Progress 10/01/99 to 09/30/04
Outputs
1. What major problem or issue is being resolved and how are you resolving it (summarize project aims and objectives)? How serious is the problem? What does it matter? The larvae of moths and the nymphs and adults of true bugs and leafhoppers inflict millions of dollars in damage to agricultural, ornamental, and forest plants annually, which elicits the additional expenditure of millions of dollars for pesticides and other control and management activities. In contrast, a wide array of moths and true bugs may be highly effective biological control agents against noxious and/or invasive weed pests for the same reasons they are important pests of crops. Efficacious exclusion of invasive plant pests, successful detection and management of those already established in the United States, and the selection of appropriate biological control agents all require the accurate identification of these insects, as well as an understanding of their relationships to similar organisms
and in-depth knowledge of their biologies. The proposed research uses morphological, biological, biogeographical, and to a limited degree molecular approaches to classify and characterize difficult groups that are considered either pests (owing to their plant-feeding habit or ability to vector plant pathogens) or beneficials (owing to their predatory habits or their selective herbivory on noxious weeds). Specific groups examined include leafroller moths (Tortricidae), cutworm moths (Noctuidae), snout moths (Crambidae), true bugs (Miridae), and leafhoppers (Cicadellidae). Knowledge of their classification and relationships is essential for accurate identification, for providing a context for assessing host specificity for potential biological control agents, and for developing hypotheses of which species have the greatest likelihood of invading and becoming establishing within the U.S. The project has three specific goals: (1) conduct systematic studies on plant pests and beneficial
insect groups of importance to U.S. agriculture; (2) develop electronic resources to enhance technology transfer of research products via the web; and (3) provide expert identification and curatorial services. The research undertaken falls under National Program 304 - Crop Protection and Quarantine, which mandates the investigation of potential and actual plant pests of importance to U.S. agriculture and species with high potential as biological control agents. Specific projects with which we have collaborated with other ARS and/or APHIS scientists this year include: (1) providing APHIS with information from the U.S. National Insect Collection on widespread moth pests of stone fruits in the U.S. in support of harmonizing trade agreements with Mexico; (2) collaboration with ARS scientists in Louisiana regarding an important pest of sugarcane in South America that has been discovered to be a pest of smooth cord- grass in the southeastern U.S.; and (3) research on pyraloid moths that
have high potential as a biological control agent of Old World Climbing Fern. The proposed research will provide various U.S. state (extension services, universities) and federal agencies (e.g., ARS, APHIS) and foreign governments with the tools necessary to accurately identify agriculturally important pests, to better understand the range of crops and native plants upon which they feed, to recognize predators and herbivores that may be useful for biological control, and to make predictions about the pest potential of closely related species. The exclusion and control of invasive species relies heavily on taxonomic information on a worldwide basis. The research will provide scientists and extension personnel with names to use when communicating about, or studying insect pests. Errors in identification may result in monetary loss and/or misdirected efforts, or permit the introduction of pests that may threaten agricultural commodities or entire agroecosystems or native ecosystems. The
proposed research will enhance the probability of successful implementation of biological control programs. The research also will result in information vital to APHIS in regards to harmonizing trade relationships with Mexico, especially in regards to avocados and stone fruit. 2. List the milestones (indicators of progress) from your Project Plan. Year 1 (FY 2004) Finish illustrations and descriptions for study of the gypsy moths (Lymantriidae) of the temperate Palaearctic region. Resolve 3 species-group problems in North American Heliothinae (Noctuidae) and publish results (3 papers). Complete and submit for publication a comprehensive world catalog of the leafroller family Tortricidae. Complete systematic studies of three genera of musotimine moths (Crambidae) to be tested for the biological control of old world climbing fern. Complete preliminary descriptions, preliminary drawings, and about half of the photographs for 20 new species belonging to the Renodaeus group (Miridae).
Provide expert identifications for customers and stakeholders, and maintain and enhance the National Insect Collection. Year 2 (FY 2005) Finish study of the gypsy moths of the temperate Palaearctic region. Complete phylogenetic analysis of North American Heliothinae and complete descriptions of 3-4 species groups. Complete revision of North American leafroller moths of the tribe Sparganothini (Tortricidae). Complete identification of homonyms in leafhopper names (for Leafhoppers of the World database) and publish replacement names. Provide expert identifications for customers and stakeholders, and maintain and enhance the National Insect Collection. Year 3 (FY 2006) Complete examination of borrowed specimens and databasing of all North American Heliothinae. Complete descriptions, diagnoses, and keys for 5-6 genera of the leafroller tribe Cochylini. Complete field work and specimen dissections for revision of Diatraea. Complete final descriptions, diagnoses, and keys to the Renodaeus
group (Miridae). Complete the addition of authors of all leafrollers and plant names for leafroller foodplant database. Provide expert identifications for customers and stakeholders, and maintain and enhance the National Insect Collection. Year 4 (FY 2007) Complete morphological analyses and identify generic limits for North American Spilomelinae (Crambidae). Complete descriptions and keys for Ceratocapsus (Miridae). Complete final descriptions, diagnoses, and keys to the genus Ceratocapsus (Miridae). Complete on-line checklists for the leafhopper subfamilies Deltophalinae and Typhlocybinae. Provide expert identifications for customers and stakeholders, and maintain and enhance the National Insect Collection. Year 5 (FY 2008) Resolve all species-level problems in North American Heliothinae. Complete descriptions, diagnoses, and keys for 10-12 (cumulative) genera of the leafroller tribe Cochylini. Complete draft descriptions and diagnoses for species of North American Spilomelinae.
Complete descriptions and diagnoses of all species of New World Isometopinae (Miridae). Complete on-line and hard-copy checklists for all subfamilies of leafhoppers (for Leafhoppers of the World database). Complete type catalogs for Immidae, Choreutidae, and Yponomeutidae. Provide expert identifications for customers and stakeholders, and maintain and enhance the National Insect Collection. 3. Milestones: All FY 04 milestones were fully met: Complete descriptions of species for the project Lymantria of the Temperate Palaearctic, and examine type specimens at The Natural History Museum, London, to determine appropriate application of names. Complete a preliminary phylogenetic hypothesis for the North American Heliothinae, and published three papers resolving species-group problems. Complete and submitted for publication a comprehensive catalog of the Tortricidae, including approximately 9,000 species and nearly 15,000 total names. Complete research on pyraloid species in the genera
Lygomusotima, Neomusotima, Austromusotima discovered feeding on Lygodium in southeast Asia, and complete three peer-reviewed papers. Complete research on six genera, Monoloxis, Accinctapubes, Exguiana, Tumoriala, Difundella, Albusambia, of Costa Rican Pyraloidea. Complete refinement of Leafhoppers of the World Database. Complete systematic studies on three genera of sharpshooters, the leafhoppers most often responsible for transmitting the pathogen Xylella to crops (two manuscripts in press). Complete descriptions of four new genera of Ceratocapsini (Heteroptera). List the milestones (from the list in Question #2) that you expect to address over the next 3 years (FY 2005, 2006, 2007). What do you expect to accomplish, year by year, over the next 3 years under each milestone? FY 2005 Finish study of the gypsy moths of the temperate Palaearctic region. Complete phylogenetic analysis of North American Heliothinae and complete descriptions of 3-4 species groups. Complete revision of North
American leafroller moths of the tribe Sparganothini (Tortricidae). Complete identification of homonyms in leafhopper names (for Leafhoppers of the World database) and publish replacement names. Provide expert identifications for customers and stakeholders, and maintain and enhance the National Insect Collection. FY 2006 Complete examination of borrowed specimens and databasing of all North American Heliothinae. Complete descriptions, diagnoses, and keys for 5-6 genera of the leafroller tribe Cochylini. Complete field work and specimen dissections for revision of Diatraea. Complete final descriptions, diagnoses, and keys to the Renodaeus group (Miridae). Complete the addition of authors of all leafrollers and plant names for leafroller foodplant database. Provide expert identifications for customers and stakeholders, and maintain and enhance the National Insect Collection. FY 2007 Complete identification of species groups in North American Heliothinae - genus Schinia. Complete
morphological analyses and identify generic limits for North American Spilomelinae (Crambidae). Complete descriptions and keys for Ceratocapsus (Miridae). Complete on-line checklists for the leafhopper subfamilies Deltophalinae and Typhlocybinae. Provide expert identifications for customers and stakeholders, and maintain and enhance the National Insect Collection. 4. What were the most significant accomplishments this past year? Employing an international team approach, with collaborators from Australia, United Kingdom, Japan, Poland, Spain, and the United States, a catalog of the family Tortricidae (approximately 600 pages treating about 9,000 species and nearly 15,000 names) was completed and submitted for publication. Commonly known as leafrollers, Tortricidae is one of the most economically important families of Lepidoptera. Despite their importance and worldwide distribution, there previously was no comprehensive list of the world fauna. The catalog will be the standard reference
for information on tortricid moths and will be used by systematists worldwide for the compilation of regional lists, for accessing global biodiversity, for tracking down original descriptions of taxa, and for resolving synonymies in the names of tortricid moths. Other Significant Accomplishment(s), if any: Recent interest in biological control agents of invasive ferns has prompted the exploration for and discovery of new snout moth caterpillars feeding on ferns. Research was conducted by Solis on two new species of moths from Australia and southeastern Asia whose larvae attack Old World Climbing Fern, an invasive weed pest in southeastern U.S. The research resulted in the publication of two peer-reviewed papers. The information will be useful to action agencies or quarantine identifiers, biological control workers of the Old World Climbing Fern in the U.S., and evolutionary biologists interested in the evolution of fern-feeding insects. Significant Accomplishments/Activities that
Support Special Target Populations: None. 5. Describe the major accomplishments over the life of the project, including their predicted or actual impact. Published a comprehensive monograph of the pest genus Spodoptera (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae), including descriptions, illustrations, and identification keys; food plant and parasitoid databases; a hypotheses of phylogenetic relationships among the species; and an expert identification system. Major accomplishments focused on leafrollers include the publication in 2000 of a catalog of the type specimens of leafroller moths in the National Insect Collection (over 1,000 type specimens) and a systematic revision of the leafroller genus Anopina (treating 65 species), and the publication in 2001 of a monographic treatment of the genus Ecdytolopha, which includes important pests of citrus, cacao, and macadamia in the New World. These publications and databases are used by APHIS/PPQ for the identification of potential insect pests, by
scientists studying the biodiversity of the New World tropics, and by pest managers worldwide that must deal with these pests. Leafhoppers and treehoppers not only feed on many crop plants, but also vector important diseases of crops. A major accomplishment on this family was the publication of a phylogeny of the treehopper family Membracidae. Phylogenies provide a predictive power which can help anticipate future and/or potential status of species as pests, their host ranges, ability to vector diseases, and ecological tolerance or ability to survive in new environments. This information helps APHIS and other make informed decisions about the risk posed by certain species. 6. What science and/or technologies have been transferred and to whom? When is the science and/or technology likely to become available to the end- user (industry, farmer, other scientists)? What are the constraints, if known, to the adoption and durability of the technology products? Presented overviews of
Noctuidae and Tortricidae pests at a workshop for USDA-APHIS port identifiers at BARC-West, Beltsville, and provided PowerPoint versions of the presentations for future use. Presented talk Identification issues for Cactoblastis cactorum and other cactus feeding insect, at Cactus Moth, Cactoblastis cactorum, Planning Meeting, Miami, Florida, December 2003. Information was disseminated via presentations (oral and posters) at scientific meetings: annual meeting of the Entomological Society of America, Cincinnati, Ohio; annual meeting of the Lepidopterists Society, University of Maryland, College Park, Maryland; International Congress of Entomology, Brisbane, Australia; and Second Annual Planetary Biodiversity Inventory Meeting, Sydney, Australia. In general, taxonomic treatments of moths and true bugs published this year dealt with pests from North, Central, and South America, providing illustrations and keys for the identification of these species. This information has been made
available to other scientists, pest managers, extension personnel, and USDA-APHIS port identifiers through the dissemination of reprints of the journal articles. 7. List your most important publications in the popular press and presentations to organizations and articles written about your work. Presentation. Conducted workshop for volunteers at Great Smoky Mountains National Park on collecting, preparing, and data collection for the Noctuidae of the Park in association with the Park's ATBI (All Taxa Biological Inventory) initiative. Popular Article. Pogue, M. 2003. Owlet or noctuid moths of Great Smoky Mountains National Park. ATBI Quarterly Newsletter. Popular Article. Solis, M. A. 2003. In celebration of Eugene G. Munroe. Tropical Lepidoptera 11(1-2): 1-6. Popular Article. Solis, M. A. 2003. Maruca vitrata (Fabricius, 1787), senior valid name for Maruca testulalis (Geyer, 1832), a worldwide pest of leguminaceous crops. Newsletter for the Brazilian Entomological Society. 28: 3.
Popular Article. Solis, M.A., S. D. Hight, and D. R. Gordon. 2004. Alert: Tracking the cactus moth as it flies and eats it way westward in the U.S. News of the Lepidopterists' Society 46 (1): 3-4. Popular Presentation. Solis presented Cicadas, WACA 1540 Radio interview in Spanish, April 2004 (also on www.ars.usda.gov/is/espanol). Article About Work. Brown did an on-camera interview for the USDA media services regarding new invasive species and the insect collection of the National Museum of Natural History. Article About Work. Volunteers help scientists study moths in Park, The Mountain Press, 28 June 2004. Article (with photograph) about Pogue's work on the All Taxa Biological Inventory of Great Smoky Mountains National Park.
Impacts
(N/A)
Publications
- Aiello, A., Solis, M.A. 2003. Defense mechanisms in pyralidae and choreutidae: fecal stalactites and escape holes, with remarks about cocoons,camouflage, and aposematism. Journal of Lepidopterists Society. 57: 168-175
- Brown, J.W. 2003. An illustrated guide to the orthocomotis dognin (lepidoptera: tortricidae) of costa rica, with notes on their spatial and temporal distribution. Journal of Lepidopterists Societ. 57:253-269.
- Brown, J.W., Adamski, D. 2004. A taxonomic review of lypothora razowski (lepidoptera: tortricidae: polyorthini), with comments on polymorphism and a new synonymy. Pan-Pacific Entomologist. 79: 128-134
- Brown, J.W., Brown, R.L. 2004. A new species of cryptaspasma (lepidoptera: tortricidae: olethreutinae) from central america, the caribbean, and southeastern united states, with a catalogue of the world fauna of microcorsini. Proceedings of the Entomological Society of Washington. 106: 288-297
- Brown, J.W., Epstein, M.E., Day, E.R. 2003. First report of pryeria sinica (lepidoptera: zygaenidae) in north america. Proceedings of the Entomological Society of Washington. 106: 239-242
- Cromarcha stroudagnesia, a new chrysauginae species boring in shoots of Tabebuia ochracea (Bignoniaceae) in a Costa Rica dry forest (Lepidoptera: Pyralidae: Chrysauginae)Solis, M.A., Sullivan, J.J., Janzen, D.H. 2003. 11:33-39
- Solis, M.A., Yen, S., Goolsby, J.A. 2004. Description and life history of lygomusotima new genus, and neomusotima conspurcatalis (lepidoptera: crambidae) from australia and southeastern asia feeding on lygodium microphyllum (schizaeaceae). Annals of the Entomological Society of America. 97(1): 64-76
- Brown, J.W., Lewis, J.A. 2004. Catalogue of the type specimens of tortricidae (lepidoptera) in the collection of the national museum of natural history, smithsonian institution, washington, d.c.. Zootaxa. 510: 1-160
- Henry, T.J. 2004. Palearctic seed bugs, raglius alboacuminatus (goeze) and rhyparochromis vulgaris (schilling)(hemiptera: heteroptera:rhyparochromidae), newly established in the united states. Proceedings of the Entomological Society of Washington. 106: 513-522
- Henry, T.J., Ferreira, P.S. 2003. Three new genera and three new species of neotropical hyaliodini, with new combinations and new synonymy (hemiptera: heteroptera: miridae: deraeocorinae). Journal of New York Entomological Society. 111:96-119
- Knudson, E., Bordelon, C., Pogue, M.G. 2003. A new species of schinia huebner (lepidoptera: noctuidae: heliothinae) from texas, oklahoma, and louisiana.. Zootaxa. 382:1-7
- Neunzig, H.H., Solis, M.A. 2004. Exguiana, a new genus of neotropical phycitines (lepidoptera: pyralidae). Proceedings of the Entomological Society of Washington. 106: 554-563
- Pogue, M.G., Harp, C.E. 2004. A review of the schinia regia (strecker) species complex with a description of a new species (lepidoptera: noctuidae: heliothinae). Zootaxa. 473:1-32
- Solis, M.A. 2003. A new species of epimorius zeller (lepidoptera: pyralidae: galleriinae) feeding on bromeliaceae in costa rica.. Tropical Lepidoptera. 11:28-32
- Solis, M.A. 2003. Pyraloidea specimens labelled as rebel types from egypt at the national museum of natural history, smithsonian institution, washington, d.c.. Nota Lepidopterologia. 26:59-63
- Solis, M.A. 2003. Revision and phylogenetic analysis of accinctapubes solis (lepidoptera: pyralidae: epipaschiinae), including a new species from costa rica and a larval description of a. albifasciata (druce) that feeds on avocado. Journal of Lepidopterists Society. 57(2): 121-136
- Brown, J.W., Miller, S.E., Horak, M. 2003. Notes on new guinea moths. 2. a new species of xenothictis meyrick (lepidoptera: tortricidae: archipini). Proceedings of the Entomological Society of Washington. 105:1032-1043.
- Brown, J.W., Razowski, J. 2003. Review of inape razowski (lepidoptera: tortricidae: euliini), with descriptions of five new species. Acata Zoologica Cracovicusia. 46: 197-208
- Brown, J.W., Razowski, J. 2003. Description of ptychocroca (lepidoptera: tortricidae: euliini), a new genus from chile and argentina, with comments on the bonagota razowski group of genera. Proceedings of the Entomological Society of Washington. 303: 1-31
- Costa, L.A., Henry, T.J. 2003. Fulvius chaguenus carvalho and costa: redescription and recognition of type specimens(heteroptera: miridae: cylapinae: fulviini). Proceedings of the Entomological Society of Washington. 106: 417-420
- Henry, T.J. 2003. Richard Charles Froeschner (1916-2002): biographical sketch, described taxa, and publications.. Proceedings of the Entomological Society of Washington. 105: 1074-1086
- Henry, T.J., Brambila, J. 2003. First report of the neotropical damsel bug alloeorhynchus trimacula (stein) in the united states, with new records for two other nabid species in florida (heteroptera: nabidae: prostemmatinae). Proceedings of the Entomological Society of Washington. 105: 801-808
- Henry, T.J., Costa, L.A. 2003. Review of the neotropical phyline genus platyscytisca, with the description of a new species from bahia, brazil (hemiptera: heteroptera: miridae). Journal of New York Entomological Society. 111: 120-125
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Progress 10/01/02 to 09/30/03
Outputs
1. What major problem or issue is being resolved and how are you resolving it? Cutworms, leafrollers, snout moths, leafhoppers, and true bugs are some of the most important pests of agricultural, forest, and ornamental plants, causing billions of dollars in damage annually on a global scale. Early detection and accurate identification of these pests can lead to action that may reduce economic loss associated with pest damage. Such detection may occur at the source of origin of the pest (e.g., foreign country), at U.S. ports of entry, or in field situations within the U.S. Unfortunately, accurate identification of many pests is hindered by the paucity of keys, illustrations, and other guides, particularly for larvae or other early stages. Through our research we are developing and publishing keys, illustrations, and descriptions of species of potential or actual economic importance, and we are helping disseminate this information through a variety of means to pest
management experts, inspection/quarantine personnel, and foreign entomologists who are most likely to encounter these pests. In addition, service identifications we provided to APHIS, other ARS scientists, university entomologists, and state agricultural departments also served to disseminate this information. 2. How serious is the problem? Why does it matter? Invasive insects are a major threat to the health of U.S. agriculture and to natural ecosystems throughout the country. Many moths, leafhoppers, and true bugs that are intercepted by USDA/APHIS personnel at U.S. ports of entry are pests in their place of origin. While in some cases these insects are completely unknown it is also often the case that extensive information about a particular species may be available regarding their control. In order to 'discover' this information, an accurate species- level identification of the pest is necessary. Unfortunately, while some information may be available for identification of the
adults of many of these insects, studies on the immatures are few, are incomplete, and are scattered throughout the literature. Consequently, we frequently are able to provide an identification only to family-level, with little hope of obtaining additional information on potential pests or their control. Hence, systematic treatments that address larvae as well as adults represent highly important contributions. Also, larger monographic treatments that synthesize and compile existing information are needed. Because of the critical need to exclude foreign pests, this information is highly valuable to those involved in insect detection and control and in quarantine situations. Accurate species-level identification is also critical in the biological control of pests. The release of inappropriate biological control agents may have significant adverse impacts on non-target organisms. For example, a polyphagous moth released for control of a specific weed may eventually become an economic
pest of related (or unrelated) plant species. Hence, it is critical to have an accurate species-level identification of all potential biological control agents and an understanding of their ecology. Systematic studies and compilations of host lists are contributions necessary to make wise biological control decisions. 3. How does it relate to the National Program(s) and National Program Component(s) to which it has been assigned? National Program 304 (Crop Protection and Quarantine), and Component 1 (Identification and Classification of insects and mites) mandates the investigation of potential and actual plant pests of importance to U.S. agriculture. Systematic studies, compilation of host databases, development of keys, and identification services support nearly every aspect of effective pest exclusion, pest detection, pest management, and biological control. The identification of relationships among species and genera (phylogenetic studies) provides a predictive value; i.e., the
ecology and host preferences of closely related species are likely to be more similar than distantly related species. This research allows various state and federal agencies (e.g., ARS, APHIS, extension services, universities, etc.) to accurately identify agriculturally important pests, to better understand the range of crops and native plants upon which they feed, to recognize predators and herbivores that may be useful for biological control, and make predictions about the pest potential of closely related species. The descriptions of previously unnamed species and genera provide scientists and extension personnel with names to use when communicating about, or studying these insects pests. Specific projects with which have collaborated with other ARS and/or APHIS scientists include: (1) research and field work to help resolve an international trade issue associated with an important pest of avocado in Michoacan, Mexico; (2) providing APHIS with information from the U.S. National
Insect Collection on widespread moth pests of stone fruits in the U.S. in support of trade agreements with Mexico; (3) collaboration with ARS scientists in Louisiana regarding an important pest of sugarcane in South America that has been discovered to be a pest of smooth cord- grass in the southeastern U.S.; and (4) research on pyraloid moths that have high potential as a biological control agent of Old World Climbing Fern. 4. What were the most significant accomplishments this past year? A. Single Most Significant Accomplishment during FY 2003 year: Leaf rolling moths (family Torticidae) can be serious pests but our ability to identify and control them has been hampered because their classification is outdated and chaotic. Over the last 5 years Dr. Brown (Systematic Entomology Laboratory) has developed the foundation for a world catalog in association with colleagues at the Natural History Museum, London (Kevin Tuck); CSIRO, Canberra, Australia (Marianne Horak); University of
Valencia, Spain (Joaquin Baixeras); and Polish Academy of Sciences, Krakow (Jozef Razowski). During the reporting period, the first draft of the catalog (over 500 pages) was completed and distributed to 10 specialists worldwide for perusal, review, and comment. The completed catalog will represent a robust framework to which our knowledge of predators, parasitoids, larval food plants, geographic distributions, etc. of each taxon can be appended and periodically updated. A. Other Significant Accomplishment(s), if any: Recent interest in biological control agents of invasive ferns has prompted the exploration for and discovery of new snout moth caterpillars feeding on ferns. Research was conducted by Dr. Solis (Systematic Entomology Laboratory) on two new species of moths from Australia and southeastern Asia whose larvae attack Old World Climbing Fern, an invasive weed pest in southeastern U.S. The research resulted in the submission of a scientific paper describing the two species as
new to science and presenting descriptions and illustrations of the immature stages. This information will be useful to action agencies or quarantine identifiers, biological control workers of the Old World Climbing Fern in the U.S., and evolutionary biologists interested in the evolution of fern- feeding insects. Leafroller moths are important pests of crops and tropical fruits (e.g., grapes, citrus, apple, kiwi fruit, etc.) throughout the New World, but identification and subsequent communication about these moths are hindered by the fact that many species are undescribed (not named) and relationships among them are unknown. Dr. Brown (Systematic Entomology Laboratory) completed a thorough systematic revision of the genus Anopinella, a Neotropical group that occurs from Mexico to Brazil, including the descriptions of 30 species new to science, along with illustrations of adults and genitalia (94 pages). This information will be of importance to those interested in the systematics
of leafroller moths worldwide; to those interested in tropical biodiversity; and to APHIS and other action agencies whose role is the detection, interception, and identification of foreign pests potentially entering the U.S. Recent reports of an important South American sugarcane pest in Costa Rica and Mexico prompted concerns that this moth may eventually invade southeastern U.S. In collaboration with ARS scientists at the Sugarcane Research Unit in Louisiana, we conducted surveys for the pest in sugarcane-growing areas of Texas and Louisiana in 2002. Although it was detected neither during blacklight sampling nor in association with any cultivated host species (i.e., sugarcane, maize, or grain sorghum), it was discovered on smooth cordgrass, a species used in wetland habitat restoration projects in Louisiana. These findings suggest that rather than expanding its geographic range northward, this sugarcane pest may be a widespread tropical species that is broadening its host range
from native grasses to sugarcane. This information will be useful to growers and pest managers in the sugarcane industry and ecologists involved in wetland restoration projects in the southeastern U.S. The caterpillars of some species of the moth family commonly known as leaf-rollers feed in the hard seeds of plants in the avocado family (Lauraceae). Because of the superficial similarity of these larvae to those of an unrelated but important avocado pest in Central and South America, we conducted research and field work to discover characters to distinguish the two. In collaboration with Richard Brown (Mississippi State University), Brown completed the research and submitted a paper detailing the results, including descriptions and illustrations of a new species from Southeastern U.S., Central America, and the Caribbean. This work will be important for those involved in pest management and crop protection in avocados and for action agencies such as APHIS whose role it is to prevent
the introduction of non-native pests into the U.S. A. Significant Accomplishments/Activities that Support Special Target Populations: None. 5. Describe the major accomplishments over the life of the project, including their predicted or actual impact. Cutworms (family Noctuidae) and leaf-roller moths (family Tortricidae) include economically important pests of crops and forest trees. Our major accomplishment on cutworms include the publication in 2001 of a comprehensive monograph of the pest genus Spodoptera (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae), including descriptions, illustrations, and identification keys; food plant and parasitoid databases; a hypotheses of phylogenetic relationships among the species; and an expert identification system. Major accomplishments focused on leafrollers include the publication in 2000 of a catalog of the type specimens of leaf-roller moths in the National Insect Collection (over 1,000 type specimens) and a systematic revision of the leafroller genus Anopina
(treating 65 species), and the publication in 2001 of a monographic treatment of the genus Ecdytolopha, which includes important pests of citrus, cacao, and macadamia in the New World. These publications and databases are used by APHIS/PPQ for the identification of potential insect pests, by scientists studying the biodiversity of the New World tropics, and by pest managers worldwide that must deal with these pests. Leafhoppers and treehoppers not only feed on many crop plants, but also vector important diseases of crops. A major accomplishment on this family was the publication of a new classification of the treehopper family Membracidae. New and stable classifications provide a predictive power which can help anticipate future and/or potential status of species as pests, their host ranges, ability to vector diseases, and ecological tolerance or ability to survive in new environments. This information helps APHIS and other make informed decisions about the risk posed by certain
species. 6. What do you expect to accomplish, year by year, over the next 3 years? FY 2004: Complete work on leafhopper database; complete studies on damsel bugs of North America; submit for publication the taxonomic catalog of the Tortricidae of the world. FY 2005: Complete revision of the North American noctuid moths of the subfamily Heliothinae; complete revision of the North American leafroller tribes Sparganothini, Atteriini, and Euliini. FY 2006: Complete work on an identification guide of leafhoppers that vector plant diseases. 7. What science and/or technologies have been transferred and to whom? When is the science and/or technology likely to become available to the end- user (industry, farmer, other scientists)? What are the constraints, if known, to the adoption and durability of the technology products? At the annual meeting of all principal workers on Pierce's Disease, which is devastating vineyards in California, McKamey presented a progress report on efforts to
stabilize the names (nomenclature) of the leafhopper pest and its closest relatives that are transmitting the disease among vines. Stable nomenclature will allow extension and quarantine officers, as well as scientists, to identify relevant species and communicate effectively about their findings. The final product should be available within 2 years. In support of the hard-copy systematic revision of the noctuid pest genus Spodoptera published last year, the Spodoptera specimen database and locality gazetteer were made available on the Systematic Entomology Laboratory website this reporting period. The databases will assist farmers, economic entomologists, and other scientists by providing critical information that can be used in making pest control and other basic biological decisions concerning Spodoptera. In general, taxonomic treatments of moths and true bugs published this year dealt with pests from North, Central, and South America, providing illustrations and keys for the
identification of these species. This information has been made available to other scientists, pest managers, extension personnel, and USDA-APHIS port identifiers through the dissemination of reprints of the journal articles. Information also was disseminated via presentations (oral and posters) at scientific meetings (i.e., annual meeting of the Entomological Society of America in Palm Beach, Florida; annual meeting of the Lepidopterists' Society in Olds, Alberta, Canada; and 11th International Auchenorrhyncha Congress). 8. List your most important publications in the popular press and presentations to organizations and articles written about your work. (NOTE: This does not replace your peer-reviewed publications listed below). Popular Article. 'New home for Lepidoptera collection at the National Museum of Natural History, Smithsonian Institution,' News of the Lepidopterists' Society, vol. 4, pages 79 and 81. Describes the move of the staff and collections to a new facility within
the National Museum of Natural History. Presentation. McKamey presented a progress report, 'Developing a stable classification of the glassy-winged sharpshooter genus Homalodisca,' at the 2002 meeting on Pierce's disease of grape. Presentation. McKamey presented 'Leafhoppers of the world database: progress report' at the 11th International Auchenorrhyncha Congress, August 2002. Presentation. Brown presented a poster, 'Leafrollers (Insecta: Lepidoptera: Tortricidae) of Great Smoky Mountains National Park: a contribution to the All Taxa Biological Inventory' (S. Garrett, J. Brown K. John) at the annual meeting of the Entomological Society of America, Palm Beach, Florida, November 2002. Presentation. McKamey presented 'Revision of the neotropical leafhopper genus Chlorogonalia (Hemiptera: Cicadellidae)' at the annual meeting of the Entomological Society of America, Palm Beach, Florida, November 2002. Presentation. McKamey presented 'Hoppering around in Mexico' at the monthly meeting of
the Entomological Society of Washington, February 2003. Presentation. Solis was the commencement speaker at the University of Texas, Brownsville (HACU school), Texas, 10 May 2003, presenting an address as part of graduation activities. Presentation. Brown was an invited speaker at a symposium on 'future trends in the study of Lepidopters' at the annual meeting of the Lepidopterists Society, Olds, Alberta, Canada, July 2003. Presentation. Simmons presented 'What is Copitarsia (Noctuidae)? Mistaken identity, misplacement, and other quandaries' at the annual meeting of the Lepidopterists' Society, Olds, Alberta, Canada, July 2003. Presentation. Henry taught a three-day workshop on heteropteran classification and taxonomy of the groups Lygaeoidea, Miridae, and Pentatomidae to a group of about 20 APHIS/PPQ port identifiers, Gainesville, Florida, 12-14 August 2003. Article About Work. 'Scientist honored as distinguished alumna tonight,' article in the Brownsville Herald, 9 May 2003,
describing the success of Dr. Solis in pursuit of her career as a scientist and entomologist.
Impacts
(N/A)
Publications
- Adamski, D., J. Brown, J. A. Villanueva-Jimenez and M. M. Lopez. First records of the sugarcane pest, Blastobasis graminea Adamski (Lepidoptera: Coleophoridae: Blastobasinae), from Mexico and Central America. Proceedings of the Entomological Society of Washington. 2002. v. 104 p. 812-813.
- 02 Adamski, D. and J. W. Brown. A new species of Frumenta (Lepidoptera: Gelechiidae, Gnorimoschemini) from Mexico: a potential biocontrol agent against Solanum elaeagnifolium. Proceedings of the Entomological Society of Washington. 2002. v. 104 p. 1029-1035.
- Brown, J. W. and D. Adamski. One new species and one new combination in Netechma Razowski (Lepidoptera: Tortricidae: Euliini). Journal of the New York Entomological Society. 2002. v. 111. p. 247-254.
- Epstein, M. E. and J. W. Brown. Early stages of the enigmatic Prodidactis mystica (Meyrick), with comments on its new familial assignment (Prodidactidae). Zootaxa. 2003. V. 247. p. 1-16.
|
Progress 10/01/01 to 09/30/02
Outputs
1. What major problem or issue is being resolved and how are you resolving it? Cutworms, leafrollers, snout moths, leafhoppers, and true bugs are some of the most important pests of agricultural, forest, and ornamental plants, causing billions of dollars in damage annually on a global scale. Early detection and accurate identification of these pests can lead to action that may reduce economic loss associated with pest damage. Such detection may occur at the source of origin of the pest (e.g., foreign country), at U.S. ports of entry, or in field situations within the U.S. Unfortunately, accurate identification of these pests is hindered by the paucity of keys, illustrations, and other guides, particularly for larvae or other early stages. Through the development and publication of keys, illustrations, and descriptions of species of potential or current economic importance, we are helping disseminate information to pest management experts, inspection/quarantine
personnel, and foreign entomologists who are most likely to encounter these pests. In addition, service identifications we provided to APHIS, other ARS scientists, university entomologists, and state agricultural departments also served to disseminate this information. 2. How serious is the problem? Why does it matter? Many moths and true bugs that are intercepted by USDA/APHIS personnel at U.S. ports of entry are pests in their place of origin, and extensive information may be available regarding their control, including data on parasitoids, predators, alternate hosts, etc. In order to "discover" this information, an accurate species-level identification of the pest is necessary. Unfortunately, while there may be some information available for identification of the adults of many of these insects, studies on the immatures are few, are incomplete, and are scattered throughout the literature. Consequently, we frequently must settle for an identification to family-level, with no hope
of obtaining additional published information on potential pests or their control. Hence, systematic treatments that address larvae as well as adults represent highly important contributions. Also, larger monographic treatments that synthesize and compile existing information are needed. Because of the critical need to exclude foreign pests, this information is highly valuable to those involved in quarantine actions. The release of inappropriate biological control agents may have significant adverse impacts on non-target organisms. For example, a polyphagous moth released for control of a specific weed may eventually become an economic pest of related (or unrelated) plant species. Hence, it is critical to have an accurate species-level identification of all potential biological control agents and an understanding of their ecology. Systematic studies and compilations of host lists are contributions necessary to make wise biological control decisions. 3. How does it relate to the
national Program(s) and National Program Component(s) to which it has been assigned? National Program 304 Crop Protection and Quarantine mandates the investigation of potential and actual plant pests of importance to U.S. agriculture. Systematic studies, compilation of host lists, development of keys, and identification services support nearly every aspect of effective pest exclusion, pest detection, pest management, and biological control. The identification of relationships among species and genera (phylogenetic studies) provides a predictive value; i.e., the ecology and host preferences of closely related species are likely to be more similar than distantly related species. This research allows various state and federal agencies (e.g., ARS, APHIS, extension services, universities, etc. ) to accurately identify agriculturally important pests, to better understand the range of crops and other native plants upon which they feed, to recognize predators and herbivores that may be useful
for biological control, and make predictions about the pest potential of closely related species. The descriptions of previously unnamed species and genera provides scientists and extension personnel with names to use when communicating about, or studying these insects pests. 4. What was your most significant accomplishment this past year? A. Single Most Significant Accomplishment during FY 2002 year: Armyworms are important pests of numerous crops. Scientists in this CRIS completed a multi-year study of armyworms in the genus Spodoptera (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae). The published comprehensive revision includes descriptions, illustrations, and identification keys; food plant and parasitoid data bases; a hypotheses of phylogenetic relationships among the species; and an expert identification system. This work is making it easier for farmers and regulatory personnel to assess existing armyworm populations and exclude foreign species which could threaten U.S. crops. B. Other
Significant Accomplishment(s), if any: Numerous species of moths (caterpillars) attack crops and cause millions of dollars of damage each year. Scientists in this CRIS completed work on several north and south American moth pests. These included molecular work on a pest of asparagus, an inventory of leafrolling moths and a new species if importance to the production of lychee, and provided over one thousand identifications to APHIS-PPQ and other customers. This work is making it easier to identify new moth pests and keep invasive species from gaining a foothold in the U.S. C. Significant Activities that Support Special Target Populations: None 5. Describe your major accomplishments over the life of the project, including their predicted or actual impact? Major accomplishments include the preparation of descriptions and illustrations of new taxa of destructive moths in the families Noctuidae, Pyralidae, and Tortricidae which attack crops or, in some cases, invasive weeds.
Additional studies were completed on stilt bugs and true bugs that are either plant feeders or predators. Work has focused on invasive species of importance to quaratine and biosecurity as well as biological control. These studies have a direct impact on the movement of cargoes in ports and the exclusion of new pest species. Invasive species cause billions of dollars of damage to crops each year. Predators and other beneficials used in biological control save farmers millions of dollars in reduced pesticide useage. 6. What do you expect to accomplish, year by year, over the next 3 years? FY 2003. Complete a monographic treatment of the New World jumping tree bug tribe Isometopinae; complete food plant database for leafroller moths of the world; complete checklist/catalogue of leafroller moths of the world. FY 2004. Complete revision of North American leafroller tribe Sparganothini; complete work on leafhopper database; complete studies on damsel bugs of North America. FY 2005:
Complete revision of North America noctuid moths of the subfamily Heliothinae; complete studies on mired plant bugs of eastern North America; complete work on an identification guide of leafhoppers that vector plant diseases. 7. What technologies have been transferred and to whom? When is the technology likely to become available to the end user (industry, farmer other scientist)? What are the constraints, if known, to the adoption durability of the technology? A food plant database for leafroller moths was continually updated and made available to users via the Lab's web site. The database is dynamic and constantly growing as new information becomes available and older information is discovered. Provided thousands of identifications of moths and caterpillars for APHIS, ARS, biological control specialists, state agriculture workers, extension specialists, universities, and US taxpayers. Information also was disseminated via presentations (oral and posters) at scientific meetings
(i.e., annual meeting of the Entomological Society of America in San Diego, California; annual meeting of the Lepidopterists' Society in Charleston, South Carolina; International Heteropterists' Society Meeting, St. Petersburg, Russia; annual meeting of the Washington Biologists Field Club, Washington, D.C.; monthly meeting of the Entomological Society of Washington, Washington, D.C.). 8. List your most important publications and presentations, and articles written about your work (NOTE: this does not replace your review publications which are listed below) Popular Article. "Lepidoptera TWiG Branches Out," published in the ATBI Quarterly Newsletter volume 2(4), page 7. Describes progress made on the inventory of the Lepidoptera of the Great Smoky Mountain National Park in the context of the All Taxa Biological Inventory. Presentation. "Phylogeny of the Plant Bug Tribe Ceratocapsini," Presented at annual meeting of Entomological Society of American Meeting, San Diego, CA, December
2001. Organized and chaired a symposium on Heteropteran Biology and Systematics. Presentation. "The Heliothinae (Noctuidae) Moths of North America Project: An Overview and Discussion of Some Systematic Problems," by M. Pogue. Presented at the Annual Meeting of the Lepidopterists' Society, Charleston, SC, June 2002.
Impacts
(N/A)
Publications
- Dietrich, C.H., McKamey, S.H., Deitz, L.L. Phylogeny of the treehopper family Membracidae (Hemiptera: Membracoidea). Systematic Entomology. 2001. v. 26. p. 213-239.
- Ferreira, S.P.F., Henry, T.J. Two new species of Fulvius from Brazil, with notes on feeding habits and biogeography. Proceedings of the Entomological Society of Washington. 2002. v. 104. p. 56-62.
- Henry, T.J. New species of the plant bug genera Keltonia Knight and Pseudatomoscelis Reuter (Heteroptera: Miridae: Phylinae). Proceedings of the Entomological Society of Washington. 2002. v. 104. p. 97-105.
- Henry., T.J. Book review: "Biology of the Plant Bugs (Hemiptera: Miridae). Pests, Predator, Opportunists" by A. G. Wheeler, Jr. Proceedings of the Entomological Society of Washington. 2002. v. 104. p. 529-531.
- Henry, T.J. Review of the stilt bug genus Yemmatropis Hsiao (Insecta: Hemiptera: Heteroptera: Berytidae), with the description of a new species from Viet Nam. Species Diversity. 2002. v. 7. p. 165-172.
- Henry, T. J., R. T. Schuh. Two new genera to accommodate two North American plant bugs (Heteroptera: Miridae: Phylinae). Proceedings of the Entomological Society of Washington. 2002. v. 104. p. 211-220.
- McKamey, S.H. Revision of the Nearctic species of Limotettix (Scleroracus Van Duzee) leafhoppers (Hemiptera: Cicadellidae: Deltocephalinae). Proceedings of the Entomological Society of Washington. 2001. v. 103. p. 686-753.
- Pena, J.E., Vasquez, T., Duncan, R., Brown, J. Crocidosema new species (Lepidoptera: Tortricidae): A new threat to Litchi chinensis in Florida. Proceedings of the Interamerican Society of Tropical Horticulture. 2001. v. 44. p. 85-91.
- Pogue, M.G. Revised status of the genus Rolandylis Gibeaux with descriptions of two new species of North American Cochylini (Lepidoptera: Tortricidae: Tortricinae). Proceedings of the Entomological Society of Washington. 2001. v. 103. p. 788-796.
- Pogue, M.G. A World Revision of the Genus Spodoptera (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae). Memoirs of the American Entomological Society. 2002. v. 43. p. 1-202.
- Simmons, R.B., Weller, S.J. What kind of signals do mimetic tiger moths send? A phylogenetic test of wasp mimicry systems (Lepidoptera: Arctiidae: Euchromiini). Proceedings of the Royal Society of London, Series B, Biological Sciences. 2002. v. 269. p. 983-990.
- Adamski, D., Brown, J. Revision of the Ecdytolopha group of genera (Lepidoptera: Tortricidae: Grapholitini) in the New World. Entomologica Scandinavica Supplements. 2001. v. 8. p. 1-86.
- Adamski, D., Brown,J., Villanueva-Jimenez, J.A., Lopez, M.M. First records of the sugarcane pest, Blastobasis graminea Adamski (Lepidoptera: Coleophoridae: Blastobasinae), from Mexico and Central America. Proceedings of the Entomological Society of Washington. 2002. v. 104. p. 812-813.
- Brown, J. Presidential Address, 2000: Nomenclatural nonsense - flying in the face of a farcical code. Journal of the Lepidopterists' Society. 2001. v. 55. p. 1-7.
- Brown, J.W., McPherson, T. Review of Rebinea Razowski and Eliachna Razowski (Lepidoptera: Tortricidae: Euliini) - sister group endemic to Chile and Argentina. Journal of the Lepidopterists' Society. 2002. v. 55. p. 129-139.
- Brown, J., Pena, J., Vazquez, T., Baixeras, J. Description of a new tortricid pest (Lepidoptera: Tortricidae: Olethreutinae) of litchi (Litchi chinensis) in southern Florida, with a review of tortricid pests of litchi worldwide. Proceedings of the Entomological Society of Washington. 2002. v. 104. p. 318-329.
|
Progress 10/01/00 to 09/30/01
Outputs
1. What major problem or issue is being resolved and how are you resolving it?
Cutworms, leafrollers, snout moths, leafhoppers, and true bugs are some of the most important pests of agricultural, forest, and ornamental plants, causing billions of dollars in damage annually on a global scale. Early detection and accurate identification of these pests can lead to action that may reduce economic loss associated with pest damage. Such detection may occur at the source of origin of the pest (e.g., foreign country), at U.S. ports of entry, or in field situations within the U.S. Identification is hindered by the absence of keys and other guides, particularly for larvae. Through the development and publication of keys, illustrations, and descriptions of species of potential or current economic importance, we are helping disseminate information to pest management experts, inspection/quarantine personnel, and foreign entomologists who are most likely to encounter these pests. In addition, service identifications are provided to APHIS, other ARS scientists, university
entomologists, and state agricultural departments also served to provide critical data to customers.
2. How serious is the problem? Why does it matter?
Many moths and true bugs that are intercepted by USDA/APHIS personnel at U.S. ports of entry are pests. Extensive information may be available regarding their control, including data on parasitoids, predators, alternate hosts, etc. In order to "access" this information, an accurate species-level identification of the pest is necessary. While there may be some information available for identification of adults of many of these insects, studies on the immatures are either limited, incomplete, or scattered throughout the literature. Frequently we must settle for an identification to family-level, with no hope of obtaining additional published information on potential pests or their control. Systematic treatments that include larvae as well as adults represent highly crucial contributions. Also, larger monographic treatments that synthesize and compile existing information are needed. Because of the critical need to exclude foreign pests, this information is especially valuable to
those involved in quarantine actions. The release of inappropriate biological control agents may have significant adverse impacts on non-target organisms. For example, a polyphagous moth released for control of a specific weed may eventually become an economic pest of related (or unrelated) plant species. Hence, it is critical to have an accurate species-level identification of all potential biological control agents and an understanding of their ecology. Systematic studies and compilations of host lists are necessary for making wise biological control decisions.
3. How does it relate to the National Program(s) and National Component(s)?
National Program 304, Crop Protection and Quarantine, mandates the investigation of potential and actual plant pests of importance to U.S. agriculture. Systematic studies, compilation of host lists, development of keys, and identification services support nearly every aspect of effective pest exclusion, pest detection, pest management, and biological control. The identification of relationships among species and genera (phylogenetic studies) provides a predictive value. The ecology and host preferences of closely related species are likely to be more similar than distantly related species. This research allows state and federal agencies (e.g., ARS, APHIS, extension services, universities, etc.) to accurately identify agriculturally important pests, to better understand the range of crops and other native plants upon which they feed, to recognize predators and herbivores that may be useful for biological control, and make predictions about the pest potential of closely related
species. The descriptions of previously unnamed species and genera provides scientists and extension personnel with names to use when communicating about or studying these insect pests.
4. What were the most significant accomplishments this past year?
A. Single Most Significant Accomplishment during FY 2001 year: A comprehensive revision of the Ecdytolopha group of genera (25 species of leafroller moths) in the New World was completed, including keys and illustrations for identification, hypotheses of phylogenetic relationships, and lists of documented host plants. The group includes important pests of citrus, cacao, and macadamia in Central and South America, and of ornamental black locust in the U.S. The larvae are encountered frequently at U.S. ports-of-entry in a variety of commodities. B. Other Significan Accomplishment(s), if any: Revision of the plant bug genus Hyalochloria, a primarily Neotropical group that ranges northward into Florida. C. Significant Accomplishments/Activities that Support Special Target Populations: None.
5. Describe the major accomplishments over the life of the project including their predicted or actual impact.
Development of a phylogeny of the larger group that includes Cryptophlebia and Thaumatotibia, pests of litchi, macadamia, bell pepper, and many other crops in the Old World. The world revision of the Ecdytolopha group will enable anyone involved in integrated pest management of citrus, cacao, macadamia, guava, and other tropical fruits to make more accurate identifications of these pest species. The keys will allow USDA-APHIS port identifiers to make more accurate determinations of intercepted larvae, and hence, make better informed decisions regarding the fate of infested commodities.
6. What do you expect to accomplish, year by year, over the next 3 years?
FY 2001: Continue to update the database of leafroller moths of the world and their food plants; continue work on checklist/catalogue of leafroller moths of the world; begin work on revision of noctuid moths that includes corn earworm and tobacco fruit worm (subfamily Heliothinae); continue work on pyralid moths of Costa Rica; continue studies on the plant bugs of eastern North America; complete a monographic treatment of the New World jumping tree bug tribe Isometopinae; continue work on leafhopper database. FY 2002: Complete checklist/catalogue of leafroller moths of the world; continue work on revision of noctuid moths (Heliothinae); complete work on pyralid moths of Costa Rica; complete studies on damsel bugs of North America; continue studies on plant bugs of North America; begin work on an identification guide for leafhoppers that vector plant diseases. FY 2003: Begin work on leafroller pests of Chile and Argentina; complete revision of noctuid moths (Heliothinae); complete
work on pyralid moths of Costa Rica; continue studies on plant bugs of eastern North America; continue work on an identification guide of leafhoppers that vector plant diseases.
7. What science and/or technologies have been transferred and to whom? When is the science and/or technology likely to become available to the end user (industry, farmer, other scientists)? What are the constraints if known, to the adoption & durability of the technology product?
Six databases constructed for the world revision of Spodoptera were made available via the World Wide Web. The databases include host plant, parasitoid, predator, and bibliographic databases to the world Spodoptera. These databases will assist farmers, economic entomologists, and other scientists by providing critical information that can be used in making pest control and other basic biological decisions concerning Spodoptera. A food plant data base for leafroller moths was compiled and made available to users via the web. Provided illustrations and keys for the identification of moths and true bugs from North, Central, and South America to other scientists, pest managers, extension personnel, and USDA-APHIS port identifiers through the dissemination of reprints of the journal articles.
8. List your most important publications in the popular press (no abstracts) and presentations to non-scientific organizations and articles written about your work (NOTE: this does not replace your peer-reviewed publications which are listed below)
Pe"a, J. E., Vasquez, T., Duncan, R. & Brown, J. Crocidosema new species (Lepidoptera: Tortricidae): A new threat to Litchi chinensis in Florida. Interamerican Society of Horticulture. Brown, J.W. Book Review: Classification of Lepidoptera. Part 1. Introduction, by J. B. Heppner. Proceedings of the Entomological Society of Washington. 2000. v. 102 p. 1075-1076.
Impacts
(N/A)
Publications
- Brown, J.W. Species turnover in the leafrollers (Lepidoptera: Tortricidae) of Plummers Island, Maryland: assessing a century of inventory data. Proceedings of the Entomological Society of Washington. 2001. v. 103 p. 673-685.
- Brown, J.W., Bash, K. Lepidoptera of Marine Corps Air Station Miramar: Calculating faunal similarity among sampling sites and estimating overall species richness. Journal of Research on the Lepidoptera. 2000. v. 36 p. 45-78.
- Brown, J.W., Lewis, J.A. Catalogue of the type specimens of Tortricidae (Lepidoptera) in the collection of the National Museum of Natural History, Smithsonian Institution, Washington, D.C. Proceedings of the Entomological Society of Washington. 2000. v. 102 p. 1014-1069.
- Brown, J.W., Robinson, G. Food plant database for leafrollers (Lepidoptera: Tortricidae) of the world. 2001. USDA, SEL website.
- Henry, T.J. Revision of the orthotyline plant bug genus Hyalochloria, with descriptions of four new species, notes on the identity of H. caviceps and H. unicolor, and a revised key (Hemiptera: Heteroptera: Miridae). 2001. Journal of the New York Entomological Society v. 109 p. 53-80.
- Henry, T.J., Froeschner, R.C. Corrections and additions to the Catalog of the Stilt Bugs, or Berytidae, of the World (Insecta: Hemiptera: Heteroptera). Proceedings of the Entomological Society Washington. 2000. v. 102 p. 1003-1009.
- McKamey, S. Checklist of Leafhopper Species 1758-1955 (Hemiptera: Membracoidae: Cicadellidae and Myserslopiidae) with Synonymy and Distribution [Catalogue of the Homoptera, Fascicle 6, Abridged]. 2001. USDA, SEL website (www.sel.barc.usda.gov).
- Pogue, M., Passoa, S. Spodoptera ochrea (Hampson) (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae): A new host record (asparagus) from Peru and description of the female genitalia. Annals of the Entomological Society of America. 2000. v. 93 p. 1019-1021.
- Solis, M.A. and Gentili, P. A new species of Omiodes from South America. Journal of the Lepidopterists' Society. 2001. v. 54 p. 72-75.
- Wearing, C.H., Hansen, J.D., Whyte, C., Miller, C.E., Brown, J. The potential for spread of codling moth via commercial sweet cherry: a critical review and risk assessment. 2001. Plant Protection
- Wijesekara, A., Henry, T.J. Taxonomic status of the plant bugs (Hemiptera: Miridae) of Sri Lanka. Proceedings of the First Annual Symposium, Department of Agriculture, Sri Lanka. 2000. v. 1 p. 173-185.
- Brown, J.W. Acmanthina: a new genus of tortricid moths (Lepidoptera: Tortricidae) from Chile and Argentina. Journal of the New York Entomological Society. 2000. v. 108 p. 105-112.
- Brown, J.W. Book Review: Hawkmoths of the World. An Annotated and Illustrated Revisionary Checklist (Lepidoptera: Sphingidae), by Ian J. Kitching and Jean-Marie Cadiou. Proceedings of the Entomological Society of Washington. 2001. v. 103 p. 260-261.
|
Progress 10/01/99 to 09/30/00
Outputs
1. What major problem or issue is being resolved and how are you resolving it?
Cutworms, leafrollers, snout moths, leafhoppers, and true bugs are some of the most important pests of agricultural, forest, and ornamental plants, causing billions of dollars in damage annually on a global scale. Early detection and accurate identification of these pests can lead to action that may reduce economic loss associated with pest damage. Such detection may occur at the source of origin of the pest (e.g., foreign country), at U.S. ports of entry, or in field situations within the U.S. Unfortunately, identification is hindered by the absence of identification tools and other guides, particularly for immature insects. Through the development and of keys, illustrations, and descriptions of species of potential or current economic importance, we are helping disseminate information to pest management experts, inspection/quarantine personnel, and foreign entomologists who are most likely to encounter these pests. In addition, service identifications provided to APHIS, other ARS
scientists, university entomologists, and state agricultural departments also served to disseminate this information.
2. How serious is the problem? Why does it matter?
Many moths and true bugs that are intercepted by USDA/APHIS personnel at U.S. ports of entry are pests in their place of origin, and extensive information may be available regarding their control, including data on parasitoids, predators, alternate hosts, etc. In order to "discover" this information, an accurate species-level identification of the pest is necessary. Unfortunately, while there may be some information available for identification of many adults of many of these insects, studies on immature insects are few, are incomplete, and are scattered in the literature. Consequently, we frequently must settle for an identification to family-level, with no hope of obtaining additional published information on potential pests or their control. Hence, systematic treatments that address immatures as well as adults represent highly important contributions. Also, larger monographic treatments that synthesize and compile existing information are very beneficial. Because of the critical
need to exclude foreign pests, this information is highly valuable to those involved in quarantine actions. The release of inappropriate biological control agents may have significant adverse impacts on non-target organisms. For example, a polyphagous moth released for control of a specific weed may eventually become an economic pest of related plant species. Hence, it is critical to have an accurate species-level identification of all potential biological control agents and an understanding of their ecology. Systematic studies and compilations of host lists are contributions necessary to make wise biological control decisions.
3. How does it relate to the National Program(s) and National Component(s)?
National Program 304 Crop Protection and Quarantine mandates the investigation of potential and actual plant pests of importance to U.S. agriculture. Systematic studies, compilation of host lists, development of keys, and identification services support nearly every aspect of effective pest exclusion, pest detection, pest management, and biological control. The identification of relationships among species and genera (phylogenetic studies) provides a predictive value; i.e., the ecology and host preferences of closely related species are likely to be more similar than distantly related species. This research allows various state and federal agencies (e.g., ARS, APHIS, extension services, universities, etc.) to accurately identify agriculturally important pests, to better understand the range of crops and other native plants upon which they feed, to recognize predators and herbivores that may be useful for biological control, and make predictions about the pest potential of closely
related species. The descriptions of previously unnamed species and genera provides scientists and extension personnel with names to use when communicating about, or studying these insects pests.
4. What were the most significant accomplishments this past year?
A. Single Most Significant Accomplishment during FY 2000 year: Completed a comprehensive revision, character analysis, and database of pest moths in the genus Spodoptera (armyworms) which cause millions of dollars of damage to crops each year. B. Other Significant Accomplishment(s), if any: No other significant accomplishments to report. C. Significant Accomplishments/Activities that Support Special Target Populations: No significant accomplishments/activities that support special target populations to report.
5. Describe the major accomplishments over the life of the project including their predicted or actual impact.
Development of keys and phylogeny of Spodoptera. The world revision of the genus Spodoptera will enable anyone involved in chemical or biological control of armyworm, integrated pest management involving armyworm, and the use of Spodoptera as experimental animals to make more accurate identifications and understand relationships among the species. The keys will allow USDA-APHIS port identifiers to make more accurate determinations of intercepted larvae.
6. What do you expect to accomplish, year by year, over the next 3 years?
FY 01: Continue work on checklist/catalog or leafroller moths of the world. Begin work on revision of moths including corn earworm and tobacco fruit worm. Continue work on plant bugs of eastern North America. Continue work on leafhopper database. FY 02: Complete checklist/catalog of leafroller moths of the world. Complete work on plant bugs of eastern North America. Begin work on identification guide for leafhoppers that vector plant diseases. Complete work on pyralid moths of Costa Rica. Continue work on leafhopper database. FY 03: Complete identification guide to disease transmitting leafhopper. Continue work on leafhopper database. Complete work on damsel bugs of North America.
7. What science and/or technologies have been transferred and to whom? When is the science and/or technology likely to become available to the end user (industry, farmer, other scientists)? What are the constraints if known, to the adoption & durability of the technology product?
Six databases were constructed for the world revision of Spodoptera, including four that are currently on the web. The databases include host plant, parasitoid, predator, and bibliographic databases to the world Spodoptera. These databases assist farmers, economic entomologists, and other scientists by providing critical information that can be used in making pest control and other basic biological decisions concerning Spodoptera.
8. List your most important publications in the popular press (no abstracts) and presentations to non-scientific organizations and articles written about your work (NOTE: this does not replace your peer-reviewed publications which are listed below)
None.
Impacts
(N/A)
Publications
- Brown, J.W. A new genus of tortricid moths injurious to grapes and stone fruits in Chile (Lepidoptera: Tortricidae). Journal of the Lepidopterists' Society. 2000. v. 53. p. 60-64.
- Brown, J.W. Revision of Lobogenesis and Odonthalitus (Lepidoptera: Tortricidae: Tortricinae), with comments on their monophyly. Proceedings of the Entomological Society of Washington. 2000. v. 102. p. 21-49.
- Brown, J.W., Cramer, A. Five new species of Argyrotaenia (Lepidoptera: Tortricidae) from Mexico and the Southwestern United States. Journal of the Lepidopterists' Society. 2000. v. 53. p. 114-125.
- Brown, J.W., Miller, S.E. A new species of Coelostathma (Lepidoptera: Tortricidae) from Cocos Island, Costa Rica, with comments on the phylogenetic significance of abdominal dorsal pits in the Sparganothini. Proceedings of the Entomologocial Society of Washington. 1999. v.101. p. 701-707.
- Brown, J.W., Powell, J.A. Systematics of Anopina (Lepidoptera: Tortricidae: Euliini). University of California Publications in Entomology. 2000. v. 120. p.128.
- Henry, T.J. Review of the eastern North American Dicyphus, with a key to species and redescription and neotype designation for D. vestitus Uhler (Heteroptera: Miridae). Proceedings of the Entomological Society of Washington. 1999. v. 101. p. 832-838.
- Henry, T.J. Reevaluation of the plant bug genus Icodema, with descriptions of two new genera to accommodate five Nearctic species. Journal of the New York Entomological Society. 2000. v. 107. p. 181-203.
- Henry, T.J. The predatory Miridae: A glimpse at the other plant bugs. Wings. 2000. v. 2000(spring). p. 17-20.
- Henry, T.J. Book Chapter 31. The stilt bugs (Berytidae), pp. 723-733. In: Schaefer, C. W. & A. Pannizi (eds.). Heteroptera of economic importance. CRC Press, Chapter 31. 2000. Boca Raton, Florida.
- Brown, J.W. Book Review: Oecophorine Genera of Australia, Part II. Monographs on Australia Lepidoptera, Volume 5, by I. F. B. Common. Journal of the Lepidopterists' Society. 1999. v. 52. p. 386-387.
- Brown, J.W. A new euliine genus from Costa Rica and Venezuela (Lepidoptera: Tortricidae). Journal of the New York Entomological Society. 1999. v. 106. p. 177-184.
- Brown, J.W. Book Review: Invertebrate Surveys for Conservation, by T. R. New. American Entomologist. 1999. v. 45. p. 187.
- McKamey, S.H. A review of the New World leafhopper subgenus Texananus (Iowanus Ball) (Hemiptera: Cicadellidae: Deltocephalinae) with a checklist and distribution summary for species in the genus. Proceedings of the Entomological Society of Washington. 2000. v. 102(1). p. 212-224.
- Pogue, M.G. Preliminary estimates of Lepidoptera diversity from specific sites in the Neotropics using complementarity and species richness estimators. Journal of the Lepidopterists' Society. 1999. v. 53. p. 65-71.
- Solis, M.A., Pogue, M. Lepidopteran diversity: patterns and estimators. American Entomologist. 1999. v. 45. p. 206-212.
- Hernandez, L., Henry, T.J. Review of the Ceratocapsus of Cuba, with descriptions of three new species and a neotype designation for C. cubanus (Heteroptera: Miridae: Orthtoylinae). Carribean Journal of Science. 1999. v. 35. p. 201-214.
- Heyer, W.R., Coddington, J., Kress, J.W., Acevedo, P.M., Cole D., Erwin, T.L., Meggers, B.J., Pogue, M.G., Thorington, R.W., VARI, R.P., Weitzman, M. J., Weitzman, S.H. Amazonian biotic data and conservation decisions. Cincia e Cultura. 1999. v. 51. p. 372-385.
- Salure, S.V., Pogue, M.G. Resolution of the Elaphria festivoides (Guen,e) species complex (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae). Proceedings of the Entomological Society of Washington. 2000. v. 102. p. 233-270.
- Slater, J.A., Henry, T.J. Notes on and descriptions of new Pamphantinae, including four new species of Cattarus and a remarkable new myrmecomorphic genus and species (Heteroptera: Lygaeoidea: Geocoridae). Journal of the New York Entomological Society. 2000. v. 107. p. 304-330.
- Solis, M.A. Insect diversity: perspectives from the systematist. American Entomologist. 1999. v. 45. p. 204-205.
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