Discovery of a novel ejaculation mechanism in danceflies (Diptera: Empididae), with implications for genital elongation.

被引量：- 发表：1970

Solenopsis richteri (Hymenoptera: Formicidae) alates infected with deformed wing virus display wing deformity with altered mobility.

被引量：- 发表：1970

How does the life cycle of Clinodiplosis profusa (Cecidomyiidae) adjust to phenological variations of the host plant Eugenia uniflora (Myrtaceae) in sun and shade?

Galls are plant neoformations induced by specialized parasites. Since gall inducers rely on reactive plant sites for gall development, variations in abiotic factors that affect plant phenology are expected to impact the life cycle of gall inducers. To test the hypothesis that different light conditions affect both host plant and gall inducer life cycles, we studied the system Eugenia uniflora (Myrtaceae) - Clinodiplosis profusa (Cecidomyiidae), comparing plants occurring in sunny and shaded environments. We mapped phenological differences among individuals of E. uniflora occurring in the two environments and related them to the influence of luminosity on the life cycle of the gall inducer. Shade plants showed lower intensity of leaf sprouting throughout the year compared to sun-exposed plants, especially during the rainy season. Young and mature galls are synchronized with the peak of leaf sprouting at the beginning of the rainy season, lasting longer in sun-exposed plants - approximately two months longer compared to shade plants. The greater light intensity positively impacts the formation and growth of leaves and galls, with an extended period available for their induction and growth. Thus, light is an important factor for the development of gallers, considering that variations in luminosity influenced not only the phenology of the host plant, but also determined the life cycle of gall inducers. Furthermore, changes in plant-environment interactions are expected to affect the life cycle and richness of other host plant-gall inducer systems.

被引量：- 发表：1970

Obstacle negotiation in female desert locust oviposition digging.

The female locust lays its eggs deep within soft substrate to protect them from predators and provide optimal conditions for successful development and hatching. During oviposition digging, the female's abdomen is pooled and extends into the ground, guided by a dedicated excavation mechanism at its tip, comprising two pairs of specialized digging valves. Little is known about how these active valves negotiate the various obstacles encountered on their path. In this study, female locusts oviposited their eggs in specialized sand-filled tubes with pre-inserted 3D-printed plastic obstacles. The subterranean route taken by the abdomen and digging valves upon encountering the obstacles was investigated, characterized, and compared to that in control tubes without obstacles. Data were obtained by way of visual inspection, by utilizing cone beam computed tomography scans in high-definition mode, and by making paraffin casts of the oviposition burrows (after egg hatching). We demonstrate, for the first time, the subterranean navigation ability of the female locust's excavation mechanism and its ability to circumvent obstacles during oviposition. Finally, we discuss the role of active sensory-motor mechanisms versus the passive embodied function of the valves, central control, and decision-making.

被引量：- 发表：1970

Public perception and acceptance of coypu Myocastor coypus removal in urban areas: influences of age and education.

Monitoring and management of alien coypu (Myocastor coypus) is a key issue in Europe since this species has been included in the EU Invasive Alien Species Regulation 1143/2014. Thus, controlling the population of this rodent is considered as imperative by wildlife managers. Coypu management in urban areas is crucial considering potential conflicts with human activities. The aim of this study is to investigate citizens' knowledge, perceptions and opinions towards the presence and management of coypu in a case study in Central Italy (the Serravalle urban park, Tuscany). The survey was administered to a subset of municipal residents and garnered responses from 281 park visitors. The outcomes showed a high level of knowledge of respondents: 99.3% of total respondents had heard of coypu before this survey, and 93.9% were able to distinguish the coypu from the Eurasian beaver (Castor fiber). Despite the importance of coypu control in invaded countries, our results highlight that most respondents are against the removal of coypu, with the exception of most young, highly-educated and upperclass men, but favouring sterilization over capture and population control. Findings of this study could assist managers in enhancing the efficacy of management efforts via an information initiative involving the general public. Achieving this goal may entail improved communication by wildlife managers, which is imperative for optimizing management strategies regarding alien species.

被引量：- 发表：1970