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The Moths and Butterflies of Great Britain and Ireland
Journal of Animal Ecology
... The female winter moth ascends the trunk of a single host tree in the late autumn/early winter, mating en route, and laying eggs at a steady rate over a period of several days, depositing them throughout the trunk, branches, and buds of that tree (Embree, 1961;Hibbard, 2014;Maitland Emmet & Heath, 1992). This behavior gives rise to a portfolio effect, by introducing variation in the environmental conditions experienced by the eggs of a single female, such that although some individual caterpillars may find themselves hatching asynchronous with adjacent foliage in spring, others in a different location may be synchronous ( Figure 2d). ...
... Additionally, many microlepidopteran species exploit buds, successively feeding until they pupate (Langmaid et al., 2018;Maitland Emmet & Heath, 1992). ...
... Most arboreal spring-feeding caterpillars are trophic generalists, able to exploit a range of different host-plant species, though diet breadth does vary (Maitland Emmet & Heath, 1992). Naturally, all spring-feeding species also experience the inherent heterogeneity and patchiness of woodland environments which gives rise to portfolio effects in the hatching phenology of these species. ...
The potential for climate change to disrupt phenology‐mediated interactions in interaction networks has attracted considerable attention in recent decades. Frequently, studies emphasize the fragility of ephemeral seasonal interactions, and the risks posed by phenological asynchrony. Here, we argue that the fitness consequences of asynchrony in phenological interactions may often be more buffered than is typically acknowledged. We identify three main forms that buffering may take: (i) mechanisms that reduce asynchrony between consumer and resource; (ii) mechanisms that reduce the costs of being asynchronous; and (iii) mechanisms that dampen interannual variance in performance across higher organizational units. Using synchrony between the hatching of winter moth caterpillars and the leafing of their host‐plants as a case study, we identify a wide variety of buffers that reduce the detrimental consequences of phenological asynchrony on caterpillar individuals, populations, and meta‐populations. We follow this by drawing on examples across a breadth of taxa, and demonstrate that these buffering mechanisms may be quite general. We conclude by identifying key gaps in our knowledge of the fitness and demographic consequences of buffering, in the context of phenological mismatch. Buffering has the potential to substantially alter our understanding of the biotic impacts of future climate change—a greater recognition of the contribution of these mechanisms may reveal that many trophic interactions are surprisingly resilient, and also serve to shift research emphasis to those systems with fewer buffers and towards identifying the limits of those buffers.
... The European common blue butterfly Polyommatus icarus Rottemburg, [1775] (Lepidoptera: Lycaenidae) was introduced in the Montreal area around 2005 (Hall 2007), has since been spreading locally (Al-Rewashdy et al. 2010) and has formed a myrmecophilous relationship with at least one native ant (Dexheimer et al. 2021). In its native range, P. icarus feeds on openarea ruderal Fabaceae plants and is not particularly associated with cities (Dennis et al. 2017); its main habitats are unimproved grasslands, rough downs and coastal dunes, and it also uses heaths and woodland clearings (Emmet and Heath 1989;Habel et al. 2016). Many of P. icarus 's host plants have long been naturalized across North America, including the Montreal region (Turkington and Franko 1980). ...
... The following Fabaceae plants were observed in at least one of the field sites: Lotus corniculatus, Medicago lupulina, Medicago sativa, Melilotus alba, Trifolium pratense, Trifolium repens, and Vicia cracca. All of these plants are native to Europe, naturalized in Canada and have been previously recorded as hosts for P. icarus in its native range (Emmet and Heath 1989;Robinson et al. 2010). ...
... Vegetation height was measured in order to investigate its effect on habitat selection, since it has been suggested to be a predictor of P. icarus habitat use (Emmet and Heath 1989;León-Cortés et al. 1999;Habel et al. 2016). Three indices of vegetation were measured with a tape measure, from the ground up: maximum height reached by any plant in the quadrat, maximum height reached by a host plant from the list above, and average height of the vegetation (i.e. ...
The successful establishment of an exotic species is based on its resource-based habitat, and thus depends on its encountering the interaction partners and environmental conditions it requires to complete its life cycle. We examine factors that define the resource-based habitat of the European common blue butterfly (Polyommatus icarus Rottemburg, [1775] (Lepidoptera: Lycaenidae)) recently introduced in Quebec, testing the role of exotic host plants and of short vegetation structure. Field studies surveyed adult butterfly abundance in lightly managed urban sites and related it to host plant cover and vegetation structure. Oviposition behavior was also recorded and linked to individual plant traits, namely height, species and anatomical structures. Results show that adult butterflies maintain the same host plant associations as in the native range, suggesting a role for naturalized plants in facilitating the establishment of this exotic herbivore. However, relative oviposition rate was not higher on the most strongly associated host plant (birdsfoot trefoil, Lotus corniculatus, Fabaceae) suggesting no clear behavioral preference for this plant. Butterflies also showed the same association with short vegetation documented in the native range, although the basis for this preference remains unclear. P. icarus uses different biotopes in its invaded range (lightly managed urban sites) than in its native range (unimproved grasslands), and our results show the role of host plants and of short vegetation structure in defining the resource-based habitat that can predict its future expansion. Our results raise interesting questions about why this butterfly uses cities more in its invaded than its native range. The role of cities in insect conservation is increasingly recognized; we show how, paradoxically, a butterfly whose native biotopes are declining has found suitable conditions to thrive in far-removed urban centers.
... Because of this, even slight infestations of older larvae could be damaging in crops such as heading cabbage, which can become unmarketable (Heath and Emmet, 1979;Finch and Thomson, 1992). In soyabean, feeding by M. brassicae larvae may destroy young buds, leading to distorted growth; the larvae also bore into the pods and feed on the seeds (Lihnell, 1940). ...
... Degree-day calculations indicate that the species may be partly bivoltine in Denmark and Norway in warm years (Johansen, 1996b;Ogaard, 1983). In the UK, the species is also reported to be univoltine (Heath and Emmet, 1979) or partially bivoltine (Finch and Thompson, 1992). The species is bivoltine in Hokkaido in Japan (Tsutsui et al., 1988), Belgrade (Injac and Krnjajic, 1989), Moldova and other southern regions of the former USSR (Filippov, 1982), Germany (Hommes, 1983;Kahrer, 1984) and France (Poitout and Bues, 1982). ...
... The species is nocturnal (Heath and Emmet, 1979;Rojas et al., 2001), so emergence from pupae, flight, mating activity, egg deposition and feeding mostly take place during the dark period. ...
This datasheet on Mamestra brassicae covers Identity, Overview, Distribution, Dispersal, Hosts/Species Affected, Diagnosis, Biology & Ecology, Environmental Requirements, Natural Enemies, Impacts, Prevention/Control, Further Information.
... It is listed as a priority species in "Biodiversity: The UK Steering Group Report" (Department of the Environment, 1995). The severe decline that the butterfly underwent from 1976 through 1981 caused the number of populations in the UK to drop by over 90% (Emmet & Heath, 1990; Asher ef a/., 2001) and although the species is making a strong recovery 6om this, with many former sites occupied by the species having been re-colonised, the butterfly still appears to be vulnerable at the edges of its range . The sensitivity of this species demands that great care is taken during fieldwork. ...
... Historical population data for the species suggests that the butterfly was either extremely rare or not present in the UK prior to 1775, when the first confirmed record of the species was made. The collecting of butterflies as a hobby began during the last quarter of the 17*^ century, and one of its chief proponents was James Petti ver, "the father of British entomology" (Emmet & Heath, 1990). He named and described the majority of the British butterfly species (Pettiver, 1717). ...
... Despite a period of intense entomological activity, no description of this species appears in any work on the British fauna (Ray, 1710;Pettiver, 1717;Albin, 1720;Wilkes, 1741Wilkes, -1742 Wilkes, 1747-1749; Harris, 1775) until 1775 (Harris, 1775). Emmet and Heath (1990) conclude that P. bellargus "must have been an extremely rare species". ...
p>Populations of P. bellargus were examined to assess whether the genetic structuring reflects a recent colonisation even in the UK, as is inferred by the historical data for the species. To achieve this, the AT-rich mitochrondrial control region was sequenced from individuals throughout the UK range and southern France. Genetic diversity was found to be much lower in the UK, with only three closely related haplotypes among fifty UK specimens, whereas six were identified from eight butterflies from France. The predominant UK haplotype, which was at fixation in most UK populations, was almost identical to one from France, suggesting that the UK population has a French origin. The only reasonable explanation for the observed patterns of MtDNA diversity is a recent and rapid colonisation even from France via one or a few female butterflies.
Five microsatellite DNA markers were isolated and used to examine the relationship between spatial distribution and population genetic structure among a subset of UK populations of P. bellargus . The butterfly is at its northern range limit in the UK, where it exists in a highly fragmented metapopulation structure on isolated pockets of calcareous grassland. These populations were affected by a severe population bottleneck in the late 1970's, when a drought caused large numbers of the host plant ( Hippocrepis comosa ) to wilt. Mantel tests indicated a significant effect of isolation by distance among the UK populations, a relationship that broke down at greater geographic scales (>37.5km), probably because of large areas of unsuitable habitat presenting barriers to gene flow.</p
... Die Falter schlüpfen aus dem gegenüberliegenden Ende des Sackes. Einige Arten haben eine zweijährige Raupenentwicklung (Emmet 1996). ...
... Die Zahl vor dem Artnamen entspricht der Nummer der Art in jenem Werk. Im Mai recht häufig an Wald-und Gebüschrändern, wo die Raupenfutterpflanze Stellaria holostea wächst (Emmet 1996). Tagsüber kann man die Falter auf den Blüten der Pflanze beobachten. ...
... Tagsüber kann man die Falter auf den Blüten der Pflanze beobachten. Abb Verbreitet in der Nähe von Weissdornhecken, an denen die Raupe lebt (Emmet 1996). ...
The 65 species of the family Coleophoridae so far found in Luxembourg are presented. The methods of their collection and the habitats of the species are described.
... This species overwinters as imago. Meanwhile, we did not find descriptions of their natural wintering places in the literature with the exception of single mentions of findings in caves and hollows of trees far from housing [19][20][21][22]; consultations with experts added little information. On the contrary, hibernating A. urticae is often found in anthropogenic areas in various buildings: sheds, unheated storage house, bomb shelters, tunnels, basements, abandoned buildings or those only used for summer housing, etc. [20,[22][23][24]. ...
... Meanwhile, we did not find descriptions of their natural wintering places in the literature with the exception of single mentions of findings in caves and hollows of trees far from housing [19][20][21][22]; consultations with experts added little information. On the contrary, hibernating A. urticae is often found in anthropogenic areas in various buildings: sheds, unheated storage house, bomb shelters, tunnels, basements, abandoned buildings or those only used for summer housing, etc. [20,[22][23][24]. In the spring, they begin to fly early and are therefore noticeable. ...
The geographic variability of the cold hardiness of poikilothermic animals is one of the keys to understanding the mechanisms of the formation of their ranges under climate change or anthropogenic introductions. A convenient object is the small tortoiseshell butterfly Aglais urticae, which is distributed from the Atlantic Ocean to the Pacific Ocean. On the edges of the distribution range, the difference between the averages of the absolute minimum air temperatures reaches 60 °C. The cold hardiness (supercooling point and lower lethal temperatures) of imago wintering in a supercooled state in the northeast of Russia was assessed in comparison to the previously studied European ones. Despite the huge difference in air temperatures, the mean supercooling points ranges in the east (−23...−29 °C) and the west (−17...−22 °C) differ by only 7 °C; the lower lethal temperatures for this species is near −30 °C. The identified cold hardiness is not enough for overwintering of A. urticae on the vast majority part of the species range in natural shelters above the level of snow cover. The inhabiting of A. urticae in regions with air temperatures below −30 °C is possible only when wintering under snow. This primitive behavioral adaptation probably does not require physiological changes and may not be unique to Lepidoptera.
... The larvae feed on the grain of cereal crops (Graminaea) both in the field and in storage, and also plantains (Plantago spp.). Historic records from coal mines described the larvae as living on the fodder of the pit-ponies (Heath & Emmett, 1983). There are also records of the adult being infested with the mite Cheletomorpha lepidopterum which is found in hay bales; a previous name for this moth was the hay moth (Forgham, 2015). ...
... Larvae pupate in autumn in a robust cocoon underground from which they emerge in spring. This early generation gives rise to the second generation later in the year (Heath & Emmett, 1983). ...
We present a genome assembly from an individual male Caradrina clavipalpis (pale mottled willow; Arthropoda; Insecta; Lepidoptera; Noctuidae). The genome sequence is 474 megabases in span. The entire assembly (100%) is scaffolded into 31 chromosomal pseudomolecules with the Z sex chromosome assembled. The complete mitochondrial genome was also assembled and is 15.6 kilobases in length.
... Body mass of S. mormoria is approximately 120 mg (Niitepold et al. 2014). P. napi wingspans are typically in the range of between 40 and 52 mm wide (Emmet and Heath 1990), with a forewing length of 23.8 mm in summer females (Shkurikhin and Oslina 2016). This compares to S. mormoria with a wing length of 26.6 mm in females (Boggs 1987). ...
We present a formal model for Pieris napi, the green-veined white. This model is intended for inclusion in the Animal Landscape and Man Simulation System as the basis for regulatory assessment of the impacts of pesticides on butterfly pollinators. We propose implementing the model using an individual-based format, with the added complication of a dynamically coupled individual-based model for parasitoids and hyperparasitoids. The model’s main drivers are weather, temperature and the distribution of larval food plants and nectar forage resources in space and time. A prototype model description is presented, describing the full model ready for implementation. The model considers individuals at all life stages, from eggs to adults and utilises thermal performance models to represent development. Movement is modelled in detail, integrating dispersal, egg laying and foraging. Mortality sources include parasitoids, background mortality, slow development and pesticide and farm management mortality. A simple toxicological model is described as a basis for future expansion.
... Lahana mühendis tırtılı larvaları zarar yapmakta ve 1-3 larva dönemleri (Heath & Emmet, 1979;Popova, 1993). ...
This chapter is about Brassica's seed mmorphology, maturity, quality, dormancy status.
... The larvae and pupae of Y. padella and Y. cagnagella were used in the laboratory tests. The species were identified based on the morphological features of adults and the larvae's host plants [31][32][33]. Larvae and pupae were collected in June and July 2019, respectively, during mass appearances on wild plums (Prunus domestica L. subsp. syriaca (Borkh.) ...
The larvae of ermine moths from the Yponomeutidae family (Lepidoptera) feed on a range of species and varieties of fruit and ornamental trees. Some species of this family pose a serious threat to the environment, mainly because of the significant defoliation they cause but also due to the widespread use of insecticides used to control them. This study was designed to assess the sensitivity of Yponomeuta padella and Yponomeuta cagnagella larvae and pupae to a native strain of Steinernema feltiae ZAG15 nematodes under laboratory conditions and to test the biological activity of these nematodes against the larvae and pupae of these species in field studies. The following doses were used in the laboratory tests: 50 IJs/insect (Petri dish tests) and 100 IJs/insect (container tests). Petri dish and container tests were performed at 20 °C and 60% humidity. Mortality of two stages (larvae and pupae) was determined 3 days after treatment. In the field trials, the nematodes were applied at the following doses: 4000 IJs/web for the caterpillars of Y. padella and Y. cagnagella and 1000 IJs/web for the pupae of Y. padella and Y. cagnagella (this corresponded to approximately 200 IJs/insect). Nematodes were applied using a 1 L hand sprayer and a lance. The efficacy of the application was assessed after seven days. The results of our study showed that the larvae (81.7%) and pupae (88.3%) of Y. padella had a greater susceptibility to entomopathogenic nematodes (EPNs) than those of Y. cagnagella (50% and 33.3%, respectively). However, our promising laboratory results did not translate into results in field trials, where the application of EPNs proved to be ineffective.
... However, species of Clytie typically inhabit eremic or suberemic habitats, with just a handful of them, such as Clytie illunaris (Hübner, [1809(Hübner, [ -1813) and C. syriaca (Bugnion, 1837), also settled in relatively temperate areas of Southern Europe, although usually always in lowland riparian or sandy environments. Some stray individuals of the European species are also occasionally found north of their primary range (Anonymus, 1900;Czekelius, 1898Czekelius, , 1918Hellweger, 1908;Warnecke, 1935;Kasy, 1954;Lorimer, 1983;Eitschberger et al., 1991;Stangelmaier, 1995;Woizilinski, 2002;Kratochwill & Ritt, 2011), but the occurrence of a species of Clytie in an equatorial rainforest would be very surprising. ...
Following taxonomic considerations on Trichanua Berio, 1954, which is here reinstated as a valid subgenus (stat. rev.) of Ophiusa Ochsenheimer, 1816, Ophiusa (Trichanua) basquini n. sp. from Gabon is described.
... Lahana mühendis tırtılı larvaları zarar yapmakta ve 1-3 larva dönemleri (Heath & Emmet, 1979;Popova, 1993). ...
... Die Arten, die nicht im Gelände bestimmt werden konnten, wurden gesammelt und präpariert in die Schmetterlingssammlung von Marcel Hellers aufgenommen. Für die Bestimmung der Arten sowie für Angaben zur Ökologie wurden Koch (1972), Emmet (1996), Slamka (1997) und Razowski (2003) verwendet. Die Nomenklatur der erfassten Nachtfalter entspricht Karsholt & Razowski (1996). ...
The insect fauna of natural and restored remnants of moor grass meadows (Molinion caeruleae), near Mamer, Luxembourg, was surveyed in 2021. The presence of butterfly species was assessed by walking predefined transects while moths were recorded by attracting them to artificial light sources. Ground living beetles, especially Carabidae, were targeted with pitfall traps. Grasshoppers were recorded using a box quadrat as well as transect counts based upon visual and bioacoustic identification. Wild bees were investigated by active collection (on and off transects) and by installing pan and vane traps. In total, we recorded 246 species, some of which are known to be characteristic inhabitants of wetland habitats. Notable species include the butterflies Lycaena dispar and Adscita statices, the moth Archanara sparganii, carabids such as Agonum emarginatum and Amara strenua, the wild bee Melitta nigricans in addition to grasshoppers like Stethophyma grossum and Conocephalus fuscus. Two wild bee species were recorded in Luxembourg for the first time: Andrena congruens Schmiedeknecht, 1884 and Hylaeus dilatatus (Kirby, 1802). Comparing the recorded biocoenosis, a similar or even higher number of characteristic species and individuals was found on the restored moor grass meadow. These results confirm a successful restoration and underline the fact that entomological surveys are a valuable complement to floristic surveys in the evaluation process of restored habitats. Understanding the relationships and needs of the resident community facilitates the implementation of targeted habitat improvement measures.
... The pollinator species were either identified to genus visually, or the insect was photographed or captured with a net for later identification. (Ball & Morris, 2015;Falk, 2015;Lewington, 2017). ...
The use of urban green spaces, including gardens, in pollinator conservation initiatives, excites significant public interest but advice on effective plants frequently relies on qualitative data. This study considered pollinator responses to specific nectar sugar characteristics to determine if they offer the potential for the selection of candidate plants. Pollinator feeding on 60 plant species at the National Botanic Garden of Wales was related to their nectar characteristics to investigate response consistency at different taxonomic levels. The feeding frequency of Hymenoptera, particularly the social Hymenoptera, was significantly correlated with the volume of nectar offered by flowers, but greater differentiation between plant species occurred when specific nectar sugar characteristics were considered. Feeding was significantly correlated with the volume of the hexose monosaccharides glucose or fructose for the Hymenoptera, particularly the social Hymenoptera (and for the two social genera analysed individually, Apis spp. Bombus spp.), but not for non-social species. Similarly, feeding visits were correlated with the percentage of glucose or fructose in nectar in the Hymenoptera, social Hymenoptera and non-social groups (including three individual genera tested (Apis spp., primitively eusocial Lasioglossum, and non-social Andrena spp.). Fewer and less consistent outcomes were recorded when the (disaccharide) sucrose content of nectar was investigated. In comparative analyses conducted for other pollinator groups (Diptera and Lepidoptera), feeding was only found to be correlated with glucose content. The social Hymenoptera are a particular focus of gardeners and the use of percentage glucose or fructose in nectar is discussed as a potential component of a screening approach to identify keystone plant species. ARTICLE HISTORY
We present a genome assembly from a female specimen of Batrachedra praeangusta (Poplar Cosmet; Arthropoda; Insecta; Lepidoptera; Batrachedridae). The genome sequence has a total length of 486.93 megabases. Most of the assembly (99.67%) is scaffolded into 29 chromosomal pseudomolecules, including the Z sex chromosome. The mitochondrial genome has also been assembled, with a length of 15.21 kilobases.
The biology of Lepidoptera (Insecta), characterized by traits such as rapid reproduction, short life cycles, host plant specificity, and a wide host range, is closely linked to host-plant strategies. Host plants play a crucial role in the development of the larval stage. This study investigates Lepidoptera species distributed in Turkey, whose larvae feed on Astragalus species (commonly known as milkvetch). A comprehensive review of the literature on the larval host plants of Lepidoptera was conducted, and an updated list was compiled. A total of 53 Lepidoptera species feeding on 35 Astragalus species have been documented. These species are presented along with their distribution in Turkey and the relevant references. This research is expected to contribute to studies on larva-host plant relationships and conservation efforts.
Climate change has the potential to disrupt phenological synchrony among interacting species that vary in their phenological sensitivity to temperature. The phenological synchrony observed between winter moth Operophtera brumata caterpillars and oak leafing in spring has become an emblematic test case of this phenomenon, with caterpillars seemingly advancing their phenology more than their host-plant. However, work on this trophic interaction—and on phenological mismatch more widely—routinely overlooks the potential for trophic generalism to buffer the negative effects of mismatch. In the largest study of its kind—using over 3500 individuals reared from egg to pupa—I tested the performance of winter moth caterpillars from four UK populations across nine host-plant species, and considered how adaptation to locally abundant host-plants may modulate performance in different populations. I found that caterpillars survive and grow well across a range of host-plant species, with some evidence of a host-plant by population interaction in performance. Contrary to widespread assumptions, oak seems a relatively poor host-plant species. Occupying a broad trophic niche may help consumers like the winter moth exploit a narrow phenological niche, whereby phenological variation among host-plant species buffers them against asynchrony with any one particular host-plant species. Determining the significance of trophic generalism in the ecology of consumers is a crucial first step towards assessing its role as a potential buffering mechanism and, hence, evaluating the true threat posed by mismatch.
We present a genome assembly from an individual male Orgyia antiqua specimen (the Vapourer moth; Arthropoda; Insecta; Lepidoptera; Erebidae). The genome sequence is 480.1 megabases in span. Most of the assembly is scaffolded into 14 chromosomal pseudomolecules, including the Z sex chromosome. The mitochondrial genome has also been assembled and is 15.4 kilobases in length. Gene annotation of this assembly on Ensembl identified 12,475 protein coding genes.
Rearing experiments are reported for Micropterix calthella (L.). Eggs and early instar larvae were observed, measured and photographed; larvae were video recorded. Potential larval foodplants are discussed.
Проверено предположение о переходе бабочки-крапивницы ( Aglais urticae ) к синантропии в экстремально холодных (с минимальными температурами, близкими к –60 о C) регионах. У крапивницы зимует имаго; холодостойкость бабочек принципиально недостаточна для переживания холодов на большей части ареала в природных убежищах, расположенных выше уровня снега, и в легких строениях. Средние температуры переохлаждения вида от Англии к северо-востоку России увеличиваются от –22 до –29 о C, тогда как средние минимальные температуры воздуха в январе падают с 3.3 до –55.7 о C. Выяснялось, обеспечивают ли на северо-востоке Азии (пос. Сеймчан) добротные зимние, но неотапливаемые дома температуру в помещениях выше –30 о C, пороговую для крапивницы. В двух разных по устройству домах зимой логгерами измерялись температуры и сравнивались с данными метеостанции. В жестокие холода в домах было на 11–19 о C теплее, чем вне их, однако минимумы температур ниже –30 о C регистрировались в течение половины зимы, а ниже –35 о C – в течение почти ее трети. Таким образом, неотапливаемые зимние дома и природные убежища (типа щелей под корой, дупел и других полостей), находящихся выше уровня снежного покрова, не обеспечивают необходимых температур. Дома, подобные изученным, гарантируют крапивнице успешную гибернацию в климатически более мягких условиях Западной Сибири и северо-востока европейской части России. Зимовка же выше уровня снега в примитивных убежищах возможна только в пределах и западнее области температур –31…–20 о C. Проведенная работа делает еще менее обоснованными представления о синантропии крапивницы и возвращает нас к предположению о пребывании ее под снежным покровом в убежищах типа полостей в опаде, под упавшими деревьями и т.д. Подобный тип зимовки гарантирует успех, не будучи зависим от климатов Северной Евразии.
Micropterigidae is the sister group to all other Lepidoptera, providing important insights into the evolution of Lepidoptera. However, the gene and protein profiles of silk from Micropterigidae remain unidentified. We investigated the silk components of silk cocoons of the micropterigid species Neomicropterix cornuta . We characterized the silk glands and cocoons using light and electron microscopy, X-ray microtomography, and molecular techniques. Our results showed that the protein fibroin heavy chain (FibH) is absent in the silk of N. cornuta and that the putative homolog of fibroin light chain (FibL) is also absent or severely altered. This was confirmed by transcriptome and genome searches of the conserved regions in this species. The examination of the conserved synteny around the fibH genes in several Lepidoptera and Trichoptera showed that the genomic region containing this gene was absent in another micropterigid species, Micropterix aruncella. In contrast, we found putative orthologs of fibH and fibL in the transcripts of representatives of another distinct clade, Eriocraniidae. This study showed that the loss of FibH and the loss or severe divergence of FibL occurred specifically in the family Micropterigidae and revealed dynamic evolutionary changes in silk composition during the early evolution of Lepidoptera.
We present a genome assembly of a female Silver-barred Sober moth Aproaerema taeniolella (Arthropoda; Insecta; Lepidoptera; Gelechiidae). The genome sequence has a length of 636.60 megabases. Most of the assembly is scaffolded into 31 chromosomal pseudomolecules, including the Z sex chromosome. The mitochondrial genome has also been assembled and is 15.19 kilobases in length. Gene annotation of this assembly on Ensembl identified 22,274 protein-coding genes.
We present a genome assembly from a male Zelleria hepariella (the Brown Ash Ermine; Arthropoda; Insecta; Lepidoptera; Yponomeutidae). The genome sequence is 428.8 megabases in span. Most of the assembly is scaffolded into 19 chromosomal pseudomolecules, including the Z sex chromosome. The mitochondrial genome has also been assembled and is 16.31 kilobases in length. Gene annotation of this assembly on Ensembl identified 15,718 protein coding genes.
We present a genome assembly from an individual male Euspilapteryx auroguttella (the Yellow-dotted Stilt; Arthropoda; Insecta; Lepidoptera; Gracillariidae). The genome sequence is 331.9 megabases in span. Most of the assembly is scaffolded into 30 chromosomal pseudomolecules, including the Z sex chromosome. The mitochondrial genome has also been assembled and is 16.94 kilobases in length.
We present a genome assembly from an individual male Carpatolechia fugitivella (the Elm Groundling; Arthropoda; Insecta; Lepidoptera; Gelechiidae). The genome sequence is 493.1 megabases in span. Most of the assembly is scaffolded into 30 chromosomal pseudomolecules, including the Z sex chromosome. The mitochondrial genome has also been assembled and is 15.26 kilobases in length. Gene annotation of this assembly on Ensembl identified 12,721 protein coding genes.
We present a genome assembly from an individual male Eremobia ochroleuca (the Dusky Sallow; Arthropoda; Insecta; Lepidoptera; Noctuidae). The genome sequence is 625.4 megabases in span. Most of the assembly is scaffolded into 31 chromosomal pseudomolecules, including the Z sex chromosome. The mitochondrial genome has also been assembled and is 15.36 kilobases in length. Gene annotation of this assembly on Ensembl identified 18,530 protein coding genes.
We present a genome assembly from an individual female Argyresthia goedartella (the Golden Argent; Arthropoda; Insecta; Lepidoptera; Argyresthiidae). The genome sequence is 1,108.8 megabases in span. Most of the assembly is scaffolded into 31 chromosomal pseudomolecules, including the Z sex chromosome. The mitochondrial genome has also been assembled and is 17.96 kilobases in length. Gene annotation of this assembly on Ensembl identified 13,530 protein coding genes.
We present a genome assembly from an individual male Teleiodes luculella (the Crescent Groundling; Arthropoda; Insecta; Lepidoptera; Gelechiidae). The genome sequence is 454.5 megabases in span. Most of the assembly is scaffolded into 30 chromosomal pseudomolecules, including the Z sex chromosome. The mitochondrial genome has also been assembled and is 15.32 kilobases in length. Gene annotation of this assembly on Ensembl identified 19,943 protein coding genes.
We present a genome assembly from an individual female Athrips mouffetella (the Dotted Grey Groundling; Arthropoda; Insecta; Lepidoptera; Gelechiidae). The genome sequence is 869.7 megabases in span. Most of the assembly is scaffolded into 31 chromosomal pseudomolecules, including the Z and W sex chromosomes. The mitochondrial genome has also been assembled and is 15.23 kilobases in length. Gene annotation of this assembly on Ensembl identified 22,889 protein coding genes.
We present a genome assembly from an individual female Hoplodrina ambigua (Vine’s Rustic; Arthropoda; Insecta; Lepidoptera; Noctuidae). The genome sequence is 438.1 megabases in span. Most of the assembly is scaffolded into 32 chromosomal pseudomolecules, including the Z and W sex chromosomes. The mitochondrial genome has also been assembled and is 15.39 kilobases in length. Gene annotation of this assembly on Ensembl identified 18,878 protein coding genes.
We present a genome assembly from an individual male Apamea anceps (the Large Nutmeg; Arthropoda; Insecta; Lepidoptera; Noctuidae). The genome sequence is 615.8 megabases in span. Most of the assembly is scaffolded into 31 chromosomal pseudomolecules, including the Z sex chromosome. The mitochondrial genome has also been assembled and is 16.43 kilobases in length.
We present a genome assembly from an individual male Mythimna albipuncta (the White-point; Arthropoda; Insecta; Lepidoptera; Noctuidae). The genome sequence is 698.6 megabases in span. Most of the assembly is scaffolded into 31 chromosomal pseudomolecules, including the Z sex chromosome. The mitochondrial genome has also been assembled and is 15.38 kilobases in length. Gene annotation of this assembly on Ensembl identified 13,679 protein coding genes.
So far, only five species of the genus Lyonetia Hübner, 1825 have been recorded in China. In this paper, we describe two new species: L. (Lyonetiola) blasta T. Liu, sp. n., and L. (Lyonetiola) duplistriata T. Liu, sp. n., and report a newly recorded species, L. (Lyonetia) ledi Wocke, 1859 from China. Autumnal forms, manifesting darker forewings, of L. (Lyonetia) clerkella (Linnaeus, 1758) were collected from Xizang at an altitude of 3650 m in summer. The distribution and host plants of L. (Lyonetia) clerkella (Linnaeus, 1758) and L. (Lyonetia) prunifoliella (Hübner, 1796) in China are summarized. Photos of adults, male and female genitalia are provided. Host plants, leaf mines and DNA barcodes are also provided when available.
Ninety-eight species of the family Adelidae, belonging to three genera in two subfamilies, were recorded and described in China, with illustrations of the adults and their genitalia. Keys to subfamilies, genera and species are also provided. Twenty-four new species are described, nine species are newly recorded from China, and four new combinations are made. Ecological photos and DNA barcodes of some species are provided, and the phylogenetic analysis based on cytochrome c oxidase subunit I (COI) sequences are conducted. The new taxa are as follows: Nemophora pseudalbiantennella Liao, Hirowatari & Huang, sp. nov., N. badagongshana Liao, Hirowatari & Huang, sp. nov., N. longlabiae Liao, Hirowatari & Huang, sp. nov., N. quadrata Liao, Hirowatari & Huang, sp. nov., N. basalistriata Liao, Hirowatari & Huang, sp. nov., N. digitata Liao, Hirowatari & Huang, sp. nov., N. duplicifascia Liao, Hirowatari & Huang, sp. nov., N. hunanensis Liao, Hirowatari & Huang, sp. nov., N. purpurata Liao, Hirowatari & Huang, sp. nov., N. arcuatifasciata Liao, Hirowatari & Huang, sp. nov., N. caeruliantenna Liao, Hirowatari & Huang, sp. nov., N. xizangensis Liao, Hirowatari & Huang, sp. nov., N. caerulea Liao, Hirowatari & Huang, sp. nov., N. songgangensis Liao, Hirowatari & Huang, sp. nov., N. conjugata Liao, Hirowatari & Huang, sp. nov., N. latilobula Liao, Hirowatari & Huang, sp. nov., N. longispina Liao, Hirowatari & Huang, sp. nov., N. ganziensis Liao, Hirowatari & Huang, sp. nov., N. jiajinshana Liao, Hirowatari & Huang, sp. nov., N. litangensis Liao, Hirowatari & Huang, sp. nov., N. tianpingshana Liao, Hirowatari & Huang, sp. nov., N. triangulifascia Liao, Hirowatari & Huang, sp. nov., N. yajiagengensis Liao, Hirowatari & Huang, sp. nov., and N. bispina Liao, Hirowatari & Huang, sp. nov. The newly recorded taxa from China are: Nematopogon distinctus Yasuda, 1957, Adela nobilis Christoph, 1882, A. praepilosa Hirowatari, 1997, Nemophora albiantennella Issiki, 1930, N. chionites (Meyrick, 1907), N. smaragdaspis (Meyrick, 1924), N. trimetrella Stringer, 1930, N. optima (Butler, 1878), and N. bifasciatella Issikii, 1930. The new combinations are N. servata (Meyrick, 1925) com. nov., N. diplophragma (Meyrick, 1938) com. nov., N. chionella (Caradja, 1935) com. nov., and N. chrysocharis (Caradja, 1938) com. nov.
We present a genome assembly from an individual male Amphipoea oculea (the Ear Moth; Arthropoda; Insecta; Lepidoptera; Noctuidae). The genome sequence is 669.2 megabases in span. Most of the assembly is scaffolded into 31 chromosomal pseudomolecules, including the Z sex chromosome. The mitochondrial genome has also been assembled and is 15.36 kilobases in length.
Simple Summary
This research investigates moth biodiversity in two southern Swedish provinces, Västergötland and Småland, spanning from 1974 to 2019. The moth diversity over these years was evaluated using data collected from literary sources. To augment this dataset, a light trap was installed in each province in 2020. The data demonstrate enhanced diversity in Kalmar, Småland, and a more rapid colonisation rate throughout the study period in Småland compared to Västergötland. Noteworthily, our traps in Västergötland and Småland captured 44% and 28% of the known moth species in these provinces, respectively. We reveal significant associations between the probability of species presence in the traps and specific traits when contrasted with a provincial species pool. Traits disproportionately represented in the traps encompass species with considerable variation in colour patterns, generalist habitat and host plant preferences, extended flight periods, and species that primarily overwinter as eggs. This research underscores the influences of climate change and human activities on the shaping of moth biodiversity.
Abstract
As moths are vital components of ecosystems and serve as important bioindicators, understanding the dynamics of their communities and the factors influencing these dynamics, such as anthropogenic impacts, is crucial to understand the ecological processes. Our study focuses on two provinces in southern Sweden, Västergötland and Småland, where we used province records from 1974 to 2019 in combination with light traps (in 2020) to record the presence and abundance of moth species, subsequently assessing species traits to determine potential associations with their presence in anthropogenically modified landscapes. This study design provides a unique opportunity to assess temporal changes in moth communities and their responses to shifts in environmental conditions, including anthropogenic impacts. Across the Västergötland and Småland provinces in Sweden, we recorded 776 moth taxa belonging to fourteen different taxonomic families of mainly Macroheterocera. We captured 44% and 28% of the total moth species known from these provinces in our traps in Borås (Västergötland) and Kalmar (Småland), respectively. In 2020, the species richness and abundance were higher in Borås than in Kalmar, while the Shannon and Simpson diversity indices revealed a higher species diversity in Kalmar. Between 1974 and 2019, the colonisation rates of the provinces increased faster in Småland. Ninety-three species were found to have colonised these provinces since 1974, showing that species richness increased over the study period. We reveal significant associations between the probability of a species being present in the traps and distinct traits compared to a provincial species pool. Traits over-represented in the traps included species with a high variation in colour patterns, generalist habitat preferences, extended flight periods, lower host plant specificity, and overwintering primarily as eggs. Our findings underscore the ongoing ecological filtering that favours certain species-specific traits. This study sheds light on the roles of climate change and anthropogenic impacts in shaping moth biodiversity, offers key insights into the ecological processes involved, and can guide future conservation efforts.
We present a genome assembly from an individual male Ypsolopha scabrella (the Wainscot Smudge; Arthropoda; Insecta; Lepidoptera; Ypsolophidae). The genome sequence is 853.6 megabases in span. Most of the assembly is scaffolded into 31 chromosomal pseudomolecules, including the Z sex chromosome. The mitochondrial genome has also been assembled and is 16.7 kilobases in length. Gene annotation of this assembly on Ensembl identified 20,594 protein coding genes.
We present a genome assembly from an individual female Dicycla oo (the Heart Moth; Arthropoda; Insecta; Lepidoptera; Noctuidae). The genome sequence is 936.7 megabases in span. Most of the assembly is scaffolded into 31 chromosomal pseudomolecules, including the Z sex chromosome. The mitochondrial genome has also been assembled and is 15.29 kilobases in length. Gene annotation of this assembly on Ensembl identified 19,564 protein coding genes.
We present a genome assembly from an individual male Orgyia antiqua specimen (the Vapourer moth; Arthropoda; Insecta; Lepidoptera; Erebidae). The genome sequence is 480.1 megabases in span. Most of the assembly is scaffolded into 14 chromosomal pseudomolecules, including the Z sex chromosome. The mitochondrial genome has also been assembled and is 15.4 kilobases in length. Gene annotation of this assembly on Ensembl identified 12,475 protein coding genes.
We present a genome assembly from an individual male Sphinx pinastri (the Pine Hawkmoth; Arthropoda; Insecta; Lepidoptera; Sphingidae). The genome sequence is 509.2 megabases in span. Most of the assembly is scaffolded into 28 chromosomal pseudomolecules, including the Z sex chromosome. The mitochondrial genome has also been assembled and is 15.3 kilobases in length.
We present a genome assembly from an individual male Ptilodon capucinus (the Coxcomb Prominent; Arthropoda; Insecta; Lepidoptera; Notodontidae). The genome sequence is 348.7 megabases in span. The assembly is scaffolded into 31 chromosomal pseudomolecules, including the Z sex chromosome. The mitochondrial genome has also been assembled and is 15.38 kilobases in length. Gene annotation of this assembly on Ensembl identified 16,968 protein coding genes.
We present a genome assembly from an individual male Brachylomia viminalis (the Minor Shoulder-knot; Arthropoda; Insecta; Lepidoptera; Noctuidae). The genome sequence is 782.2 megabases in span. Most of the assembly is scaffolded into 31 chromosomal pseudomolecules, including the Z sex chromosome. The mitochondrial genome has also been assembled and is 16.15 kilobases in length. Gene annotation of this assembly on Ensembl identified 20,191 protein coding genes.
Several species of micro-Lepidoptera recorded in Berkshire for the first time are listed. Details are presented along with notes on their status with particular reference to Berkshire.
We present a genome assembly from an individual female Agrochola macilenta (the Yellow-line Quaker; Arthropoda; Insecta; Lepidoptera; Noctuidae). The genome sequence is 683 megabases in span. Most of the assembly is scaffolded into 32 chromosomal pseudomolecules, including the Z and W sex chromosomes. The mitochondrial genome has also been assembled and is 15.4 kilobases in length. Gene annotation of this assembly on Ensembl identified 18,769 protein coding genes.
We present a genome assembly from an individual female Craniophora ligustri (the Coronet; Arthropoda; Insecta; Lepidoptera; Noctuidae). The genome sequence is 438 megabases in span. The whole assembly is scaffolded into 32 chromosomal pseudomolecules, including the Z and W sex chromosomes. The mitochondrial genome has also been assembled and is 15.3 kilobases in length. Gene annotation of this assembly on Ensembl identified 12,834 protein coding genes.
This datasheet on Helicoverpa zea covers Identity, Overview, Distribution, Dispersal, Hosts/Species Affected, Diagnosis, Biology & Ecology, Natural Enemies, Impacts, Prevention/Control, Further Information.
This account presents information on all aspects of the biology of Corylus avellana L. (Hazel) that are relevant to understanding its ecological characteristics and behaviour. The main topics are presented within the standard framework of the Biological Flora of Britain and Ireland: distribution, habitat, communities, responses to biotic factors, responses to environment, structure and physiology, phenology, floral and seed characters, herbivores and disease, history and conservation.
Wild C. avellana in Britain and Ireland grows in a wide climatic and ecological range, in a broad suite of vegetation communities, particularly woodlands, at all latitudes and from 0 to 650 m asl. It supports a large number of faunal and fungal associates. The developing plant sends up basal shoots every spring from the peripheral parts of its underground stool, which gives it a structural regenerative advantage over cohabitant woody species.
The flowers and pollen of C. avellana are adapted for wind pollination, yet honeybees have been observed to gather its pollen. The pollen and fruit of C. avellana are a cause of allergic reactions in sensitive people, with previous exposure to Birch pollen a strong predictor of the food allergy.
Corylus avellana is native to Europe and western Asia, and was one of the first plant species to recolonize Europe after the last gIacial period. By the time of its cultivation in the Roman empire, regional human‐selected lineages of C. avellana were already developing, with independent domestication in the western and eastern Mediterranean.
Corylus avellana is a genetically diverse taxon with effective gene flow across populations, presenting a continuum of wild to domesticated plants. Its nuts and involucres show a wide morphological variability, with hundreds of cultivars and forms proposed. The taxon Corylus maxima Mill. is sympatric and fully fertile with C. avellana, yet rarely self‐sown and their hybrid is little recorded in Britain and Ireland. Independent molecular studies have concluded that specimens of C. maxima cluster with C. avellana.
Hazelnuts are globally one of the most important nut crops, currently with 70% of traded nuts being grown in Türkiye, followed by Italy and Azerbaijan.
This account presents information on all aspects of the biology of Knautia arvensis (L.) Coult. (Field Scabious) that are relevant to understanding its ecological characteristics and behaviour. The main topics are presented within the standard framework of the Biological Flora of Britain and Ireland: distribution, habitat, communities, responses to biotic factors, responses to environment, structure and physiology, phenology, floral and seed characters, herbivores and disease, history and conservation.
Knautia arvensis is a perennial hemicryptophyte, with a tap root system, and bluish‐lilac inflorescences. It is native in Britain. It occurs predominantly on well‐drained to moderately dry soils such as dry grassy fields, pastures, roadsides and dry hedge banks. It has a vast Eurasian native distribution.
Reproduction occurs through the production of seeds and rhizomes, though K. arvensis possesses very limited clonal growth. It has a gynodioecious breeding system. Flowers are nectariferous and insect pollinated, showing sexual dimorphism in several traits. The hermaphroditic flowers are protandrous and self‐compatible. Flowers are mainly pollinated by butterflies (Lepidoptera), Hymenoptera, Coleoptera and Diptera.
Knautia is a genus noteworthy for its high occurrence of hybridisation and polyploidy. Knautia arvensis has the widest distribution within the genus, and hybridisation both within members of the same group and with taxa of other groups is frequently reported.
Although declining in natural habitats within England, K. arvensis is increasingly being sown within wildflower seed mixtures used in restoration schemes across the country, as it is a late flowering species that provides a good source of nectar for pollinators.
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