader Sallam, Bruno P. Le Ru, Desmond Conlong, Kevin Powell, Andrew Ward, Andrew Mitchell Dec 2019

Towards A Global Dna Barcode Reference Library For Quarantine Identifications Of Lepidopteran Stemborers, With An Emphasis On Sugarcane Pests, Timothy R.C. Lee, Stacey J. Anderson, Lucy T.T. Tran-Nguyen, Nader Sallam, Bruno P. Le Ru, Desmond Conlong, Kevin Powell, Andrew Ward, Andrew Mitchell

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Lepidopteran stemborers are among the most damaging agricultural pests worldwide, able to reduce crop yields by up to 40%. Sugarcane is the world’s most prolific crop, and several stemborer species from the families Noctuidae, Tortricidae, Crambidae and Pyralidae attack sugarcane. Australia is currently free of the most damaging stemborers, but biosecurity efforts are hampered by the difficulty in morphologically distinguishing stemborer species. Here we assess the utility of DNA barcoding in identifying stemborer pest species. We review the current state of the COI barcode sequence library for sugarcane stemborers, assembling a dataset of 1297 sequences from 64 species. Sequences were …

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Egg-Laying Decisions Based On Olfactory Cues Enhance Offspring Fitness In Stomoxys Calcitrans L. (Diptera: Muscidae), Steve B.S. Baleba, Baldwyn Torto, Daniel Masiga, Christopher W. Weldon, Merid N. Getahun Dec 2019

Egg-Laying Decisions Based On Olfactory Cues Enhance Offspring Fitness In Stomoxys Calcitrans L. (Diptera: Muscidae), Steve B.S. Baleba, Baldwyn Torto, Daniel Masiga, Christopher W. Weldon, Merid N. Getahun

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Selection of oviposition substrate is critical in holometabolous insects. Female stable flies, Stomoxys calcitrans, locate and select vertebrate herbivore dung in which they lay their eggs. However, the preference for vertebrate herbivore dung by S. calcitrans females, its fitness consequences for offspring, and the semiochemicals used to locate and select oviposition substrates remain unclear. Using oviposition choice tests and life table bioassays we found that gravid female S. calcitrans prefer to oviposit on donkey and sheep dung, which also improves the performance of their offspring. GC-MS analysis followed by random forest classification identified β-citronellene and carvone as the most important …

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The Nutritive Value Of Black Soldier Fly Larvae Reared On Common Organic Waste Streams In Kenya, Marwa Shumo, Isaac M. Osuga, Fathiya M. Khamis, Chrysantus M. Tanga, Komi K.M. Fiaboe, Sevgan Subramanian, Sunday Ekesi, Arnold Van Huis, Christian Borgemeister Dec 2019

The Nutritive Value Of Black Soldier Fly Larvae Reared On Common Organic Waste Streams In Kenya, Marwa Shumo, Isaac M. Osuga, Fathiya M. Khamis, Chrysantus M. Tanga, Komi K.M. Fiaboe, Sevgan Subramanian, Sunday Ekesi, Arnold Van Huis, Christian Borgemeister

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In Africa, livestock production currently accounts for about 30% of the gross value of agricultural production. However, production is struggling to keep up with the demands of expanding human populations, the rise in urbanization and the associated shifts in diet habits. High costs of feed prevent the livestock sector from thriving and to meet the rising demand. Insects have been identified as potential alternatives to the conventionally used protein sources in livestock feed due to their rich nutrients content and the fact that they can be reared on organic side streams. Substrates derived from organic by-products are suitable for industrial …

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Molasses Grass Induces Direct And Indirect Defense Responses In Neighbouring Maize Plants, Tigist A. Tolosa, Amanuel Tamiru, Charles A.O. Midega, Johnnie Van Den Berg, Michael A. Birkett, Christine M. Woodcock, Toby J.A. Bruce, Segenet Kelemu, John A. Pickett, Zeyaur R. Khan Dec 2019

Molasses Grass Induces Direct And Indirect Defense Responses In Neighbouring Maize Plants, Tigist A. Tolosa, Amanuel Tamiru, Charles A.O. Midega, Johnnie Van Den Berg, Michael A. Birkett, Christine M. Woodcock, Toby J.A. Bruce, Segenet Kelemu, John A. Pickett, Zeyaur R. Khan

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Plants have evolved intricate defence strategies against herbivore attack which can include activation of defence in response to stress-related volatile organic compounds (VOCs) emitted by neighbouring plants. VOCs released by intact molasses grass (Melinis minutiflora), have been shown to repel stemborer, Chilo partellus (Swinhoe), from maize and enhance parasitism by Cotesia sesamiae (Cameron). In this study, we tested whether the molasses grass VOCs have a role in plant-plant communication by exposing different maize cultivars to molasses grass for a 3-week induction period and then observing insect responses to the exposed plants. In bioassays, C. partellus preferred non-exposed maize landrace plants …

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Species-Specific Transcriptional Profiles Of The Gut And Gut Microbiome Of Ceratitis Quilicii And Ceratitis Rosa Sensu Stricto, Fathiya M. Khamis, Paul O. Mireji, Fidelis L.O. Ombura, Anna R. Malacrida, Erick O. Awuoche, Martin Rono, Samira A. Mohamed, Chrysantus M. Tanga, Sunday Ekesi Dec 2019

Species-Specific Transcriptional Profiles Of The Gut And Gut Microbiome Of Ceratitis Quilicii And Ceratitis Rosa Sensu Stricto, Fathiya M. Khamis, Paul O. Mireji, Fidelis L.O. Ombura, Anna R. Malacrida, Erick O. Awuoche, Martin Rono, Samira A. Mohamed, Chrysantus M. Tanga, Sunday Ekesi

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The fruit fly species, Ceratitis rosa sensu stricto and Ceratitis quilicii, are sibling species restricted to the lowland and highland regions, respectively. Until recently, these sibling species were considered as allopatric populations of C. rosa with distinct bionomics. We used deep Next Generation Sequencing (NGS) technology on intact guts of individuals from the two sibling species to compare their transcriptional profiles and simultaneously understand gut microbiome and host molecular processes and identify distinguishing genetic differences between the two species. Since the genomes of both species had not been published previously, the transcriptomes were assembled de novo into transcripts. Microbe-specific transcript …

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Insects For Sustainable Animal Feed: Inclusive Business Models Involving Smallholder Farmers, Shaphan Y. Chia, Chrysantus M. Tanga, Joop Ja Van Loon, Marcel Dicke Dec 2019

Insects For Sustainable Animal Feed: Inclusive Business Models Involving Smallholder Farmers, Shaphan Y. Chia, Chrysantus M. Tanga, Joop Ja Van Loon, Marcel Dicke

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Global population growth, an increasing demand for animal products and scarcity of conventional feed ingredients drive the search for alternative protein sources for animal feed. Extensive research indicates that insects provide good opportunities as a sustainable, high quality and low-cost component of animal feed. Here, we discuss how insect farming can promote inclusive business for smallholder farmers in the agribusiness value chain. Inclusive business models involving insects as ingredients in feed may contribute to solving socio-economic and environmental problems in developing countries, aligning with the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals. With low initial capital investments, smallholder insect farmers have good …

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Differential Response To Plant- And Human-Derived Odorants In Field Surveillance Of The Dengue Vector, Aedes Aegypti, Wyckliff P. Omondi, Eunice A. Owino, David Odongo, Joseph M. Mwangangi, Baldwyn Torto, David P. Tchouassi Dec 2019

Differential Response To Plant- And Human-Derived Odorants In Field Surveillance Of The Dengue Vector, Aedes Aegypti, Wyckliff P. Omondi, Eunice A. Owino, David Odongo, Joseph M. Mwangangi, Baldwyn Torto, David P. Tchouassi

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Linalool oxide (LO) and hexanoic acid (HA) represent plant- and human-derived odorants, respectively, previously found as attractants for the dengue vector Aedes aegypti. Here, we investigated if a blend of both compounds can improve captures of this mosquito species in field trials in two dengue endemic sites, Kilifi and Busia Counties in Kenya. Ae. aegypti captures were significantly higher in Kilifi than Busia (χ21,142 = 170.63, P < 0.0001) and varied by treatments (χ25,137 = 151.19, P = 0.002). We found that CO2-baited BG Sentinel traps combined with a blend of both odorants decreased Ae. aegypti captures about 2- to 4-fold compared to captures with the individual compounds (LO or HA) used as positive controls. This was the case for all blends of LO and HA, irrespective of the doses tested. Our findings indicate that combining plant- and human-derived odors may elicit a masking effect in trapping Ae. aegypti. These results partly corroborate previous findings for malaria mosquitoes which showed that combining lures from both host sources either decreases or increases trap catches depending on the dose. Further investigations in the usefulness of combining plant and animal odorants in mosquito trapping are therefore necessary.

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Distribution And Incidence Of The Oil Palm Weevil Rhynchophorus Phoenicis (Fabricius, 1801) (Coleoptera: Curculionidae) In Selected Agro-Ecological Zones Of Uganda, J. Baguma, M. Otema, G. Ddamulira, R. Naluyimba, J. P. Egonyu Oct 2019

Distribution And Incidence Of The Oil Palm Weevil Rhynchophorus Phoenicis (Fabricius, 1801) (Coleoptera: Curculionidae) In Selected Agro-Ecological Zones Of Uganda, J. Baguma, M. Otema, G. Ddamulira, R. Naluyimba, J. P. Egonyu

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The genus Rhynchophorus (Herbst 1795) (Coleoptera: Curculionidae) is a key pest of palms worldwide, but information on Rhynchophorus spp. attacking the oil palm, Elaeis guineensis Jaquin in Uganda is outdated. This study was carried out to establish the diversity, distribution and incidence of Rhynchophorus spp. on E. guineensis at three production set-ups namely large-scale plantations, adaptive trials and small-scale farms in three (Lake Victoria Crescent, Lake Albert Crescent and Western Highlands) agro-ecological zones in Uganda; and to establish the effect of vicinity to natural vegetation on incidence of the pest. Two surveys were conducted in 2018 during the dry and …

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Effect Of Crop Diversification And Mulching On Termite Damage To Maize In Western Ethiopia, Girma Demissie, Esayas Mendesil, Debela Diro, Tadele Tefera Oct 2019

Effect Of Crop Diversification And Mulching On Termite Damage To Maize In Western Ethiopia, Girma Demissie, Esayas Mendesil, Debela Diro, Tadele Tefera

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Termites are major biotic factors that contribute to crop damage and yield losses to maize (Zea mays L.) in western Ethiopia. This study evaluated mulching maize stover, intercropping maize with soybean (Glycine max (L.) Merr.) and desmodium (Desmodium intortum (Mill.) Urb.), and integration of mulching and intercropping for their effectiveness in reducing damage of Microtermes spp mainly Microtermes vadschaggae Sjostedt and Microtermes adschaggae (Sjosted) to maize. Five termite management treatments and a control (sole maize) were arranged in a randomized complete block design with three replicates on 2 farm sites in 2016 and 7 sites in 2017 cropping seasons in …

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Experienced Males Recognise And Avoid Mating With Non-Virgin Females In The Western Flower Thrips, Adeyemi O. Akinyemi, William D.J. Kirk Oct 2019

Experienced Males Recognise And Avoid Mating With Non-Virgin Females In The Western Flower Thrips, Adeyemi O. Akinyemi, William D.J. Kirk

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The western flower thrips Frankliniella occidentalis (Thysanoptera: Thripidae) is a major insect pest on a wide range of crops throughout the world. There are several unexplained aspects of the mating behaviour, particularly in relation to male-male competition and mate choice. The objectives of the study were to test whether males can detect the mating status of females and whether males avoid mating with previously mated females. Experiments involved either 'experienced' adults taken from a laboratory culture, which had been exposed to high densities of thrips, or virgin adults reared individually. Experienced males mated readily with virgin females, but avoided mating …

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Effect Of Dietary Replacement Of Fishmeal By Insect Meal On Growth Performance, Blood Profiles And Economics Of Growing Pigs In Kenya, Shaphan Y. Chia, Chrysantus M. Tanga, Isaac M. Osuga, Alphonce O. Alaru, David M. Mwangi, Macdonald Githinji, Sevgan Subramanian, Komi K.M. Fiaboe, Sunday Ekesi, Joop J.A. Van Loon, Marcel Dicke Oct 2019

Effect Of Dietary Replacement Of Fishmeal By Insect Meal On Growth Performance, Blood Profiles And Economics Of Growing Pigs In Kenya, Shaphan Y. Chia, Chrysantus M. Tanga, Isaac M. Osuga, Alphonce O. Alaru, David M. Mwangi, Macdonald Githinji, Sevgan Subramanian, Komi K.M. Fiaboe, Sunday Ekesi, Joop J.A. Van Loon, Marcel Dicke

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Pig production is one of the fastest growing livestock sectors. Development of this sector is hampered by rapidly increasing costs of fishmeal (FM), which is a common protein source in animal feeds. Here, we explored the potential of substituting FM with black soldier fly larval meal (BSFLM) on growth and blood parameters of pigs as well as economic aspects. At weaning, 40 hybrid pigs, i.e., crossbreeds of purebred Large White and Landrace were randomly assigned to five iso-nitrogenous and iso-energetic dietary treatments: Control (0% BSFLM and 100% FM (T0)), and FM replaced at 25% (T25), 50% (T50), 75% (T75) and …

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Cadmium Tolerance Pathway In Anopheles Gambiae Senso Stricto, Martin K. Rono, Catherine N. Muturi, Richard Ochieng, Ramadhan Mwakubabanya, Francis N. Wachira, Joseph Mwangangi, Sam Kinyanjui, James Njunge, Paul O. Mireji Oct 2019

Cadmium Tolerance Pathway In Anopheles Gambiae Senso Stricto, Martin K. Rono, Catherine N. Muturi, Richard Ochieng, Ramadhan Mwakubabanya, Francis N. Wachira, Joseph Mwangangi, Sam Kinyanjui, James Njunge, Paul O. Mireji

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Cadmium is one of the widely used heavy metals (HM) in commercial and industrial products and contributes to environmental contamination in an urban setting. In our previous studies, we established that An. gambiae sensu stricto, a vector of malaria, had adapted to HM pollutants in nature despite their proclivity for unpolluted aquatic habitats. We further demonstrated that heavy metal tolerance adaptation process impacts a biological cost to the fitness of the mosquito and potentially involves the induction of specific HM-responsive transcripts and proteins. Here we interrogated differential proteomic profiles of the cadmium tolerant vs. naïve strains of An. gambiae to …

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Comparative Genomic Analysis Of Six Glossina Genomes, Vectors Of African Trypanosomes, Geoffrey M. Attardo, Adly M.M. Abd-Alla, Alvaro Acosta-Serrano, James E. Allen, Rosemary Bateta, Joshua B. Benoit, Kostas Bourtzis, Jelle Caers, Guy Caljon, Mikkel B. Christensen, David W. Farrow, Markus Friedrich, Aurélie Hua-Van, Emily C. Jennings, Denis M. Larkin, Daniel Lawson, Michael J. Lehane, Vasileios P. Lenis, Ernesto Lowy-Gallego, Rosaline W. Macharia, Anna R. Malacrida, Heather G. Marco, Daniel Masiga, Gareth L. Maslen, Irina Matetovici, Richard P. Meisel, Irene Meki, Veronika Michalkova Sep 2019

Comparative Genomic Analysis Of Six Glossina Genomes, Vectors Of African Trypanosomes, Geoffrey M. Attardo, Adly M.M. Abd-Alla, Alvaro Acosta-Serrano, James E. Allen, Rosemary Bateta, Joshua B. Benoit, Kostas Bourtzis, Jelle Caers, Guy Caljon, Mikkel B. Christensen, David W. Farrow, Markus Friedrich, Aurélie Hua-Van, Emily C. Jennings, Denis M. Larkin, Daniel Lawson, Michael J. Lehane, Vasileios P. Lenis, Ernesto Lowy-Gallego, Rosaline W. Macharia, Anna R. Malacrida, Heather G. Marco, Daniel Masiga, Gareth L. Maslen, Irina Matetovici, Richard P. Meisel, Irene Meki, Veronika Michalkova

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Background: Tsetse flies (Glossina sp.) are the vectors of human and animal trypanosomiasis throughout sub-Saharan Africa. Tsetse flies are distinguished from other Diptera by unique adaptations, including lactation and the birthing of live young (obligate viviparity), a vertebrate blood-specific diet by both sexes, and obligate bacterial symbiosis. This work describes the comparative analysis of six Glossina genomes representing three sub-genera: Morsitans (G. morsitans morsitans, G. pallidipes, G. austeni), Palpalis (G. palpalis, G. fuscipes), and Fusca (G. brevipalpis) which represent different habitats, host preferences, and vectorial capacity. Results: Genomic analyses validate established evolutionary relationships and sub-genera. Syntenic analysis of Glossina relative …

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