Complete mitochondrial genome of Penicillidia dufourii (Diptera: Hippoboscoidea: Nycteribiidae) and phylogenetic relationship.

Penicillidia dufourii (Westwood 1834) is a specialized parasite categorized under family Nycteribiidae that prefers to parasitize the body surface of various bats under the genus Myotis. Many species of the family Nycteribiidae are carriers of various pathogens; however, research on P. dufourii remains scarce, and studies on its molecular identification and population genetic structure are still lacking. In this study, the complete mitochondrial genome of P. dufourii was elucidated for the first time using Illumina sequencing. The mitochondrial genome is 15,354 bp in size and encodes approximately 37 genes, including 13 protein-coding genes, 22 tRNA genes, 2 rRNA genes, and 1 control region. Analysis of 13 protein-coding genes revealed that UUA, UCA, CGA, and GGA were the most common codons, while nad4L had the fastest evolutionary rate and cox1 the slowest. Phylogenetic analysis based on the mitochondrial genome indicated that P. dufourii is clustered with other species of the family Nycteribiidae and is most closely related to Nycteribia parvula and Phthiridium szechuanum.

Diversity and seasonality of horse flies (Diptera: Tabanidae) in Amazon Forest fragments of Monte Negro, Rondônia, Western Amazon.

Tabanidae are considered a nuisance to humans, wild animals, and livestock due to their painful, annoying, and insistent biting. Tabanids transmit some pathogens and parasites biologically and mechanically. In humans, there are relatively few pathogens transmitted regularly. Still, tabanids serve as vectors of a number of disease agents of animals, including viruses, bacteria, protozoans, and nematodes. They are more abundant in tropical and humid regions, and their seasonal patterns are affected by habitat changes such as deforestation and fragmentation. Here, we analyze the tabanid fauna in Monte Negro, a central municipality of Rondônia, Brazil, comparing abundance, richness, and diversity in forest and pasture habitats. Traps were set for 5 days a month for 12 consecutive months. We also examined how abiotic factors (humidity, temperature, and rainfall) affected the abundance, diversity, and richness and the effectiveness of Malaise and Nzi traps as sample methods. The influence of climatic variables on the richness and abundance of the species was tested using generalized linear models, and we used non-parametric dimensional scaling (nMDS) for analysis of species composition and diversity in different traps and environments. We collect 1032 specimens of 25 species. The most abundant species were Tabanus antarcticus, Dichelacera tetradelta, Tabanus mucronatus, and Leucotabanus albovarius. Forest habitats had the highest number of tabanids, followed by pasture and the anthropized area, and there was no significant difference regarding the effectiveness of the Malaise and Nzi traps. The study provides new information on the distribution and ecology of tabanids in Brazil.

Tabanidae (Diptera) collected on horses in a Cerrado biome in the state of Tocantins, Brazil.

Tabanidae (Diptera), popularly known as horse flies, is an important vector group. This is the first study to ascertain the abundance and diversity of horse flies in horses at the cerrado biome of the state of Tocantins, Brazil. Collecting took place in typical Cerrado, and sampling occurred in the dry and rainy seasons. The horseflies were collected from horses using an entomological net. A total of 249 individuals were collected and spread over 25 species. The prevalent species were Stypommisa aripuana (25.8%) and Catachlorops rufescens (6.4%), in the dry period, and Fidena lissorhina (22.5%), Tabanus occidentalis var. dorsovittatus (10%) and Poeciloderas quadripunctatus (6.4%), in the rainy season. The results suggest that tabanids attack horses throughout the dry and rainy seasons, posing a constant threat to their health in the Cerrado of Tocantins.

Phylogenomics resolves long-standing questions about the affinities of an endangered Corsican endemic fly.

Recent studies on oestroidean Diptera (Brachycera) are providing a comprehensive and nuanced understanding of the evolutionary history of this remarkably diverse clade of holometabolous insects. The Oestroidea, which includes formidable pests such as various blowflies, botflies, and flesh flies that infest livestock, pets and humans, are mostly composed of beneficial species that act as scavengers or parasitoids on various pest insects. In our research, we used genomic methods to elucidate the phylogenetic position of Nesodexia corsicana Villeneuve, 1911 (Diptera: Calliphoridae), a mysterious oestroid species endemic to Corsica and characterized by distinctive morphological features that have puzzled taxonomists for years. Contrary to initial hypotheses, our results place Nesodexia Villeneuve, 1911 within the Calliphoridae subfamily Rhinophorinae, a small lineage of terrestrial isopod parasitoids. Through detailed morphological analysis of adults of both sexes and eggs, we uncovered significant insights consistent with our phylogenomic reconstruction. The unique morphological features of the species, coupled with its restricted and fragmented habitat, highlight its potential conservation importance. We delineated the area of occupancy for N. corsicana and assessed its "threatened" category using specific IUCN Red List criteria. In addition, we mapped the available habitat within its range and determined potential key biodiversity areas (KBA) triggered by N. corsicana. New potential KBAs are only partially covered by the Corsican Regional Park. Finally, we mapped the distribution of habitats on the island to assess the potential distribution of the species beyond its currently known geographic range.

African swine fever virus DNA is present in non-biting flies collected from outbreak farms in Romania.

BACKGROUND: African swine fever (ASF) is a highly contagious and severe haemorrhagic disease of Suidae, with mortalities that approach 100 percent. Several studies suggested the potential implication of non-biting dipterans in the spread of ASFV in pig farms due to the identification of the ASFV DNA. However, to our knowledge, no study has evaluated the viral DNA load in non-biting dipterans collected in outbreak farms and no risk factors have been analysed. In this context, our study aimed to analyse the risk factors associated with the presence of non-biting dipterans collected from ASF outbreaks in relation to the presence and load of viral DNA. METHODS: Backyard farms (BF), type A farms (TAF), and commercial farms (CF), were targeted for sampling in 2020. In 2021, no BF were sampled. Each farm was sampled only once. The identification of the collected flies to family, genus, or species level was performed based on morphological characteristics using specific keys and descriptions. Pools were made prior to DNA extraction. All extracted DNA was tested for the presence of the ASFV using a real-time PCR protocol. For this study, we considered every sample with a CT value of 40 as positive. The statistical analysis was performed using Epi Info 7 software (CDC, USA). RESULTS: All collected non-biting flies belonged to five families: Calliphoridae, Sarcophagidae, Fanniidae, Drosophilidae, and Muscidae. Of the 361 pools, 201 were positive for the presence of ASFV DNA. The obtained CT values of the positive samples ranged from 21.54 to 39.63, with a median value of 33.59 and a mean value of 33.56. Significantly lower CT values (corresponding to higher viral DNA load) were obtained in Sarcophagidae, with a mean value of 32.56; a significantly higher number of positive pools were noticed in August, mean value = 33.12. CONCLUSIONS: Our study brings compelling evidence of the presence of the most common synanthropic flies near domestic pig farms carrying ASFV DNA, highlighting the importance of strengthening the biosecurity measures and protocols for prevention of the insect life cycle and distribution.

Revision of the Neotropical Obscure Genus Ebenia Macquart 1846 (Diptera, Tachinidae, Dufouriini).

The Neotropical genus Ebenia Macquart, 1846, is a member of the tribe Dufouriini (Dexiinae), and before the current work, comprised four species, viz. E. claripennis Macquart 1846, E. fumata (Wulp, 1891), E. neofumata Santis & Nihei, 2022 and E. trichopoda (Wulp, 1891). The present taxonomic revision results in a new generic synonymy: Comyops Wulp, 1891 syn. nov. of Ebenia. The following two new combinations result from this act: E. nigripennis (Wulp, 1891) comb. nov. and E. striaticollis (Wulp, 1891) comb. nov. both originally described in Comyops. In addition, the species originally described as Homodexia spinosa Bigot, 1889 is moved from its current placement in Thelairodes Wulp, 1891 to Ebenia as Ebenia spinosa (Bigot, 1889) comb. nov. A new specific synonymy is proposed for this last species: Morinia trichopoda Wulp, 1891, previously treated as a valid species of Ebenia, becomes a junior synonym of E. spinosa. All valid species are redescribed and photographed with the first description and illustration of the male terminalia for E. claripennis, E. neofumata and E. nigripennis and female terminalia for E. spinosa. Additionally, lectotype fixations are made for E. nigripennis and M. trichopoda. Finally, an updated diagnosis for the genus Ebenia and a key to the six known species are provided.

Discrimination of cryptic species: Tabanus triangulum and Tabanus occidentalis (Diptera: Tabanidae) differ in size and shape.

Horse fly females (Diptera, Tabanidae) are hematophagous and can vector pathogens that affect livestock. Complexes of cryptic species are common in Tabanidae, as exemplified by some species of Tabanus, including Tabanus triangulum and Tabanus occidentalis, both prevalent in the Southern region of Brazil. In this study, geometric morphometrics were employed to ascertain the wing venation in species identification. It was demonstrated that this tool effectively differentiates T. triangulum from T. occidentalis in the coastal plain of Rio Grande do Sul state, situated within the Pampa biome. The results indicate that T. triangulum and T. occidentalis occupy distinct regions of the morphological space, allowing their precise identification through geometric morphometrics, which is fast, affordable, and easy to implement.

Revision of the Brazilian species of Ptilodexia Brauer & Bergenstamm, 1889 (Diptera: Tachinidae: Dexiinae), with the description of a new species.

The Brazilian species of the New World genus Ptilodexia Brauer & Bergenstamm, 1889 are revised. Before this study, only one species of Ptilodexia was recorded from Brazil, viz. P. lateralis (Walker, 1836). Herein we record, for the first time, two new records of known Ptilodexia species in Brazil, viz. P. striata (Wulp, 1891) and P. rubricornis (Wulp, 1891). In addition, a new species is described, Ptilodexia matogrossensis sp. nov. from Mato Grosso and Mato Grosso do Sul states in Brazil; hence four species of this genus are currently recorded from Brazil. The species Neomyostoma ptilodexioides Townsend, 1935, from Brazil, placed in the monotypic genus Neomyostoma Townsend, 1935, is proposed as junior synonym of P. lateralis. Illustrations and detailed descriptions are presented for P. lateralis, P. matogrossensis sp. nov., P. striata and P. rubricornis and the male terminalia is described for P. lateralis and P. striata. The female terminalia and the first larval instar are described for the first time for the genus, based on the descriptions of P. lateralis and P. striata. A key to the identification of all recognized Brazilian species of Ptilodexia is presented. Finally, an updated distributional record is given for all studied species.

Contributions to our knowledge on avian louse flies (Hippoboscidae: Ornithomyinae) with the first European record of the African species Ornithoctona laticornis.

BACKGROUND: Louse flies (Diptera, Hippoboscidae) are important blood-sucking parasites of birds and mammals with a worldwide distribution. The aim of our study was to collect louse flies from birds across multiple sites in Hungary and evaluate the effects of avian traits on louse fly-host relationships. METHODS: Between 2015 and 2022, 237 louse flies were collected from birds at multiple locations in Hungary. The louse flies were identified to species level by morphological and molecular methods. Louse fly species and their seasonal dynamics were analyzed. RESULTS: Six louse fly species were identified: Ornithomya avicularia, Ornithomya fringillina, Ornithomya biloba, Ornithomya chloropus, Ornithoica turdi and Ornithoctona laticornis. Results of statistical analyses indicated that habitat, migration habits and the feeding places of birds have significant effects on their possible role as hosts of O. avicularia, O. fringillina and O. turdi. Analysis of the temporal distribution of avian louse flies showed different seasonal patterns according to species. Phylogenetic analyses highlighted that O. turdi clustered separately from other members of the subfamily Ornithomyinae which thus did not form a monophyletic group. CONCLUSIONS: This study presents one of the longest continuous collections of ornithophilic louse fly species in Europe so far. Avian traits were shown to influence louse-fly infestation. To our best knowledge, this is the first report on O. laticornis in Europe. The ability of this African louse fly species to survive in Europe, as demonstrated in the present study, may be an indication of its future establishment. Our findings, in accordance with previous reports, also indicated that the subfamily Ornithomyinae should be taxonomically revised.

Eocene amber provides the first fossil record and bridges distributional gap in the rare genus Robsonomyia (Diptera: Keroplatidae).

Until now, the genus Robsonomyia was represented by two extant species: R. reducta Matile & Vockeroth, 1980 from North America and R. sciaraeformis (Okada, 1939) from Asia. This paper presents the first fossil members of the genus Robsonomyia, which is also the first record from Europe. Two new fossil species from Baltic amber are described: R. baltica Pelczynska, Krzeminski & Blagoderov, sp. nov. and R. henningseni Pelczynska, Krzeminski & Blagoderov, sp. nov.. The presence of fossil Robsonomyia spp. on the European continent suggests Holarctic distribution of the genus in the past. We also discuss possible pathways of its intercontinental dispersion.

Codon usage bias analysis in the mitochondrial genomes of five Rhingia Scopoli (Diptera, Syrphidae, Eristalinae) species.

This study presents the sequencing and annotation of mitochondrial genomes from five Rhingia species of the family Syrphidae, focusing on codon bias. Each species possessed 22 tRNAs genes, 13 protein-coding genes, 2 rRNAs genes, and a control region, without any observed gene rearrangements. Nucleotide composition analysis revealed a higher AT content compared with GC content, indicating AT enrichment. Neutrality plot, Parity rule 2 bias, and effective number of codons plot analyses collectively indicated that natural selection primarily influences the codon usage bias in the five Rhingia species. Relative synonymous codon usage analysis identified the optimal codons for Rhingia binotata, R. fromosana, R. campestris, R. louguanensis, and R. xanthopoda as 10, 14, 10, 11, and 12, respectively, all ending with A/U and exhibiting AT preference. Phylogenetic analysis, based on maximum likelihood and Bayesian inference methods applied to three datasets, confirmed the monophyly of Rhingia. In conclusion, this research establishes a foundation for understanding the phylogenetic evolution and codon usage patterns in Rhingia, offering valuable for future studies.

Human myiasis in Sub-Saharan Africa: A systematic review.

BACKGROUND: Human myiasis is a parasitic dipteran fly infestation that infects humans and vertebrates worldwide. However, the disease is endemic in Sub-Saharan Africa and Latin America. In Sub-Saharan Africa, it is under-reported and therefore its prevalence is unknown. This systematic review aims to elucidate the prevalence of human myiasis, factors that influence the infection, and myiasis-causing fly species in SSA. The review also dwelled on the common myiasis types and treatment methods of human myiasis. METHODS: Here, we collect cases of human myiasis in Sub-Saharan Africa based on literature retrieved from PubMed, Google Scholar and Science Direct from 1959 to 2022. A total of 75 articles and 157 cases were included in the study. The recommendations of PRISMA 2020 were used for the realization of this systematic review. RESULTS: In total, 157 cases of human myiasis in SSA were reviewed. Eleven fly species (Cordylobia anthropophaga, Cordylobia rodhaini, Dermatobia hominis, Lucilia cuprina, Lucilia sericata, Oestrus ovis, Sarcophaga spp., Sarcophaga nodosa, Chrysomya megacephala, Chrysomya chloropyga and Clogmia albipuntum) were found to cause human myiasis in SSA. Cordylobia anthropophaga was the most prevalent myiasis-causing species of the reported cases (n = 104, 66.2%). More than half of the reported cases were from travelers returning from SSA (n = 122, 77.7%). Cutaneous myiasis was the most common clinical presentation of the disease (n = 86, 54.7%). Females were more infected (n = 78, 49.6%) than males, and there was a higher infestation in adults than young children. CONCLUSION: The findings of this study reveals that international travelers to Sub-Saharan Africa were mostly infested therefore, we recommend that both international travelers and natives of SSA be enlightened by public health officers about the disease and its risk factors at entry points in SSA and the community level respectively. Clinicians in Sub-Saharan Africa often misdiagnose the disease and most of them lack the expertise to properly identify larvae, so we recommend the extensive use of molecular identification methods instead.

Species diversity and spatial distribution of mosquitoes (Diptera: Culicidae) from La Isla Amazon Park, Napo Province, Ecuador / Diversidad de especies y distribución espacial de mosquitos (Diptera: Culicidae) del Parque Amazónico La Isla, provincia de Napo, Ecuador

Abstract Introduction: Vector-borne diseases are prevalent in the Amazon and Coastal regions of Ecuador. However, there is a scarcity of mosquito ecology studies in these areas. The most recent list of species reported for the country comprises 8 tribes, 22 genera, and 200 species. Objectives: To document the Culicidae species found in La Isla Amazon Park, Napo, Ecuador, including those with epidemiological significance; and to analyze their composition, abundance, and diversity, focusing on larval habitats during the dry and rainy periods. Methods: We evaluated different larval habitats, considering collection duration as the primary criterion. We used CDC and Shannon traps to collect adult mosquitoes during both rainy and dry periods. To assess sampling effort, we used accumulation curves and non-parametric estimators of species richness, while we employed Hill numbers to determine diversity. Additionally, we used the Berger-Parker and Pielou indices to evaluate species dominance and evenness. We conducted cluster analysis and ANOSIM tests to assess the similarity between habitats and the differences in taxonomic composition between periods. Results: We collected a total of 802 individuals from 15 species and 4 taxonomic units, 5 genera, and 4 tribes. Notably, this may be the first records of Wyeomyia felicia Dyar & Núñez Tovar and Culex derivator Dyar & Knab from Ecuador. Additionally, the presence of Culex dunni Dyar and Psorophora ferox von Humboldt (both recognized as vectors) was correlated with increased rainfall. Conclusions: The abundance of mosquitoes, including potential vector species, increased during the rainy season, indicating a higher risk of pathogen transmission. However, the relationship between rainfall amount and diversity patterns is not well-defined.

Resumen Introducción: Las enfermedades vectoriales son prevalentes en las regiones amazónica y costera de Ecuador. Sin embargo, hay una escasez de estudios de ecología de mosquitos en estas áreas. En el país se ha reportado 8 tribus, 22 géneros y 200 especies. Objetivos: Documentar las especies de Culicidae encontradas en el Parque Amazónico La Isla, Napo, Ecuador, incluyendo aquellas con importancia epidemiológica; y analizar su composición, abundancia y diversidad, enfocándose en los hábitats de las larvas durante los períodos seco y lluvioso. Métodos: Evaluamos diferentes hábitats larvarios, con la duración de la recolecta como criterio. Las trampas CDC y Shannon recolectaron mosquitos adultos durante los períodos seco y lluvioso. Evaluamos la riqueza de especies con curvas de acumulación y estimadores no paramétricos, mientras que determinamos la diversidad con los números de Hill. Además, utilizamos los índices de Berger-Parker y Pielou para evaluar la dominancia y la uniformidad de las especies. Realizamos análisis de conglomerados y la prueba ANOSIM para evaluar la similitud entre hábitats y estaciones, así como las diferencias en la composición taxonómica, respectivamente. Resultados: Recolectamos un total de 802 individuos de 15 especies y 4 unidades taxonómicas, 5 géneros y 4 tribus. Este podría ser el primer registro de Wyeomyia felicia Dyar & Núñez Tovar y Culex derivator Dyar & Knab en Ecuador. Además, la presencia de Culex dunni Dyar y Psorophora ferox von Humboldt (ambos potenciales vectores) se correlacionó con el aumento de las precipitaciones. Conclusiones: El aumento de la abundancia de mosquitos durante el periodo lluvioso indica un mayor riesgo de transmisión de patógenos. Sin embargo, la relación entre la cantidad de precipitaciones y los patrones de diversidad no está bien definida.

Diversidad y ecología de Tephritoidea (Insecta: Diptera) en el norte de la Orinoquía colombiana / Diversity and ecology of Tephritoidea (Insecta: Diptera) on the north of the Colombian Orinoquía

Resumen Introducción: Los Tephritoidea, como grupo, tienen un impacto ecológico porque se alimentan de hongos, insectos, flores, frutas en descomposición, excrementos, sudor, nódulos de raíces, carroña (incluidos cadáveres humanos) y otros materiales en descomposición. Las moscas de la fruta son insectos de gran importancia en la agricultura y la investigación genética. En Colombia existen 58 géneros y 224 especies, pero no existe un estudio general del grupo en la Orinoquía colombiana. Objetivo: Caracterizar las comunidades de Tephritoidea (aspectos taxonómicos y ecológicos) y aportar información básica de las especies de importancia económica en la Orinoquía colombiana. Métodos: Semanalmente desde agosto 2017 hasta febrero 2018 recolectamos moscas de la fruta en trampas McPhail cebadas con proteína de maíz, en un huerto doméstico y un fragmento de bosque en Arauca, y también en Saravena, Orinoquía, Colombia. Resultados: Identificamos 27 especies (12 Tephritidae, 11 Richardiidae y 4 Lonchaeidae), nueve de ellas plagas agrícolas. Euarestopsis paupera, Hemixantha lutea, Melanoloma affinis, Melanoloma cyanogaster, Melanoloma varians y Sepsisoma anale se reportan por primera vez para Colombia. Se calcularon los índices de diversidad para las comunidades estudiadas, encontrando diferencias entre las localidades y ambiente. Se discute la influencia de las condiciones ambientales sobre la variabilidad encontrada. Se encontraron nueve especies de moscas consideradas como plagas de producciones agrícolas y para estas especies se estudió su relación con plantas hospederas y la dinámica poblacional. Conclusiones: Seis meses de muestreo produjeron varios primeros registros, lo que sugiere que la fauna de Tephritoidea está submuestreada en la región. La temporada de lluvias y las actividades humanas se correlacionan con la diversidad y abundancia de especies en la Orinoquía colombiana.

Abstract Introduction: The Tephritoidea as a group, have an ecological impact because they feed on fungi, insects, flowers, decaying fruit, excrement, sweat, root nodules, carrion (including human corpses), and other decomposing materials. The fruit-flies are insects of great importance in agriculture and genetic research. In Colombia, there are 58 genera and 224 species, but there is no general study of the group in the savannas of Orinoquía. Objective: To characterize the Tephritoidea communities (taxonomic and ecological aspects) and to provide basic information about the economically important species in the Colombian Orinoquía. Methods: Weekly from August 2017 to February 2018 we collected flies from fruits and McPhail traps baited with corn protein, in a domestic orchard and a forest fragment in Arauca, and also in Saravena, Orinoquía, Colombia. Results: We identified 27 species (12 Tephritidae, 11 Richardiidae and 4 Lonchaeidae), nine of them agricultural pests. Euarestopsis paupera, Hemixantha lutea, Melanoloma affinis, Melanoloma cyanogaster, Melanoloma varians and Sepsisoma anale are reported for the first time from Colombia. A diversity index was calculated for studied communities, being differences between localities and sites. Influence of climatic conditions over variability was found and is discussed. Nine species of fruit flies, which are considered agricultural pests, were identified. For these species their relationship with host plants and population dynamics were studied. Conclusions: Six months of sampling produced several first reports, suggesting that the fauna of Tephritoidea is undersampled in the region. The rainy season, and human activities, correlate with species diversity and abundance in the Colombian Orinoquía.

A new species of gall midge (Diptera, Cecidomyiidae) associated with Pleroma raddianum (DC) Gardner (Myrtales: Melastomatacea), an endenic plant to Brazil

Lopesia pleromatis sp. nov. (Lopesiini, Cecidomyiidi) is described based on material collected in Atlantic Forest areas of Bertioga (São Paulo State, Brazil). Specimens were obtained from globoid leaf galls on Pleroma raddianum (DC.) Gardner (Melastomataceae), an endemic plant to Brazil. Lopesia pleromatis is compared to other congeneric species. The most important morphological characters are illustrated.(AU)

First list of parasitoids in flies of medical, veterinary, and forensic importance in Rio Grande do Sul – Brazil / Primeira lista de parasitoides em moscas de importância médica, veterinária e forense no Rio Grande do Sul - Brasil

Necrophagous flies are of great importance for human and animal health. In places where their development occurs, parasitoids can be used as a tool to control these dipterans. In Brazil, the fauna of these parasitoids has been investigated in some regions. However, in Rio Grande do Sul, it is known the occurrence of only one species. Thus, this study aimed to create the first list of parasitoids in flies of medical and veterinary importance in Southern Brazil. Collections took place in the municipality of Pelotas (31º 42' S; 52º 18' W). Three replicates consisting of a 500 g bovine liver chunk placed in a tray were exposed to open air for 20 days. Then pupae were individualized and observed until their emergence. We identified 4,882 adult flies of Calliphoridae, Fanniidae, Muscidae, and Sarcophagidae. 4,040 parasitoids emerged, belonging to eight species, of which Nasonia vitripennis, Spalangia cameroni, Spalangia chontalensis, and Tachinephagus zealandicus are new records in Rio Grande do Sul state. Also, three undescribed species of the genus Aphaereta were collected. In spite of being the first attempt to inventory the fauna of hymenopteran parasitoids, this study may help in the development of management programs of these dipterans in the region.

Moscas necrófagas possuem grande importância para a sanidade humana e animal. Onde estas se desenvolvem ocorrem parasitoides que podem ser utilizados como ferramentas para o controle desses dípteros. No Brasil, a fauna desses parasitoides vem sendo investigada em algumas regiões e no Rio Grande do Sul é conhecida a ocorrência de apenas uma espécie. Portanto, o objetivo deste estudo foi criar a primeira lista de espécies de parasitoides de moscas de importância médica e veterinária ocorrentes no extremo sul do Brasil. As coletas foram realizadas no município de Pelotas (31º 42' S; 52º 18' O). Foram montadas três réplicas de bandejas contendo, cada uma, 500 g de fígado bovino, expostas ao ar livre durante 20 dias. Na sequência, as pupas foram individualizadas e observadas até a emergência. Foram identificados 4.882 adultos pertencentes às famílias Calliphoridae, Fanniidae, Muscidae e Sarcophagidae. Emergiram 4.040 parasitoides, pertencentes a oito espécies, das quais Nasonia vitripennis, Spalangia cameroni, Spalangia chontalensis e Tachinephagus zealandicus são novas ocorrências para o Rio Grande do Sul. Foram coletadas três espécies ainda não descritas do gênero Aphaereta. Apesar de ainda ser um primeiro esforço de inventariar a fauna de himenópteros parasitoides, este estudo pode auxiliar no desenvolvimento de programas de manejos desses dípteros na região.

New record of Cepa apeca (Diptera, Syrphidae, Eristalinae, Merodontini) in the Andean-Amazonian region of Colombia and expansion of its geographic range / Nuevo registro de Cepa apeca (Diptera, Syrphidae, Eristalinae, Merodontini) en la región Andino-Amazónica de Colombia, con expansión de su rango geográfico

Flower flies of the genus Cepa are endemic to the Neotropical region and Cepa apeca is currently known only from Costa Rica. Here we report the first record of C. apeca in Colombia based on a single female collected using a canopy trap in a dense secondary forest in a mountainous ecosystem in the locality of Vereda San Francisco, municipality of Florencia-Caquetá, at an altitude of 643 m.a.s.l. This finding constitutes the first record of the genus Cepa in Colombia and expands the geographic range of Cepa apeca by approximately 1,500 km (straight line) southwards to South America. Our finding represents the southernmost occurrence of the species and contributes to the incipient knowledge on the Diptera diversity in the Colombian Andean-Amazonian region.

Las moscas de las flores del género Cepa son endémicas de la región Neotropical y Cepa apeca solo se conoce actualmente en Costa Rica. Aquí reportamos el primer registro de C. apeca en Colombia, basado en una sola hembra recolectada usando una trampa de dosel en un bosque denso secundario en un ecosistema montañoso en la localidad de Vereda San Francisco, município de Florencia-Caquetá, a una altitud de 643 m.s.n.m. Este hallazgo constituye el primer registro del género Cepa en Colombia y amplía el rango geográfico de Cepa apeca en aproximadamente 1.500 km (en línea recta) hacia el sur en Sudamérica. Nuestro hallazgo representa la ocurrencia más austral de la especie y contribuye al conocimiento incipiente sobre la diversidad de dípteros en la región Andino-Amazonica colombiana.

A review on the occurrence of Cochliomyia hominivorax (Diptera: Calliphoridae) in Brazil / Revisão da ocorrência de Cochliomyia hominivorax (Diptera: Calliphoridae) no Brasil

Abstract Cochliomyia hominivorax (Coquerel, 1858), the New World screwworm, causes primary myiasis in wild and domestic animals in tropical and subtropical regions of Brazil. Although this species is considered to occur throughout the country, organized information about its recorded distribution has not been available until now. This article aimed to provide a comprehensive review of the historical and current data published on both immature (myiasis) and adult stages of C. hominivorax in Brazil. A total of 174 articles were found; of these, 141 articles reported myiasis cases in cattle (146 records), humans (68 records), and other mammalian hosts (40 records), and captures of adult flies were reported in 33 articles. C. hominivorax is widespread in Brazil, having been recorded in 208 municipalities in all major biomes of the country.

Resumo Cochliomyia hominivorax (Coquerel, 1858), a mosca-da-bicheira, causa miíase primária em animais silvestres e domésticos em regiões tropicais e subtropicais do Brasil. Embora esta espécie seja considerada de ocorrência em todo o país, informações organizadas sobre sua distribuição com base em registros não estavam disponíveis até o momento. Este artigo teve como objetivo fornecer uma revisão abrangente dos dados históricos e atuais publicados sobre o registro de estágios imaturos (miíase) e adultos de C. hominivorax, no Brasil. De 174 artigos encontrados, 141 relataram casos de miíase em bovinos (146 relatos), humanos (68 relatos) e outros mamíferos hospedeiros (40 relatos) e capturas de adultos de C. hominivorax foram registradas em 33 artigos. C. hominivorax encontra-se amplamente distribuída no Brasil, tendo sido registrada em 208 municípios brasileiros em todos os principais biomas do país.

Pupipara (Diptera, Hippoboscidae) in wild birds attended at a rehabilitation center in southern Brazil / Pupíparas (Diptera, Hippoboscidae) em Aves Silvestres Atendidas em Centro de Reabilitação no Sul do Brasil

Abstract The hippoboscids are cosmopolitan permanent obligate hematophagous ectoparasites of birds, domestic and wild mammals and, occasionally, humans. Some species may act as vectors or hosts of etiological pathogenic agents. The aims of this study were to report on the first cases of Hippoboscidae in Crax blumenbachii and Parabuteo unicinctus; to provide new reports from Brazil on Tyto furcata and Asio stygius parasitized by Icosta americana; to report on individuals of Bubo virginianus, Falco sparverius and Accipiter striatus parasitized by genera Ornithoctona; and to provide new reports on parasitism of O. erythrocephala in the state of Rio Grande do Sul. The birds of prey and C. blumenbachii were attended at a rehabilitation center in Porto Alegre and at a veterinary hospital in Cruz Alta. These new records demonstrate the huge gap that exists regarding studies on avian ectoparasites and highlight potential vectors of hemoparasites for the bird species studied.

Resumo Os hipoboboscídeos são ectoparasitos hematófagos obrigatórios, permanentes e cosmopolitas de aves, mamíferos domésticos e silvestres e, ocasionalmente, humanos. Algumas espécies podem atuar como vetores ou hospedeiros de agentes patogênicos etiológicos. Os objetivos deste estudo foram relatar os primeiros casos de Hippoboscidae em Crax blumenbachii e Parabuteo unicinctus; fornecer novo relato do Brasil sobre Tyto furcata e Asio stygius parasitados por Icosta americana; relatar indivíduos de Bubo virginianus, Falco sparverius e Accipiter striatus parasitados pelo gênero Ornithoctona; e fornecer novos relatos sobre parasitismo de O. erythrocephala no estado do Rio Grande do Sul. As aves de rapina e C. blumenbachii foram atendidas em um centro de reabilitação em Porto Alegre e em um hospital veterinário em Cruz Alta. Esses novos registros demonstram a enorme lacuna que existe em relação aos estudos sobre ectoparasitas aviários e destacam potenciais vetores de hemoparasitos para as espécies de aves estudadas.

Immune humoral response of young lambs naturally infested by Oestrus ovis (Diptera: Oestridae) / Resposta imune humoral de cordeiros jovens naturalmente infestados por Oestrus ovis (Diptera: Oestridae)

Abstract Twenty-six newborn lambs were evaluated for 21 weeks, from birth to slaughter, to assess their plasma anti-Oestrus ovis immunoglobulin (IgG) using the ELISA technique. On the last day of sampling, all the lambs were slaughtered and O. ovis larvae were recovered, quantified and identified according to the larval stage. High levels of IgG were observed over the first three weeks of life, thus indicating that antibodies are transferred via colostrum from ewes to lambs. Afterwards, the antibody levels declined progressively until the lambs were 11 weeks of age and subsequently started to increase again when they were around 13 weeks of age, reaching the apex on the last week of sampling. All the lambs were parasitized with different larval stages of O. ovis, with an average of 39 larvae per lamb, and the intensity of the infestation ranged from 10 to 97 larvae. However, there was non-significant correlation coefficients between IgG levels and O. ovis larval burden (P > 0.05). In conclusion, although the lambs became infested with O. ovis at an early age, the larval burden was not associated with specific IgG levels.

Resumo Vinte e seis cordeiros recém-nascidos foram avaliados por 21 semanas, desde o nascimento até o abate, para avaliar os níveis plasmáticos de imunoglobulina (IgG) anti-Oestrus ovis utilizando-se a técnica de ELISA. No último dia de coleta, todos os cordeiros foram abatidos e as larvas de O. ovis foram recuperadas, quantificadas e identificadas de acordo com o estádio larval. Foram observados altos níveis de IgG nas primeiras três semanas de vida, indicando que os anticorpos são transferidos por meio do colostro das ovelhas para os cordeiros. Posteriormente, os níveis de anticorpos diminuíram progressivamente, até os cordeiros completarem 11 semanas de vida. Os níveis de IgG começaram a aumentar novamente a partir de 13 semanas de idade, atingindo o ápice na última semana de coleta. Todos os cordeiros estavam parasitados com diferentes estádios larvais de O. ovis com uma média de 39 larvas por cordeiro, e a intensidade da infestação variou de 10 a 97 larvas. Porém, não houve correlação significativa entre os níveis de IgG e a carga larval de O. ovis (P > 0,05). Em conclusão, embora os cordeiros tenham sido infestados com O. ovis ainda jovens, a carga larval não foi associada a níveis específicos de IgG.