Rhynchophorus Research Articles

Identification of Multifunctional Putative Bioactive Peptides in the Insect Model Red Palm Weevil (Rhynchophorus ferrugineus)

Innate immunity, the body’s initial defense against bacteria, fungi, and viruses, heavily depends on antimicrobial peptides (AMPs), which are small molecules produced by all living organisms. Insects, with their vast biodiversity, are one of the most abundant and innovative sources of AMPs. In this study, AMPs from the red palm weevil (RPW) Rhynchophorus ferrugineus (Coleoptera: Curculionidae), a known invasive pest of palm species, were examined. The AMPs were identified in the transcriptomes from different body parts of male and female adults, under different experimental conditions, including specimens collected from the field and those reared in the laboratory. The RPW transcriptomes were examined to predict antimicrobial activity, and all sequences putatively encoding AMPs were analyzed using several machine learning algorithms available in the CAMPR3 database. Additionally, anticancer, antiviral, and antifungal activity of the peptides were predicted using iACP, AVPpred, and Antifp server tools, respectively. Physicochemical parameters were assessed using the Antimicrobial Peptide Database Calculator and Predictor. From these analyses, 198 putatively active peptides were identified, which can be tested in future studies to validate the in silico predictions. Genome-wide analysis revealed that several AMPs have predominantly emerged through gene duplication. Noticeably, we detect a newly originated defensin allele from an ancestral defensin via the deletion of two amino acids following gene duplication in RPW, which may confer an enhanced resilience to microbial infection. Our study shed light on AMP gene families and shows that high duplication and deletion rates are essential to achieve a diversity of antimicrobial mechanisms; hence, we propose the RPW AMPs as a model for exploring gene duplication and functional variations against microbial infection.

Sago palm weevil larvae: larval ontogeny and nutritional value assessed from enzymatic activity and in vitro digestibility

Abstract Sago palm weevil larvae (SPWL, Rhynchophorus vulneratus) have potential for use as food and feed. This study aimed to investigate their development, digestive enzyme activity, nutrient values, and digestible protein using an in vitro digestibility technique. Bioassays for SPWL at 21, 28, 35, 42, 49, and 56 days after hatching (DAH) were conducted in a completely randomized design (CRD). Analysis of variance (ANOVA) was performed, and means were compared at using Bonferroni (Dunn) t-tests and orthogonal polynomial contrasts. Trypsin activity significantly increased at 35 DAH (, quadratic effect ), with peak chymotrypsin activity at 28 DAH (). Lipase activity showed both linear and quadratic increases (), and cellulase activity also increased significantly (, linear and quadratic terms ). Meanwhile, the A:T ratio increased significantly (, quadratic effect ) with age-related rises in these digestive enzyme activities. The highest crude protein content in SPWL was observed at 42 DAH (), with peak carbohydrate at 28 DAH (). Phenylalanine and histidine levels increased linearly (), while lysine and total essential amino acids peaked at 42 DAH (, linear and quadratic terms ). Levels of linoleic acid, total polyunsaturated fatty acids, and the n-6:n-3 ratio peaked at 49 DAH (). In vitro protein digestibility assays were performed using enzymes extracted from quails, broilers, Thai native chickens, and ducks. Significant increases in digestibility were attributed to SPWL protein content and age, particularly beyond 42 DAH (, linear and quadratic terms ), except with duck enzymes. In conclusion, these findings suggest that SPWL cultivation, particularly between 42 and 56 DAH, provides a potential alternative protein source with substantial nutritional benefits for poultry feed. The promise of SPWL to contribute to more sustainable and efficient poultry feeding practices is evident, and further in vivo studies are warranted to validate these results.

Sublethal effect of emamectin benzoate on age-stage, two-sex life table and population projection of red palm weevil, Rhynchophorus ferrugineus

The red palm weevil (RPW), Rhynchophorus ferrugineus Olivier, is a devastating insect-pest of 29 plants including date palm. It feeds inside the tree bark thus it is difficult to manage using insecticides. Only a few insecticides have been found effective against RPW. Among these insecticide, emamectin benzoate (EMB) is widely used. This insecticide can pose threat human and environmental health as it is used in the form of tree injection. Thus, keeping in view its possible, its sublethal effect on RPW was studied using Age-stage, two sex life table. Life table parameters of the progeny of exposed larvae to LC10, LC25, and LC50 of EMB were computed. Statistically higher fecundity (161.12 per female) was observed in control treatment, while less fecundity was observed in LC50 treatment. Significantly higher values for intrinsic rate of increase (r), finite rate of increase (λ), and net reproductive rate (Ro) (0.0376, 1.0383, and 67.13 per day, respectively) were recorded for the control treatment. Contrarily, lower values for r, Ro, and λ i.e. 0.0318, 23.82, and 1.0324 per day, respectively were recorded in the LC50 treatment. Decreased population parameters suggest that EMB can be successfully used in for the management of RPW.

Biochemical and toxicological characteristics of polyphenol oxidase from red palm weevil Rhynchophorus ferrugineus (Olivier) (Coleoptera: Curculionidae)

Red palm weevil (RPW) Rhynchophorus ferrugineus is the most destructive insect pests of numerous palm species in the world. The introduction of botanical extract(s) as integral part of an integrated pest management (IPM) programs against RPW will reduce the use of chemical insecticides. Polyphenol oxidase (PPO) is one of the RPW innate immune mechanisms and inhibition of such enzyme could result in a disorder of the insect's immune system. A one single PO isoenzyme has been purified from the hemolymph of the 12th instar larvae of RPW. Using L-DOPA as substrate, R. ferrugineus PPO exhibited specific activity 428 Units/mg proteins with 8.3-fold purification, optimum pH and temperature for activity at 7.5 and 40 °C, respectively and is enhanced by Cu2+ with 1.76-fold. The rank order for oxidizing R. ferrugineus PPO different substrates is catechol > pyrogallol > L-DOPA > pyrocatechuic acid and not tyrosine. The kinetic parameters Km, Vmax and Vmax/Km for L-DOPA are 3.3 mM, 1.3 μmol/ml/min, and 0.39, respectively. The catalytic efficiency of the enzyme towards catechol is 5.3-fold higher than that for L-DOPA. The enzyme completely inhibited by thiourea, ascorbic acid, dithiothreitol, and SDS. R. ferrugineus PPO is a catechol oxidase di-phenol: O2 oxidoreductase. Based on the toxicological studies of various botanical extracts, the IC50 ranged from 20 to 90 mg/ml. The enzyme completely inhibited by 50 mg/ml Cinnamomum camphora. Gallic acid, the major phenolic compound, has IC50 0.8 mM and competitively inhibited the enzyme with Ki 0.54 mM. C. camphora could be a useful natural RPW-controlling agent and used as integral part in IPM programs. This interpretation can be validated in future through an in vivo investigation.

Dual-strategy approach for Rhynchophorus ferrugineus control: Endophytic Beauveria bassiana and Bacillus thuringiensis topical application

In an innovative approach to biological pest management, the entomopathogenic efficacy of endophytically colonized Beauveria bassiana and topically applied Bacillus thuringiensis was evaluated against various larval instars (2nd, 4th, and 6th) of the red palm weevil (RPW), Rhynchophorus ferrugineus. Initially, date palm leaf petioles were inoculated with five distinct isolates of the fungus to ascertain their endophytic potential over two years. Subsequently, the most proficiently colonized fungal isolate was selected for subsequent experimentation. During individual entomopathogen applications, larval instars of RPW were presented with plant petioles and colonized with fungus at 30 days post-inoculation or immersed in bacterial inoculum. Ιn combined treatments, larvae were exposed to both entomopathogen-treated plant petioles concurrently. The tested bacterium was administered at three concentrations (30, 40, and 50 μg/ml). Larval mortalities were markedly lower in treatments involving individual entomopathogens, whereas integrated applications yielded higher mortalities. Treatments associated with heightened larval mortalities corresponded to diminished pupation, adult emergence, and egg eclosion rates. Furthermore, the simultaneous application of both entomopathogens bolstered larval mortalities of RPW both additively and synergistically, with concentration also playing an important role. Similarly, the developmental periods of various insect stages were substantially influenced by combined entomopathogen applications. The inherent prevalence of these pathogens and their ability to colonize crop plants internally for extended periods render them promising agents against cryptic-feeding insects like RPW. However, further evaluation of suitable entomopathogen strains and optimal doses under field conditions is imperative before formulating concrete recommendations for date palm growers.

From organic waste to renewable energy: response surface methodology approach for optimized biodiesel production from palm weevil larvae (Rhynchophorus ferrugineus)

AbstractThis study aimed to improve the production of biodiesel from white palm larvae (WPL) and to evaluate its potential as a feedstock. The larvae were grown using kitchen and palm waste for 21 days, and the crude oil was then extracted. The extracted oil was analyzed for its physicochemical properties and fatty acid composition. The analysis found that the feedstock oil contained a high quantity of monounsaturated fatty acids, indicating its suitability for biodiesel production. To optimize the production process, response surface methodology (RSM) was employed. A central composite design was used to study four operating conditions: temperature, methanol‐to‐oil mole ratio, esterification time, and catalyst loading for esterification, as well as transesterification time and catalyst concentration. The best conditions for esterification were a methanol‐to‐oil ratio of 18:1, a temperature of 70 °C, 120 min of reaction time, and a 4% H2SO4 catalyst. For transesterification, the optimal conditions were a methanol‐to‐oil ratio of 10:1, a temperature of 65 °C, 90 min of reaction time, and a 2% KOH catalyst concentration. The experimental data fit well with models, with significant P‐values and high R2 values. The biodiesel produced under the optimized conditions met the fuel quality standards set by Brazilian, European, and American standards. In conclusion, this study successfully optimized the biodiesel production process from white palm larvae and confirmed its suitability as a feedstock. The feedstock oil had properties that were suitable for biodiesel production, and the optimized conditions resulted in biodiesel that met fuel‐quality standards.

Optimal Control Techniques in Managing Red Palm Weevil Infestations: A Mathematical Approach

This article introduces a mathematical analysis of the red palm weevil (RPW) model that incorporates optimal control techniques. The investigation delves into the dynamics among date palm trees, the RPW, and tree micro-injection. The analysis assesses the impact of sex pheromone traps and tree trunk injections on the RPW population. Sufficient constraints are identified to provide both local stability and global stability analysis of equilibrium points. The paper uses Sotomayor’s theorem as a guide to compute local bifurcations near equilibrium points. The study concludes that adopting control strategies shows to a substantial decline in the RPW population, ultimately resulting in extinction. Numerical simulations are employed to visually illustrate and support the theoretical findings.

Proximate Analysis and Occurrence of Antibiotic Resistant Escherichia coli in Street Vended Ready to Eat Edible Larvae of Rhynchophorus phoenicis in Port Harcourt, Nigeria

Rhynchophorus phoenicis, known as the African palm tree larva weevil or edible worm, is a popular edible insect in southern Nigeria and other African countries. These larvae, by-products of oil palm and palm trees, are consumed roasted or boiled and are known for their nutritional and medicinal properties. In Nigeria, they are widely sold along highways in states like Bayelsa, Delta, Edo, Imo, Rivers, and the upper Cross River basin. Preparation methods include consuming them raw, boiled, fried, smoked, or in stews and soups. Typically, the larvae are washed, skewered, sprinkled with salt and pepper, and grilled. They are juicy and have a taste reminiscent of Torzo or cow intestines. Despite their popularity, edible worms pose safety and health concerns due to contamination and the emergence of antimicrobial-resistant bacteria. The indiscriminate use of antimicrobials in animals and humans has led to the development of resistant microorganisms, including multidrug-resistant Escherichia coli, which has been increasingly reported in food poisoning outbreaks. There is limited data on the incidence and antibiotic resistance of Escherichia coli in ready-to-eat foods in Nigeria, prompting this study. The study aimed to determine the proximate composition, occurrence, and antibiotic-resistant pattern of Escherichia coli from edible larvae (Rhynchophorus phoenicis). Objectives included determining the proximate composition of the larvae, the occurrence of Escherichia coli in them, and their antibiotic susceptibility pattern. Fifty ready-to-eat food samples of edible larvae were randomly collected from hawkers. These samples, often partially exposed and poorly packaged, were transported to the microbiology laboratory for analysis. Sterilized glassware and media were used, including Nutrient Agar, Eosin Methylene Blue (EMB) Agar, and Mueller Hinton Agar. Samples were diluted using peptone water, and bacteriological determination involved homogenizing 25 grams of the sample in 225 ml of peptone water, followed by serial dilutions. Aliquots were inoculated on EMB Agar plates, and incubated at 37°C for 24 hours, and colonies were counted and recorded as colony-forming units per gram (cfu/g). Isolates were identified using standard microbiological methods and biochemical tests. Proximate analysis revealed moisture (35.49%), carbohydrate (6.01%), protein (20.73%), ash (1.25%), lipid (22.3%), and fiber (14.23%) content. Bacterial counts ranged from 8.1 x 10^7 to 6.34 x 10^8 cfu/g, with the highest count at the Checkpoint sample and the lowest at Elele-Alumini. Of the 27 isolates, 15 (55.56%) were confirmed as E. coli, with 18.52% of samples exceeding the acceptable microbiological limit (≥10^7 CFU/g). Antibiotic susceptibility tests showed all isolates resistant to augmentin, penicillin, cephalosporin, and ofloxacin, with 46.67% resistance to sulfamethoxazole and streptomycin.

Silencing sensory neuron membrane protein RferSNMPu1 impairs pheromone detection in the invasive Asian Palm Weevil

The red palm weevil (RPW), Rhynchophorus ferrugineus (Olivier), also known as the Asian palm weevil, is an invasive pest that causes widespread damage to palm trees around the globe. As pheromone communication is crucial for their mass attack and survival on palm trees, the olfactory concept of pest control strategies has been widely explored recently. We aim to understand the molecular basis of olfaction in RPW by studying one of the key olfactory proteins in insect pheromone communication, sensory neuron membrane proteins (SNMPs). SNMPs belong to the CD36 (cluster of differentiation 36) family that perform two distinct olfactory roles in insects, either in pheromone (odorant) transfer to the odorant receptors (SNMP1) or in the pheromone clearing process (SNMP2). In this study, we performed antennal transcriptomic screening and identified six SNMPs, mapping them on the R. ferrugineus genome, and confirmed four distinct SNMPs. Both SNMP1 proteins in RPW, viz., RferSNMPu1 and RferSNMPu2, were mapped onto the same scaffold in different loci in the RPW genome. To further understand the function of these proteins, we first classified them using phylogenetic analysis and checked their tissue-specific expression patterns. Further, we measured the relative transcript abundance of SNMPs in laboratory-reared, field-collected adults and pheromone-exposure experiments, ultimately identifying RferSNMPu1 as a potential candidate for functional analysis. We mapped RferSNMPu1 expression in the antennae and found that expression patterns were similar in both sexes. We used RNAi-based gene silencing to knockdown RferSNMPu1 and tested the changes in the RPW responses to aggregation pheromone compounds, 4-methyl-5-nonanol (ferrugineol) and 4-methyl-5-nonanone (ferrugineone), and a kairomone, ethyl acetate using electroantennogram (EAG) recordings. We found a significant reduction in the EAG recordings in the RferSNMPu1 knockdown strain of adult RPWs, confirming its potential role in pheromone detection. The structural modelling revealed the key domains in the RferSNMPu1 structure, which could likely be involved in pheromone detection based on the identified ectodomain tunnels. Our studies on RferSNMPu1 with a putative role in pheromone detection provide valuable insight into understanding the olfaction in R. ferrugineus as well as in other Curculionids, as SNMPs are under-explored in terms of its functional role in insect olfaction. Most importantly, RferSNMPu1 can be used as a potential target for the olfactory communication disruption in the R. ferrugineus control strategies.

Molecular Insights into Red Palm Weevil Resistance Mechanisms of Coconut (Cocos nucifera) Leaves.

Red palm weevil (RPW) (Rhynchophorus ferrugineus) threatens most palm species worldwide. This study investigated the molecular responses of coconut (Cocos nucifera) leaves to RPW infestation through metabolomics and transcriptomics analysis. An RPW insect attack model was developed by placing different RPW larval densitiesin coconut plants and measuring the relative chlorophyll content of different leaf positions and physiological indicators of dysfunction after RPW infestation. The metabolomic changes were detected in the leaves of 10, 20, 30, 40, and 50 days after infestation (DAI) using GC-MS. Certain metabolites (glycine, D-pinitol, lauric acid, allylmalonic acid, D-glucaro-1, 4-lactone, protocatechuic acid, alpha, and alpha-trehalose) were found to be possible indicators for distinct stages of infestation using metabolomics analysis. The influence on ABC transporters, glutathione, galactose, and glycolipid metabolism was emphasized by pathway analysis. Differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were identified at 5, 10, 15, and 20 DAI through transcriptomics analysis of infested coconut leaves, with altered expression levels under RPW infestation. The KEGG pathway and GO analysis revealed enrichment in pathways related to metabolism, stress response, and plant-pathogen interactions, shedding light on the intricate mechanisms underlying coconut-RPW interactions. The identified genes may serve as potential markers for tracking RPW infestation progression and could inform strategies for pest control and management.

Nutritional, functional, and safety characterization of the edible larva of the South American palm weevil (chontacuro) Rhynchophorus palmarum L. from Amazonian Ecuador

Edible insects represent a viable option to address the current need for nutritious, safe, and eco-friendly foods. People native to the Amazon region have a long-standing tradition of consuming edible insects that are relatively unknown elsewhere. This research aimed to characterize the chemical, nutritional, and microbiological composition of the edible larva of the palm weevil Rhynchophorus palmarum L. (chontacuro) from the Amazonian lowlands of Ecuador. The larvae proved to be rich in lipids (∼50 %), proteins (∼20 %), fiber (∼6 %), and oleic acid, one of their predominant fatty acids along with palmitic acid. The larvae are also rich in vitamins (B6, B9, A, and E) and are a source of β-carotene, calcium, potassium, magnesium, and phosphorus. No evidence of toxic elements (metals) or pathogenic microorganisms was observed. In general, chontacuro larvae proved to be a safe and nutritious food, managing to fully or partially cover several of the Dietary Reference Intakes for several nutrients.

Isolation and characterization of a native strain of the entomopathogenic fungus Beauveria bassiana for the control of the palm weevil Dynamis borassi (Coleoptera: Curculionidae) in the neotropics

This study aimed to isolate and characterize a native strain of Beauveria bassiana, coded as Bv065, showcasing its potential as a biological control agent targeting the palm weevil Dynamis borassi. Originating from a naturally infected D. borassi specimen collected in southwestern Colombia, the fungus underwent molecular identification and was identified as B. bassiana, exhibiting high sequence similarity with known reference strains. The physiological characterization revealed that Bv065 thrived within a temperature range of 25 to 30 °C and a pH range of 6 to 9. Moreover, the key carbon sources that allow optimal growth of the strain were identified through metabolic profiling, including sucrose, D-mannose, and γ-amino-butyric acid. These findings offer strategic insights for scalability and formulation methodologies. Additionally, enzymatic analyses unveiled robust protease activity within Bv065, crucial for catalysing insect cuticle degradation and facilitating host penetration, thus accentuating its entomopathogenic potential. Subsequent evaluations exposed Bv065’s pathogenicity against D. borassi, causing significant mortality within nine days of exposure, albeit exhibiting limited effectiveness against Rhynchophorus palmarum. This study underscores the importance of understanding optimal growth conditions and metabolic preferences of B. bassiana strains for developing effective biopesticides. The findings suggest Bv065 as a promising candidate for integrated pest management strategies in neotropical regions, particularly for controlling palm weevil infestations in coconut and peach palm cultivation. Future research avenues include refining mass production methodologies, formulating novel delivery systems, and conducting comprehensive field efficacy trials to unlock the full potential of Bv065 in fostering sustainable pest management practices. Overall, this study contributes to the growing body of knowledge on entomopathogenic fungi and their pivotal role in biological control, offering nuanced perspectives on eco-friendly alternatives to conventional insecticidal interventions.

Training Needs for Agricultural Extension its in the Field of Integrated Pest Control of the Red Palm Weevil in Beheira Governorate

Training Needs for Agricultural Extension its in the Field of Integrated Pest Control of the Red Palm Weevil in Beheira Governorate

(Insect behavior, freedom of choice, Y-shaped olfactometer, red palm weevil, aggregation pheromone)

(Insect behavior, freedom of choice, Y-shaped olfactometer, red palm weevil, aggregation pheromone)

Morphological variations in the African palm weevil, Rhynchophorus phoenicis (F) (Coleoptera: Curculionidae), in Kenya and Uganda

We investigated morphological differences in the African palm weevil (Rhynchophorus phoenicis) from Kenya (Busia and Kwale) and Uganda using a LEICA EZ4HD stereo microscope and an absolute digimatic caliper. Ten pronotal colour patterns were recorded, of which two (brown with two black spots and black with/without very faint brown bands of variable lengths and positions) are reported for the first time. Pronota of most R. phoenicis from Busia and Uganda were black with/without very faint brown bands of variable lengths and positions. Samples of R. phoenicis from Kwale were dominated by four reddish brown and three black bands, which either ran through the pronotal length or the reddish-brown bands coalesced anteriorly. The following pronotal colour patterns were male-specific: (i) two reddish brown bands, approximately ¾ the pronotal length and coalescing anteriorly, (ii) two reddish brown bands running through the pronotal length but discontinuous towards the posterior end and (iii) a brown pronotum with two black spots. Only the females had (i) two faint reddish brown bands running through the pronotal length, fading posteriorly and (ii) four reddish brown and three black bands, two of the former on either halves coalescing posteriorly. Females had longer snouts and mesocoxal distance, and wider elytra than males. Males possessed a longer profemur than females. Morphometric polymorphism was not linked to the site of sample collection. These findings provide additional diagnostic features and improve sexing of P. phoenicis and open opportunities for further research on the mechanisms for polymorphism in the species.

Studying the effectiveness of Jatropha carcus L. Extract as a repellent, antifeedant, and toxic substance against red palm weevil (Rhynchophorus Ferrugineus) adult insects in Saudi Arabia

ObjectiveRed palm weevil (RPW), Rhynchophorus ferrugineus, is a highly harmful pest that causes severe damage to date palm trees. The detrimental influence of RPW on date palm trees cannot be ignored and must be addressed. Chemical insecticides are available for controlling RPW; however, the insect population has become resistant to these chemicals, leading to damage and spread to new areas. The present investigation examined the impacts of physic nut (Jatropha curcas L.) seeds essential oils (PNEO) on laboratory-reared RPWs adult insects reared in a controlled laboratory environment. MethodsThe insecticidal, repellent, and antifeedant potentials of different doses (10, 20, 30, 40, 50%) of PNEO were tested against RPW. The insecticidal activity of J. curcas seeds oil extracts was assessed using topical application and feeding methods. ResultsRPW showed a high mortality rate when J. curcas seeds oil was applied topically after 24 h (P < 0.05). The mortality (%) of insects was 8, 76, 92, 96, and 100 for 10 %, 20 %, 30 %, 40 %, and 50 % concentrations, respectively. The LC50 and LC90 were 16.50 %, and 28.14 %, respectively. Results from the feeding method demonstrated a significant increase in mortality with a 100 % mortality rate at higher concentrations of PNEO compared to 10 and 20 % concentrations (P < 0.0001). The LC50 and LC90 were 24.42 % and 31.30 %, respectively. There was no significant decrease in food consumption and the antifeedant index when 10 % and 20 % of J. curcas seeds oil were used on the 3rd and 6th day after application. All J. curcas oil concentrations showed a repellent effect significantly higher than the controls (P < 0.05). ConclusionJ. curcas seeds oil has shown potential insecticidal and repellent effects against RPW, and it could provide an eco-friendly tool for RPW pest management.

A new species of mite in the genus Nenteria (Uropodina, Trematuridae), with a key to the Egyptian species

We describe a new species of mite in the genus Nenteria Oudemans, collected from the Red Palm Weevil, Rhynchophorus ferrugineus (Oliver) (Coleoptera: Curculionidae), at Bahariya Oasis, Egypt. Nenteria bahariyaensis n. sp. is the third species from this genus reported from Egypt, after Nenteria hypotrichus El-Borolossy &amp; El-Banhawy, 1995 and N. egypticus (Abo-Shnaf, El-Bishlawy &amp; Allam, 2018). A key to separate those species is provided. This work considers the possibility of using this mite species in integrated control approaches for R. ferrugineus.

Potential distribution of three invasive agricultural pests in China under climate change

Invasive pests reduce biodiversity and ecosystem service functions, thereby leading to economic and also agricultural losses. Banana skipper (Erionota torus Evans), red palm weevil (Rhynchophorus ferrugineus), and coconut caterpillar (Opisina arenosella Walker) are invasive insect pests in the palm-growing regions and they have had serious consequences for the planting of bananas (Musa nana), palms (Trachycarpus fortune) and coconut (Cocos nucifera). Based on screened occurrence data, the present research utilized Maximum Entropy model (Maxent) to simulate the distribution dynamics of these three invasive insects in China, under current and future climate (2050s, 2070s, 2090s) in two shared socio-economic pathways (SSPs: 126 and 585) of the newly released coupled model intercomparison project phase6 (CMIP6). The results show that: (1) Under current and future climate conditions, all model groups exhibited an AUC value exceeding 0.92, which shows that the model prediction results are very good;(2) The suitable habitat area of E. torus Evans remains relatively stable with some expansion in the SSP126 of 2090s and some contraction in the SSP585 of 2090s. The suitable habitat area of R. ferrugineus showed an overall contraction, with substantial contraction in the SSP585 of 2090s.The suitable habitat area of O. arenosella has an overall expansion, with the most pronounced expansion in the SSP585 of 2070s; (3) The current centroid of suitable habitats for R. ferrugineus and E. torus Evans is located in Guangxi Province and wholely shift toward the south direction under future climate. The centroid of suitable habitats for O. arenosella is currently located in the northeastern maritime area of Hainan Province and will shift toward the north direction under future climate; (4) Temperature, precipitation and Human disturbance factors (Population density and Human influence index) were crucial variables for describing the distribution of the three species. For E. torus Evans in particular, percentage contributions of Population density was up to 31.4, which is only 0.1 different from ranked first Bio19 (Precipitation of the coldest quarter). The dynamics of habitats of these three species and the correlating driver factors proposed in this work provide essential insights into future spatial management of the three invasive insects in China. Our work is necessary and timely in identifying newly areas at high risk of expansion of the three invasive insects in the future, then suggesting strategic control measures to prevent their spread, and finally providing scientific evidence for the early prevention and rapid response to the three invasive insects.

Ovipositional Preference of &lt;i&gt;Rhynchophorus ferrugineus&lt;/i&gt; (Olivier) in Palm Species in Goa

Red palm weevil (RPW) Rhynchophorus ferrugineus (Olivier) (Coleoptera: Curculionidae) is devastating pest in commercial and ornamental palms. The study was conducted to find out ovipositional preference of R. ferrugineus in seven palm species. Result revealed that the fish tail palm (Caryota cumingii Lodd.) is highly preferred host for oviposition by R. ferrugineus followed by coconut (Cocos nucifera L.). Toddy palm (Borassus flabellifer L.) was found to be least preferred by R. ferrugineus for oviposition. The ornamental palm, cane palm Dypsis lutescens (H. Wendl.) Beentje and J. Dransf is found as new preferred host for oviposition in free choice test.

Fatty Acid Profile and Thermal Behavior of Fat-Rich Edible Insect Oils Compared to Commonly Consumed Animal and Plant Oils.

This study compared the physicochemical properties of edible insect oils from silkworm (Bombyx mori) pupa (SP), sago palm weevil (Rhynchophorus ferrugineus) larva (PW), and bamboo caterpillar (Omphisa fuscidentalis; BC) to oils from chicken skin (CK), beef back fat (BF), pork back fat (PF), salmon belly (SB), sea bass belly (BB), coconut (C), and peanut (P). The fatty acid profiles and thermal behaviors (crystallization and melting) of the extracted oils were evaluated. PW and BC oils had more saturated fatty acids (SFAs) than CK, PF, SB, BB, and P oils. SP oil had equivalent SFA content to CK and BB oils. Insect oils exhibited similar monounsaturated fatty acid concentrations in all samples, except C oils. PW and BC oils exhibited a higher content of palmitoleic acid than the other oils. SP oils contained polyunsaturated fatty acids similar to those in SB and BB oils, which were higher than those in PW, BC, CK, BF, and PF oils. SP oil also exhibited the highest concentration of α-linolenic acid (C18:3 n-3). Arachidonic acid (0.01-0.02 g/100 g) in all insect oils was lower level compared to CK, BF, PF, SB, and BB oils. SP oil (0.03 g/100 g) exhibited a slightly higher level of eicosapentaenoic acid compared to PW (0.01 g/100 g) and BC (0.01 g/100 g) oils. The insect oils were liquid at ambient temperature, solid below -15°C, and required less energy (△Hm-max) for melting than other samples. This study indicated that insects, particularly SP, could serve as an alternative source of fat to meet its growing demand.