Article
Multidisciplinary Sciences
Daniel D. Sprockett, Jeffrey D. Price, Anthony F. Juritsch, Robert J. Schmaltz, Madalena V. F. Real, Samantha L. Goldman, Michael Sheehan, Amanda E. Ramer-Tait, Andrew H. Moeller
Summary: Mammalian species have distinct gut microbial communities, but the mechanisms maintaining symbionts specificity to hosts are unclear. This study shows that natural selection in house mice drives deterministic assembly of their gut microbiota. Native bacteria outcompeted non-native bacteria in both wild-type and immunodeficient mice, suggesting a home-site advantage for native microbiota independent of host adaptive immunity.
Article
Evolutionary Biology
Tong-Yi Liu, Jing Chen, Xi-Chao Zhu, Cai-Ling Li, Li-Yun Jiang, Karina Wieczorek, Ge-Xia Qiao
Summary: Chaitophorinae is a predominantly Northern Hemisphere aphid subfamily characterized by numerous setae on the body, with the study suggesting an origin on Acer plants in eastern Asia followed by multiple dispersals into other areas. An increase in diversification rate within Chaitophorus occurred in the Miocene, associated with range expansion and switching onto new host plants.
SYSTEMATIC ENTOMOLOGY
(2022)
Article
Ecology
Aafke Oldenbeuving, Adalberto Gomez-Zuniga, Ximena Florez-Buitrago, Ana M. Gutierrez-Zuluaga, Carlos A. Machado, Tom J. M. Van Dooren, Jacques van Alphen, Jacobus C. Biesmeijer, Edward Allen Herre
Summary: Previous genetic studies in Central Panama suggest a range in host specificity of pollinator wasps associated with strangler figs. To understand factors contributing to this specificity, we used sticky traps to capture fig-pollinating wasps at different stages of the host figs' reproductive cycle. DNA barcoding revealed that wasps were mainly captured at receptive host fig trees, suggesting high specificity. Our results indicate that the occurrence of wasps is not random and other cues, such as chemicals produced by leaves, may play a role in host recognition.
ECOLOGY AND EVOLUTION
(2023)
Article
Biochemistry & Molecular Biology
Henry L. North, Angela McGaughran, Chris D. Jiggins
Summary: The use of genomic data in invasion biology can provide valuable insights into processes such as invasion routes reconstruction and the importance of balancing selection and hybridization. While currently only a few invasive systems have utilized whole-genome resequencing, these studies have confirmed the significance of leveraging new technologies and approaches for a more comprehensive understanding of invasive species.
Article
Biotechnology & Applied Microbiology
M. Szucs, E. Clark, U. Schaffner, J. L. Littlefield, C. Hoover, R. A. Hufbauer
Summary: The study showed that hybridization between Italian and Swiss populations of the ragwort flea beetle did not result in novel host use on non-target plant species, indicating that admixture did not alter the performance on different plant species. Hybridization did not improve the adaptability of hybrids on non-target plants, indicating that current host-specificity testing procedures are reliable.
BIOLOGICAL CONTROL
(2021)
Article
Agronomy
Renata Cordeiro Santos, Claudio Vieira Batista, Abraao Almeida Santos, Ricardo Siqueira da Silva, Marcelo Coutinho Picanco
Summary: The potential distribution of the invasive pest Erthesina fullo under different climate scenarios was studied using the CLIMEX model. The results showed suitable areas for E. fullo in America, Africa, Europe, and Oceania with tropical and subtropical climates under the current climate scenario. However, the suitability decreased in these regions under future climate scenarios while increasing in temperate regions. The study also found a positive correlation between the weekly growth index of E. fullo and photoperiod. These findings provide valuable insights for preventing potential invasion and establishment of E. fullo beyond its current range.
Article
Plant Sciences
Jordan R. Brock, Terezie Mandakova, Michael McKain, Martin A. Lysak, Kenneth M. Olsen
Summary: This study reveals the maternal contributors of polyploid Camelina lineages by sequencing and analyzing chloroplast genomes. The study shows minimal divergence in the genus's chloroplast genomes, with no gene loss or structural variation observed. The researchers also discovered that the tetraploid Camelina evolved through multiple independent hybridization events, and the polyploid lineages closely related to C. sativa emerged around 65 thousand years ago. Chromosome counts confirmed the variation in ploidy and cytotypes within C. microcarpa. Overall, this study provides insights into the hybridization and polyploidization history of Camelina.
HORTICULTURE RESEARCH
(2022)
Article
Microbiology
Man Qin, Jing Chen, Shifen Xu, Liyun Jiang, Gexia Qiao
Summary: The study on microbial compositions of different Mollitrichosiphum aphid species revealed the impact of aphid species, geography, and host plants on microbial community structure, as well as a significant correlation between aphid phylogeny and microbial community composition.
ENVIRONMENTAL MICROBIOLOGY
(2021)
Article
Zoology
Kai He, Xing Chen, Yin-Bin Qiu, Zhu Liu, Wen-Zhi Wang, Neal Woodman, Jesus E. Maldonado, Xinghua Pan
Summary: The small-eared shrew genus Cryptotis is the third largest in the family Soricidae and is widely distributed in North, Central, and northern South America. Studies have shown that the species mainly inhabit geographically isolated moist, montane habitats at high elevations, with multiple species groups identified based on morphology and molecular studies, but relationships and evolutionary histories within these groups remain unclear.
ZOOLOGICAL RESEARCH
(2021)
Article
Biology
Zhi-Hui Su, Ayako Sasaki, Junko Kusumi, Po-An Chou, Hsy-Yu Tzeng, Hong-Qing Li, Hui Yu
Summary: Through studying six closely related fig species and their pollinators in southern China and the Taiwan-Ryukyu islands, it was found that there are instances of pollinator sharing, copollination, and host shifting, leading to insights into the mechanisms underlying pollinator speciation in obligate pollination mutualism.
COMMUNICATIONS BIOLOGY
(2022)
Article
Biodiversity Conservation
Volodimir Sarabeev, Juan Antonio Balbuena, Yves Desdevises, Serge Morand
Summary: This article discusses the challenges in understanding the spatial distribution of parasites and host-parasite relationships in invasive hosts. The researchers propose a new framework that effectively analyzes traditional parasitology sampling data using macroecological approaches. The framework allows for mechanistic explanations of the relationships between invasive hosts and their parasites and can be used to distinguish different types of parasites.
BIOLOGICAL INVASIONS
(2022)
Article
Ecology
Anna Stanicka, Miroslava Soldanova, Lukasz Migdalski, Katarzyna Szopieray, Kinga Lesiak, Anna Cichy, Elzbieta Zbikowska, Lukasz Jermacz
Summary: Predation is an important factor for shaping animal relationships. Non-host aquatic organisms, including motile cercariae of digenean trematodes, are increasingly recognized as prey. However, the predator differences in cercarial consumption, particularly with invasive consumers, are not well understood. This study investigated the predator-induced reduction in trematode-host encounters. The results showed that all gammarid species preyed on cercariae, but the invasive species were more voracious. The dilution effect caused by the gammarids varied depending on the species and experimental conditions.
FRESHWATER BIOLOGY
(2023)
Article
Horticulture
Ana Cojocariu, Alina Elena Crismaru
Summary: This article aims to update the limited data on the presence of A. conica in Romania, revealing its occurrence in new areas and on other host plants that were not previously documented in the United States and Europe. The study also establishes the trends of population evolution, with an emphasis on the peak of GCHP population development in East Romania indoor conditions. The findings are significant for the spread of this species in Europe and Romania, as well as for observations regarding new hosts and population evolution in a greenhouse habitat for ornamental plants.
Article
Ecology
Isabelle Bueno Silva de Godoy, Blake McGrane-Corrigan, Oliver Mason, Rafael de Andrade Moral, Wesley Augusto Conde Godoy
Summary: Assessing the effects of plant-host shift is crucial for monitoring insect populations and intervention in conservation and pest management. A single-species two-patch model is proposed to study the movement pattern and viability of an insect that exhibits density-dependent dispersal. The model is validated using laboratory experiments and applied to Drosophila suzukii, showing that a shift in fruit host choice can significantly impact the growth and persistence of the species.
ECOLOGICAL MODELLING
(2023)
Article
Biodiversity Conservation
Mark Cody Holthouse, Lori R. Spears, Diane G. Alston
Summary: The brown marmorated stink bug is an invasive and highly polyphagous pest in North America, causing severe agricultural and urban nuisances since its invasion in 2012. In a specific area of northern Utah, it was found to inhabit 53 plant species, with the northern catalpa as the primary host, and peak populations occurring from mid-June to mid-September.
Article
Biodiversity Conservation
Shawan Chowdhury, Michael F. Braby, Richard A. Fuller, Myron P. Zalucki
Summary: The Tawny Coster butterfly has rapidly expanded its geographic range in Australia at an average rate of about 135 km/year, with female-biased migration observed in north-eastern Queensland. Despite the rapid expansion, there is little evidence of a significant climatic niche shift, with only minor changes observed in the early and late expansion phases. The sudden expansion could potentially be triggered by tropical deforestation, but further research is needed to understand the underlying mechanisms involved.
DIVERSITY AND DISTRIBUTIONS
(2021)
Article
Plant Sciences
Verena Jeschke, Jacinta M. Zalucki, Bettina Raguschke, Jonathan Gershenzon, David G. Heckel, Myron P. Zalucki, Daniel G. Vassio
Summary: The ingestion of glucosinolates (GSLs) by the generalist herbivore Helicoverpa armigera has physiological and metabolic effects, with larval growth and development being correlated with the nutritional properties of the insect diets. Different GSL profiles in kale and cabbage influence larval GSH contents and nutritional markers, affecting the effectiveness of these chemical defenses against the herbivore.
Article
Plant Sciences
Jacinta M. Zalucki, David G. Heckel, Peng Wang, Suyog Kuwar, Daniel G. Vassao, Lynda Perkins, Myron P. Zalucki
Summary: The Brassicaceae plants defend against insect herbivores by producing toxic isothiocyanates, but insects still feed on them with variations in performance across different species. The polyphagous noctuid moth Helicoverpa armigera is a pest on some Brassicas, but artificial selection did not significantly improve its performance. The differences in performance between cabbage and kale were observed, indicating potential factors influencing pest status.
Article
Entomology
Mattheau S. Comerford, Scott P. Carroll, Scott P. Egan
Summary: This study describes the recent discovery of the Mexican buckeye as a new host of the J. haematoloma bug, potentially leading to host race formation. Evidence of differentiation in mouth part length between host plant species indicates the possibility of host-associated adaptations in morphology and behavior. More research is needed to confirm the status of host race formation along the speciation continuum.
ENTOMOLOGIA EXPERIMENTALIS ET APPLICATA
(2022)
Article
Entomology
Shima Yazdanpanah, Yaghoub Fathipour, Elham Riahi, Myron P. Zalucki
Summary: This study determined the developmental time of the predatory mite Neoseiulus cucumeris fed on cattail and almond pollen at different temperatures. The results showed that N. cucumeris could develop over a wide temperature range of 15-35 degrees Celsius.
ENVIRONMENTAL ENTOMOLOGY
(2022)
Article
Entomology
Shima Yazdanpanah, Yaghoub Fathipour, Elham Riahi, Myron P. Zalucki
Summary: The generalist predatory mite Neoseiulus cucumeris is an effective natural enemy on many pests. Feeding on different pollen diets did not significantly affect its performance, and a mixture of pollen types positively influenced its growth rate.
JOURNAL OF INSECT SCIENCE
(2022)
Article
Entomology
Shima Yazdanpanah, Yaghoub Fathipour, Elham Riahi, Myron P. Zalucki
Summary: This study evaluated the effectiveness of long-term reared Neoseiulus cucumeris on almond pollen in encountering its natural prey. The results showed that diet switching did not significantly affect the predator's life history traits and predation capacity.
JOURNAL OF APPLIED ENTOMOLOGY
(2023)
Article
Agronomy
Trevor M. Volp, Myron P. Zalucki, Michael J. Furlong
Summary: This study examined the oviposition preference and larval performance of Helicoverpa armigera on three cultivars of short-duration pigeonpea. The results showed that H. armigera laid similar numbers of eggs on all three cultivars, but moths laid slightly more eggs on ICPL 88039 under choice conditions. Larval growth and development were affected by cultivar, with larvae growing to the largest size and developing fastest on ICPL 86012.
PEST MANAGEMENT SCIENCE
(2023)
Review
Ecology
Shawan Chowdhury, Michael D. Jennions, Myron P. Zalucki, Martine Maron, James E. M. Watson, Richard A. Fuller
Summary: Anthropogenic pressures are causing a decline in insect populations worldwide. Protected areas, which are important for safeguarding vertebrates, have not focused much on insect conservation. There is a lack of knowledge on the effectiveness of protected areas for insect conservation, especially regarding threats and management strategies. The authors propose a research agenda to prioritize insects in expanding the global protected area network.
TRENDS IN ECOLOGY & EVOLUTION
(2023)
Article
Entomology
Masatoshi Takeuchi, Myron P. Zalucki
Summary: This study provides new insights into the feeding behavior of Australian sawfly species on eucalypt hosts, including daily and nightly feeding regimes, as well as specific feeding behaviors observed.
AUSTRAL ENTOMOLOGY
(2022)
Article
Entomology
Trevor M. Volp, Myron P. Zalucki, Michael J. Furlong, Michael Brewer
Summary: When an invasive species establishes in a new country, it causes concern for growers due to incomplete understanding of the plants at risk. The Fall Armyworm is an example in Australia. Although initial reactions demanded emergency use of insecticides, field evidence shows that many crops may not be at risk. Maize crops have suffered the most damage, followed by sorghum.
JOURNAL OF ECONOMIC ENTOMOLOGY
(2022)
Article
Entomology
Lynda E. Perkins, Mizuki Uemura, Myron P. Zalucki
AUSTRAL ENTOMOLOGY
(2023)
Article
Entomology
Julianne Farrell, Myron P. Zalucki, Andrea Battisti
Summary: Host specificity of an Australian processionary moth species was studied using reciprocal transplant experiments. The moth, Ochrogaster lunifer, has genetically distinct nesting forms associated with acacias and eucalypts. The study confirmed genetic separation and the importance of host specialization in the speciation process.
Article
Plant Sciences
Asad Shabbir, Myron P. Zalucki, Kunjithapatham Dhileepan, Naeem Khan, Steve W. Adkins
Summary: Parthenium hysterophorus L., also known as parthenium weed, is spreading rapidly from northern to southern parts of Pakistan, suggesting its ability to survive under extreme conditions. A CLIMEX distribution model predicts that the weed could spread to other parts of Pakistan and south Asia. Irrigation and temperature increases will further expand the weed's range. Southern parts of Pakistan may become less suitable for parthenium weed growth under climate change.
Article
Entomology
Ruan C. de M. Oliveira, Myron P. Zalucki, Patrik L. Pastori, Darren J. Kriticos
Summary: The study suggests that the native budworm in Australia, Helicoverpa punctigera, may establish in the tropics and subtropics and shift poleward and into higher altitudes in the future. This projected potential distribution can guide biosecurity strategies for managing this pest globally.
BULLETIN OF ENTOMOLOGICAL RESEARCH
(2022)
