Activity of powdered methylxanthine applied to poultry litter on adults of Alphitobius diaperinus (Panzer, 1797) (Coleoptera: Tenebrionidae) / Atividade da Metilxantina em pó aplicada na cama de frango sobre adultos de Alphitobius diaperinus (Panzer, 1797) (Coleoptera: Tenebrionidae)

One of the pests that most affect and compromise poultry production worldwide is the insect Alphitobius diaperinus, known as the lesser mealworm. This insect is a vector of diseases that compromise not only chicken production but also human health. This study proposes to examine the efficacy and determine the appropriate rate of methylxanthine (MTX), a natural insecticide extracted from cafeine, for the control of an adult population of lesser mealworms in poultry litter. A total of 2,500 adult mealworms were distributed into five treatments in a completely randomized design using 10 replications with 50 insects per replication. The treatments consisted of a control group and four concentrations of MTX (14, 16, 18, and 20 g/m2) spread in plastic boxes containing reused poultry litter and feed, allocated in a broiler shed, to simulate the farm condition. The experimental period was 18 days, and five readings were performed on days 2, 4, 6, 10, and 18. Methylxanthine affected (P<0.05) the mealworms' cumulative mortality rate, with the groups of insects housed in boxes treated with 16 g /m2 MTX showing the highest cumulative mortality (86.6%) at the end of the experimental period. In conclusion, MTX has insecticidal action on adults of lesser mealworm and can be used on chicken litter to control the population of this insect in poultry sheds. The MTX concentration of 16 g/m2 showed the greatest effectiveness.

Uma das pragas que mais afetam e comprometem a produção avícola no mundo é o inseto Alphitobius diaperinus, conhecido como cascudinho. Este inseto é vetor de doenças que comprometem não só a produção de frangos como também a saúde humana. Objetivou-se com esse trabalho avaliar a eficácia e determinar a dose adequada de Metilxantina (MTX), inseticida natural extraído da cafeína, para o controle da população adulta de cascudinhos em cama de frango. Foram utilizados 2.500 cascudinhos adultos distribuídos em delineamento inteiramente casualizado, cinco tratamentos, 10 repetições com 50 insetos por repetição. Os tratamentos consistiram de grupo controle e quatro concentrações 14 g/m2, 16 g/m2, 18 g/m2, 20 g/m2 de MTX espalhadas em recipientes plásticos contendo cama de frango reutilizada e ração, alocados em um galpão de frangos de corte a fm de simular a condição de granja. Período experimental foi de 18 dias e realizadas cinco leituras nos dias dois, quatro, seis, 10 e 18. A MTX afetou (P<0,05) a taxa de mortalidade acumulada de cascudinhos, grupos de insetos alojados em caixas tratadas com 16 g/m2 de MTX apresentaram maior mortalidade acumulada (86,6%) ao final do período experimental. Conclui-se que MTX tem ação inseticida sobre adultos de cascudinho, podendo ser utilizada sobre a cama de frango para o controle da população deste inseto em galpões de criação de frangos, a concentração 16 g/MTX/m2 demonstrou maior efetividade.

Liquid preparation of diatomaceous earth against the lesser mealworm, Alphitobius diaperinus (Panzer, 1797) (Coleoptera: Tenebrionidae)

The lesser mealworm (LMW) is the most important pest in poultry production. Insects are associated to avian pathogens, mainly Salmonella. Its control is based on chemical insecticide, with limited efficacy in population reduction. Also, insect populations are resistant to the main active ingredients used. Diatomaceous earth (DE) is a mineral dust that has activity against the LMW when used in dust application. No information is available about DE liquid preparation against this insect. Thus, bioassays were conducted aiming to develop a strategy for DE liquid preparation to this insect control. In laboratory the ideal concentration for poultry house experiment was estimated and the effect of insect contact with poultry litter or chicken feed after application was checked. In the poultry house, DE liquid preparation (10% in water, 1 L·m­2) was applied on the dirt soil of a cleaned and empty poultry house. In the control poultry house, a chemical insecticide was used (cypermethrin 15 g + chlorpyriphos 25 g + piperonyl butoxide 15 g) (1 L·m­2). DE at all concentrations was efficient mainly when insects were dried for 24 h before contact with a substrate. In poultry house, both treatments obtained similar results at 15 days after treatment (94% of reduction of insect population). At 45 days after treatment, the insect population with DE treatment increased 39% while the insect population remained 17% smaller than the initial population with a chemical insecticide. DE liquid preparation has potential to be used as a safe treatment in LMW population management, as a shock treatment.

Effect of cypermethrin on the control of lesser mealworm (Alphitobius diaperinus) and broiler performance

ABSTRACT: This study analysed the effectiveness of using different levels of a product based on 6% cypermethrin and 2% citronella on broiler production and control the lesser mealworm (Alphitobius diaperinus). A total of 648 one-day-old chicks (Cobb®) which were allocated to one of three treatments (no application of the commercial product - control, and two concentrations of the product 2.00 and 3.33g/m2) in eight replicates with 27 birds each. The commercial product, which was based on cypermethrin was applied in the chambers with an atomizer. The lesser mealworm population was sampled weekly (1, 7, 14, 21, 28, 35 and 42 days of the experiment) using traps, at three points (front, middle and back) inside the pen. The performance, carcass and cut yields were evaluated. At 21, 28, 35 and 42 days of the experiment, the number of lesser mealworm adults and larvae was lower in the treatment groups involving 2.00 and 3.33g/m2 of the product than in the control group. On the first and 14th days of the study, the number of lesser mealworms adults was lower in the group treated with 3.33g/m2 of the product compared to the control group, although the results did not differ statistically from those obtained with 2.00g/m2 of the product. In conclusion, the application of the commercial product at both concentrations (2.00 and 3.33g/m2) was effective in combating Alphitobius diaperinus adults and larvae, and the performance was not influenced by treatments.

RESUMO: Este estudo analisou a eficácia do uso de diferentes níveis de um produto à base de cipermetrina a 6% e citronela a 2%, na produção de frangos de corte e no controle do cascudinho (Alphitobius diaperinus). Um total de 648 pintos de um dia de idade (Cobb®) foram distribuídos em três câmaras com os tratamentos (sem aplicação do produto comercial - controle, e duas concentrações do produto comercial - 2,00 e 3,33g/m2) em oito repetições com 27 aves cada. O produto comercial a base de cipermetrina foi aplicado nas câmaras com um atomizador. A população de cascudinho foi amostrada semanalmente (1, 7, 14, 21, 28, 35 e 42 dias do experimento) usando armadilhas, em três pontos (frente, meio e fundo) de cada parcela. Foram avaliados o desempenho, rendimentos de carcaça e cortes. Aos 21, 28, 35 e 42 dias do experimento, o número de adultos e larvas de cascudinho foi menor nos grupos de tratamento envolvendo 2,00 e 3,33g/m2 do produto quando comparado ao grupo controle. No primeiro e no 14º dia do estudo, o número de cascudinhos adultos foi menor no grupo tratado com 3,33g/m2 do produto em comparação ao grupo controle, embora os resultados não tenham diferido estatisticamente daqueles obtidos com 2,00g/m2 do produto. A conversão alimentar de 1 a 21 dias de idade foi significativa, com os melhores resultados para essa variável quando aplicado 3,33g do produto por metro quadrado e no tratamento controle. Em conclusão, a aplicação do produto comercial em ambas as concentrações (2,00 e 3,33g/m2) foi eficaz no combate a adultos e larvas de Alphitobius diaperinus e, não influenciou o desempenho.

Effect of cypermethrin on the control of lesser mealworm (Alphitobius diaperinus) and broiler performance / Efeito da cipermetrina no controle de cascudinho (Alphitobius diaperinus) sobre o desempenho de frangos de corte

This study analysed the effectiveness of using different levels of a product based on 6% cypermethrin and 2% citronella on broiler production and control the lesser mealworm (Alphitobius diaperinus). A total of 648 one-day-old chicks (Cobb®) which were allocated to one of three treatments (no application of the commercial product - control, and two concentrations of the product 2.00 and 3.33g/m2) in eight replicates with 27 birds each. The commercial product, which was based on cypermethrin was applied in the chambers with an atomizer. The lesser mealworm population was sampled weekly (1, 7, 14, 21, 28, 35 and 42 days of the experiment) using traps, at three points (front, middle and back) inside the pen. The performance, carcass and cut yields were evaluated. At 21, 28, 35 and 42 days of the experiment, the number of lesser mealworm adults and larvae was lower in the treatment groups involving 2.00 and 3.33g/m2 of the product than in the control group. On the first and 14th days of the study, the number of lesser mealworms adults was lower in the group treated with 3.33g/m2 of the product compared to the control group, although the results did not differ statistically from those obtained with 2.00g/m2 of the product. In conclusion, the application of the commercial product at both concentrations (2.00 and 3.33g/m2) was effective in combating Alphitobius diaperinus adults and larvae, and the performance was not influenced by treatments.(AU)

Este estudo analisou a eficácia do uso de diferentes níveis de um produto à base de cipermetrina a 6% e citronela a 2%, na produção de frangos de corte e no controle do cascudinho (Alphitobius diaperinus). Um total de 648 pintos de um dia de idade (Cobb®) foram distribuídos em três câmaras com os tratamentos (sem aplicação do produto comercial - controle, e duas concentrações do produto comercial - 2,00 e 3,33g/m2) em oito repetições com 27 aves cada. O produto comercial a base de cipermetrina foi aplicado nas câmaras com um atomizador. A população de cascudinho foi amostrada semanalmente (1, 7, 14, 21, 28, 35 e 42 dias do experimento) usando armadilhas, em três pontos (frente, meio e fundo) de cada parcela. Foram avaliados o desempenho, rendimentos de carcaça e cortes. Aos 21, 28, 35 e 42 dias do experimento, o número de adultos e larvas de cascudinho foi menor nos grupos de tratamento envolvendo 2,00 e 3,33g/m2 do produto quando comparado ao grupo controle. No primeiro e no 14º dia do estudo, o número de cascudinhos adultos foi menor no grupo tratado com 3,33g/m2 do produto em comparação ao grupo controle, embora os resultados não tenham diferido estatisticamente daqueles obtidos com 2,00g/m2 do produto. A conversão alimentar de 1 a 21 dias de idade foi significativa, com os melhores resultados para essa variável quando aplicado 3,33g do produto por metro quadrado e no tratamento controle. Em conclusão, a aplicação do produto comercial em ambas as concentrações (2,00 e 3,33g/m2) foi eficaz no combate a adultos e larvas de Alphitobius diaperinus e, não influenciou o desempenho.(AU)

Effect of cypermethrin on the control of lesser mealworm (Alphitobius diaperinus) and broiler performance / Efeito da cipermetrina no controle de cascudinho (Alphitobius diaperinus) sobre o desempenho de frangos de corte

This study analysed the effectiveness of using different levels of a product based on 6% cypermethrin and 2% citronella on broiler production and control the lesser mealworm (Alphitobius diaperinus). A total of 648 one-day-old chicks (Cobb®) which were allocated to one of three treatments (no application of the commercial product - control, and two concentrations of the product 2.00 and 3.33g/m2) in eight replicates with 27 birds each. The commercial product, which was based on cypermethrin was applied in the chambers with an atomizer. The lesser mealworm population was sampled weekly (1, 7, 14, 21, 28, 35 and 42 days of the experiment) using traps, at three points (front, middle and back) inside the pen. The performance, carcass and cut yields were evaluated. At 21, 28, 35 and 42 days of the experiment, the number of lesser mealworm adults and larvae was lower in the treatment groups involving 2.00 and 3.33g/m2 of the product than in the control group. On the first and 14th days of the study, the number of lesser mealworms adults was lower in the group treated with 3.33g/m2 of the product compared to the control group, although the results did not differ statistically from those obtained with 2.00g/m2 of the product. In conclusion, the application of the commercial product at both concentrations (2.00 and 3.33g/m2) was effective in combating Alphitobius diaperinus adults and larvae, and the performance was not influenced by treatments.(AU)

Este estudo analisou a eficácia do uso de diferentes níveis de um produto à base de cipermetrina a 6% e citronela a 2%, na produção de frangos de corte e no controle do cascudinho (Alphitobius diaperinus). Um total de 648 pintos de um dia de idade (Cobb®) foram distribuídos em três câmaras com os tratamentos (sem aplicação do produto comercial - controle, e duas concentrações do produto comercial - 2,00 e 3,33g/m2) em oito repetições com 27 aves cada. O produto comercial a base de cipermetrina foi aplicado nas câmaras com um atomizador. A população de cascudinho foi amostrada semanalmente (1, 7, 14, 21, 28, 35 e 42 dias do experimento) usando armadilhas, em três pontos (frente, meio e fundo) de cada parcela. Foram avaliados o desempenho, rendimentos de carcaça e cortes. Aos 21, 28, 35 e 42 dias do experimento, o número de adultos e larvas de cascudinho foi menor nos grupos de tratamento envolvendo 2,00 e 3,33g/m2 do produto quando comparado ao grupo controle. No primeiro e no 14º dia do estudo, o número de cascudinhos adultos foi menor no grupo tratado com 3,33g/m2 do produto em comparação ao grupo controle, embora os resultados não tenham diferido estatisticamente daqueles obtidos com 2,00g/m2 do produto. A conversão alimentar de 1 a 21 dias de idade foi significativa, com os melhores resultados para essa variável quando aplicado 3,33g do produto por metro quadrado e no tratamento controle. Em conclusão, a aplicação do produto comercial em ambas as concentrações (2,00 e 3,33g/m2) foi eficaz no combate a adultos e larvas de Alphitobius diaperinus e, não influenciou o desempenho.(AU)

Cinnamomum zeylanicum essential oil reduces infestation by Alphitobius diaperinus in poultry litter

Background: Even though insecticides are managed and the period of sanitary emptiness in poultry is respected, the elimination of Alphitobius diaperinus may not be successful. The use of essential oils of plant origin presents as a good alternative in the substitution of insecticides with synthetic molecules, since they are easy to obtain, with rapid degradation and without risk of residues for non-target organisms. The main objective of the present study was to examine whether Cinnamomum zeylanicum oil reduces Alphitobius diaperinus (Panzer) (Coleoptera: Tenebrionidae) infestations under experimental conditions, without causing toxicity to broilers chicks exposed to treated litter.Materials, Methods & Results: The experimental design was completely randomized, with four replications per treatment. The treatments were as follows: solvent control using the diluent Dimethyl Sulfoxide 5% (oil diluent); chemical control using 5 g/m² cypermethrin; one spray of C. zeylanicum 5% oil; and two sprays of C. zeylanicum 5% oil. Each experimental unit was infested with 150 lesser mealworm adults. At 15 days of the broiler chick’s life, blood was collected for biochemical analysis (alanine aminotransferase, aspartate aminotransferase, alkaline phosphatase, total protein, albumin, globulin, triglycerides and uric acid), and liver fragments were isolated for histopathological analysis. Using TupeTrap devices, we counted lesser mealworm 40 days after treatment. The treatments did not alter biochemical variables, and did not cause histopathological lesions in liver. The treatments with C. zeylanicum 5% oil with one and two sprays efficiently reduced lesser mealworm infestation compared with solvent control. Cypermethrin treatment had no effect. Discussion: Many of the commercial products present low effectiveness in the control of A. diaperinus, since the target organisms develop resistance to the product.[...]

Cinnamomum zeylanicum essential oil reduces infestation by Alphitobius diaperinus in poultry litter

Background: Even though insecticides are managed and the period of sanitary emptiness in poultry is respected, the elimination of Alphitobius diaperinus may not be successful. The use of essential oils of plant origin presents as a good alternative in the substitution of insecticides with synthetic molecules, since they are easy to obtain, with rapid degradation and without risk of residues for non-target organisms. The main objective of the present study was to examine whether Cinnamomum zeylanicum oil reduces Alphitobius diaperinus (Panzer) (Coleoptera: Tenebrionidae) infestations under experimental conditions, without causing toxicity to broilers chicks exposed to treated litter.Materials, Methods & Results: The experimental design was completely randomized, with four replications per treatment. The treatments were as follows: solvent control using the diluent Dimethyl Sulfoxide 5% (oil diluent); chemical control using 5 g/m² cypermethrin; one spray of C. zeylanicum 5% oil; and two sprays of C. zeylanicum 5% oil. Each experimental unit was infested with 150 lesser mealworm adults. At 15 days of the broiler chicks life, blood was collected for biochemical analysis (alanine aminotransferase, aspartate aminotransferase, alkaline phosphatase, total protein, albumin, globulin, triglycerides and uric acid), and liver fragments were isolated for histopathological analysis. Using TupeTrap devices, we counted lesser mealworm 40 days after treatment. The treatments did not alter biochemical variables, and did not cause histopathological lesions in liver. The treatments with C. zeylanicum 5% oil with one and two sprays efficiently reduced lesser mealworm infestation compared with solvent control. Cypermethrin treatment had no effect. Discussion: Many of the commercial products present low effectiveness in the control of A. diaperinus, since the target organisms develop resistance to the product.[...](AU)

DESENVOLVIMENTO DE BIOPESTICIDA COM EXTRATO AQUOSO DE Artemisia annua PARA MANEJO E CONTROLE SANITÁRIO AVÍCOLA DO CASCUDINHO, Alphitobius diaperinus (Panzer) (Coleoptera: Tenebrionidae)

Com base na importância do controle de Alphitobius diaperinus em granjas avícolas, o objetivo deste estudo foi avaliar a atividade biopesticida do extrato aquoso de Artemisia annua contra este coleóptero. Amostras de folhas secas de A. annua foram analisadas quanto aos níveis de artemisinina (ART). Os vermes menores foram separados de acordo com sua atividade e colocados aleatoriamente em 12 placas de Petri cobertas por papel de filtro com 100 insetos cada para compor quatro tratamentos em triplicata: Controle negativo (água destilada); tratados com 19,2, 38,4 e 76,8 mg de ART / mL de extrato, respectivamente. 10 mL do extrato foram derramados uniformemente sobre o papel de filtro. A mortalidade foi medida após 1, 3, 12 e 24 horas após a exposição. O extrato aquoso de A. annua utilizado em diferentes concentrações apresentou efeito inseticida dependente da concentração contra adultos de A. diaperinus, resultando em 33,6, 40,0 e 57,3% de mortalidade quando comparado ao grupo controle após 24 horas pós-exposição para 19,2, 38,4 e 76,8 mg de ART / mL de extrato, respectivamente, resultando em uma concentração letal (CL 50-24h) de 59,2 mg de ART / mL de extrato. Portanto, os resultados observados neste delineamento experimental in vitro permitiram inferir que, nestas condições ambientais controladas, o extrato aquoso de Artemisia. annua demonstrou considerável eficácia inseticida no controle de Alphitobius. diaperinus, demonstrando assim o potencial da artemisinina para a utilização no controle estratégico e ambiental do cascudinho em granjas avícolas.

Based on the importance of controlling Alphitobius diaperinus in poultry farms, the objective of this study was to evaluate the biopesticide activity of Artemisia annua aqueous extract against this coleopter. Samples from dry leaves of A. annua were analyzed for its artemisinin (ART) levels. The lesser mealworms were separated according to their activity and were randomly placed in 12 Petri dishes covered by a filter paper with 100 insects each to compound four treatments in triplicate: Negative control (distilled water); treated with 19.2, 38.4 and 76.8 mg of ART/mL of extract, respectively. 10 mL of the extract was evenly poured over the filter paper. Mortality was measured after 1, 3, 12 and 24 h after exposure. The aqueous extract of A. annua used in different concentration showed a concentration-dependent insecticide effect against adults of A. diaperinus, resulting in 33.6, 40.0 and 57.3 % of mortality when compared to control group after 24 hour post exposition for 19.2, 38.4 and 76.8 mg of ART/mL of extract, respectively, resulting in a lethal concentration (LC 50-24h) of 59.2 mg of ART/mL of extract. Therefore, in this controlled experimental design, the aqueous extract of A. annua demonstrated significant efficacy in the control of A. diaperinus, and our results showed the potential of artemisinin for environmental control of mealworm in poultry farms

Melaleuca alternifolia Essential Oil against the Lesser Mealworm (Alphitobius diaperinus) and Its Possible Effect on the Soil Fauna

The aim of this study was to evaluate the in vitro bioactivity of tea tree (Melaleuca alternifolia) essential oil against larvae and adult forms of lesser mealworms (Alphitobius diaperinus) and its influence on the soil fauna. Tests were performed in triplicate using pure tea tree oil (TTO; 1, 5, 10, 25, 50, and 100%), TTO nanoparticles (1, 3, and 7.5%), or terpinen-4-ol, the main compound of the tea tree oil, at the same concentrations of TTO. Larvae and adult mortality occurred at concentrations up to 10 and 50% of TTO, respectively. No larvicidal or insecticidal effect of TTO nanoparticles was observed. Terpinen-4-ol showed insecticidal and larvicidal effect at concentrations higher than 25%. The evaluation of TTO effect on soil organisms was performed by standard ecotoxicological tests (ISO) with the springtail species Folsomia candida. Only TTO was used for ecotoxicological tests in doses of 1, 5, 10, 25, 50, and 100 mg kg-1 of soil. TTO had no negative effects on F. candida survival or reproduction. Therefore, it was concluded that M. alternifolia oil may be a new alternative for control of the lesser mealworm.

Melaleuca alternifolia Essential Oil against the Lesser Mealworm (Alphitobius diaperinus) and Its Possible Effect on the Soil Fauna

The aim of this study was to evaluate the in vitro bioactivity of tea tree (Melaleuca alternifolia) essential oil against larvae and adult forms of lesser mealworms (Alphitobius diaperinus) and its influence on the soil fauna. Tests were performed in triplicate using pure tea tree oil (TTO; 1, 5, 10, 25, 50, and 100%), TTO nanoparticles (1, 3, and 7.5%), or terpinen-4-ol, the main compound of the tea tree oil, at the same concentrations of TTO. Larvae and adult mortality occurred at concentrations up to 10 and 50% of TTO, respectively. No larvicidal or insecticidal effect of TTO nanoparticles was observed. Terpinen-4-ol showed insecticidal and larvicidal effect at concentrations higher than 25%. The evaluation of TTO effect on soil organisms was performed by standard ecotoxicological tests (ISO) with the springtail species Folsomia candida. Only TTO was used for ecotoxicological tests in doses of 1, 5, 10, 25, 50, and 100 mg kg-1 of soil. TTO had no negative effects on F. candida survival or reproduction. Therefore, it was concluded that M. alternifolia oil may be a new alternative for control of the lesser mealworm.(AU)

Advances and Perspectives of the use of the entomopathogenic fungi beauveria bassiana and metarhizium anisopliae for the control of arthropod pests in poultry production

Global poultry production is plagued by a wide variety of arthropods. The problems associated with their chemical control have led to an increasing search for control alternatives, and entomopathogenic fungi seem to be a promising strategy. Despite the large number of insects and mites considered as important pests in animal production, studies on the use of entomopathogenic fungi for their control are still scarce compared with agricultural pests, particularly in Brazil. This article reviews some damages and control aspects of the main arthropod pests that affect Brazilian poultry production, including house flies, lesser mealworms, and feather mites, by the use of the entomopathogenic fungi Beauveria bassiana and Metarhizium anisopliae. Studies published in the last 20 years were reviewed, and the main problems and limitations of that pest-control strategy are discussed.

Advances and Perspectives of the use of the entomopathogenic fungi beauveria bassiana and metarhizium anisopliae for the control of arthropod pests in poultry production

Global poultry production is plagued by a wide variety of arthropods. The problems associated with their chemical control have led to an increasing search for control alternatives, and entomopathogenic fungi seem to be a promising strategy. Despite the large number of insects and mites considered as important pests in animal production, studies on the use of entomopathogenic fungi for their control are still scarce compared with agricultural pests, particularly in Brazil. This article reviews some damages and control aspects of the main arthropod pests that affect Brazilian poultry production, including house flies, lesser mealworms, and feather mites, by the use of the entomopathogenic fungi Beauveria bassiana and Metarhizium anisopliae. Studies published in the last 20 years were reviewed, and the main problems and limitations of that pest-control strategy are discussed.

Advances and Perspectives of the use of the entomopathogenic fungi beauveria bassiana and metarhizium anisopliae for the control of arthropod pests in poultry production

Global poultry production is plagued by a wide variety of arthropods. The problems associated with their chemical control have led to an increasing search for control alternatives, and entomopathogenic fungi seem to be a promising strategy. Despite the large number of insects and mites considered as important pests in animal production, studies on the use of entomopathogenic fungi for their control are still scarce compared with agricultural pests, particularly in Brazil. This article reviews some damages and control aspects of the main arthropod pests that affect Brazilian poultry production, including house flies, lesser mealworms, and feather mites, by the use of the entomopathogenic fungi Beauveria bassiana and Metarhizium anisopliae. Studies published in the last 20 years were reviewed, and the main problems and limitations of that pest-control strategy are discussed.

Advances and Perspectives of the use of the entomopathogenic fungi beauveria bassiana and metarhizium anisopliae for the control of arthropod pests in poultry production

Global poultry production is plagued by a wide variety of arthropods. The problems associated with their chemical control have led to an increasing search for control alternatives, and entomopathogenic fungi seem to be a promising strategy. Despite the large number of insects and mites considered as important pests in animal production, studies on the use of entomopathogenic fungi for their control are still scarce compared with agricultural pests, particularly in Brazil. This article reviews some damages and control aspects of the main arthropod pests that affect Brazilian poultry production, including house flies, lesser mealworms, and feather mites, by the use of the entomopathogenic fungi Beauveria bassiana and Metarhizium anisopliae. Studies published in the last 20 years were reviewed, and the main problems and limitations of that pest-control strategy are discussed.(AU)

Experimental infection of one-day-old chicks with Salmonella Serotypes Previously isolated from poultry facilities, wild birds, and swine

In order to maintain the high production and export rates achieved by the Brazilian poultry industry, it is necessary to prevent and control certain disease agents, such as Salmonella spp. Using bacterial cultures, the aim of the present study was to investigate the prevalence of Salmonella spp. in specimens collected from broiler facilities. Local wild birds were also sampled, as well as the feces of swine housed on the poultry farm. After sample collection, the isolated serotypes were subsequently inoculated into broiler chicks to determine their effects. Positive samples were collected from the following locations in the poultry facilities: poultry litter (S. serotype 4,5,12:R:-; S. Heidelberg; S. Infantis), broiler feces (S. Heidelberg; S. serotype 6,7:R:-; S. serotype 4,5,12:R:-; S. Tennessee), water (S. Glostrup; S. serotype 6,8:d:-;), and lesser mealworms (Alphitobius diaperinus) found in the litter (S. Tennessee). Among the 36 wild birds captured, S. Heidelberg was isolated from one bird's organs and intestinal contents (Colaptes campestris), and S. Enteritidis was isolated from another bird's intestinal contents (Zenaida auriculata). Salmonella Panama and Salmonella Typhimurium were isolated from swine feces. One-day-old chicks (150) were divided into 10 groups of 15 animals each. Each group was orally inoculated with a previously isolated serotype of Salmonella. Soft stools were observed on the cage floor and around the birds' cloaca between 3 and 12 days post-infection (dpi). The different serotypes of Salmonella used to inoculate the chicks were re-isolated from the spleen, liver, and cecal content samples of the infected birds on 15 and 21 dpi.

Experimental infection of one-day-old chicks with Salmonella Serotypes Previously isolated from poultry facilities, wild birds, and swine

In order to maintain the high production and export rates achieved by the Brazilian poultry industry, it is necessary to prevent and control certain disease agents, such as Salmonella spp. Using bacterial cultures, the aim of the present study was to investigate the prevalence of Salmonella spp. in specimens collected from broiler facilities. Local wild birds were also sampled, as well as the feces of swine housed on the poultry farm. After sample collection, the isolated serotypes were subsequently inoculated into broiler chicks to determine their effects. Positive samples were collected from the following locations in the poultry facilities: poultry litter (S. serotype 4,5,12:R:-; S. Heidelberg; S. Infantis), broiler feces (S. Heidelberg; S. serotype 6,7:R:-; S. serotype 4,5,12:R:-; S. Tennessee), water (S. Glostrup; S. serotype 6,8:d:-;), and lesser mealworms (Alphitobius diaperinus) found in the litter (S. Tennessee). Among the 36 wild birds captured, S. Heidelberg was isolated from one bird's organs and intestinal contents (Colaptes campestris), and S. Enteritidis was isolated from another bird's intestinal contents (Zenaida auriculata). Salmonella Panama and Salmonella Typhimurium were isolated from swine feces. One-day-old chicks (150) were divided into 10 groups of 15 animals each. Each group was orally inoculated with a previously isolated serotype of Salmonella. Soft stools were observed on the cage floor and around the birds' cloaca between 3 and 12 days post-infection (dpi). The different serotypes of Salmonella used to inoculate the chicks were re-isolated from the spleen, liver, and cecal content samples of the infected birds on 15 and 21 dpi.

Experimental infection of one-day-old chicks with Salmonella Serotypes Previously isolated from poultry facilities, wild birds, and swine

In order to maintain the high production and export rates achieved by the Brazilian poultry industry, it is necessary to prevent and control certain disease agents, such as Salmonella spp. Using bacterial cultures, the aim of the present study was to investigate the prevalence of Salmonella spp. in specimens collected from broiler facilities. Local wild birds were also sampled, as well as the feces of swine housed on the poultry farm. After sample collection, the isolated serotypes were subsequently inoculated into broiler chicks to determine their effects. Positive samples were collected from the following locations in the poultry facilities: poultry litter (S. serotype 4,5,12:R:-; S. Heidelberg; S. Infantis), broiler feces (S. Heidelberg; S. serotype 6,7:R:-; S. serotype 4,5,12:R:-; S. Tennessee), water (S. Glostrup; S. serotype 6,8:d:-;), and lesser mealworms (Alphitobius diaperinus) found in the litter (S. Tennessee). Among the 36 wild birds captured, S. Heidelberg was isolated from one bird's organs and intestinal contents (Colaptes campestris), and S. Enteritidis was isolated from another bird's intestinal contents (Zenaida auriculata). Salmonella Panama and Salmonella Typhimurium were isolated from swine feces. One-day-old chicks (150) were divided into 10 groups of 15 animals each. Each group was orally inoculated with a previously isolated serotype of Salmonella. Soft stools were observed on the cage floor and around the birds' cloaca between 3 and 12 days post-infection (dpi). The different serotypes of Salmonella used to inoculate the chicks were re-isolated from the spleen, liver, and cecal content samples of the infected birds on 15 and 21 dpi.(AU)

Evaluation of Beauveria bassiana (986) as a biological control of Alphitobius diaperinus in poultry bed of wood shavings

Background: Alphitobius diaperinus, lesser mealworm, represents one of the most important pests in the poultry farming industry worldwide. This insect serves as a mechanical host of pathogenic micro-organisms to birds and causes injuries in their digestive tract affecting the feed conversion. Both larvae and adult insects grow in the avian bed, over the soil of sheds and especially near the feeders, where there is a greater availability of food and water. Alphitobius diaperinus control, around the world and especially in Brazil, is based exclusively on chemical agents which generates resistant populations. The biological control by entomopathogenic fungi has been shown to be feasible and satisfactory when tested in vitro testing in the recent years. However it still lacks tests to evaluate these agents in environments that simulate field conditions. So, the aim of this experiment was to evaluate a Beauveria bassiana (986) as a way of biological control of A. diaperinus in poultry bed of wood shavings. Material, Methods & Results: Alphitobius diaperinus were collected from a poultry shed located in Garibaldi in Rio Grande do Sul and sent to the Laboratório Central de Diagnósticos em Patologias Aviárias (LCDPA), Universidade Federal de Santa Maria (UFSM). Then they were cultivated in plastic boxes on the poultry bed and fed as the recommended protocol. The Beauveria bassiana (986), isolated from ticks, was purchased from the Department of Entomology of ESALQ/USP and cultivated on Potato Dextrose Agar medium (PDA) at 27ºC, 80% RH for 4 days before the experiment. The conidia suspension was obtained through scraping cultivation with aqueous solution of Triton X-100 (0.01%) in the concentration of 3,83 x 108 mL-¹. Six plastic boxes were used, containing 8 cm of soil and 10 cm of sterile wood shavings in order to allocate the beetles. In each box, 400 insects (100 larvae and 300 adults) were divided into two groups - G1: 3 boxes treated with 27 mL of suspension conidia (3,83 x 108 mL-¹) and G2: 3 boxes treated with aqueous solution of triton x-100 0.01% - assisted by 7 days in an average temperature of 32.5°C and 72.4% RH and, after this period, the mortality of both larvae and adults was evaluated. There was no mortality of insects in any stage of the development. Discussion: Non-occurrence of deaths in the larval stage in this test can be explained by the fact that the larvae have the habit to dig galleries on the ground and they usually remain there to maintain a more propitious temperature to their development, preventing contact with the suspension. It was not assessed a longer time of incubation, because seven days are considered to be the average that approximates the most close to the period of time used in the system "All in All out" in the Brazilian poultry farming, period which would be used to apply the fungal solution in poultry sheds. In this experiment, the temperature did not exceed 34ºC, and even so this factor may have affected the growth of fungus in the containers. Another possibility would be a lower virulence of isolated 986 front A. diaperinus, since this isolated was obtained from ticks. In this experiment, the Beauveria bassiana isolated 986 was not effective for biological control of Alphitobius diaperinus in simulated ambient of poultry bed. So, factors as soil, wood shavings, high temperature and incubation time would interfere in the effectiveness.

Avaliação da resistência do cascudinho (Alphitobius diaperinus) (Panzer) (Coleoptera: Tenebrionidae) a diferentes temperaturas / Evaluation of the resistance of mealworms (Alphitobius diaperinus) (Panzer) (Coleoptera: Tenebrionidae) at different temperatures

Alphitobius diaperinus, conhecido como cascudinho, é encontrado abundantemente nas instala-ções avícolas, e acarreta prejuízos zootécnicos e sanitários na avicultura industrial mundialmente. As formas de controle deste besouro estão baseadas exclusivamente no uso de inseticidas para os quais já existem vários relatos de populações resistentes forçando o emprego de métodos alternativos como o controle biológico, interferindo no ciclo de vida do inseto. Este estudo avaliou, em condições de laboratório, a mortalidade de larvas e adultos de A. diaperinus frente a diferentes temperaturas de aquecimento (45º, 50º, 55º e 60º C) e resfriamento (-10º, -13º e -18º C), na presença de maravalha (PM) e ausência de maravalha (AM), através do tempo letal de 100% dos insetos (TL100) em minutos em cada temperatura. A TL100 de larvas e adultos em 45° C foi de 36 e 38 AM e 42 e 57 PM, em 50° C foram 15 e 11 AM e 19 e 16 PM, para 55° C foi de 8 e 9 AM e 12 PM e em 60° C foi de 5 e 6 AM e 11 e 9 PM. Já em -10° C variou de 57 e 60 AM e 70 e 75 PM, em -13° C levou 52 e 55 AM e 60 e 64 PM e em -18° C levou 42 e 43 AM e 51 e 52 PM. Em todas as temperaturas avaliadas houve mortalidade dos insetos em tempo consideravelmente rápido e métodos de controle, através da temperatura, devem levar em consideração esses pontos para referência.

EVALUATION OF THE RESISTANCE OF MEALWORMS (ALPHITOBIUS DIAPERINUS) (PANZER) (COLEOPTERA: TENEBRIONIDAE) AT DIFFERENT TEMPERATURES. Alphitobius diaperinus, known as the lesser mealworm, is abundantly found in poultry houses, and causes losses in poultry worldwide. The ways to control this beetle are based exclusively on the use of insecticides, concerning which there are already several reports of resistant populations, thus forcing the use of alternative methods such as biological control, interfering in the life cycle of the insect. The present study evaluated, under laboratory conditions, the mortality of larvae and adults of A. diaperinus at different temperatures of heating (45º, 50º, 55º and 60º C) and cooling (-10º, -13º and -18º C) in the presence (PM) and absence of wood shavings (AM) by way of the lethal time of 100% of insects (TL100) in minutes at each temperature. The TL100 for larvae and adults at 45° C were 36 and 38 AM and 42 and 57 PM, at 50° C they were 15 and 11 AM and 19 and 16 PM, at 55° C they were 8 and 9 AM and 12 PM, and at 60° C they were 5 and 6 AM and 11 and 9 PM. At -10° C they were 57 and 60 AM and 70 and 75 PM, at -13° C they were 52 and 55 AM and 60 and 64 PM, and at -18° C they were 42 and 43 AM and 51 and 52 PM. At all temperatures, the mortality of the insects was quick; therefore methods of control by way of temperature should consider these points for reference.

Avaliação da resistência do cascudinho (Alphitobius diaperinus) (Panzer) (Coleoptera: Tenebrionidae) a diferentes temperaturas / Evaluation of the resistance of mealworms (Alphitobius diaperinus) (Panzer) (Coleoptera: Tenebrionidae) at different temperatures

Alphitobius diaperinus, conhecido como cascudinho, é encontrado abundantemente nas instala-ções avícolas, e acarreta prejuízos zootécnicos e sanitários na avicultura industrial mundialmente. As formas de controle deste besouro estão baseadas exclusivamente no uso de inseticidas para os quais já existem vários relatos de populações resistentes forçando o emprego de métodos alternativos como o controle biológico, interferindo no ciclo de vida do inseto. Este estudo avaliou, em condições de laboratório, a mortalidade de larvas e adultos de A. diaperinus frente a diferentes temperaturas de aquecimento (45º, 50º, 55º e 60º C) e resfriamento (-10º, -13º e -18º C), na presença de maravalha (PM) e ausência de maravalha (AM), através do tempo letal de 100% dos insetos (TL100) em minutos em cada temperatura. A TL100 de larvas e adultos em 45° C foi de 36 e 38 AM e 42 e 57 PM, em 50° C foram 15 e 11 AM e 19 e 16 PM, para 55° C foi de 8 e 9 AM e 12 PM e em 60° C foi de 5 e 6 AM e 11 e 9 PM. Já em -10° C variou de 57 e 60 AM e 70 e 75 PM, em -13° C levou 52 e 55 AM e 60 e 64 PM e em -18° C levou 42 e 43 AM e 51 e 52 PM. Em todas as temperaturas avaliadas houve mortalidade dos insetos em tempo consideravelmente rápido e métodos de controle, através da temperatura, devem levar em consideração esses pontos para referência. (AU)

EVALUATION OF THE RESISTANCE OF MEALWORMS (ALPHITOBIUS DIAPERINUS) (PANZER) (COLEOPTERA: TENEBRIONIDAE) AT DIFFERENT TEMPERATURES. Alphitobius diaperinus, known as the lesser mealworm, is abundantly found in poultry houses, and causes losses in poultry worldwide. The ways to control this beetle are based exclusively on the use of insecticides, concerning which there are already several reports of resistant populations, thus forcing the use of alternative methods such as biological control, interfering in the life cycle of the insect. The present study evaluated, under laboratory conditions, the mortality of larvae and adults of A. diaperinus at different temperatures of heating (45º, 50º, 55º and 60º C) and cooling (-10º, -13º and -18º C) in the presence (PM) and absence of wood shavings (AM) by way of the lethal time of 100% of insects (TL100) in minutes at each temperature. The TL100 for larvae and adults at 45° C were 36 and 38 AM and 42 and 57 PM, at 50° C they were 15 and 11 AM and 19 and 16 PM, at 55° C they were 8 and 9 AM and 12 PM, and at 60° C they were 5 and 6 AM and 11 and 9 PM. At -10° C they were 57 and 60 AM and 70 and 75 PM, at -13° C they were 52 and 55 AM and 60 and 64 PM, and at -18° C they were 42 and 43 AM and 51 and 52 PM. At all temperatures, the mortality of the insects was quick; therefore methods of control by way of temperature should consider these points for reference. (AU)