Biblioteca Digital

Irrigation schemes and dams have posed a great concern on public health systems of several countries, mainly in the tropics. The focus of the present review is to elucidate the different ways how these human interventions may have an effect on population dynamics of anopheline mosquitoes and hence, how local malaria transmission patterns may be changed. We discuss different studies within the three main tropical and sub-tropical regions (namely Africa, Asia and the Pacific and the Americas). Factors such as pre-human impact malaria epidemiological patterns, control measures, demographic movements, human behaviour and local Anopheles bionomics would determine if the implementation of an irrigation scheme or a dam will have negative effects on human health. Some examples of successful implementation of control measures in such settings are presented. The use of Geographic Information System as a powerful tool to assist on the study and control of malaria in these scenarios is also highlighted.

From a total of 12,721 anophelines collected in a lowland area in Guaraí, Rio de Janeiro, from November 1991 to October 1992, 99.7% (12,688) were Anopheles aquasalis. This species occurred throughout the year, but in higher numbers from April to September, when rainfall was low or moderate. The proportion of parous females in June was significantly higher than the annual rate. An. aquasalis was weakly attracted by a light-trap, and no significant differences in abundance were detected between nights with and without moonlight.

Culex (Culex) maxi Dyar is described in the adult, pupal and larval stages, and the male genitalia and parts of the fourth-instar larva are illustrated. The larva is described for the first time. The paper includes a summary of available information on the taxonomy, bionomics and distribution of the species. The taxonomy and identification of the species are reviewed in light of current knowledge of the subgenus Culex in the New World.

The bionomics of phlebotomine sand flies (Diptera: Psychodidae) were studied for two successive years (January 1996-December 1997) at 12 collecting stations representing six sectors of the province of Al-Baha, Saudi Arabia. The predominant species was Phlebotomus bergeroti (41.7%), followed by lesser numbers of Phlebotomus sergenti (11%), Phlebotomus arabicus (10.6%), Sergentomyia tiberiadis (10.5%), Phlebotomus papatasi (10.2%), Sergentomyia antennata (9.6%), Phlebotomus alexandri (3%), Phlebotomus orientalis (2.3%) and Sergentomyia clydei (1.1%). The distribution of the collected species including species that are elsewhere known to act as vectors of human cutaneous leishmaniasis were distributed across different altitudes in Al-Baha. P. bergeroti, P. papatasi and P. arabicus were more abundant indoors; however, P. sergenti was more abundant outdoors. Sand fly populations exhibited three patterns of seasonal abundance in terms of their monthly activity. P. bergeroti, P. sergenti and P. arabicus were found to be naturally infected with Leishmania-like flagellates at an infection rate of 0.2%.

Two snapshot surveys to establish the diversity and ecological preferences of mosquitoes (Diptera: Culicidae) in the terra firme primary rain forest surrounding the Tiputini Biodiversity Station in the UNESCO Yasuní Biosphere Reserve of eastern Amazonian Ecuador were carried out in November 1998 and May 1999. The mosquito fauna of this region is poorly known; the focus of this study was to obtain high quality link-reared specimens that could be used to unequivocally confirm species level diversity through integrated systematic study of all life stages and DNA sequences. A total of 2,284 specimens were preserved; 1,671 specimens were link-reared with associated immature exuviae, all but 108 of which are slide mounted. This study identified 68 unique taxa belonging to 17 genera and 27 subgenera. Of these, 12 are new to science and 37 comprise new country records. DNA barcodes [658-bp of the mtDNA cytochrome c oxidase ( COI ) I gene] are presented for 58 individuals representing 20 species and nine genera. DNA barcoding proved useful in uncovering and confirming new species and we advocate an integrated systematics approach to biodiversity studies in future. Associated bionomics of all species collected are discussed. An updated systematic checklist of the mosquitoes of Ecuador (n = 179) is presented for the first time in 60 years.

The authors present the results of an investigation, carried out in 1956-57 in the Rawasari district of Djakarta, to determine the vector of Bancroftian filariasis and to study its bionomics.

Of the two proved Simulium vectors of onchocerciasis in Africa, the more widespread and the easier to identify is S. damnosum. The identity of S. neavei is less easily established, and a summary of the present position regarding the S. neavei complex is given. The bionomics of the immature stages and adult females of S. damnosum and S. neavei are discussed in detail, and consideration is also given to the relation of each species to disease. Distribution maps are included.

Following residual spraying of houses in Pemba Island with dieldrin as part of a malaria eradication programme, Anopheles gambiae were found breeding in salt-water pools in many parts of the island. Studies were made on the bionomics of this salt-water form of the mosquito, dealing in particular with its behaviour, feeding preferences, role as a malaria vector, larval reaction to brackish water and adult susceptibility to dieldrin.

The problem of evaluating the epidemic potential of western equine encephalitis in the northeastern United States is presented and possible reasons are discussed for the present lack of human and horse cases of this disease even though increased numbers of isolations of the virus have been obtained in the East during recent years. Epidemiologic factors of vector bionomics and virus strain variations are considered. It is concluded that while this virus strain can no longer be regarded as uncommon in the Northeast, the evidence indicates there is little potential for epidemic expression of this agent in the human and horse population. This appears to be due to differences in the bionomics of the mosquito Culiseta melanura, which serves as the primary enzootic vector in the northeastern United States and in the bionomics of Culex tarsalis that is the vector in the western region of the United States. Other limiting factors in the epidemic potential may be variations between virus strains located in the East and West.

Three species of Mansonioides vectors viz.,Ma. annulifera, Ma. uniformis andMa. indiana were found in Cherthala taluk, Kerala which is one of the endemic areas due toB. malayi. The immatures of Mansonioides thrive mainly in association with macrophytic hydrophytes such asP. stratiotes, S. molesta andE. crassipes in perennial habitats (ponds, channels/ canals etc.,) andI. miliaceae in seasonal habitats (fallow lands etc.) Breeding potential was higher (130.19) in clean ponds withP. stratiotes, compared to that of polluted ones (40.69). However, the polluted habitats infested with the same host plants were found to be the most productive forMa. annulifera, with an average daily adult emergence rate of 601/100 sq.m.). The clean habitats played a major role in the contribution ofMa. uniformis, whereS. molesta in the perennial habitats and I. miliaceae in the seasonal fallow lands were the favourable plants contributing a daily output of 12.5/100 sq.m and 221.81/100 sq.m. respectively.E. crassipes infested polluted habitats formed the major source forMa. indiana, the emergence rate being 13.89/100 sq.m. The perennial habitats supported mainly the breeding ofMa. annulifera (70.82%), whereas the seasonal habitats contributed the major chunk ofMa. uniformis (92.54%) andMa. indiana (71.43%). The bionomics of Mansonioides mosquitoes are thus shown to be greatly influenced by the community structure of hydrophytes and also the nature of breeding habitats.

The soapberry bug, Jadera haematoloma (Herrich-Schäffer, 1847) (Insecta: Hemiptera: Heteroptera: Rhopalidae: Serinethinae), a species native in tropical and subtropical regions of the New World and accidentally introduced to Hawaii, is reported for the first time from Asia (Taiwan). This record represents the first occurrence of the species in Asia. Stable populations composed of hundreds of specimens were found in seven localities of Kaohsiung City and one locality in Tainan City, and a single specimen was observed in Chiayi County. Aggregating adults and larvae fed in large numbers on the sapindacean plants Cardiospermum halicacabum L. and Koelreuteria elegans (Seem.) A. C. Smith ssp. formosana (Hayata) F. G. Meyer. Diagnostic characters of adults and larvae of Jadera haematoloma are discussed. A review of its bionomics and a bibliography are provided. Initial observations on the populations in southern Taiwan are presented. The species is potentially invasive, and further extension of its range is anticipated in Southeast Asia.

Two snapshot surveys to establish the diversity and ecological preferences of mosquitoes (Diptera: Culicidae) in the terra firme primary rain forest surrounding the Tiputini Biodiversity Station in the UNESCO Yasuní Biosphere Reserve of eastern Amazonian Ecuador were carried out in November 1998 and May 1999. The mosquito fauna of this region is poorly known; the focus of this study was to obtain high quality link-reared specimens that could be used to unequivocally confirm species level diversity through integrated systematic study of all life stages and DNA sequences. A total of 2,284 specimens were preserved; 1,671 specimens were link-reared with associated immature exuviae, all but 108 of which are slide mounted. This study identified 68 unique taxa belonging to 17 genera and 27 subgenera. Of these, 12 are new to science and 37 comprise new country records. DNA barcodes [658-bp of the mtDNA cytochrome c oxidase ( COI ) I gene] are presented for 58 individuals representing 20 species and nine genera. DNA barcoding proved useful in uncovering and confirming new species and we advocate an integrated systematics approach to biodiversity studies in future. Associated bionomics of all species collected are discussed. An updated systematic checklist of the mosquitoes of Ecuador (n = 179) is presented for the first time in 60 years.

The bionomics of the eye-spotted bud moth, Spilonota ocellana (Denis & Schiffermüller), on sour cherry in Wisconsin from 1960 through 1961 showed that the eggs had hatched by the last week in August and larvae had left the leaves by October 4 to construct overwintering hibernacula, entering hibernation as third instar larvae and moulting once inside the hibernacula before spring. Seventy per cent of the larvae overwintered on fruiting spurs. Natural mortality of the overwintering larvae averaged 15% in 1960 and 17% in 1961. The larvae became active when the buds started swelling in late April, left their hibernacula approximately 1 week later when the terminal leaf buds showed ⅛ to ¼ inch green extended growth, and attacked the fruit buds primarily, eating into the base of the bud and feeding therein on the developing flower parts. The larvae gradually left the fruit buds to feed on the expanding leaves, and later constructed “leaf nests” in the fully developed terminals. Larval activity was correlated closely with temperature as shown by an increase in fruit bud injury from 4% to 53% and from 5% to 33% in the 7-day interval between green tip and popcorn stage of tree growth in 1960 and 1961, respectively. By the petal-fall stage 92% and 65% of the fruit buds were injured...

BACKGROUND: Dengue viruses are transmitted by anthropophilic mosquitoes and infect approximately 50 million humans annually. To investigate impacts of future climate change on dengue virus transmission, we investigated bionomics of the mosquito vector, Aedes aegypti. METHODS: Using a dynamic life table simulation model (the Container inhabiting mosquito simulation CIMSiM) and statistically downscaled daily values for future climate, we assessed climate change induced changes to mosquito bionomics. Simulations of Ae. aegypti populations for current (1991-2011) and future climate (2046-2065) were conducted for the city of Cairns, Queensland, the population centre with most dengue virus transmission in Australia. Female mosquito abundance, wet weight, and the extrinsic incubation period for dengue virus in these mosquitoes were estimated for current and future climate (MPI ECHAM 5 model, B1 and A2 emission scenarios). RESULTS: Overall mosquito abundance is predicted to change, but results were equivocal for different climate change scenarios. Aedes aegypti abundance is predicted to increase under the B1, but decrease under the A2 scenario. Mosquitoes are predicted to have a smaller body mass in a future climate. Shorter extrinsic incubation periods are projected. CONCLUSIONS: It is therefore unclear whether dengue risk would increase or decrease in tropical Australia with climate change. Our findings challenge the prevailing view that a future...

Immature and adult stages of Anopheles (Anopheles) forattinii were collected in the Parque Nacional do Jaú, Novo Airão, Amazonas, Brazil. Larvae and pupae were taken from fresh water among floating plant debris inside flooded "igapó" forest. This species may make use of plant debris for passive dispersal throughout its distribution range.

Ninety-two samples taken during four océanographie cruises (January/February, April, August, October/November, 1972) provided material to study the bionomics and life history of Umbrina canosai. As many as 1477 specimens were examined to determine individual total length and weight, age (through otoliths readings) sex and maturity. A certain number of ovaries was examined to estimate their fecundity and determine spawning periodicity. Spatial distribution pattern of the species was obtained graphically for the different seasons using demographic isolines. Salinity, temperature and oxygen content of the bottom waters and depth related to the number of individuals caught by unit effort provided information to conclude that U. canosai migrates seasonally under the influence of the displacement of Subantarctic waters along the Southern Brazilian coast. A rather different spatial distribution was observed between immature and mature individuals. Spawning occurs throughout August/November and individuals spawn more than once during each spawning season. The recruitment of young specimens occurs during summer-autumn. There is no significant difference in the growth rate for both sexes. The weight/length relationship was significantly different for female and male values. It seems that U. canosai is closely associated with the presence of cold waters (below 16ºC).

A description of a new species of Cneoglossa (C. edsoni sp. n., type locality: Brazil, São Paulo State, City of São Paulo, Parque Estadual da Cantareira) is presented based on male and female adults, pupae and larvae. The synonymy of Buckodrillus Wittmer, 1948, with Cneoglossa Guérin-Méneville, 1843, is confirmed and C. brasiliensis (Wittmer, 1948), is a new combination. Larvae of C. edsoni were collected in submerged rotting brushwood in shallow flowing streams; pupae and adults were obtained from larvae reared in laboratory. Immatures of this genus were unknown up to date. Larval and/or adult features of species belonging to Anchytarsus Guérin-Méneville, 1843; Araeopidius Cockerell, 1906; Cladotoma Westwood, 1837; Epilichas White, 1859; Paralichas White, 1859; and, Ptilodactyla, Illiger, 1807 are described and illustrated. A cladistic analysis, conducted for 32 taxa of selected Byrrhoidea (sensu Lawrence & Newton, 1995) and 72 features of adults, larvae and pupae, is also given, in an attempt to clear up the systematic position of the Cneoglossidae. As a result of the analysis, Callirhipidae and Eulichadidae are excluded from Byrrhoidea (sensu Lawrence & Newton, 1995) and placed incertae sedis within the Elateriformia. The strict consensus cladogram of the 24 most parsimonious trees presented the following relationships: ((Byrrhidae ((Cneoglossidae...

Intervenções humanas como projetos de irrigação e usinas hidrelétricas, tem se transformado em graves problemas de saúde em muitos países, especialmente naqueles localizados nos trópicos. No presente artigo discutimos os efeitos que essas intervenções causam a dinâmica populacional dos anofelinos e nos padrões de transmissão de malaria. Foram revisados estudos feitos nas três principais regiões geográficas dos trópicos e sub-trópicos (África, Ásia e o Pacífico e Américas). Constatamos que os padrões da transmissão da malária antes da introdução dos empreendimentos, as medidas de controle, os movimentos demográficos, os padrões comportamentais das comunidades humanas e a bionomia dos anofelinos locais determinarão se o estabelecimento de campos de irrigação e/ou usinas hidrelétricas podem influenciar negativamente na saúde das pessoas. São apresentados exemplos de medidas de controle bem sucedidas nesses cenários. A utilização de Sistemas de Informação Geográfico tem sido destacada como uma importante ferramenta para subsidiar o estudo e controle da malária em áreas sob impacto ambiental.; Irrigation schemes and dams have posed a great concern on public health systems of several countries, mainly in the tropics. The focus of the present review is to elucidate the different ways how these human interventions may have an effect on population dynamics of anopheline mosquitoes and hence...

Neste trabalho é descrito um ninho de Bombus brasiliensis Lepeletier localizado no Município de Antonina, Paraná. São feitas observações sobre sua localização e arquitetura, bem como anotados alguns aspectos do comportamento de defesa da colônia da espécie em questão. São apresentados alguns dados sobre a localização dos ninhos de B. atratus Franklin (espécie próxima de B. brasilensis — cf. Pisani et al, 1966), coletados nos arredores de Castro e Curitiba, Paraná. Baseado em tais dados, o autor aventa a hipótese de que, nas áreas sujeitas a constante intervenção humana, esta espécie pode nidificar com grandes vantagens acima do chão, bastando para isso que o local escolhido apresente disponibilidade de substrato que permita aos ninhos uma expansão em plano horizontal e seja relativamente abrigado contra as intempéries. ABSTRACT On the Bionomics of Bombus brasilionsis (Hymenoptera, Apoidea) A nest of B. brasiliensis from Antonina, Paraná, South Brazil is described. Data on location and architecture of the nest, some aspects of defensive behavior, composition of the colony and condition of the members of each cast are given. Data refering to the location of the nests of B. atratus (species near of B. brasiliensis) collected in the vicinities of Castro and Curitiba...

A new species of the Dahlibruchus genus is described and information is given about its bionomics and host plants, also are mentioned general aspects about the archeological site where the insect was found.