【Aim】 The purpose of this study is to evaluate the effects of flonicamid on the predation ability of the 3rd instar larvae of Harmonia axyridis. 【Methods】 The residual film method was employed to observe and analyze the effects of exposure of the 3rd instar larvae of H. axyridis to 0.146 and 0.292 mg/mL of flonicamid on their predation ability on Aphis gossypii adults, including the predation amount, instantaneous attack rate, handling time and searching efficiency.【Results】 The predatory functional responses of the 3rd instar larvae of H. axyridis treated with 0.146 and 0.292 mg/mL of flonicamid to A. gossypii adults followed the type Ⅱ functional responses, which can be described by Holling’s disc equation. Compared with the control group treated with acetone, exposure of 0.146 and 0.292 mg/mL of flonicamid had negative impacts on the predation functional response parameters and searching efficiency of the 3rd instar larvae of H. axyridis， and the effects on the predation and searching ability became more significant with the increase of the concentration of flonicamid. In the control group, and treatment groups with 0.146 and 0.292 mg/mL of flonicamid, the instantaneous attack rates of the 3rd instar larvae of H. axyridis were 0.9260, 1.4451 and 2.1197, respectively, the maximum daily predation amounts were 392.62, 52.63 and 32.15 individuals, respectively, and the handling time was 0.0025, 0.0190 and 0.0311 h, respectively. 【Conclusion】 Exposure of the 3rd instar larvae of H. axyridis to flonicamid has negative impacts on their predation function on A. gossypii adults. Therefore, in order to better protect and utilize natural enemies, when implementing the prevention and control of A. gossypii using H. axyridis, consideration should be given to reducing or not using chemical pesticides.

【Aim】 This study aims to clarify the embryonic development process of the cicada Cryptotympana atrata and the distribution of symbionts in the embryo, determine the number of instars of nymphs, and clarify the morphogenetic process of related organs and the correlation between the morphological changes (differentiation) of nymphs and the habitat as well as the nutrient supply conditions of host plants. 【Methods】 By field collecting and laboratory artificial breeding, samples of various developmental stages of C. atrata were obtained, and the embryonic development was observed and the morphological changes of nymphs at different instars were measured and analyzed using optical microscopy and electron microscopy. 【Results】 The eggs of C. atrata are elongated with reticulated stripes on the chorion, and the micropyle is located about a quarter the distance of the egg length from the posterior pole. At the early stage of embryonic development, the symbiont Candidatus Sulcia muelleri (Sulcia) and the yeast-like fungal symbionts (YLS) gathered to form a “symbiont ball” near the posterior pole of the egg. At ~72 h after oviposition, the newly formed germ band gradually merged into the yolk, and the symbiont ball gradually moved to the anterior pole and finally entered the nearby host cells, which finally colonized the dorsal region of the 6th-8th abdominal segments. At ~55 d after oviposition, the embryo entered diapause for overwintering, and the diapause period was about 130 d. During the early stage of embryonic development, the labral appendages gradually fused basally, and eventually fused with the anteclypeus. The appendages of the mandible segment extended continuously, and modified to form the mandibular stylets. The maxillary appendages differentiated into the lateral and medial prominences, which further developed into the proximal maxillary plate (eventually disappeared) and the distal maxillary stylet, respectively. The labial appendages appeared in pairs at the early stage of embryonic development, but gradually fused to form the rostrum to contain the mandibular and maxillary stylets. At ~200 d after oviposition, the pleuropodium formed at the first abdominal segment, which gradually degenerated by the time of dorsal closure at ~210 d after oviposition. The pronymph had no tooth on the head but possessed massive tooth-bulge on the thorax and abdomen, which could help the insect to crawl out from the egg shell. At ~245 d after oviposition, some of the embryos began to hatch. The nymphs had five instars, which exhibited a series of morphological changes in the compound eyes, antennae, wing buds, thoracic legs and reproductive segments, along with the increase in body size. Particularly, the three pairs of thoracic legs showed significantly morphological/functional differentiation during the nymphal stage: the mesothoracic and metathoracic legs were slender and suitable for supporting and balancing the body; the prothoracic legs were thick and strong, with femoral comb gradually developed on the flattened femur, and an apical tooth and a blade formed on the sickle-like tibia, which are suitable for digging tunnels and fixing the body on the root of host plants for feeding. The 1st-4th instar nymphs morphologically differentiated into two types: individuals of Type Ⅰpossessed a swollen abdomen, and individuals of Type Ⅱ possessed an unswollen abdomen. In contrast, the 5th instar nymphs showed no obviously morphological differentiation. In addition, the differentiation of the 1st instar nymphs feeding on vigorous host plants appeared earlier than those feeding on weak host plants; the 1st instar nymphs with an unswollen abdomen entered the 2nd instar earlier than those with a swollen abdomen; and all the nymphs initially entered the 2nd instar with an unswollen abdomen. 【Conclusion】 During the embryonic development process of C. atrata, the symbiont ball consisting of Sulcia and YLS migrates from the posterior pole to the anterior pole of the egg, and finally colonizes the 6th-8th abdominal segments. The mandiblular stylets are coxognathic and the maxillary stylets telognathic in origin. The nymphs of C. atrata have five instars, and the morphological/functional specialization of the nymphs are closely associated with the very long, subterranean pre-adult stage and the niche shift between the nymphal and the adult stages, as well as the nutrient supply of the host plants.

Insect vectors cause significant economic losses and human casualties worldwide each year by transmitting parasites and viruses such as malaria, Zika virus, and dengue. Agricultural pests cause huge losses of crop yield every year and seriously threaten global food security. However, the current control methods based on chemical agents are insufficient to completely control the occurrence and damage of pests. At the same time, the use of chemical pesticides will induce resistance and result in environmental pollution and pesticide residues, etc. Therefore, there is an urgent need to develop new pest control strategies in production. In recent years, with the development of genome sequencing and gene editing techniques, the genetic control technology for the target pest population and their specific target genes has been rapidly developed. Compared with traditional pest control methods such as chemical control, genetic control strategies for pests have the advantages of species specificity, environmental friendliness, and efficient control. In this article, we reviewed several widely studied genetic control techniques for pests, including sterile insect technique (SIT), release of insects carrying a dominant lethal (RIDL), and gene drive (GD) technology. Finally, we presented several prospects for the research of genetic control technology for pests and its application in agricultural pest control: (1) to establish stable and efficient genetic manipulation systems; (2) to identify efficient promoters in germ cells or other tissues to improve the efficiency of gene editing or gene transformation; and (3) to elucidate the sex determination pathway of pests and excavate the key genes involved in the reproductive development of pests.

 Species interaction is a research hotspot in the fields of ecology and biogeography. Ants’ grazing and feeding of hemipteran insects is the most common phenomenon among invertebrates, a reciprocal biological interaction in which nutrients are exchanged for security. It is thought that aphids suck sap from the phloem and xylem of plants through piercing-sucking mouthparts and excrete a sugar-rich waste product called honeydew, which ants collect and use. In exchange, the ants protect the aphids from predators. However, the relationship between ants and aphids is more complex than a simple mutualism. Therefore, in this article the commensal interactions between ants and aphids were reviewed, including (1) the properties of commensal relationships (symbiosis or predation, obligate interaction or facultative interaction), origin, and adaptive evolution of both; (2) information exchange methods for commensal relationships; (3) the impact on the adaptability of both parties; (4) ecological effects (links to biological and abiotic factors); and (5) links with human activities. Finally, a systematic evaluation of the ant-aphid commensal interaction was conducted, and future studies on the diversity investigation, evolutionary biology, molecular mechanisms, interaction networks, and urbanization effects were prospected. This review will contribute to a more comprehensive and specific understanding of the basic properties, evolutionary processes, maintenance mechanisms, ecological effects, and influencing factors of ant-aphid commensal interactions.

【Aim】 To analyze and elucidate the molecular characteristics and function of the gustatory receptor gene EscrGR8 in Eucryptorrhynchus scrobiculatus, and to reveal its role in the regulation of the fecundity of female adult. 【Methods】 Based on the antennal transcriptome database of E. scrobiculatus, the cDNA full-length sequence of EscrGR8 was cloned using RACE. The expression levels of EscrGR8 in different developmental stages (egg, 1st－6th instar larvae, pupa, female adult, and male adult), and female and male adult tissues (head without antennae and proboscis, antennae, mouthparts, midgut, forefoot, testicles, ovaries, male copulatory organ and female ovipositor) of E. scrobiculatus were detected by qRT-PCR. The expression levels of EscrGR8 at 0, 6, 12, 24, 36, 48 and 72 h after RNAi through microinjection of dsRNA into female adults were detected by qRT-PCR. The oviposition selection rates, total numbers of eggs laid and hatching rates of eggs laid by female adults under different soil moisture conditions (0-10%, 11%-20%, 21%-40%, 41%-60%, 61%-80%, and 81%-100%) at 1-5 d and 6-11 d after dsEscrGR8 microinjection were determined, and the effects of inhibition of the EscrGR8 expression on the oviposition preference and fecundity of female adults were studied. 【Results】 The full-length cDNA sequence of EscrGR8 (GenBank accession no.: OR836580) of E. scrobiculatus was successfully cloned with the open reading frame (ORF) of 1 251 bp in length, encoding 416 amino acids. EscrGR8 has six transmembrane domains. Multiple sequence alignment and phylogenetic analysis results showed that EscrGR8 has a low homology to the GRs of other insects, and the amino acid sequence identity with AgraGR64f of Anthonomus grandis is 30.96%. qRT-PCR result showed that there were significant differences in the expression levels of EscrGR8 in different developmental stages and adult tissues of E. scrobiculatus. EscrGR8 had the highest expression level in female adults, and the lowest expression level in eggs. EscrGR8 was highly expressed specifically in the female ovaries. Microinjection of dsEscrGR8 not only significantly reduced the expression level of EscrGR8 within a certain period of time, but also had a significant impact on the oviposition preference of female adults. At 1-5 d after microinjection of dsEscrGR8, the oviposition selection rate and hatching rate of eggs laid by female adults under soil condition with the moisture content of 21%-40% were significantly reduced by 2466% and 1583%, respectively, compared with those of the dsGFP-microinjected control group. The oviposition selection rate increased significantly by 28.39% under soil condition with the moisture content of 81%-100%, and almost all of the eggs laid by female adults failed to hatch. 【Conclusion】 This study has confirmed the effect of gustatory receptor gene EscrGR8 on the oviposition preference and fecundity of female adults of E. scrobiculatus, which is helpful for understanding the diversity and functional specificity of gustatory receptor genes in insects.

【Aim】 To reveal the role of the superoxide dismutase genes in Liposcelis bostrychophila in response to high and low temperature stresses. 【Methods】The cDNAs of three superoxide dismutase genes Cu/Zn-SOD1, Cu/Zn-SOD2 and Fe/Mn-SOD of L. bostrychophila were cloned by RT-PCR, and their sequence characteristics were analyzed by bioinformatics methods. RT-qPCR was used to detect the relative expression levels of Cu/Zn-SOD1, Cu/Zn-SOD2 and Fe/Mn-SOD in adults at 0, 1 and 2 h under high temperature (42 ℃) and low temperature (4 ℃) stresses. 【Results】 LbCu/Zn-SOD1, LbCu/Zn-SOD2 and LbFe/Mn-SOD (GenBank accession numbers are OQ938782, OQ938783 and OQ938784, respectively) of L. bostrychophila were cloned, with the open reading frames (ORFs) of 465, 630 and 636 bp in length, encoding 154, 209 and 211 amino acids with the relative molecular weights of 15.85, 22.33 and 23.72 kD, and the isoelectric points of 6.17, 7.68 and 6.79, respectively. LbCu/Zn-SOD1 and LbCu/Zn-SOD2 had one and two Cu/Zn superoxide dismutase signatures, respectively. LbFe/Mn-SOD had one Fe/Mn superoxide dismutase signature. The results of phylogenetic analysis showed that Cu/Zn-SOD1, Cu/Zn-SOD2 and Fe/Mn-SOD were highly conserved in insects. The expression of LbCu/Zn-SOD1, LbCu/Zn-SOD2 and LbFe/Mn-SOD in adults of L. bostrychophila was induced by high temperature42 ℃ stress, and the expression levels of LbCu/Zn-SOD1 and LbCu/Zn-SOD2 inadults of L. bostrychophila were significantly higher than that of the control at 1 and 2 h. The expression level of LbFe/Mn-SOD in adults of L. bostrychophila was significantly lower than that of the control at 1 h and significantly higher than that of the control at 2 h under42 ℃stress. There was no significant difference in the expression levels of LbCu/Zn-SOD1 and LbCu/Zn-SOD2 inadults of L. bostrychophila at 1 h, while that of LbFe/Mn-SOD decreased significantly at 1 h and those of LbCu/Zn-SOD1, LbCu/Zn-SOD2 and LbFe/Mn-SOD increased significantly at 2 h under 4 ℃stress as compared with that of the control. 【Conclusion】 The superoxide dismutase genes LbCu/Zn-SOD1, LbCu/Zn-SOD2 and LbFe/Mn-SOD are involved in the tolerance of L. bostrychophila to extreme temperature stress.

【Aim】To clarify the impact of humidity change on the growth, development and fecundity of Tuta absoluta.【Methods】At the relative humidities of 15%, 35%, 55%, 75% and 95% indoor, the developmental parameters including developmental duration, pre-oviposition period, generation time, larval survival rate, adult survival rate, and number of eggs laid per female of T. absoluta were measured. The age-stage, two-sex life table s of T. absoluta were constructed, and population parameters including survival rate, fecundity, life expectancy, and reproduction value were calculated using the age-stage, two-sex life table.【Results】At the relative humidities of 15%－95%, the egg duration at the relative humidity of 15% and 95% were significantly longer than those at the relative humidities of 35%, 55%, and 75%. The 4th instar larval duration first shortened and then lengthened with the relative humidity increased. The male adult longevity increased with the rising relative humidity, reaching the maximum at  the relative humidity of 95%. The female adult longevity was the longest at the relative humidity of 75%. The generation time was significantly longer at relative humidity of 95% than those at other relative humidities. The number of eggs laid per female increased with the increasing relative humidity. The initial oviposition time of female adults was affected by the relative humidity, the initial oviposition time were 31, 27, 27, 27 and 31 d at the relative humidities of 15%, 35%, 55%, 75% and 95%, respectively. The population age specific net maternity and age-stage-specific reproductive value increased with the rising relative humidity, reaching the maximum at the relative humidity of 95%. The intrinsic rate of increase and finite rate of increase initially increased and then decreased with the rising relative humidity, the net reproductive rate increased with the rising relative humidity. The mean generation time initially decreased and then increased with the rising relative humidity. According to the parameters of the population life table, the prediction of population dynamics within next 60 d indicated that the relative humidity of 95% was conducive to the increase of population size, relative humidities of 15% and 95% were unfavorable to the increase of the population generation number. The impacts of different relative humidities on the survival rates of eggs and larvae were significant through linear regression fitting. 【Conclusion】Within the test setting relative humidity range, the optimal relative humidities for the growth and development of T. absoluta are 55% and 75%, and the optimum relative humidity for reproduction are 95%.

【Aim】To make better use of sex pheromones in the monitoring and control of the tomato leafminer, Tuta absoluta, and to further study the circadian rhythms of its movement, calling and mating behavior. 【Methods】For T. absoluta adults, video recording and two-dimensional trajectories were used to analyze their movements. Solid-phase microextraction (SPME) adsorption extraction and gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) were used to analyze the sex pheromone titer in female adults. In tomato greenhouses in Xichang City, Sichuan Province from August to September 2022, field trapping experiments were carried out to analyze the relationship between the sex pheromone titers of T. absoluta adults and their day-old age and circadian rhythm based on the trapping results. The mating behavior was observed in indoor insect cages, and the reproductive system of the male adult was observed by dissection, and the relationship between development and day-old age was analyzed. 【Results】The results showed that in the indoor natural environment, the movement of female and male adults occurred from the 5th hour of the scotophase to the 2nd hour of the photophase, with the peak at the 5th to 7th hour of the scotophase, and there was no significant difference in the time and distance of movement between females and males, and between the 1-7-day-old assayed. The sex pheromones of T. absoluta can be detected in adults at the 1-11-day-old, but there was no significant difference in the sex pheromone titer between day-old ages. The sex pheromones released by female adults were detected during the entire 24 h period, and the difference in the sex pheromone titer between different periods was not significant. Mating did not significantly affect the sex pheromone titer in female adults. However, the male adults in the field were trapped from the 7th hour of the scotophase to the 2nd hour of the photophase. T. absoluta adults were able to mate on the same day of emergence, and the mating rate was the highest when the male adults were at the 3-day-old, and then decreased, but there was no significant difference in the mating duration between day-old ages. The peak time of mating occurred at the 7th and 10th hour of the scotophase, and there was no new mating after the photophase. The testicular volume of male adults decreased as the day-old age increased, and based on the testicular volume of male adults caught by sex pheromone trapping, it was calculated that the age of those trapped males was 3-7-day-old. 【Conclusion】The calling and mating time of T. absoluta adults occurred at the end period of the scotophase. The sex pheromone titer of female adults remained at a consistently high level at different day-old ages and circadian rhythms, and mating did not significantly affect sex pheromone titer, resulting in older male adults being caught by pheromone trapping, and their testes were the same size as those of the 7-day-old male adults, and most of them may have already mated. The data here give a more clear description of the calling and mating behavior of T. absoluta adults, thus, they can provide technical bases and parameters for the development and application of mass trapping and mating disruption by sex pheromones.

【Aim】This study aims to identify the G-protein β-subunit gene (NlGβ) in the brown planthopper, Nilaparvata lugens, and analyze its function, so as to supply a potential novel target gene for RNAi-based control of N. lugens. 【Methods】The coding sequence (CDS) of NlGβ of N. lugens was cloned and verified using PCR, and subjected to bioinformatics analysis. The spatiotemporal expression patterns of NlGβ were analyzed based on its transcriptome expression profiles in different developmental stages (egg, 1st-5th instar nymphs, and female and male adults) and adult tissues (head, leg, gut, cuticle, fat body, female reproductive system, and male reproductive system) of N. lugens. Microinjection of dsRNA against NlGβ was performed on the 2nd and 5th instar nymphs to silence NlGβ. Individual and female reproductive system phenotypes were observed, and the survival rate, number of eggs laid per female, and egg hatching rate were counted. Additionally, transmission electron microscopy was employed to observe the lateral oviduct intumescent region. 【Results】 The CDS of NlGβ (GenBank accession no.: XP_022200908.1) of N. lugens was 948 bp in length. The NlGβ protein comprised seven WD40 domains and four WD_REPEATS_1 motifs, indicating its conservation. Apart from the homologous proteins found in orthopteran insects, homologous NlGβs from other insect orders clustered well within the same evolutionary branch. The expression level of NlGβ exhibited periodic change during the 1st-3rd instar nymphal stages, and those in the 5th instar female nymphs and female adults were higher than those in the 5th instar male nymphs and male adults. NlGβ was expressed in various tissues of adults, with the highest expression level in the fat body, and the expression level of NlGβ in female reproductive system was higher than that in male reproductive system. Silencing NlGβ in the 2nd instar nymphs resulted in molting difficulty, leading to a significant decrease in the survival rate compared to the dsGFP control group. Silencing NlGβ in the 5th instar nymphs resulted in abnormal abdominal swelling in adult females, malformed ovarian development, a significant decrease in the number of eggs laid per female compared to the dsGFP control group, failure of egg hatching, an increase in secretion within the lateral oviduct intumescent region, and degradation of epithelial cells. 【Conclusion】 NlGβ is closely associated with the growth and development of N. lugens and the reproduction of its female individuals.

Rice, as a major staple crop in China, is directly threatened by disease and pest infestations, which jeopardize its safe production. Rice pests are diverse, and their outbreak mechanisms are complex, making the development of green control technologies challenging. Indepth research into rice pest monitoring and early warning technologies, developmental and reproductive regulation mechanisms, chemical communication mechanisms, and novel control technologies not only helps elucidate the outbreak mechanisms of rice pests but also provides new effective control targets and techniques for integrated pest management. In recent years, Chinese scholars have made significant progress in the field of rice pest research, gaining important achievements in multiple research directions, and some recent research findings were presented in this special issue. In this article, we outline the latest progresses in rice pest research at home and abroad, introduce the main research contents of this special issue, and propose the following three research directions worthy of further attention: (1) intelligent monitoring and early warning of rice pests; (2) mechanisms and evolution patterns of rice pest outbreaks; and (3) exploration of green control targets for rice pests and the construction and application of sustainable control systems.

【Aim】The aim of this study is to identify the upstream regulatory sequence of the male determining factor gene MoY of the melon fly, Zeugodacus cucurbitae， and to explore the impact of this sequence on the sex determination of Z. cucurbitae by directing the expression of MoY in the early embryonic stages, so as to provide a reference basis and available elements for the construction of the subsequent Z. cucurbitae transgenic strains.【Methods】We amplified and sequenced the upstream sequence of MoY linked to the Y chromosome of Z. cucurbitae using the genome-walking, and connected the obtained upstream sequence to the CDS region of MoY to construct a plasmid that drives the expression of MoY. We injected the plasmid expressing MoY into the fresh embryos of Z. cucurbitae, and after hatching, extracted the genomic DNA based on the observed adult phenotype and sex ratio to amplify MoY so as to determine whether the upstream regulatory sequence of MoY had the activity of directing MoY expression and analyze the impact of MoY expression in embryos on the gender determination. 【Results】The upstream sequence of 1 660 bp of MoY of Z. cucurbitae was cloned and obtained, and the plasmid p1660 that drives the MoY expression was constructed. Eighteen male and 13 female adults developed from the injected embryos of Z. cucurbitae, and three adults were found to have abnormal genitalia, with negative amplification results for MoY, confirming them as intersex individuals. 【Conclusion】In this study, we found that the upstream regulatory sequence of MoY of Z. cucurbitae obtained by genome-walking amplification has the activity of directing the expression of MoY. When MoY is expressed in the early stages of Z. cucurbitae embryos, the gender reversal in the previously developed female individuals can be happened.

 【Aim】 To clarify the effects of high temperature treatment on the growth, development and reproduction of the seven-spot ladybird, Coccinella septempunctata. 【Methods】 Based on the high temperature status of the two representative areas (plant cover and plant upper surface) in the facility environment, the artificial climate chamber was used to simulate the above high temperature environment, and the effects of different high temperatures (37 and 42 ℃) (constant temperatures) and their combinations (variable temperatures) on the growth, development and reproduction of C. septempunctata were determined, and the data of life table parameters such as growth and development, fertility and survival rate were analyzed and processed using software such as the age-stage, two-sex life table TWOSEX-MSChart. 【Results】 The higher the temperature and the longer the duration of the high temperature, the faster the development of C. septempunctata, the shorter the longevity, and the lower the fecudity. Under the constant temperature 42 ℃ and variable temperatures 25-42 ℃, C. septempunctata could not complete development, and its longevity was 3.43 and 4.70 d, respectively; under the constant temperature 37 ℃, C. septempunctata could complete development, but the fecudity was 0, the immature duration was 11.67 d, the adult longevity was 7.75 d, and the body weight of the newly emerged adult was 0.0207 g, which were significantly lower than the corresponding indicators of the control (under the constant temperature 25 ℃) (the immature duration was 17.64 d, the adult longevity was 51.51 d, and the body weight of the newly emerged adult was 0.0277 g, respectively). Under the variable temperatures 25-37 ℃, C. septempunctata could develop and reproduce, but the hatching rate of eggs was 0, the immature duration was 15.16 d, the adult longevity was 22.84 d, the oviposition period was 4.57 d, the fecundity was 41.86 grains/female, the body weight of the newly emerged adult was 0.0220 g, the gross reproductive rate (GRR) was 17.213, the intrinsic rate of increase (r_m) was 0.072 d^-1, the finite rate of increase (λ) was 1.075 d^-1, the net reproductive rate (R₀) was 5.749, and the mean generation time (T) was 21.188 d, all of which were significantly lower than the corresponding indicators of the control, which were 28.28 d, 1 410.52 grains/female, 0.0277 g, 708.110, 0.256 d-1, 1.293 d-1, 673.205, and 25.304 d, respectively. In particular, under the variable temperatures 25-37 ℃, the 3rd instar larval duration of C. septempunctata (2.19 d) was significantly longer than that of the control (1.89 d), while that under the constant temperature 37 ℃ (1.15 d) was significantly shorter than that of the control; the adult pre-oviposition period (APOP) under the variable temperatures 25-37 ℃ was longer than that of the control, but there was no significant difference between them. 【Conclusion】C. septempunctata can’t adapt to the constant temperature 42 ℃ and variable temperatures 25-42 ℃ conditions, can adapt to the constant temperature 37 ℃ and variable temperatures 25-37 ℃ conditions, but it can’t reproduce under the constant temperature 37 ℃ condition, the number of eggs laid is significantly reduced and the eggs can’t hatch under the variable temperatures 25-37 ℃. The results suggest that high temperature can have a significant impact on the reproductive development and reproduction of C. septempunctata, and it is feasible to apply C. septempunctata for pest control under facility conditions, but it is more suitable for use in spring and autumn than in summer.

【Aim】This study aims to investigate the molecular characteristics, expression patterns, and biological functions of the mucin-like protein EfMLP genes of Empoasca flavescens. 【Methods】Based on the transcriptome data of E. flavescens, the full-length cDNA sequences of four EfMLP genes were cloned by PCR and analyzed by bioinformatics. qRT-PCR was used to detect the expression levels of EfMLP genes across different developmental stages (egg, 1st-5th instar nymphs, and newly emerged female and male adults), and in different tissues (integument, fat body, salivary gland, gut, ovary, and testis) of the newly emerged adults. EfMLP2 and EfMLP4 in the 5th instar nymph were silenced by RNAi through feeding method, and the survival rates of E. flavescens after silencing the EfMLP genes by RNAi were determined by bioassay. 【Results】 The full-length cDNA sequences of four EfMLP genes of E. flavescens were obtained, and named EfMLP1, EfMLP2, EfMLP3 and EfMLP4 with the GenBank accession numbers of OR504428, OR504429, OR504430 and OR504431, respectively. The obtained four EfMLPs all contain highly repetitive tandem repeat sequences, which are rich in O-linked glycosylation sites, forming the mucin domain (MD). Among them, both EfMLP3 and EfMLP4 contain a conserved type-2 chitin binding domain (CBD). Phylogenetic analysis result revealed that EfMLPs were divided into two different branches belonging to two different MLP types, which showed no correlation with insect taxonomy, but might be considered to be related to their functions. EfMLP1 and EfMLP2 exhibited specifically high expression in the newly emerged female and male adults and the salivary glands of the newly emerged adults. In contrast, the expression of EfMLP3 and EfMLP4 was identified in various developmental stages, including egg, nymphal and adult stages, as well as in diverse tissues such as the fat body of the newly emerged adult. Inhibition of the expression of EfMLP2 and EfMLP4 in E. flavescens by feeding dsEfMLP2 and dsEfMLP4 significantly reduced the survival rate of E. flavescens compared with the control group fed with dsGFP. 【Conclusion】 EfMLPs play an important role in the feeding of E. flavescens and can be used as a potential target in control of this pest insect based on RNAi strategies.

【Aim】 Papilio polytes is an important pest of citrus plants with its larvae feeding on citrus leaves. This study aims to identify the volatile components from the branches and leaves of citrus that have the electrophysiological activity to the antennae of P. polytes adults, and to investigate the effects of these volatile compounds on the behavioral selection of P. polytes, so as to provide the basic data for further revealing the mechanism of oviposition selection of P. polytes, and the control and utilization of this insect. 【Methods】 The volatiles were collected from the branches and leaves of citrus by dynamic headspace adsorption. The electrophysiologically active compounds to the antennae of P. polytes adults were identified from the volatiles by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) and coupled gas chromatography-electroantennogram detection (GC-EAD) techniques. Electroantennogram (EAG) apparatus was further used to test the EAG responses of P. polytes to 12 volatile compounds from the branches and leaves of citrus, including linalool, citral, guaiacol, leaf alcohol, furfuryl alcohol, nonanal, (+)-limonene, (-)-limonene, n-butyl butyrate, 1-nonanol, L-carvone and R-carvone. T-type olfactometer was used to determine the olfactory behavioral responses of P. polytes adults to five volatile compounds eliciting high EAG responses. Oviposition preference test was carried out to study the influence of four volatile compounds with attractive effect on the oviposition preference of female adults of P. polytes. 【Results】 The female and male adults of P. polytes showed concentration-dependent EAG responses to the tested volatile compounds from the branches and leaves of citrus. Thereinto, the EAG response values of the 1- and 5-day-old female adults to leaf alcohol, linalool, citral and nonanal were significantly higher than those of the 1- and 5-day-old male adults, respectively, and the EAG response values of the 1-day-old female and male adults to leaf alcohol, linalool, nonanal, guaiacol, 1-nonanol, L-carvone and R-carvone were higher than those of the 5-day-old female and male adults, respectively. The results of olfactory behavior test showed that at the dose of 100 μg, linalool had a significant attractive effect on both female and male adults of P. polytes, meanwhile, citral only significantly attracted male adults but had no significantly attractive effect on female adults, and guaiacol significantly attracted male adults but significantly repelled female adults. Results of oviposition preference test showed that linalool, citral, nonanal and leaf alcohol had attractiveness on the oviposition behavior of the female adults of P. polytes, among them leaf alcohol and linalool showed significant oviposition attractiveness. 【Conclusion】 The olfactory behavior response and oviposition preference of P. polytes adults are significantly affected by the different volatile components from the branches and leaves of the host citrus, and linalool has the strongest attractive effect and oviposition attractiveness to P. polytes adults, suggesting that linalool may play an important role in the location and host selection of P. polytes adults.

Insects and plants are important components of biological community in nature and have evolved complex interactions during the long-term evolution process. For example, plants have evolved complex defense strategies to resist insect damage, meanwhile, insects have also evolved more adaptive ways to get more resources for survival. Therefore, studies that focus on the mutual adaptation between insects and host plants are important for effective pest control and cultivation of insect-resistant plants. In the study of the interactions between insects and host plants, the effective components of the oral secretions from herbivorous insects such as saliva or regurgitant liquid, egg secretions, intestinal compounds and microorganisms as the intermediate media to connect insects and plants not only play important roles in inducing or enhancing plant defense, but also have some functions of inhibiting or weakening plant defense. Therefore, according to the role played by the effective components, the oral secretions from herbivorous insects can be divided into elicitors and effectors. In this review article, we introduced the main types of insect effectors including calciumbinding proteins, enzymes and venom proteins, and elicitors including fatty acid amino acid conjugates, polypeptides and enzymes, and the main ways of mediating plant defense from the perspective of insect secretion, clarified the different strategies of herbivorous insects adapting to plant defense, which not only contribute to the in-depth analysis of the interaction mechanism between insects and plants, but also provide new ideas for green and effective pest control and breeding of plant resistant varieties.

 Invasive alien insects, as dangerous pests in newly introduced areas, present challenges such as delayed detection, difficult monitoring, rapid outbreaks and incomplete eradication. These issues have long been the emphases and difficulties in the field of biosecurity worldwide. In this article, we made an overview of the major progress in the studies on the mechanisms of population outbreak and causing disaster, monitoring and early warning technologies, and control measures for invasive alien insects in China. We also summarized and introduced the main contents of this special issue from three aspects: The researches on population dynamics monitoring, mechanisms of insect resistance, and green control technologies for pest insects. Finally, we prospected the development trends of standardization, informatization, intelligence, and greening of monitoring and control of invasive alien insects in the future, and proposed the key directions for future control and management strategies for these pests, in order to promote more efficient, integrated and sustainable control approaches through technological innovation.

【Aim】Apterous (Ap) is a developmental regulatory protein belonging to the LIM domain family. This study aims to elucidate the role of the Ap gene in the wing development of the white-backed planthopper, Sogatella furcifera. 【Methods】 Based on the genome and transcriptome databases of S. furcifera, the cDNA sequence of SfAp was verified by RT-PCR and subjected to bioinformatic analysis. RT-qPCR was used to detect the expression levels of SfAp in different developmental stages (1st－5th instar nymphs, and female and male adults) and various adult tissues (head, thorax, abdomen, leg, wing, integument, fat body and gut) of S. furcifera. The growth and development of S. furcifera were observed after silencing SfAp in the 3rd instar nymphs using RNAi, and the survival rate, total mortality rate, and wing deformity rate after RNAi were counted, while the expression levels of the key genes involved in wing development signaling pathways (bursicon genes SfBurs-α and SfBurs-β, Hippo signaling pathway genes SfHippo and SfSal, Wnt signaling pathway gene SfWg, Hedgehog signaling pathway genes SfHh and SfDpp, and SfHOW) were measured using RT-qPCR. 【Results】 The open reading frame of SfAp (GenBank accession no.: PP901867) of S. furcifera was cloned, with the length of 1 287 bp encoding a protein of 428 amino acids. The encoded protein has the predicted molecular weight of 47.41 kD and the theoretical isoelectric point of 8.99. SfAp has the conserved typical LIM domain. SfAp was closely related to NlAp of Nilaparvata lugens, and their amino acid sequence identity was 84.86%. Developmental expression profile result revealed that SfAp exhibited high expression levels before the 4th instar nymph followed by a gradual decline, a significant increase on the 3rd day of the 5th instar nymph, and a subsequent decrease after adult eclosion. Tissue expression profile result showed that the expression level of SfAp in the adult thorax was the highest, followed by those in the abdomen, fat body, and gut. Microinjection of dsSfAp resulted in the impaired wing extension and wing deformation of the eclosed adults, and significantly suppressed the expression of the wing development-related genes SfBurs-α, SfBurs-β, SfHippo, SfSal, SfWg, SfHh, SfDpp and SfHOW. 【Conclusion】 SfAp influences wing expansion and development of S. furcifera by modulating the expression levels of the key genes involved in the wing development signaling pathway.

Eumeninae is the most diverse among all subfamilies belonging to Vespidae, with about 3 800 species in 204 genera described, wide geographical distribution, and great nesting strategy variety. Eumeninae are great valuable for studies concerning the evolution of eusociality, since their behavior ranges from the vast majority of solitary to very few primitively social. Nesting during the breeding period is an important stage for the life history of potter wasps, and also an important guarantee for the reproductive success of their offspring. Based on the nesting habits, traditionally, Eumeninae may be classified into three types: excavators, renters and builders. However, nesting plasticity may be observed even among conspecific females. Regardless of the nesting type, mud is typically used by Eumeninae for nest construction, but some species use chewed leaves or fine gravel, and a few species even camouflage their nests with plant material or bird droppings. Food supply represents the largest investment (in terms of time and energy) that a female wasp makes in her lifetime. Most solitary Eumeninae wasps are truncated progressive provisioners (provision cells with paralyzed insect prey as food for larvae), however, some wasps show primitive signs of social behaviour (presocial), which practices progressive provisioning, especially when there is scarcity of prey. Eumeninae mostly prey on larvae of Lepidoptera (Geometridae and Tortricidae) and Coleoptera (Chrysomelidae and Curculionidae), thus they have an important role in biological control of lepidopterous and coleopterous pests of agricultural importance. Despite Eumeninae importance, their nesting biology remains poorly known, and even less has been studied inChina. Therefore, in this article, we reviewed the research status of the nesting biology of Eumeninae and made suggestions of future research in the following three areas: (1) Research on the nesting biology of dominant Eumeninae species in different regions; (2) Study on the relationship of food web between plants, phytophagous pests, potter wasps and their natural enemy insects, thus revealing the important functions of Eumeninae species in agriculture and natural ecosystems; and (3) Research on the application of dominant Eumeninae species in the biological control of pests.

 【Aim】 Apolipoprotein D (ApoD) is an extracellular protein involved in various biological functions, including metabolism, tissue development, immunity and antioxidation. It serves as a crucial molecular basis for anti-aging and lifespan extension. This study aims to elucidate the duplication and expansion extent, and phylogenesis of ApoD genes in the genomes of spider mites and explore the impact of multifunctional ApoD genes on the longevity and reproduction of Tetranychus urticae.【Methods】 A combined approach utilizing BLASTP, HMMER, TBLASTN and GEMOMA was employed to identify the members of the ApoD gene family in the genomes of Aculops lycopersici, Tetranychus truncatus and T. urticae. The phylogenetic tree of ApoDs from bacteria, fungi, plants, mammals, insects, gall mites and spider mites was constructed with the maximum likelihood method. Based on the expression profiles of the ApoD family genes of T. urticae in different developmental stages (egg, nymph, 1-day-old female adult and 5-day-old female adult) and nymphs or adults on different host plants (bean, Arabidopsis thaliana, tomato, eggplant, cotton and cucumber), four genes (ApoDR2, ApoD9, ApoD17 and ApoD24) were selected for further RNAi. The RNAi of ApoDR2, ApoD9, ApoD17, and ApoD24 in the newly molted adult females was conducted through immersion in dsRNA, and the survival rate and the daily average number of eggs laid per female within 10 d were monitored. 【Results】 A total of 68 ApoD genes in the T. urticae genome were identified. There were 33 of 68 ApoD genes in the closely related T. truncatus and one in A. lycopersici. Outside the Tetranychidae family, organisms typically possessed 1-10 ApoD genes. Phylogenetic analysis result revealed that the ApoD gene family in spider mites clustered into three major clades, aligning with lipid transport protein genes of insects, gall mites and fungi, respectively. The expanded ApoD lineage of spider mites exhibited multiple unique conserved sites shared with fungal ApoD genes, and the maximum likelihood tree suggested a close evolutionary relationship between them. Most of these ApoD genes exhibited high expression levels in nymph and adult and displayed diverse expression regulation patterns in T. urticae fed on different host plants. The silencing of ApoDR2 and ApoD9 showed no significant impact on the fitness of T. urticae, while the silencing of ApoD17 and ApoD24 significantly reduced the survival rate and daily average number of eggs laid per female of T. urticae, with the silencing of ApoD17 exhibiting greater effects on the survival rate and daily average number of eggs laid per female withing 10 d compared with the control. 【Conclusion】 The ApoD genes, likely acquired from fungal horizontal transfer, underwent substantial expansion in the genomes of spider mites, showing varying degrees of impacts on the longevity and reproduction of T. urticae. However, the multifunctionality of ApoD genes in spider mites requires further investigation.

【Aim】 Emamectin benzoate (EMB) is a novel antibiotic bio-derived insecticide and highly efficient in controlling lepidopteran pests. This study aims to investigate the sublethal effects of EMB on the rice pest of Hemiptera, Sogatella furcifera. 【Methods】 Using rice stem-dipping method, we first determined the LC₁₀, LC₂₅ and LC₅₀ values of EMB against the 3rd instar nymphs of S. furcifera reared for 72 h on the rice seedlings treated with EMB at different concentrations. The 3rd instar nymphs of S. furcifera were reared on rice seedlings treated with EMB at the LC₁₀, LC₂₅ and LC₅₀ concentrations for 48 h through the rice stem-dipping method. The female adult longevity and the number of eggs laid per female of the F₀ generation were determined. The duration of egg and the 1st-5th instar nymphs, adult longevity, pre-adult duration, total developmental duration, adult pre-oviposition period, adult total preoviposition period, and the number of eggs laid per female of the F₁ generation were counted to construct the age-stage, two-sex life table. The population dynamics of S. furcifera were predicted in 60 d by using Timing-MSChart software. 【Results】 The LC₅₀, L_C25 and LC₁₀ values of EMB against the 3rd instar nymphs of S. furcifera were 0.831, 0.222 and 0.068 mg/L, respectively, at 72 h after treatment. In the F₀ generation, S. furcifera female adults treated with EMB at the concentrations of LC₁₀, LC₂₅ and LC₅₀ had reduced average longevity by 7.19%, 24.81% and 34.21%, and decreased number of eggs laid per female by 22.24%, 31.22% and 41.53%, respectively, compared with the control group. EMB at the LC₂₅ concentration significantly prolonged the 5th instar female nymphal duration of the F₁ generation and EMB at the LC₅₀ concentration significantly prolonged the male adult longevity and total developmental duration of the F₁ generation compared with the control group. EMB at the LC₂₅ and LC₅₀ concentrations significantly prolonged the adult pre-oviposition period and total pre-oviposition period of the F₁ generation of S. furcifera, and significantly reduced the intrinsic rate of increase (r) and finite rate of increase (λ) of the F₁ generation compared with the control group. EMB at the LC₅₀ concentration significantly decreased the net reproductive rate (R₀) of the F1 generation and EMB at the LC₂₅ concentration significantly prolonged the mean generation time (T) of the F₁ generation compared with the control group. The three sublethal concentrations (LC₁₀, LC₂₅ and LC₅₀) of EMB significantly inhibited the population growth of S. furcifera. 【Conclusion】Sublethal concentrations of EMB have significant impacts on the longevity and fecundity of S. furcifera adults, and can decrease the population size of their offspring. The results of this study provide a theoretical basis for the field control of S. furcifera in agriculture.

【Aim】 Carboxylesterases (CCEs) are an important hydrolase superfamily and have a role in the metabolism of various exogenous substances in insects. This study aims to lay a foundation for further research on the potential functions of CCEs in different physiological processes by analyzing the expression patterns of CCE genes from transcriptome datasets of Anopheles sinensis at different developmental stages, in different tissues, and before and after blood meal. 【Methods】 Based on 50 CCE genes collected from the obtained transcriptome data of the An. sinensis laboratory strain, the expression patterns of CCE genes in An. sinensis at different developmental stages (egg, 1st-4th instar larvae, male pupa, female pupa, male adult and female adult), in different adult tissues (antennae, salivary gland, midgut, Malpighian tubules, testis, ovary, cuticle and fat body), and female adults before and after blood meal (at 1, 3, 6, 12, 24 and 48 h) were analyzed by bioinformatics. 【Results】 CCE genes were mainly highly or specifically expressed in the larval or adult stages. AsAe12, AsAe4 and AsBe4 were highly expressed during all developmental stages. The expression patterns of CCE genes were also tissue specific and mainly expressed in antennae, cuticle and testis of adults. Moreover, five CCE genes (AsAe13, AsAe12, AsAe6, AsAe4 and AsBe4) were highly expressed in the midgut, Malpighian tubules and fat body of adults, suggesting their potential involvement in xenobiotic metabolism within these detoxification organs. After feeding female adults with blood meal, the expression levels of most CCE genes changed, and their expression patterns were different, suggesting that the blood digestion is a complex process. 【Conclusion】 The results of this study have enriched the knowledge of CCE genes in An. sinensis, providing a valuable reference for further research on the potential function of CCE family genes in the growth and development of An. sinensis.

【Aim】To identify gene groups with the most significant changes in the expression in integuments of Anopheles sinensis pupae under melanization-inducing conditions, and explore their correlations with melanin precursor accumulation and cuticular structural features. 【Methods】Grace’s insect cell medium was supplemented with the melanin precursors dopa and dopamine. An. sinensis pupal integuments were subjected to in vitro cultivation within the first 20 min of pupation, and a control group (CK) was not treated with melanin precursors. At 16 h after cultivation, pupal integuments from the melanin precursor-treated groups and control group were observed to assess their coloration and cuticular cross-sectional features using a stereomicroscope. The integument transcriptome sequencing of the melanin precursor-treated and control groups was performed using the Illumina platform. GO functional classification and KEGG pathway enrichment analysis were performed on the differentially expressed genes (DEGs). The gene annotations and chromosome distributions of significantly enriched DEGs were analyzed. qRT-PCR was conducted to validate the transcriptome data. 【Results】The integuments and cuticular cross-sections of pupae of An. sinensis treated with dopa and dopamine exhibited noticeable melanization compared with those of CK, and dopa treatment resulted in the deepest pigmentation. The cuticle exhibited significant thickening in the dopa and dopamine treatment groups compared with that of CK, and the degree of thickness was correlated with the degree of melanization. There were 2 952 and 697 DEGs were identified from dopa treatment group vs CK and dopamine treatment group vs CK comparison groups, respectively, and the down-regulated genes predominated. The numbers of the shared up-regulated DEGs and down-regulated DEGs between these two comparison groups were 223 and 347, respectively. GO functional classification result showed that the shared up-regulated DEGs in the above comparison groups and the shared up-regulated DEGs in both comparison groups were significantly enriched to structural constituent of cuticle (GO: 0042302). KEGG pathway enrichment analysis result indicated that the up-regulated DEGs in the dopa treatment group vs CK comparison group were significantly enriched to spliceosome pathway, and the down-regulated DEGs were significantly enriched to Toll-Imd and Hippo signaling pathways. The down-regulated DEGs in the dopamine treatment group vs CK comparison group were significantly enriched to autophagy pathway. No DEGs shared between these two comparison groups were significantly enriched to any pathways. In addition, 65 significantly enriched up-regulated cuticular protein genes belonged to the CPR, CPF, TWDL, CPLC, and CPAP five families and distributed on three chromosomes, and some members were clustered. The expression levels detected by qPCR-PCR for 12 selected shared up-regulated cuticular protein genes in both comparison groups were consistent with the transcriptome data. 【Conclusion】This omics-level study showed that the excessive accumulation of melanin in mosquito pupal integuments led to the significant up-regulation of a large number of cuticular protein genes and changes in cuticular structural features. These findings facilitate subsequent studies of the mechanisms that allow melanin precursors to regulate cuticular structural genes, and to understand the impacts of interactions between important components of the cuticle on the adaptive traits in insects, supplying a new perspective on the impact of insect adaptive traits.

【Aim】 To clone the odorant receptor (OR) gene HvarOR21 highly expressed in the antennae of the variegated lady beetle, Hippodamia variegata and clarify the ligand binding characteristics of HvarOR21, so as to provide a theoretical basis for revealing the recognition mechanism of the localization of prey habitats for H. variegata. 【Methods】 Based on the adult antennal transcriptome sequencing data and the identification results of odorant receptors of H. variegata, the cDNA sequence of HvarOR21 with a complete open reading frame (ORF) was cloned using PCR. Phylogenetic analysis and sequence analysis were used to study the classification and sequence structure characteristics of HvarOR21, respectively. Through the heterologous expression in Xenopus oocytes coupled with two-electrode voltage clamp recording, the electrophysiological responses of the recombinant HvarOR21 to 66 candidate odorant compounds were determined. Using homology modeling and molecular docking simulation analysis, the binding sites between HvarOR21 and decanal were predicted. 【Results】 The full-length cDNA sequence of HvarOR21 (GenBank accession no.: PP236119) of H. variegata was cloned and the deduced protein has seven transmembrane domains with an intracellular N-terminus and an extracellular C-terminus, which conforms to the typical structure of insect odorant receptors, belonging to the coleopteran OR group 5 subfamily. The recombinant HvarOR21 specifically tuned to decanal in a dose-dependent manner. HvarOR21 bound multiple amino acid residues with decanal through hydrophobic interactions and van der Waals forces, with the binding energy of －22.18 kJ/mol.【Conclusion】 Decanal is a volatile compound emitted from cotton plants infested by Aphis gossypii. HvarOR21 has a specific electrophysiological response to decanal with strong binding affinity, suggesting that HvarOR21 plays an important role in the localization of prey habitats for H. variegata.

The Lepidoptera:Geometridae adults are mostly medium-sized moths, and their larvae are called "inchworms". Geometridae pests are one of the most destructive defoliators on litchi (Litchi chinensis) and longan (Dimocarpus longan). There were 10 species of Geometridae pests that have been reported on litchi and longan inChinato data, and 8 common species including Thalassodes immissaria, Ascotis selenaria, Hyposidra talaca, Biston (Buzura) suppressaria, Perixera illepidaria, Thalassodes quadraria, Berta chrysolineata hainanensis and Sauris interruptaria inGuangdongprovince were reported. Up to now, the researches of Geometridae pests of litchi and longan have been only reported in 15 literatures, among them the number of reports of T. immissaria were the highest (7). However, other Geometridae pests damaging on litchi and longan, such as B. chrysolineata hainanensis and S. interruptaria have no research reports. In this article, we reviewed the research progress of five dominant Geometridae species, including T. immissaria, A. selenaria, H. talaca, Pelagodes proquadraria and B. (Buzura) suppressaria. Moreover, we introduced the research status and integrated pest control technologies regarding agricultural, physical, biological and chemical control measures for Geometridae pests of litchi and longan in detail. The biological control technology of Geometridae pests focuses on the protection and utilization of natural enemies, as well as the development and application of biogenic pesticides and insect sex pheromones. So far, the effective components of sex pheromones from 4 species including T. immissaria, A. selenaria, Chiasmia cinerearia and B. (Buzura) suppressaria have been identified successfully. However, application of chemical insecticides is the main control technology for Geometridae pests. There are no registered insecticides for control of Geometridae pests on lychee and longan, posing a great challenge for agriculturalist to guide the use of insecticides. This review will help researchers to be informed of the research status of Geometridae pests, and provides references and inspirations for the development and application of control techniques for Geometridae pests.

【Aim】 The objective of this research is to clarify the resistance level and resistance stability of chlorantraniliprole in the rice leaffolder, Cnaphalocrocis medinalis, and to determine whether there are cross-resistance to other diamide insecticides in chlorantraniliprole-resistant populations. 【Methods】 The rice seedling dipping method was adopted to determine the resistance of 32 field populations of C. medinalis collected from nine provinces (autonomous regions) to chlorantraniliprole and tetraniliprole, the cross-resistance to other diamide insecticides in two chlorantranilipeole-resistant populations, and the resistance stability when the populations from Youxian, Hunan, Qianshan, Anhui, Lujiang, Anhui and Xing′an,Guangxi were not exposed to chlorantraniliprole in laboratory. 【Results】 The resistance of chlorantraniliprole in C. medinalis field populations kept increasing during 2019-2022. Lujiang, Xing′an, Wuxue, Danyang and Qianshan populations were monitored for the first time to have developed high level of resistance to chlorantraniliprole (102.3-135.1-fold), and other populations also reached moderate level of resistance (10.3-97.1-fold) in 2022. To tetraniliprole, all the monitored field populations kept susceptible during 2019-2021, while the populations monitored in 2022 have developed moderate level of resistance (41.9-98.0-fold). Moreover, the cross-resistance experiment results revealed that Jiaxing and Qianshan populations which appeared about 100-fold resistance to chlorantraniliprole also showed 31.6-100.5-fold cross-resistance to cyhalodiamide, tetraniliprole, cyantraniliprole, cyclaniliprole and tetrachlorantraniliprole. In addition, the chlorantraniliprole resistance of field populations decreased rapidly after 2-4 generations of successive rearing without exposure to insecticides in laboratory. 【Conclusion】 The field populations of C. medinalis have developed moderate to high level of resistance to chlorantraniliprole and tetraniliprole. Moderate to high level of cross-resistance to five other diamide insecticides was found in chlorantraniliprole-resistant populations. Besides, the resistance to chlorantraniliprole was unstable in C. medinalis field populations. So, we strongly suggested limiting or suspending the application of diamide insecticides in order to delay the resistance development and postpone the application of diamide insecticides in C. medinalis control in the future.

【Aim】 As a highly conserved protein family in evolution, Argonaute (AGO) family mainly engages in the formation of RNA-induced silencing complex (RISC) in eukaryotes to silence gene expression and further participate in numerous biological processes. Currently, studies on AGO proteins of honey bees are lacking. This study aims to provide the reference and basis for further performing study on function and mechanism of AGO1 of Apis mellifera AmAGO1 by predicting the physicochemical and molecular properties of AmAGO1, analyzing the spatio-temporal expression profiles of AmAGO1, and preparing the polyclonal antibodies against AmAGO1.【Methods】 The coding sequence (CDS) of AmAGO1 of A. mellifera was amplified using PCR amplification followed by predicting the the physicochemical and molecular properties of AmAGO1 protein using bioinformatics. The expression levels of AmAGO1 inthe egg, 3-day-old larva, 7-day-old prepupa, 8-day-old prepupa, 12-day-old pupa, 1-, 2-, 6-, 12-, 15- and 18-day-old adult A. mellifera workers, and in the antenna, hypopharyngeal gland, brain, cuticle, midgut, fat body and venom gland of adult workers were detected by RT-qPCR. After constructing prokaryotic expression plasmid, AmAGO1 fusion protein was induced and its expression form was identified. The polyclonal antibody against AmAGO1 was prepared and the titer, sensitivity and specificity of the antibody were further detected by ELISA, Western blot and immunoprecipitation (IP), respectively. 【Results】The CDS of AmAGO1 was successfully cloned from A. mellifera. AmAGO1 contains 928 amino acids, with the molecular formula C₄₆₂₄H₇₃₃₂N₁₃₁₆O₁₃₂₅S₅₁, the molecular weight of about 104.2 kD, isoelectric point of 9.31, average hydrophilic coefficient of –0.2965, 86 phosphorylation sites, and the typical domains PAZ and PIWI, without typical signal peptides. There was a high amino acide sequence identity of AGO1 proteins of Homo sapiens, Danio rerio, Drosophila melanogaster, Bombyx mori, A. mellifera, A. cerana, and Bombus terrestris. AGO1s from A. mellifera and A. cerana were clustered into one branch, with the highest homology. AmAGO1 was differentially expressed in egg, larva, prepupa, pupa, and adult of A. mellifera. The expression levels of AmAGO1 inthe 3-day-old larva and 7-day-old prepupae were significantly lower than that in the egg, while those in the 8-day-old prepupae and 12-day-old pupae were significantly higher than that in the egg of A. mellifera workers. AmAGO1 was differentially expressed in the 1-, 2-, 6-, 12-, 15-, and 18-day-old adults. The expression levels of AmAGO1 inthe 2-, 6-, 12-, 15- and 18-day-old adults were significantly lower than that in the 1-day-old adults. AmAGO1 was differentially expressed in the antenna, venom gland, brain, midgut, hypopharyngeal gland, fat body and cuticle of worker adults. The expression level of AmAGO1 inthe antenna was significantly higher than those in venom gland, brain, midgut, fat body and cuticle but as the same as that in the hypopharyngeal gland. The expression form of AmAGO1 fusion protein was inclusion body. The prepared AmAGO1 polyclonal antibody had high titer, sensitivity and specificity. 【Conclusion】 AmAGO1 may be a hydrophilic intracellular protein which contains typical PAZ and PIWI domains. AmAGO1 plays a potentially important role in different tissues and developmental stages of A. mellifera workers. AGO1 polyclonal antibody with high titer, high sensitivity, and strong specificity was successfully prepared.

【Aim】 The English grain aphid, Sitobion avenae is a destructive pest in wheat production. This study aims to clarify the effects of miR-263 interference on the laboratory population of S. avenae, so as to provide a theoretical basis for the green prevention and control of wheat aphids. 【Methods】 The 1st instar nymphs of S. avenae were interfered with 400 nmol/L miR-263 agomir using nanomaterials as carriers, and the effects of miR-263 interference on the growth and development, reproduction, and population growth of S. avenae were evaluated using the two-sex life table. The water negative control (NCW) and nanomaterial negative control (NCS) were employed as the control groups. 【Results】 After miR-263 interference, the duration of both the 1st and 2nd instar nymphs of S. avenae was significantly longer than that of the NCW and NCS, that of the 3rd instar nymphs showed no significant difference from that of the NCW and NCS, and that of the 4th instar nymphs was significantly shorter than that of NCW. The entire nymphal duration was significantly extended after miR-263 interference. After miR-263 interference, the total developmental duration (25.42 d) was significantly longer than that of the NCS (23.73 d), but had no significant difference from that of the NCW (23.84 d). After miR-263 interference, the adult longevity and reproduction duration were slightly extended, and the number of offspring produced per female was increased, but showed no significant difference from those of the NCW and NCS. The pre-adult survival rate of S. avenae after miR-263 interference was significantly decreased to 43.33% as compared with those of the NCW and NCS (91.34% and 91.32%, respectively). The life table data showed that the intrinsic rate of increase (r), finite rate of increase (λ), and net reproductive rate (R₀) after miR-263 interference were significantly lower than those of the NCW and NCS. The mean generation time (T) after mir-263 interference was significantly prolonged as compared to that of the NCW and NCS. The population prediction results showed that the population size of S. avenae was approximately 80 000 at 60 d after miR-263 interference, significantly lower than the population sizes of 4.54 million of the NCS and 3.94 million of the NCW. 【Conclusion】 The miR-263 interference mainly affected the duration and survival rate of low instar nymphs, and had an inhibitory effect on the population growth of S. avenae. The results provide candidate genes for the development of RNAi-based biopesticides against S. avenae.

【Aim】 To clarify the host selectivity of Tuta absoluta to different tomato varieties, and analyze the correlations between the host selectivity of T. absoluta and the physical and chemical characteristics of the leaves of different tomato varieties, so as to provide a theoretical basis for the green precise control of T. absoluta and the breeding of insect-resistant tomato varieties.【Methods】 The feeding selection rates and consumed area of the 3rd instar larvae of T. absoluta to the leaves of five tomato varieties (Qianxi, Dafen, Dahei, Xiaolv and Huang′aisheng) were measured by leaf disc method, the numbers of eggs laid by T. absoluta adults on per leaf of the five tomato varieties were detected by caging method, the physical and chemical characteristics of the leaves of five tomato varieties were measured by grid method and colorimetric method, and the correlations between the feeding selection rate of the 3rd instar larvae of T. absoluta or the number of eggs laid by female adults on per leaf and the physical and chemical characteristics of the leaves of different tomato varieties were analyzed by Pearson’s method.【Results】 The results of host selectivity showed that when T. absoluta larvae fed on the leaves of the five tomato varieties for 6, 12, 24 and 48 h, their feeding selection rates were ranked in a descending order as follows: Dafen>Qianxi>Dahei>Xiaolv>Huang′aisheng. When T. absoluta adults laid eggs on the leaves of the five tomato varieties for 24, 48 and 72 h, their numbers of eggs laid on per leaf were ranked in a descending order as follows: Dahei>Qianxi>Dafen>Huang′aisheng>Xiaolv, Dahei>Huang′aisheng>Qianxi>Dafen>Xiaolv, and Dahei>Huang′aisheng>Dafen>Qianxi>Xiaolv, respectively. The results of Pearson correlation analysis showed that the feeding selection rate of the 3rd instar larvae of T. absoluta was significantly negatively correlated with the protein content in the leaves of different tomato varieties when fed for 12 h. When T. absoluta adults laid eggs for 48 and 72 h, their numbers of eggs laid on per leaf were significantly positively correlated with the chlorophyll b content and total chlorophyll content in the leaves of different tomato varieties.【Conclusion】 The physical and chemical characteristics of the leaves of five tomato varieties (Qianxi, Dafen, Dahei, Xiaolv and Huang′aisheng) have significant effects on the host selection of T. absoluta. Based on the correlation analysis, T. absoluta larvae prefer to feed on the leaves of tomato varieties with low protein content, and adults prefer to lay eggs on the leaves of tomato varieties with high chlorophyll content.

【Aim】 Cyanopterus ninghais is an unexplored parasitoid wasp that mainly parasitizes late instar larvae of Monochamus alternatus. To effectively develop the biocontrol potential of C. ninghais and utilize it in biological control of M. alternatus, the biological characteristics of C. ninghais adults were studied. 【Methods】 The eclosion rhythm, mating behavior and parasitization process of C. ninghais adults were observed and recorded through multi-generation rearing in the laboratory. The effect of female mating on the parasitism and reproductive modes of C. ninghais adults were studied by investigating the parasitism rates, offspring numbers and sex ratios in different mating conditions. The host selection of female adult of C. ninghais on M. alternatus at different larval instars and pupa was determined through choice and non-choice tests. Additionally, the adult longevity of C. ninghais was also examined under different nutritional conditions (no feeding, fed with purified water and fed with 20% honey solution). 【Results】 C. ninghais adults eclosed mainly from 6:00 to 12:00, and the eclosed adults accounted for 61.00% of the total eclosed adults. The mating process could be divided into four stages: courtship, precopulation, copulation and postcopulation. The peak mating time was from 17:00 to 21:00. Females mated only once in their lifetime, while males mated multiple times and there was mating competition among males. The parasitization process could also be divided into four steps: host-seeking, host-checking, ovipositing, and carding after completion. The unmated female adult produced only male offspring, while the ratio of female to male produced by mated female adult was 1︰1. C. ninghais was able to parasitize M. alternatus larvae at the 2nd-5th instars, with a strong preference for the 3rd instar larvae. The adult longevity of C. ninghais increased significantly when supplementing nutrition. Both female and male adults of C. ninghais survived the longest days, (35.50±3.31) and (20.80±2.00) d, respectively, when feeding 20% honey solution. 【Conclusion】 C. ninghais is an idiobiont-ectoparasitoid, and could perform both bisexual and parthenogenetic reproduction. The eclosion and mating of C. ninghais adults have obvious circadian rhythm, and they prefer to parasitize the 3rd instar larvae of M. alternatus. Providing honey solution can significantly prolong the longevity of C. ninghais adults. Overall, these findings suggest that C. ninghais has promising potential for further development and application in the biological control of M. alternatus.

【Aim】The aim of this study is to clarify the level of the field-evolved resistance of Tuta absoluta to spinetoram and its potential resistance risk, in order to provide a theoretical basis for the rational use of spinetoram to control T. absoluta and slowing development of its resistance to spinetoram. 【Methods】 The leaf-dipping method was used to determine the resistance levels of 18 field populations of T. absoluta collected from five provinces (municipalities or autonomous regions) in northern China to spinetoram. To assess the resistance risk of T. absoluta to spinetoram, 10-generation consecutive selections with spinetoram were carried out in the spinetoram-susceptible strain of T. absoluta via the leaf-dipping method. After that, the realized heritability (h²) of resistance was calculated using Tabashnik’s method for threhold trait agalysis, and the resistance development rates under different selection pressures were predicted based on the data of selection. 【Results】 Among the 18 field populations of T. absoluta, three populations including the populations from Miyun and Huairou in Beijing, and Baotou in Inner Mongolia, exhibited low-level resistance to spinetoram, with the resistance ratios of 6.7, 6.0 and 7.1, respectively. On the other hand, the other 15 populations of T. absoluta were susceptible to spinetoram. After 10-generation consecutive selections with spinetoram, T. absoluta developed 8.9-fold resistance to spinetoram, with the h2 of 0.1973. It was predicted that under different selection pressures (mortality=50%, 60%, 70%, 80% and 90%), T. absoluta needed 11.56, 9.50, 7.92, 6.60 and 5.23 generations, respectively, to develop 10-fold resistance to spinetoram, and 23.12, 18.99, 1583, 13.19 and 10.47 generations, respectively, to develop 100-fold resistance to spinetoram. 【Conclusion】 Due to the risk of T. absoluta developing resistance to spinetoram, it is essential to strengthen insecticide management in the field and emphasize the rotation with alternative types of insecticides to prolong the lifecycle of this insecticide.

【Aim】To explore the role of heat shock protein Hsp70 genes of Myzus persicae in response to high and low temperature stress. 【Methods】 RT-qPCR was used to detect the relative expression levels of eight MpHsp70 genes (MpHsp70-1, MpHsp70-2, MpHsp70A1, MpHsp70B2, MpHsp68a, MpHsp68b, MpHsc70-4 and MpHsp70) in different wingless adult tissues (head, midgut, embryo and cuticle) and wingless adults under high temperature (36 ℃) and low temperature (4 ℃) stress for different duration (0, 30, 60, 90, 120 and 150 min), respectively. RNAi was used to silence two key MpHsp70 genes (MpHsp70A1 and MpHsp68a), and the survival rate and number of nymphs produced of wingless adults were observed and calculated at 120 min under high temperature treatment (36 ℃) and 30 min under low temperature treatment (4 ℃).【Results】 The eight MpHsp70 genes were expressed in different wingless adult tissues of M. persicae, and the expression levels of MpHsp70, MpHsp70A1, MpHsp70B2, MpHsc70-4 and MpHsp68b in the cuticile were significantly higher than those in the other tissues. The expression levels of MpHsp70-1, MpHsp70-2 and MpHsp68a in the embryo of M. persicae were significantly higher than those in other tissues. High and low temperature stress had significant induction effect on the expression of MpHsp70 genes in wingless adult of M. persicae. The expression levels of MpHsp70-1, MpHsp70A1, MpHsp70-2, MpHsp68a and MpHsp68b all increased and then decreased under 4 ℃ stress, and reached the highest at 30 min under 4 ℃ stress, which were significantly higher than those of the control. Under 36 ℃ stress, the expressions levels of MpHsp70-1, MpHsp70A1, MpHsp70-2, MpHsc70-4, MpHsp68a and MpHsp68b increased first and then decreased. The expression level of MpHsp70-1 reached the highest at 60 min after 36 ℃ stress, and those of the other genes reached the highest at 120 min after 36 ℃ stress. After the silence of MpHsp68a, the survival rate and number of nymphs produced of M. persicae under high and low temperature stress were significantly decreased and those after the silence of MpHsp70A1 under high temperature stress were extremely significantly decreased as compared with those of the control group. 【Conclusion】MpHsp70 genes of M. persicae can respond to high and low temperature stress, and play an important role in the molecular mechanism of resistance to temperature stress of M. persicae.
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【Aim】 As an important group of pollinators in the natural environment, bumblebees are covered with brightly coloured hairs that form distinctive colour patterns. This study aims to investigate the geographical distribution pattern of the colour-pattern polymorphism of Bombus breviceps inYunnan, southwestern China to provide basic data for the study of genetic evolution and environmental adaptability of bumblebees. 【Methods】 A total of 957 B. breviceps specimens including 898 female adults (103 queens and 795 workers) and 59 male adults collected from 127 sampling sites inYunnanandGuizhoufrom 2017 to 2021 were examined. The colour patterns of these specimens were scored and the colour pattern groups and their relative abundance were analyzed. Clustering analysis was conducted based on the pubescence colour composition of different elements and the geographical distribution pattern of the colour patterns was analyzed based on their distribution in grid cells of 0.5° longitude × 0.5° latitude. 【Results】 The colours of the thoracic dorsum pubescence of B. breviceps include black, grey yellow, and orange yellow, while those of the abdominal dorsum pubescence include black, grey yellow, yellow and dark brown. All the 1st abdominal segments are covered with yellow pubescence, which can extend up to the abdominal tergum 3. Gastral terga 2 and 3 are covered with yellow, black, or grey yellow pubescence and the dark brown pubescence can stretch from gastral tergum 6 forward to the lower part of gastral tergum 3. A total of 81 colour patterns were identified in female adults of B. breviceps. Eighty different colour patterns were detected in workers and 13 colour patterns were identified in queens. The workers and queens shared 12 colour patterns. The male adults of B. breviceps exhibited 37 different colour patterns, 28 of which were similar to those of female adults. The 81 colour patterns of female adults of B. breviceps include 2 dominant, 5 abundant, 10 common and 64 sparse colour patterns. The colour patterns of female adults of B. breviceps were clustered into three body colour groups: group A (black thoracic dorsum with dark brown abdominal segments), group B-1 (dark brown thoracic dorsum with dark abdominal segments), and group B-2 (dark brown thoracic dorsum and abdominal segments).  The geographical distribution of the colour patterns of B. breviceps inYunnancould be grouped into two regions: western Yunnan Plateau (I) and eastern Yunnan Plateau (II). Region I could be further divided into subtropical plateau basin region in central Yunnan (I1) and tropical low mountain and wide valley region in southwest Yunnan (I2). Region II could be further divided into tropical karst mountain valley area in Southeast Yunnan (II1) and subtropical mid-mountain valley area in Northeast Yunnan (II2). Group A colour pattern is only distributed in subregion I1 and group B-2 was only distributed in subregion I2. Group B-1 colour pattern is only distributed in region II, where group B-2 colour pattern is also distributed. There was no significant correlation between the polymorphisms of the colour pattern and the latitude and longitude of distribution area. There were up to 18 colour patterns distributed in the central Yunnan Plateau (24.00°-24.50°N, 102.50°-103.00°E), representing the greatest colour-pattern polymorphism area. The average altitude of group A colour pattern [(1 951±311) m] was extremely significantly higher than those of group B-1 colour pattern [(1 568±352) m] and group B-2 colour pattern [(1 556±534) m]. 【Conclusion】 B. breviceps exhibits a striking intraspecific polymorphism of colour patterns inYunnan. The colour patterns can be divided into three main groups, and their distribution is related to climatic zoning, geomorphology and land use type. The distribution of the colour patterns has obvious geographical division characteristics and their polymorphisms in the same domain converge to the dominant colour patterns. The results of this study are of great significance for the in-depth exploration of local bumblebee resources and the conservation of species diversity inChina, and provide technical support for the utilization and development of bumblebees in different habitats.

-【Aim】 Intestinal microbes play important roles in metabolism, growth and development, and immunity in host insects. This study aims to explore the community structure of the intestinal microbes of Picromerus lewisi adults and their ability to metabolize carbon sources. 【Methods】The intestinal microbes were isolated and purified from P. lewisi adults by in vitro culture and identified by molecular biology technologies. The bacterial 16S rDNA and fungal ITS genes were sequenced by Illumina high-throughput sequencing technology to analyze the structure and diversity of the intestinal bacterial and fungal communities of P. lewisi adults. PICRUSt and FUNGuild were used to predict the function of bacteria and fungi and their genes. Biolog ECO technique was used to analyze the carbon source metabolic function of the intestinal bacteria and fungi of P. lewisi adults. 【Results】A total of 10 strains of Enterococcus sp. were isolated from the intestinal culturable dominant bacteria of P. lewisi, and the dominant bacterium was E. faecalis. The results of high-throughput sequencing showed that the dominant phyla in the intestine of P. lewisi adults were Proteobacteria (relative abundance: 58.51%) and Firmicutes (relative abundance: 38.92%), and the most dominant fungal phylum was Ascomycota (relative abundance: 56.53%), followed by Basidiomycota (relative abundance: 11.34%). The most dominant bacterial genus in the intestine of P. lewisi adults was Enterococcus (relative abundance: 25.05%), followed by Lactococcus (relative abundance: 12.23%), Serratia (relative abundance: 11.48%) and Providencia (relative abundance: 2.38%), and the most dominant fungal genus was Biappendiculispora (relative abundance: 18.30%), followed by Cladosporium (relative abundance: 11.83%), Vishniacozyma (relative abundance: 517%), and Phallus (relative abundance: 3.62%). The community structure of the intestinal bacteria and fungi of P. lewisi adults showed high species richness and diversity, and strong metabolic ability on carbon sources, being able to efficiently metabolize 27 carbon sources including α.cyclodextrin, L.serine, sutrescine, D.malic acid etc. Functional predictions showed that the intestinal bacterial taxa of P. lewisi adults were mainly distributed in metabolism, environmental information processing, genetic information processing etc., and the fungal taxa were mainly distributed in unassigned taxa, plant saprotroph, undefined saprotroph, endophyte.plant pathogen, fungal parasite.undefined saprotroph, leaf saprotroph, and animal pathogen.endophyte.plant pathogen.wood saprotroph. 【Conclusion】 P. lewisi adults have a high variety and diversity of intestinal bacteria and fungi. The dominant bacterial genera were Enterococcus, Lactococcus, Serratia and Providencia, and the dominant fungal genera were Biappendiculispora, Cladosporium, Vishniacozyma and Phallus, with a strong metabolic ability on carbon sources..

【Aim】 Through laboratory insecticidal effect determination and field control efficacy evaluation, the insecticides with high control efficacy against Tuta absoluta were screened to satisfy the demand for emergency control of this pest in production.【Methods】 T. absoluta larvae collected from tomato plants in the field were reared in the laboratory for more than 45 generations, the effects of 10 commonly used insecticides of seven categories including 5% emamectin benzoate water dispersible granule (WG), 60 g/L spinetoram suspension concentrate (SC) and 5% spinosad SC (antibiotics), 200 g/L chlorantraniliprole SC (bisamide), 150 g/L indoxacarb emulsifiable concentrate (EC)(oxadiazine), 10% chlorfenapyr SC (pyrroles), 240 g/L methoxyfenozide SC (hormone), 2.5% rotenone EC (botanical source), and 8 000 IU/μL Bacillus thuringiensis SC and 30 billion spores/g Beauveria bassiana wettable powder (WP)(microbial source) on the hatching rates of T. absoluta eggs and the  mortality rates of the 2nd instar larvae were determined by indoor egg-dipping method and leaf-dipping method, respectively. In July 2023, five insecticide formulations with strong insecticidal effects on T. absoluta in laboratory bioassay were sprayed to open field tomatoes in Xinjiang, Northwest China to evaluate their field control efficacy against T. absoluta. 【Results】 Laboratory bioassay results showed that the 10 pesticides had different effects on the hatching of T. absoluta eggs, the microbial insecticides 8 000 IU/μL B. thuringiensis SC and 30 billion spores/g B. bassiana WP and the botanical insecticide 2.5% rotenone EC had no significant effect on the hatching of eggs at 7 d after treatment, while the chemical insecticides 240 g/L methoxyfenozide SC, 60 g/L spinetoram SC and 5% emamectin benzoate WG exhibited significant inhibitory effects on the hatching of eggs in 5 d. The 10 pesticides had different lethal effects on the 2nd instar larvae of T. absoluta. Among the chemical pesticides, 60 g/L spinetoram SC showed the highest insecticidal activity against the 2nd instar larvae, causing 100.00% mortality rate at 1-4 d post treatment, and 10% chlorfenapyr SC and 150 g/L indoxacarb EC causing 100.00% mortality rate at 3 and 4 d post treatment, while the botanical insecticide 2.5% rotenone  EC  and the microbial insecticide  30 billion spores/g B. bassiana WP had lower lethal effects on the 2nd instar larvae during the 4-d treatment. Field experiment results revealed that the control efficacy of the tested five insecticide formulations against T. absoluta was most obvious at 7 d after application. The control efficacy of 60 g/L spinetoram SC, 200 g/L chlorantraniliprole SC and 10% chlorfenapyr SC against T. absoluta was ranked the top three, being 91.14%, 90.29% and 88.67%, respectively.【Conclusion】 Through laboratory bioassay and field control efficacy evaluation, it was found that 60 g/L spinetoram SC, 200 g/L chlorantraniliprole SC and 10% chlorfenapyr SC at their recommended dosages can be used for chemical control of T. absoluta in tomato production, which can provide guidance for the formulation of comprehensive control plans for T. absoluta and the selection of field control agents.

 【Aim】 To evaluate the attractiveness of three plant volatile compounds linalool, methyl jasmonate and geraniol to Thrips hawaiiensis and Orius strigicollis, so as to provide a basis for utilizing plant volatile compounds to attract O. strigicollis for controlling T. hawaiiensis in the field. 【Methods】 The attraction rates of linalool, methyl jasmonate and geraniol at the concentrations of 980, 10, 0.1 and 0.001 g/L to T. hawaiiensis adults, and the 5th instar nymphs and adults of O. strigicollis were tested, and the time effect of attraction and attraction rates of 980, 10 and 0.1 g/L geraniol to adults of T. hawaiiensis and O. strigicollis were determined using a Y-type olfactometer. The numbers of T. hawaiiensis and O. strigicollis adults attracted by 10 g/L geraniol were further determined in the field greenhouse condition. 【Results】 The attraction rates of methyl jasmonate at various test concentrations to T. hawaiiensis adults and the 5th instar nymphs of O. strigicollis were not significantly different from those of the control group (paraffin oil). Linalool at the concentration of 980 g/L showed significantly enhanced attraction rate to T. hawaiiensis adults but linalool at various test concentrations exhibited no significant change in the attraction rate to the 5th instar nymphs and adults of O. strigicollis compared with the control group. The attraction rate of pure geraniol (980 g/L) to T. hawaiiensis adults significantly increased, and those of high concentrations (10 and 0.1 g/L) of geraniol to O. strigicollis adults significantly increased but those of 10 and 0.1 g/L geraniol to O. strigicollis nymphs did not change significantly as compared with those in the control group. Geraniol at different concentrations had a significant time effect on the number of T. hawaiiensis and O. strigicollis adults attracted, and the number of adults attracted by 980 and 10 g/L geraniol were significantly higher than those attracted by geraniol at the other concentrations at 2 h after treatment. Regardless of whether the pepper seedlings were damaged by T. hawaiiensis adults or not, those treated with 980 and 10 g/L geraniol had significantly higher attraction rates to adults of O. strigicollis compared with the control (clean water). Treatment group spraying 10 g/L geraniol in the field greenhouses had no significant difference in the number of attracted adults of T. hawaiiensi in 5 h but had significantly increased number of attracted adults of O. strigicollis compared with the control group spraying clear water. 【Conclusion】 Three plant volatile compounds linalool, methyl jasmonate and geraniol have different attraction rates to T. hawaiiensis and O. strigicollis. Geraniol at the concentration of 10 g/L can effectively attract adult O. strigicollis within 5 h but can not significantly attract T. hawaiiensis. These results provide the theoretical basis and technical support for using geraniol to attract O. strigicollis for controlling T. hawaiiensis.

【Aim】To study the effects of allicin E (ALE) on the oviposition behavior of Drosophila suzukii, and to provide a reference for the biological control of D. suzukii by ALE. 【Methods】The avoidance effects of 0.01%， 0.015% and 0.02% ALE on the oviposition of D. suzukii female adults were detected with oviposition two-choice device. The effects of sensory systems of vision, gustation and olfaction on the oviposition preference of female adults of D. suzukii were investigated by means of darkness, surgically removing the forelegs and antennae, respectively. The avoidance effects of 0.015% ALE on the oviposition behavior of female adults of D. suzukii were tested by Y-maze experiment. The effects of ALE on the fitness of D. suzukii were tested by determining the survival rate and developmental duration. The reactive oxygen species (ROS) level in the intestines of D. suzukii adults treated with ALE was detected by fluorescent staining. 【Results】ALE had avoidance effects on the oviposition of female adults of D. suzukii, and the oviposition indexes to 0.01%, 0.015% and 0.02% ALE were -0.30, -0.44 and -0.51, respectively. In darkness and forelegless groups, the female adults of D. suzukii still showed significant oviposition avoidance to ALE. However, the female adults of D. suzukii with antennae removed had significantly decreased oviposition avoidance to ALE, and the oviposition indexes to 001%, 0.015% and 0.02% ALE were decreased to -0.10, -0.11 and -0.12, respectively. After the eggs laid by female adults of D. suzukii were exposed to 0.02% ALE, the offspring pupal and adult survival rates were decreased by 69.23% and 69.70%, respectively, and the time to puparium formation and time to adult eclosion of offspring were prolonged by 5.88 and 4.75 d, respectively. ALE shortened the adult life span of D. suzukii, and the LT₅₀ values of females and males under 0.02% ALE treatment decreased from 39 d to 18 and 15 d, respectively. The running and climbing speeds of D. suzukii adults were significantly decreased at 72 h after treatment with 0.02% ALE. The ROS levels in the intestine of D. suzukii adults were increased at 3 d after treatment with 0.02% and 0.05% ALE. 【Conclusion】ALE induces oviposition avoidance in female adults of D. suzukii, which is mediated mainly by olfaction. ALE prolongs the growth and development of the offspring of D. suzukii, decreases the locomotion performance and the survival rate of adults, and causes intestine damage in adults, thereby having potential biological control value against D. suzukii.

 【Aim】 The obtained nanopore long-read data of Apis cerana cerana transcriptome were compared with the reference genome of A.cerana, and the structures of the annotated genes were optimized. The unannotated new genes and new transcripts were identified and functionally annotated, and their SSR loci, complete ORFs and transcription factor (TF) families and members were predicted and verified, so as to improve the sequence and functional annotations of the reference genome of A. cerana. 【Methods】 Based on the high-quality transcriptome nanopore sequencing data of the 4-, 5- and 6-day-old larvae of A. cerana cerana workers infected with Ascosphaera apis, the identified full-length transcripts were mapped to the reference genome of A. cerana with gffcompare software to optimize the structures of the annotated genes. The unannotated novel genes and transcripts in the reference genome were identified utilizing the gffcompare software and mapped to the Nr, KOG, eggNOG, GO and KEGG databases for functional annotation. MISA, TransDecoder v3.0.0 and animalTFDB 2.0 software were employed to respectively predict the SSR loci, complete ORFs as well as TF families and members. 【Results】 A total of 4 648 annotated genes in the reference genome of A. cerana were structurally optimized, the 5′UTR and 3′UTR of 1 336 genes were simultaneously extended, while the 5′UTR of 1 688 genes and the 3′UTR of 1 624 genes were respectively extended. A total of 2 148 novel genes were identified, among which 818, 298, 587, 359 and 333 genes could be annotated to Nr, KOG, eggNOG, GO and KEGG databases, respectively. A total of 35 432 novel transcripts were identified, among which 30 974, 21 222, 29 025, 19 852, and 9 214 could be respectively annotated to the aforementioned five databases. A total of 22 541 SSR loci were detected, of which the numbers of SSRs with single, double, three and six base repeat were 12 078, 7 140, 2 825 and 43, respectively. The number of mixed SSRs was 2 964, and the type with the highest distribution frequency was single base repeat (153.37/Mb), and 58 TF families and 1 611 members were predicted. A total of 28 775 complete ORFs were predicted, of which the ORFs with the coding lengths ranging from 100 to 200 aa (38.99 %) were the most abundant. 【Conclusion】 These results optimize the structures of the annotated genes in the A. cerana reference genome and supplement novel genes, novel transcripts, SSR, complete ORFs, and TFs that were unannotated in the reference genome.

【Aim】The apolipoprotein (apoLp) plays an important role in achieving the physiological functions in animals, but how it affects the growth and development of rice planthoppers remains unknown. Our study aims at investigating the role of apoLp in the feeding, survival and reproduction of Nilaparvata lugens. 【Methods】The full-length open reading frame (ORF) sequence of NlapoLp was obtained based on the genome from N. lugens, and its protein sequence was analyzed. The cluster analysis between NlapoLp and homologous sequences from other insect species was conducted using neighbor-joining method. The expression levels of NlapoLp in different developmental stages (egg, 1st-5th instar nymphs, and newly emerged short-winged female and male adults), and different tissues (head without salivary gland, salivary gland, midgut, fat body and ovary) of the short-winged female adults were analyzed using RT-qPCR. After RNAi by microinjection of dsNlapoLp into the 3rd instar nymphs of N. lugens, the expression level of NlapoLp was determined using RT-qPCR. Then the amount of honeydew secreted per female adult, nymphal survival rate and number of eggs laid per female adult of N. lugens on host rice were investigated after RNAi on insects at different developmental stages. 【Results】 Analysis of sequence features revealed that NlapoLp contains one signal peptide and five conserved domains, but has no transmembrane domain. The phylogenetic tree showed that the apoLp orthologs NlapoLp of N. lugens, LsapoLp of Laodelphax striatellus and SfapoLp of Sogatella furcifera shared the closest evolutionary relationships. Additionally, these orthologs also gathered with the apoLps of three other hemiopteran insects (Macrosteles quadrilineatus, Bemisia tabaci and Halyomorpha halys), indicating close relationships among them. RT-qPCR results showed that NlapoLp was expressed in N. lugens at various developmental stages and highly expressed in short-winged female adults. NlapoLp was highly expressed in the midgut, fat body and salivary gland of the short-winged female adults and lowly expressed in other tissues. Microinjection of dsNlapoLp into N. lugens significantly decreased the expression of NlapoLp. After RNAi, the amount of honeydew secreted per female adult, nymphal survival rate and number of eggs laid per female adult of N. lugens on host rice were significantly decreased as compared with those in the control group (dsGFP injection). 【Conclusion】 The apolipoprotein gene NlapoLp is expressed in various developmental stages and tissues of the short-winged female adults of N. lugens, and silencing NlapoLp via RNAi significantly affects the feeding, growth and development, and reproduction of N. lugens. These results lay the foundation for deeply exploring the mechanism of apolipoprotein in rice damage caused by insects, and provide key target for pest effective control.

【Aim】 Peach fruit moth (Carposina sasakii) and oriental fruit moth (Grapholita molesta) are two kinds of fruit tree pests worldwide. Climate warming has many important impacts on their geographical populations. The objective of this research is to identify the differences in the rapid heat tolerance and heat tolerance plasticity among the geographical populations of C. sasakii and G. molesta, so as to provide a basis for their forecast and integrated management. 【Methods】 By measuring the knockdown time (KDT) at the constant temperature 42.5 ℃ and the critical thermal maximum (CTMax) under basal (non-subjected to pretreatment) or heat hardening (subjected to pretreatment at 35 ℃ for 2 h) conditions, we systematically compared the similartities and differences in the rapid heat tolerance and heat tolerance plasticity of adults among different geographical populations of C. sasakii (Jilin population, Zhengzhou population and laboratory population) and G. molesta (Jilin population, Zhengzhou population, Nanchang population and laboratory population). 【Results】 The changes of KDT of adults in different geographical populations of C. sasakii and G. molesta were consistent. There was no significant difference in KDT among geographical populations and between genders of the adults of C. sasakii and G. molesta. Heat hardening significantly increased the KDT of C. sasakii and G. molesta by 14.63 and 55.12 s, respectively. There was no significant interaction between or among populations, genders and heat hardening factors as for KDT of the both two fruit moth species. The responses of the adults of C. sasakii and G. molesta populations to CTMax were different. There were significant differences in the CTMax among the adult populations of C. sasakii, which was ranked in a descending order of Jilin population ［(38.57±1.61) ℃］, Zhengzhou population ［(37.60±1.32) ℃］ and laboratory population ［(37.24±1.46) ℃］. Heat hardening had a significant effect on the CTMax of C. sasakii adults, and there was an interaction between the adult populations and heat hardening factors as for C. sasakii. It was mainly reflected that heat hardening significantly enhanced the CTMax of Jilin population and Zhengzhou populations by 2.05 and 1.34 ℃, respectively, while there was no significant difference in the CTMax between the basal and heat-hardened laboratory populations. There were significant differences in the CTMax among the adult populations of G. molesta, which was ranked in a descending order of Nanchang population (39.20±1.81) ℃, Jilin population (38.63±1.42) ℃, Zhengzhou population (38.27±1.32) ℃, and laboratory population (38.15±1.51) ℃. Heat hardening had a significant effect on the CTMax of G. molesta adults, and there was an interaction between the adult population and heat hardening factors as for G. molesta. It was mainly reflected that heat hardening significantly increased the CTMax of the Zhengzhou population ［basal： (38.18±1.34) ℃; heat-hardened: (39.17±0.60) ℃］, but not significantly increased the CTMax of the Jilin population, Nanchang population and laboratory population. Gender factor, and its interaction with population or heat hardening, and the interaction of the three factors showed no significant effects on the CTMax of the adults of C. sasakii and G. molesta. 【Conclusion】 The northern population of C. sasakii had a stronger rapid heat tolerance than the central population, but the southern population of G. molesta had the strongest rapid heat tolerance compared with the central population and northern population. Laboratory acclimation could reduce the rapid heat tolerance of both species, and heat hardening could improve the rapid heat tolerance of the both two fruit moth species, but the heat tolerance plasticity was not consistent among different populations between the two fruit moth species. The above conclusions may be due to the different evolutionary mechanisms of thermal adaptation between the two fruit moth species and the differences in living environment among geographical populations. It is of great significance to clarify the similarities and differences of rapid heat tolerance and its plasticity among geographical populations of C. sekakii and G. molesta for insect heat adaptation research and fruit safety production in the condition of climate warming.