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Ma J, Fu Z, Yang X, Ming W, Song X, Du C. Gut microbial changes in a specialist blister beetle larvae and their nutritional metabolic characteristics. Ecol Evol 2024; 14:e70184. [PMID: 39184568 PMCID: PMC11341433 DOI: 10.1002/ece3.70184] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/07/2024] [Revised: 07/22/2024] [Accepted: 08/02/2024] [Indexed: 08/27/2024] Open
Abstract
Insect gut microbiota and their metabolites play a significant role in the shaping of hosts' diets and feeding habits. We conducted 16S rDNA amplicon sequencing on the gut microbiota of specialist blister beetle larvae that feed on locust eggs and artificial food at different instars, to explore the relationship between gut microbiota and the specialized feeding habit of the blister beetle larvae. There is no significant difference in the gut microbial structure among the second to the fourth instar larvae under the same rearing conditions, but the gut microbial structure of the first instar larvae was significantly different from the second to the fourth instar larvae fed by different diets. Bacteria associated with polysaccharide utilization are relatively barren in first instar larvae. Compared to the carbohydrate content between the artificial diet and locust eggs, we speculate that an excessive amount of polysaccharides in the artificial diet may be detrimental to the growth and development of first instar larvae. Gut microbiota of the second to the fourth instar larvae fed with different diets significantly differ in microbial community structure. The different bacteria, especially the metabolism-related intestinal bacteria in locust eggs-fed larvae, may help the hosts adapt to the environment and contribute to the production of active ingredients. The relative abundance of polysaccharide utilization-related bacteria was significantly higher in the artificial diet-fed larvae compared to the locust eggs-fed larvae, which showed the same result when compared to the first instar larvae. Changes in gut microbes of blister beetle larvae and their metabolic inferences could enrich our understanding of the nutritional requirements of the specialist and help optimize the artificial diet of medicinal cantharides.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jinnan Ma
- Yunnan Normal UniversityKunmingChina
| | | | - Xin Yang
- Baotou Teachers' CollegeBaotouChina
| | | | - Xuhao Song
- Key Laboratory of Southwest China Wildlife Resources Conservation (Ministry of Education)China West Normal UniversityNanchongChina
| | - Chao Du
- Baotou Teachers' CollegeBaotouChina
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2
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Wang S, Sun Y, Lü L, Pan Z. Contributions to the Knowledge of Nemognathinae (Coleoptera: Meloidae) from China. INSECTS 2024; 15:338. [PMID: 38786894 PMCID: PMC11122394 DOI: 10.3390/insects15050338] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/08/2024] [Revised: 04/29/2024] [Accepted: 05/02/2024] [Indexed: 05/25/2024]
Abstract
Despite being the most widespread blister beetle subfamily, Nemognathinae is unfairly understudied in China. In this study, a new genus and species, Sinostenoria yangi Pan, from northern China is described and illustrated. The antennae, elytra, hind wings, and claws of the new genus form a truly unique set of characteristics never observed in other genera of Nemognathini Laporte de Castelnau, 1840. Three species from China are newly recorded and illustrated: Megatrachelus sibiricus (Tauscher, 1812), Zonitomorpha dollei (Fairmaire 1889), and Stenodera djakonovi Aksentjev, 1978. The genus Oreomeloe Tan, 1981, is transferred from the tribe Meloini Gyllenhal, 1910, to Nemognathini based on an examination of the types. Aiming to test the morphology-based placement of the new genus, we conducted molecular phylogenetic analyses using two mitochondrial (COI, 16S) and three nuclear markers (28S, CAD, ITS2). The results confirm our tribal assignment of the new genus and support a clade that consists of Sinostenoriagen. n., Longizonitis Pan and Bologna, 2018, Stenoria cf. grandiceps, and Ctenopus cf. persicus.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shaopeng Wang
- Key Laboratory of Zoological Systematics and Application of Hebei Province, School of Life Sciences, Institute of Life Science and Green Development, Hebei University, Baoding 071002, China;
| | - Yinuo Sun
- Key Laboratory of Animal Physiology, Biochemistry and Molecular Biology of Hebei Province, College of Life Sciences, Hebei Normal University, Shijiazhuang 050024, China; (Y.S.); (L.L.)
| | - Liang Lü
- Key Laboratory of Animal Physiology, Biochemistry and Molecular Biology of Hebei Province, College of Life Sciences, Hebei Normal University, Shijiazhuang 050024, China; (Y.S.); (L.L.)
| | - Zhao Pan
- Key Laboratory of Zoological Systematics and Application of Hebei Province, School of Life Sciences, Institute of Life Science and Green Development, Hebei University, Baoding 071002, China;
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3
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Cheng HY, Gao QI, Pan Z. Mitochondrial genomes of three Mylabris (Pseudabris) species (Coleoptera: Meloidae, Mylabrini) and their phylogenetic implications. Zootaxa 2023; 5357:186-204. [PMID: 38220647 DOI: 10.11646/zootaxa.5357.2.2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/17/2023] [Indexed: 01/16/2024]
Abstract
The complete mitogenomes of the subgenus Mylabris (Pseudabris) Fairmaire, 1894, endemic to the Qinghai-Xizang Plateau, are reported for the first time. Three species out of seven, M. hingstoni Blair, 1927, M. longiventris Blair, 1927, and M. przewalskyi (Dokhtouroff, 1887), were sequenced. The sequencing results of mitogenomes were annotated and analyzed. The gene arrangements were consistent with the putative ancestral insect mitogenomes as understood today, including 13 protein-coding genes (PCGs), 22 tRNAs, 2 rRNAs, and a noncoding internal control region (CR). The PCGs used the typical start ATN codon and TAA/TAG stop codons. The lengths of three mitogenomes were 15,692 bp, 15,685 bp, and 15,685 bp, with an A + T content of 71.29%, 71.67%, and 71.53%, respectively. The evolution rates of 13 PCGs were compared: The evolution rate of ATP8 was the highest, and that of COX1 was the lowest. Furthermore, the phylogenetic relationships among the genera and tribes of Meloidae were discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hai-Yun Cheng
- Key Laboratory of Zoological Systematics and Application; School of Life Sciences; Institute of Life Science and Green Development; Hebei University; Wusidong Road 180; 071002; Baoding; Hebei Province; China.
| | - Q I Gao
- Key Laboratory of Zoological Systematics and Application; School of Life Sciences; Institute of Life Science and Green Development; Hebei University; Wusidong Road 180; 071002; Baoding; Hebei Province; China.
| | - Zhao Pan
- Key Laboratory of Zoological Systematics and Application; School of Life Sciences; Institute of Life Science and Green Development; Hebei University; Wusidong Road 180; 071002; Baoding; Hebei Province; China.
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4
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Shapovalov AM, Skrylnyk YE. The occurrence of the genus Calydus Reitter, 1896 (Coleoptera, Meloidae) in Afghanistan with the description of a new species. Zootaxa 2023; 5264:129-136. [PMID: 37044958 DOI: 10.11646/zootaxa.5264.1.9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/11/2023] [Indexed: 04/14/2023]
Abstract
Calydus yaroslavi new species is described from Central Afghanistan, Bamian Province, Bande-Amir National Park. The genus Calydus Reitter, 1896 is recorded for Afghanistan for the first time.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Yuriy E Skrylnyk
- Ukrainian Research Institute of Forestry and Forest Melioration named after G.M. Vysotsky; Pushkinska str. 86; 61024; Kharkiv..
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5
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Campos-Soldini MP. Modeling Current and Future Distribution of Epicauta Dejean (Meloinae, Epicautini) under Changing Climate Conditions in America. NEOTROPICAL ENTOMOLOGY 2022; 51:356-367. [PMID: 35237943 DOI: 10.1007/s13744-022-00950-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2021] [Accepted: 02/01/2022] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
Epicauta Dejean is one of the largest genera within Meloidae, with approximately 400 species identified to date. In this work, I applied the maximum entropy algorithm (Maxent) to predict the current and future distribution of this genus in America. A total of 12,130 points and 19 bioclimatic variables were used to model its potential distribution area under current and future climate scenarios. Maxent showed high prediction performance, and 7 out of the 19 variables used were found to be the most influential on the current and future distribution of Epicauta. It also allowed to predict the distribution of Epicauta in geographical areas where different bioclimatic criteria are combined. These areas belong to several provinces of the Nearctic, Neotropical regions and the Mexican and South American transition zones. Maxent also revealed that in North America, the current and future potential distribution of Epicauta is located within 38°N 97°W, while in South America, it is further south, within 25°S 60°W. According to this, it can be concluded that its greatest diversity is circumscribed to temperate and semi-arid regions, and that the tropical habitats of middle America have apparently served as effective barriers to faunal exchange since the intercontinental connection that occurred four million years ago until now. The findings from the present study provide a theoretical basis to better understand the distribution patterns of Epicauta spp. under changing climate conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- María P Campos-Soldini
- Laboratorio de Entomología, Centro de Investigaciones Científicas y Transferencia de Tecnología a la Producción (CICYTTP-CONICET-Gob.ER-UADER), Diamante, Argentina.
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6
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López-Estrada EK, Sanmartín I, Uribe JE, Abalde S, Jiménez-Ruiz Y, García-París M. Mitogenomics and hidden-trait models reveal the role of phoresy and host shifts in the diversification of parasitoid blister beetles (Coleoptera: Meloidae). Mol Ecol 2022; 31:2453-2474. [PMID: 35146829 PMCID: PMC9305437 DOI: 10.1111/mec.16390] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2021] [Revised: 01/24/2022] [Accepted: 01/31/2022] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Changes in life history traits are often considered speciation triggers and can have dramatic effects on the evolutionary history of a lineage. Here, we examine the consequences of changes in two life history traits, host‐type and phoresy, in the hypermetamorphic blister beetles, Meloidae. Subfamilies Nemognathinae and Meloinae exhibit a complex life cycle involving multiple metamorphoses and parasitoidism. Most genera and tribes are bee‐parasitoids, and include phoretic or nonphoretic species, while two tribes feed on grasshopper eggs. These different life strategies are coupled with striking differences in species richness among clades. We generated a mitogenomic phylogeny for Nemognathinae and Meloinae, confirming the monophyly of these two clades, and used the dated phylogeny to explore the association between diversification rates and changes in host specificity and phoresy, using state‐dependent speciation and extinction (SSE) models that include the effect of hidden traits. To account for the low taxon sampling, we implemented a phylogenetic‐taxonomic approach based on birth‐death simulations, and used a Bayesian framework to integrate parameter and phylogenetic uncertainty. Results show that the ancestral hypermetamorphic Meloidae was a nonphoretic bee‐parasitoid, and that transitions towards a phoretic bee‐parasitoid and grasshopper parasitoidism occurred multiple times. Nonphoretic bee‐parasitoid lineages exhibit significantly higher relative extinction and lower diversification rates than phoretic bee‐and grasshopper‐parasitoids, but no significant differences were found between the latter two strategies. This suggests that Orthopteran host shifts and phoresy contributed jointly to the evolutionary success of the parasitoid meloidae. We also demonstrate that SSE models can be used to identify hidden traits coevolving with the focal trait in driving a lineage's diversification dynamics.
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Affiliation(s)
- E K López-Estrada
- Museo Nacional de Ciencias Naturales (MNCN-CSIC), José Gutiérrez Abascal, 2, 28006, Madrid, España.,Real Jardín Botánico (RJB-CSIC). Plaza de Murillo, 2, 28014. Madrid, España
| | - I Sanmartín
- Real Jardín Botánico (RJB-CSIC). Plaza de Murillo, 2, 28014. Madrid, España
| | - J E Uribe
- Museo Nacional de Ciencias Naturales (MNCN-CSIC), José Gutiérrez Abascal, 2, 28006, Madrid, España
| | - S Abalde
- Museo Nacional de Ciencias Naturales (MNCN-CSIC), José Gutiérrez Abascal, 2, 28006, Madrid, España.,Centro de Estudios Avanzados de Blanes (CEAB-CSIC). Accéss, Cala Sant Francesc, 14, 17300, Blanes, España
| | - Y Jiménez-Ruiz
- Museo Nacional de Ciencias Naturales (MNCN-CSIC), José Gutiérrez Abascal, 2, 28006, Madrid, España
| | - M García-París
- Museo Nacional de Ciencias Naturales (MNCN-CSIC), José Gutiérrez Abascal, 2, 28006, Madrid, España
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7
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Male Accessory Glands of Blister Beetles and Cantharidin Release: A Comparative Ultrastructural Analysis. INSECTS 2022; 13:insects13020132. [PMID: 35206706 PMCID: PMC8875262 DOI: 10.3390/insects13020132] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/01/2022] [Revised: 01/21/2022] [Accepted: 01/24/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
Simple Summary Meloidae, also called blister beetles, are known to actively produce cantharidin, a toxic terpene with a defensive function that is released externally by reflex bleeding, and that is also stored in large quantities in the male accessory glands. These glands are involved in the transfer of terpene from males to females, which receive cantharidin via spermatophores as a nuptial gift to be used for their own protection and that of the eggs. However, it is still debated whether the male accessory glands can actively produce the terpene or if they only mediate its transfer, since neither the cantharidin-producing organ nor the metabolic pathway are known to date. The focus of the work is to analyze comparatively the accessory glands of males in representative Meloidae species to provide morphological evidences that can contribute to this debate. The results highlight the complexity of the accessory gland system, consisting of three different types of glands that are highly variable between species with the exception of one, which remains conserved even in independent phyletic lines. This gland is a good candidate for hypothesizing a direct role in cantharidin production and/or concentration. Abstract Members of the family Meloidae are known to produce cantharidin, a highly toxic monoterpene found in their hemolymph and exuded as droplets capable of deterring many predators. As a nuptial gift, males transfer large amounts of cantharidin to females via a spermatophore, which is formed by specific accessory glands containing high concentrations of this terpene. Using light, electron and ion beam microscopy, the ultrastructural features of the three pairs of male accessory glands as well as the glandular part of the vasa deferentia were comparatively investigated in seven species of blister beetles belonging to five different tribes and two subfamilies. All gland pairs examined share common features such as mesodermal derivation, the presence of muscle sheath, a developed rough endoplasmic reticulum, abundant mitochondria, secretory vesicles, and microvillated apical membranes. Within the same species, glands exhibit distinctive features, suggesting that each pair is responsible for the formation of a specific substance. The vasa deferentia, while showing many similarities within the family, often exhibit features unique to each of the individual species investigated, whereas the accessory glands of the first and second pairs display the highest degree of ultrastructural variability. A comparison across the species shows an interesting constancy limited to ultrastructural features in the third pair of accessory glands. The similarities and differences among the species are discussed in the light of the available literature and in relation to the potential role that blister beetles’ male accessory glands could play in the storage and management of cantharidin.
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8
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Zhou Z, Liu Y, Chen X. Structural Features and Phylogenetic Implications of Three New Mitochondrial Genomes of Blister Beetles (Coleoptera: Meloidae). JOURNAL OF INSECT SCIENCE (ONLINE) 2021; 21:6461135. [PMID: 34905604 PMCID: PMC8670627 DOI: 10.1093/jisesa/ieab100] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/22/2021] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
The mitochondrial genome sequences of Denierella emmerichi, Epicauta curvispina, and Meloe poggii were determined. Their mitochondrial genomes were found to contain 37 genes (13 protein-coding genes [PCGs], 22 tRNA genes, and 2 rRNAs), of which 4 PCGs, 8 tRNA genes, and 2 rRNAs are encoded by the N-strand, and the remaining genes are encoded by the J-strand. The mitochondrial genomes of D. emmerichi, E. curvispina, and M. poggii are 15,702 bp, 15,813 bp, and 15,626 bp in length, respectively, and their guanine-cytosine contents are 28%, 33%, and 36%, respectively. The 13 PCGs of D. emmerichi, E. curvispina, and M. poggii use ATN as the standard start codon and TAA, TAG, and T as the stop codons. The Bayesian inference and maximum likelihood phylogenetic analysis results based on the 13 PCGs and 13 PCGs + 2rRNAs datasets of the mitochondrial genomes of the Meloidae support Epicauta (Coleoptera: Meloidae) ([D. emmerichi, E. curvispina, E. ruficeps, E. aptera] + [E. chinensis, E. impressicornis, E. gorhami, E. tibialis]). We believe that this research enriches the literature on the mitochondrial genomics of Meloidae and serves as a foundation for the further study of the phylogenetic relationships and characterization of Meloidae and Coleoptera.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhicheng Zhou
- Institute of Entomology and Special Key Laboratory for Development and Utilization of Insect Resources of Guizhou, Guizhou University, Guiyang 550025, China
| | - Yangyang Liu
- Institute of Entomology and Special Key Laboratory for Development and Utilization of Insect Resources of Guizhou, Guizhou University, Guiyang 550025, China
| | - Xiangsheng Chen
- Institute of Entomology and Special Key Laboratory for Development and Utilization of Insect Resources of Guizhou, Guizhou University, Guiyang 550025, China
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9
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Bologna MA, Riccieri A. Discovery of the genus Zonitodema Péringuey, 1909 in Madagascar, with description of a new species, a new key and biogeographic notes (Coleoptera: Meloidae: Nemognathinae). THE EUROPEAN ZOOLOGICAL JOURNAL 2021. [DOI: 10.1080/24750263.2021.1971313] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/20/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
| | - A. Riccieri
- Dipartimento di Scienze, Università Roma Tre, Italy
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10
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Pan Z, Bologna MA. Morphological revision of the Palaearctic species of the nominate subgenus Meloe Linnaeus, 1758 (Coleoptera, Meloidae), with description of ten new species. Zootaxa 2021; 5007:1-74. [PMID: 34810573 DOI: 10.11646/zootaxa.5007.1.1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2021] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
Abstract
A morphological revision of the Meloe (Meloe) species from the Palaearctic Region, including the Transitional Chinese area is published. Groups and subgroups of species from the Palaearctic Region are defined for the first time and relationships with Afrotropical and Nearctic groups of species are discussed. Twenty-five species are considered, mostly after the examination of the types, with brief descriptions and figures of diagnostic characters. Ten species, from China and the Himalayan region, are described: Meloe chinensis n. sp., M. distincticornis n. sp., M. himalayensis n. sp., M. kashmirensis n. sp., M. kaszabi n. sp., M. lateantennatus n. sp., M. orientalis n. sp., M. poggii n. sp., M. shapovalovi n. sp., and M. xuhaoi n. sp. Both Meloe aegyptius and M. rathjensi are referred to M. proscarabaeus as subspecies. Four new synonymies are pointed out: M. sapporensis Kno, 1936 and M. tenuipes Jakowlew, 1897 = M. proscarabaeus exaratus Faldermann, 1832; M. medogensis Tan, 1981 = M. arunachalae Saha, 1979; M. patellicornis Fairmaire, 1887 = M. lobatus Gebler, 1832. Lectotype of M. subcordicollis is designated. M. formosensis is tentatively maintained as distinct species, with the suggestion that it could be a subspecies of M. gracilior. Meloe menoko is tentatively included in the intraspecific variability of M. auriculatus, a formal synonymy will be made by other authors. Meloe poteli is not considered in this revision, being the type is unavailable; other species (M. modestus, M. longipennis, M. elegantulus), previously considered in the nominate subgenus are excluded. A key to both sexes of the species is carried out and a catalogue of localities is recorded as Appendix 1. Ecological information about phenology, elevation range, host plants, is summarized in a table, and some biogeographical remarks are proposed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhao Pan
- Key Laboratory of Zoological Systematics and Application, College of Life Sciences, Institute of Life Science and Green Development, Hebei University, Wusidong Road 180, 071002, Baoding City, Hebei Prov., China..
| | - Marco A Bologna
- Department of Sciences, University Roma Tre, Viale G. Marconi, 446, 00146 Roma, Italy..
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11
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Soil Arthropods in the Douro Demarcated Region Vineyards: General Characteristics and Ecosystem Services Provided. SUSTAINABILITY 2021. [DOI: 10.3390/su13147837] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Viticulture is one of the oldest and most profitable forms of agriculture; it is also one of the most intensive farming systems. As intensive cultivation threatens the environment, there is increasing interest in the concept of sustainability within the wine industry, as well as new business opportunities, as customers begin to pay more attention to environmental and sustainability issues. Recognizing the key role of soil quality in environmentally and economically sustainable viticulture makes it essential to understand better soil arthropod communities, given their crucial functions in maintaining soil quality and health. The ‘Douro Demarcated Region’ (DDR) in northern Portugal offers good potential, in regards to biodiversity, due to its significant areas of non-crop habitats. This work aims to compile information on soil arthropod communities (both soil surface and soil-living) collected in the DDR vineyard agroecosystems. A description of the ecosystem services provided by them, as a basis for the development and implementation of sustainable viticulture systems, is also an objective of this work. An important set of soil arthropods necessary for the delivery of vital ecosystem services for viticulture, with particular reference to supporting and regulating services, occurred in this ecosystem. Eight classes were chiefly represented in a sample of about 167,000 arthropod specimens: Arachnida, Chilopoda, Diplopoda, Entognatha, Insecta, Malacostraca, Pauropoda, and Symphyla. The most representative were Entognatha and Insecta in soil-surface arthropods, and Arachnida and Entognatha in soil-living arthropods. The presence of recognized groups as bioindicators in agroecosystems, such as soil quality indicators, is also revealed. This knowledge is expected to contribute to a more efficient and sustainable management of the viticultural ecosystem.
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12
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Rosas-Ramos N, Rodríguez-Flores PC, García-París M. Proctodeal extrusion as a defensive behavioral response in blister beetles (Coleoptera: Meloidae). Naturwissenschaften 2021; 108:19. [PMID: 33900461 DOI: 10.1007/s00114-021-01728-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/04/2020] [Revised: 03/14/2021] [Accepted: 03/21/2021] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Defensive mechanisms in blister beetles (Coleoptera: Meloidae) include a wide variety of behavioral responses, chemical defense, and conspicuous external colorations. Although some of these mechanisms have been previously described, proctodeal extrusion, a defensive behavior involving the extrusion of inner abdominal membranes from the proctodeal region which appear intensely red or orange colored when the hemolymph is seen through them, has not been reported to date. Here, we tested the ability to display proctodeal extrusion in response to threat stimuli in wild populations of three blister beetle species inhabiting Central Spain: Berberomeloe majalis (Linnaeus, 1758), Berberomeloe comunero Sánchez-Vialas, García-París, Ruiz & Recuero, 2020, and Physomeloe corallifer (Germar, 1818). In addition, we observed and recorded various other defensive behaviors such as immobility, antennal threat display, autohemorrhage (reflex bleeding), defecation, and thanatosis (death feigning). The frequency at which proctodeal extrusion was observed differed among species, as did the stress intensity needed for extrusion and the probability of proctodeal extrusion in response to a particular threatening stimulus. Our findings indicate that, although proctodeal extrusion might be a widespread potential defensive mechanism in Meloidae, the ability to elicit it is not generalized across lineages. Physomeloe and Berberomeloe are endemic to the semi-arid Mediterranean region, and species adapted to such a climate would have developed strategies that limit hydric stress such as proctodeal extrusion, which mirrors the effect of autohemorrhage but without the fluid loss.
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Affiliation(s)
- Natalia Rosas-Ramos
- Museo Nacional de Ciencias Naturales (MNCN-CSIC), Madrid, Spain. .,Departamento de Biología Animal (Área de Zoología), Universidad de Salamanca, Salamanca, Spain.
| | - Paula C Rodríguez-Flores
- Museo Nacional de Ciencias Naturales (MNCN-CSIC), Madrid, Spain.,Centre D'Estudis Avançats de Blanes (CEAB-CSIC), Blanes, Spain
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13
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Deyrup ST, Stagnitti NC, Perpetua MJ, Wong-Deyrup SW. Drug Discovery Insights from Medicinal Beetles in Traditional Chinese Medicine. Biomol Ther (Seoul) 2021; 29:105-126. [PMID: 33632986 PMCID: PMC7921859 DOI: 10.4062/biomolther.2020.229] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/16/2020] [Revised: 12/29/2020] [Accepted: 01/04/2021] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) was the primary source of medical treatment for the people inhabiting East Asia for thousands of years. These ancient practices have incorporated a wide variety of materia medica including plants, animals and minerals. As modern sciences, including natural products chemistry, emerged, there became increasing efforts to explore the chemistry of this materia medica to find molecules responsible for their traditional use. Insects, including beetles have played an important role in TCM. In our survey of texts and review articles on TCM materia medica, we found 48 species of beetles from 34 genera in 14 different families that are used in TCM. This review covers the chemistry known from the beetles used in TCM, or in cases where a species used in these practices has not been chemically studied, we discuss the chemistry of closely related beetles. We also found several documented uses of beetles in Traditional Korean Medicine (TKM), and included them where appropriate. There are 129 chemical constituents of beetles discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stephen T. Deyrup
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Siena College, Loudonville, NY 12309, USA
| | - Natalie C. Stagnitti
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Siena College, Loudonville, NY 12309, USA
| | | | - Siu Wah Wong-Deyrup
- The RNA Institute and Department of Biological Sciences, University at Albany, State University of New York, Albany, NY 12222, USA
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14
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Sánchez‐Vialas A, Recuero E, Jiménez‐Ruiz Y, Ruiz JL, Marí‐Mena N, García‐París M. Phylogeny of Meloini blister beetles (Coleoptera, Meloidae) and patterns of island colonization in the Western Palaearctic. ZOOL SCR 2021. [DOI: 10.1111/zsc.12474] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Affiliation(s)
| | - Ernesto Recuero
- Museo Nacional de Ciencias Naturales (MNCN‐CSIC) Madrid Spain
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15
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Naz F, Wu Y, Zhang N, Yang Z, Yu C. Anticancer Attributes of Cantharidin: Involved Molecular Mechanisms and Pathways. Molecules 2020; 25:E3279. [PMID: 32707651 PMCID: PMC7397086 DOI: 10.3390/molecules25143279] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/02/2020] [Revised: 07/15/2020] [Accepted: 07/16/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Cancer is a preeminent threat to the human race, causing millions of deaths each year on the Earth. Traditionally, natural compounds are deemed promising agents for cancer treatment. Cantharidin (CTD)-a terpenoid isolated from blister beetles-has been used extensively in traditional Chinese medicines for healing various maladies and cancer. CTD has been proven to be protein phosphatase 2A (PP2A) and heat shock transcription factor 1 (HSF-1) inhibitor, which can be potential targets for its anticancer activity. Albeit, it harbors some toxicities, its immense anticancer potential cannot be overlooked, as the cancer-specific delivery of CTD could help to rescue its lethal effects. Furthermore, several derivatives have been designed to weaken its toxicity. In light of extensive research, the antitumor activity of CTD is evident in both in vitro as well as in vivo cancer models. CTD has also proven efficacious in combination with chemotherapy and radiotherapy and it can also target some drug-resistant cancer cells. This mini-review endeavors to interpret and summarize recent information about CTD anticancer potential and underlying molecular mechanisms. The pertinent anticancer strength of CTD could be employed to develop an effective anticarcinogenic drug.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Zhao Yang
- College of Life Science and Technology, Beijing University of Chemical Technology, Beijing 100029, China; (F.N.); (Y.W.); (N.Z.)
| | - Changyuan Yu
- College of Life Science and Technology, Beijing University of Chemical Technology, Beijing 100029, China; (F.N.); (Y.W.); (N.Z.)
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16
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Riccieri A, Mancini E, Iannella M, Salvi D, Bologna MA. Phylogenetics and population structure of the steppe species Hycleus polymorphus (Coleoptera: Meloidae: Mylabrini) reveal multiple refugia in Mediterranean mountain ranges. Biol J Linn Soc Lond 2020. [DOI: 10.1093/biolinnean/blaa056] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022]
Abstract
AbstractMany continental species distributed in the Eurasian steppe occur as relict populations in the mountains of Western Europe. Their biogeographical responses to Quaternary climate changes have been poorly studied; however, they could have responded as cold-adapted species. We investigated the biogeographic history of a steppe beetle, Hycleus polymorphus, using mitochondrial and nuclear DNA sequences (COI, CAD, ITS2), and species distribution modelling (SDM) under present and past bioclimatic envelopes. We first performed a phylogenetic assessment to define species boundaries within the H. polymorphus species group. Specimens previously treated as Hycleus humerosus on morphological grounds are assigned to H. polymorphus, and those identified as Hycleus zebraeus assigned to Hycleus atratus. ITS2 data analyses revealed a strong phylogeographical structure of H. polymorphus populations, with four haplogroups corresponding to the (i) Italian Alps, (ii) French Alps and Pyrenees, (iii) South Balkan and Pontic mountains, and (iv) North Dinaric Alps. Based on these analyses and the SDM, we propose that during a glacial period, following the spread of steppic habitat, H. polymorphus underwent a range expansion from Asia to South-West Europe. Within the Mediterranean area, during the last interglacial the climatic suitability for the species was limited to mountains that acted as refugia and prompted allopatric divergence into four main lineages.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alessandra Riccieri
- Department of Sciences, University “Roma Tre”, Viale G. Marconi, Roma, Italy
| | - Emiliano Mancini
- Department of Biology and Biotechnology “C. Darwin”, “Sapienza” University of Rome, Viale dell’Università, Roma, Italy
| | - Mattia Iannella
- Department of Health, Life & Environmental Sciences, University of L’Aquila, Via Vetoio snc, L’Aquila-Coppito, Italy
| | - Daniele Salvi
- Department of Health, Life & Environmental Sciences, University of L’Aquila, Via Vetoio snc, L’Aquila-Coppito, Italy
- CIBIO-InBIO, Centro de Investigação em Biodiversidade e Recursos Genéticos, Universidade do Porto, Campus Agrário de Vairão, Vairão, Portugal
| | - Marco A Bologna
- Department of Sciences, University “Roma Tre”, Viale G. Marconi, Roma, Italy
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17
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Liu YY, Zhou ZC, Chen XS. Characterization of the Complete Mitochondrial Genome of Epicauta impressicornis (Coleoptera: Meloidae) and Its Phylogenetic Implications for the Infraorder Cucujiformia. JOURNAL OF INSECT SCIENCE (ONLINE) 2020; 20:16. [PMID: 32302386 PMCID: PMC7164779 DOI: 10.1093/jisesa/ieaa021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/13/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
The complete mitochondrial genome (mitogenome) of Epicauta impressicornis Pic (Coleoptera: Meloidae) was determined. The circular genome is 15,713-bp long, and encodes 13 protein-coding genes (PCGs), 2 ribosomal RNA (rRNA) genes, 22 transfer RNA (tRNA) genes, and a control region (CR). The 13 PCGs start with the typical ATN codon and terminate with the typical stop codon TAA (ND2, ND4L, ND6, ATP6, ATP8, and CYTB), TAG (ND1 and ND3), and T- (COX1, COX2, COX3, ND4, and ND5). The two rRNA genes (rrn12S and rrn16S) are encoded on the minority strand. All tRNAs genes except trnS1 (AGN) are predicted to fold into the typical cloverleaf structure. The longest overlap (10 bp) is observed between ATP8 and ATP6. CR mainly harbors a conserved poly-T stretch (15 bp), a short repeat unit (17 bp), some universal microsatellite-like repeats, and a canonical poly-A tail. Phylogenetic analysis using Bayesian inferences and maximum likelihood based on nucleotide and corresponding amino acid sequences of the 13 PCGs showed that E. impressicornis is closely related to E. chinensis, this relationship is and supported within Cucujiformia belonging to Meloidae (Tenebrionoidea). Our results further confirmed the monophyly of Tenebrionoidea, Lymexyloidea, Curculionoidea, Chrysomeloidea, Cucujoidea, Coccinelloidea, and Cleroidea within Cucujiformia, and revealed the sister relationships of (Cleroidea + Coccinelloidea), (Lymexyloidea + Tenebrionoidea), and ((Chrysomeloidea + Cucujoidea) + Curculionoidea). We believe that the complete mitogenome of E. impressicornis will contribute to further studies on molecular bases for the classification and phylogeny of Meloidae or even Cucujiformia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yang-Yang Liu
- Institute of Entomology and Special Key Laboratory for Development and Utilization of Insect Resources of Guizhou, Guizhou University, Guiyang, China
| | - Zhi-Cheng Zhou
- Institute of Entomology and Special Key Laboratory for Development and Utilization of Insect Resources of Guizhou, Guizhou University, Guiyang, China
| | - Xiang-Sheng Chen
- Institute of Entomology and Special Key Laboratory for Development and Utilization of Insect Resources of Guizhou, Guizhou University, Guiyang, China
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18
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Sánchez-Vialas A, García-París M, Ruiz JL, Recuero E. Patterns of morphological diversification in giant Berberomeloe blister beetles (Coleoptera: Meloidae) reveal an unexpected taxonomic diversity concordant with mtDNA phylogenetic structure. Zool J Linn Soc 2020. [DOI: 10.1093/zoolinnean/zlz164] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/23/2023]
Abstract
AbstractDelimiting species boundaries is a complex challenge usually hindered by overlooked morphological diversification or misinterpretation of geographically structured phenotypic variability. Independent molecular data are extremely useful to characterize and understand such morphological diversity. Morphological and molecular variability of the non-phoretic and apterous, widely distributed, giant blister beetles of the genus Berberomeloe, were investigated within and between lineages across most of the distributional range of the genus. We used two mtDNA gene fragments to characterize genetic variability and to produce a time-calibrated phylogeny of the genus. Our results reveal several mitochondrial lineages, allopatrically, parapatrically and sympatrically distributed. Most clades are not distinguishable between each other based on morphometrics. However, no morphometric overlap is observed between two closely related clades, one of them occurring in sympatry with a distantly congeneric species (B. insignis), suggesting that sympatry could trigger morphological diversification. Although most species share a morphometric space, they can be morphologically identified by a combination of easily observed characteristic qualitative features. Based on the concordance between mtDNA clades and morphological units, we describe six new species of Berberomeloe (B. castuo sp. nov., B. comunero sp. nov., B. indalo sp. nov, B. yebli sp. nov., B. payoyo sp. nov. and B. tenebrosus sp. nov.), revalidate two taxa (B. maculifrons comb. nov. and B. laevigatus comb. nov.) and redefine B. majalis.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Ernesto Recuero
- Museo Nacional de Ciencias Naturales (MNCN-CSIC), Madrid, Spain
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19
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Riccieri A, Mancini E, Salvi D, Bologna MA. Phylogeny, biogeography and systematics of the hyper-diverse blister beetle genus Hycleus (Coleoptera: Meloidae). Mol Phylogenet Evol 2019; 144:106706. [PMID: 31830551 DOI: 10.1016/j.ympev.2019.106706] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/09/2019] [Revised: 10/01/2019] [Accepted: 12/08/2019] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
Abstract
Hycleus is a hyper-diverse genus of blister beetles including ~500 species widely distributed in the Old World, currently divided into three "sections" and into 45 "phenetic" species groups according to morphological characters. Recently the monophyly of Hycleus was questioned pointing out its paraphyly with respect to the genera Ceroctis and Paractenodia. In this study, we built a time-calibrated phylogenetic tree based on DNA sequence data from mitochondrial and nuclear genes obtained from 125 species, to understand the phylogenetic relationships among the species of this genus, to infer the biogeographic processes behind their diversification, and to assess their taxonomy and classification. Our results identified four main lineages one of which included the species belonging to Ceroctis and Paractenodia; therefore, both taxa are now referred to Hycleus as new synonyms. The three described sections of Hycleus resulted polyphyletic and are rejected, whereas several species groups represented well supported clades. Hycleus likely originated in Africa during the Early Miocene (~20 Mya), and subsequently spread in Europe and western Asia. Later, in the Late Miocene (~6 Mya) a Saharo-Sindian group branched off from the Palaearctic lineage, whereas the Oriental Region was colonized following a dispersal event through the Arabian Peninsula from the Afrotropical Region (~5 Mya).
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Affiliation(s)
- Alessandra Riccieri
- Department of Sciences, University "Roma Tre", Viale G. Marconi 446, 00146 Roma, Italy.
| | - Emiliano Mancini
- Department of Biology and Biotechnology "C. Darwin", "Sapienza" University of Rome, Viale dell'Università 32, 00186 Roma, Italy
| | - Daniele Salvi
- Department of Health, Life & Environmental Sciences, University of L'Aquila, Via Vetoio snc, 67100 L'Aquila-Coppito, Italy; CIBIO-InBIO, Centro de Investigação em Biodiversidade e Recursos Genéticos, Universidade do Porto, Campus Agrário de Vairão, 4485-661 Vairão, Portugal
| | - Marco A Bologna
- Department of Sciences, University "Roma Tre", Viale G. Marconi 446, 00146 Roma, Italy
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20
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Lazarević M, Kavallieratos NG, Nika EP, Boukouvala MC, Skourti A, Žikić V, Papanikolaou NE. Does the exposure of parental female adults of the invasive Trogoderma granarium Everts to pirimiphos-methyl on concrete affect the morphology of their adult progeny? A geometric morphometric approach. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2019; 26:35061-35070. [PMID: 31667783 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-019-06120-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2019] [Accepted: 07/29/2019] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
Insecticidal applications may result to morphological deformations upon exposed insects or their offspring production. In the present study, we tested whether pirimiphos-methyl can induce deformities to wings of progeny production of the invasive khapra beetle, Trogoderma granarium (Coleoptera: Dermestidae) when its parental female adults have been treated with this organophosphorus active ingredient. For that purpose, we analysed both elytra and hindwings of both sexes of T. granarium progeny production by using the geometric morphometrics method. Our results showed that the wings of progeny of the pirimiphos-methyl-treated T. granarium parental female adult individuals suffered certain changes in their usual shape depending on size. Deformations occurred on both pairs of wings, but changes were more noticeable on the hindwings. A longer than 5-h exposure of parental female adults to pirimiphos-methyl, resulted in progeny with more deformed wings than in those individuals emerged after the exposure of their parental female adults in shorter periods on the toxicant. Generally, wings of both sexes were sensitive to pirimiphos-methyl, distinguishing the control group from the insecticidal treatments. The existence of deformed adults could be a useful indicator of earlier insecticidal applications as surface treatments and/or grain protectants in the storage facilities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maja Lazarević
- Faculty of Sciences and Mathematics, Department of Biology and Ecology, University of Niš, Višegradska 33, Niš, 18000, Serbia
| | - Nickolas G Kavallieratos
- Laboratory of Agricultural Zoology and Entomology, Department of Crop Science, Agricultural University of Athens, 75 Iera Odos str., 11855, Attica, Athens, Greece.
| | - Erifili P Nika
- Laboratory of Agricultural Zoology and Entomology, Department of Crop Science, Agricultural University of Athens, 75 Iera Odos str., 11855, Attica, Athens, Greece
| | - Maria C Boukouvala
- Laboratory of Agricultural Zoology and Entomology, Department of Crop Science, Agricultural University of Athens, 75 Iera Odos str., 11855, Attica, Athens, Greece
- Laboratory of Organic Chemistry, Department of Chemistry, University of Ioannina, Panepistimioupolis, 45110, Ioannina, Greece
| | - Anna Skourti
- Laboratory of Agricultural Zoology and Entomology, Department of Crop Science, Agricultural University of Athens, 75 Iera Odos str., 11855, Attica, Athens, Greece
| | - Vladimir Žikić
- Faculty of Sciences and Mathematics, Department of Biology and Ecology, University of Niš, Višegradska 33, Niš, 18000, Serbia
| | - Nikos E Papanikolaou
- Laboratory of Agricultural Zoology and Entomology, Department of Crop Science, Agricultural University of Athens, 75 Iera Odos str., 11855, Attica, Athens, Greece
- Directorate of Plant Produce Protection, Greek Ministry of Rural Development and Food, 150 Sygrou Ave., 17671, Athens, Greece
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21
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Ruiz JL, François A, García-París M. A new singular species of Croscherichia Pardo Alcaide, 1950 (Coleoptera, Meloidae, Mylabrini) from arid zones of eastern Morocco. Zookeys 2019; 885:27-50. [PMID: 31736617 PMCID: PMC6848249 DOI: 10.3897/zookeys.885.34308] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/05/2019] [Accepted: 08/14/2019] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
A new species of blister beetle (Coleoptera, Meloidae, Mylabrini), Croscherichia armass Ruiz, François & García-París, sp. nov., is described from the arid steppes of eastern Morocco (Missour, Boulemane Province). The new species presents traits shared with both Croscherichia and desert species of the genus Ammabris, making it morphologically singular. Conspicuous external similarities (coloration pattern, shape of the mandibles, setation) between C. armass sp. nov. and Ammabris allow the two to be easily confused. However, C. armass sp. nov. can be readily distinguished from all other Croscherichia species by the following traits: reddish-orange legs with dark tarsi; relatively short black antennae with the proximal-most three to four antennomeres of each antenna having a reddish-brown coloration; dense and silvery body setation that lies over most of the body integument; straight and pointed outer mandible margins that protrude from the labrum; a mesosternum with an angulate anterior margin; a short, subcylindrical, and weakly spatulate external metatibial spur that is truncated obliquely at the apex. Croscherichia armass sp. nov. is only known from three localities in the arid Hammada steppes, which are located within the Quaternary alluvial plains of the Muluya river valley. Live specimens of C. armass sp. nov. were found in flight and actively feeding on Atriplex halimus (Chenopodiaceae) flowers at the end of summer (mid-September). The phenology of C. armass sp. nov. is exceptional as no other Mylabrini species known from eastern areas of Morocco are active in late summer.
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Affiliation(s)
- José L. Ruiz
- Instituto de Estudios Ceutíes. Paseo del Revellín, 30. 51001 Ceuta. SpainInstituto de Estudios CeutíesCeutaSpain
| | - Alexandre François
- Emirates Center for Wildlife Propagation (ECWP). B.P. 47. MA 32250 Missour. MoroccoEmirates Center for Wildlife PropagationMissourMorocco
| | - Mario García-París
- Museo Nacional de Ciencias Naturales (MNCN-CSIC). c/ José Gutiérrez Abascal, 2. 28006 Madrid. SpainMuseo Nacional de Ciencias NaturalesMadridSpain
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22
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Salvi D, Maura M, Pan Z, Bologna MA. Phylogenetic systematics of
Mylabris
blister beetles (Coleoptera, Meloidae): a molecular assessment using species trees and total evidence. Cladistics 2018; 35:243-268. [DOI: 10.1111/cla.12354] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 06/20/2018] [Indexed: 11/27/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Daniele Salvi
- Department of Health, Life and Environmental Sciences University of L'Aquila Via Vetoio 67100 Coppito L'Aquila Italy
- CIBIO‐InBIO Centro de Investigação em Biodiversidade e Recursos Genéticos Universidade do Porto Campus Agrário de Vairão 4485‐661 Vairão Portugal
| | - Michela Maura
- Dipartimento di Scienze Università Roma Tre Viale G. Marconi 446 00146 Roma Italy
| | - Zhao Pan
- College of Life Science Hebei University Wusidong Road 180 071002 Baoding City Hebei Province China
| | - Marco A. Bologna
- Dipartimento di Scienze Università Roma Tre Viale G. Marconi 446 00146 Roma Italy
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23
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Aoun O, François M, Demoncheaux JP, Rapp C. Morning blisters: cantharidin-related Meloidae burns. J Travel Med 2018; 25:5054977. [PMID: 30016471 DOI: 10.1093/jtm/tay045] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/26/2018] [Accepted: 06/12/2018] [Indexed: 11/13/2022]
Abstract
We report several cases of Meloidae-related blisters in French soldiers deployed to Mali. Blister beetles of the Meloidae family produce cantharidin, a blistering agent, for defensive purposes. These virtually cosmopolitan Coleoptera can cause significant nuisance to travellers and deployed soldiers especially during the rainy season in the Sahel region.
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Affiliation(s)
- Olivier Aoun
- 5th Armed Forces Medical Center, 15 Rue Brûlée, Strasbourg, France
| | | | | | - Christophe Rapp
- Infectious and Tropical Diseases Unit, Bégin Military Hospital, Saint-Mandé, France.,CMETE Travel Clinic, 10 Rue du Colonel Driant, Paris, France
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24
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Pan Z, Ren G, Bologna MA. Longizonitis, a new nemognathine genus from the Himalayas (Coleoptera, Meloidae). Zookeys 2018:43-50. [PMID: 29904268 PMCID: PMC5999682 DOI: 10.3897/zookeys.765.24395] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/10/2018] [Accepted: 04/16/2018] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
The new blister beetle genus Longizonitis Pan and Bologna is described. The genus is referred to the tribe Nemognathini, subfamily Nemognathinae, and its relationships are briefly discussed. It is distributed in southern China (Yunnan, SE Xizang, and probably Fujian) and India (Uttarakhand), in a transitional area between the Palaearctic and Oriental regions. The type species, Longizonitissemirubra (Pic, 1911), comb. n., is re-described and illustrated.
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25
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Riccieri A, Maura M, Salvi D, Bologna MA, Mancini E. Messinian Salinity Crisis and Quaternary glacial events shaped genetic diversification in Siculo-Maghrebian blister beetles (Coleoptera: Meloidae). Biol J Linn Soc Lond 2017. [DOI: 10.1093/biolinnean/blx078] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022]
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26
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Bravo C, Mas-Peinado P, Bautista LM, Blanco G, Alonso JC, García-París M. Cantharidin is conserved across phylogeographic lineages and present in both morphs of Iberian Berberomeloe blister beetles (Coleoptera, Meloidae). Zool J Linn Soc 2017. [DOI: 10.1093/zoolinnean/zlw016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/14/2022]
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27
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Du C, He S, Song X, Liao Q, Zhang X, Yue B. The complete mitochondrial genome of Epicauta chinensis (Coleoptera: Meloidae) and phylogenetic analysis among Coleopteran insects. Gene 2016; 578:274-80. [DOI: 10.1016/j.gene.2015.12.036] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/30/2015] [Revised: 12/07/2015] [Accepted: 12/16/2015] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
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28
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Pan Z, Carosi M, Bologna MA. A new Eastern Asian Hycleus and key to the Chinese species of the phaleratus group (Coleoptera, Meloidae, Mylabrini). Zookeys 2015:11-9. [PMID: 25589860 PMCID: PMC4294299 DOI: 10.3897/zookeys.463.8261] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/11/2014] [Accepted: 11/11/2014] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
A new species of Hycleus belonging to the phaleratus group, and close to Hycleusphaleratus, is described. The new species, Hycleusmarcipoli, is distributed in China (Gansu and Taiwan), Laos, and northern Thailand. A key to the Chinese species of this group is presented.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhao Pan
- The Key laboratory of Invertebrate Systematics and Application of Hebei Province, Hebei University, 071002, Baoding, Hebei Province, China
| | - Monica Carosi
- Dipartimento di Scienze, Università degli studi Roma Tre, Viale G. Marconi 446, 00146, Rome, Italy
| | - Marco A Bologna
- Dipartimento di Scienze, Università degli studi Roma Tre, Viale G. Marconi 446, 00146, Rome, Italy
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29
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Ruiz JL, García-París M. Distribución y caracterización morfológica de <em>Hycleus duodecimmaculatus</em> (Olivier, 1811) (Coleoptera, Meloidae), una especie poco conocida del oeste de Marruecos. GRAELLSIA 2014. [DOI: 10.3989/graellsia.2014.v70.110] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
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30
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García-París M, Ruiz JL, Bologna MA. The identity and taxonomic status of <em>Sitaris lativentris</em> Schaufuss, 1861 and <em>Sitaris melanurus</em> Küster, 1849, two enigmatic Iberian taxa (Coleoptera, Meloidae). GRAELLSIA 2013. [DOI: 10.3989/graellsia.2013.v69.084] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
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31
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Ruiz JL, Bahillo P, López-Colón JI, Bercedo P, Arnáiz L, García-París M. Caracterización taxonómica, distribución y primeros registros europeos de <em>Apalus cinctus</em> (Pic, 1896) (Coleoptera, Meloidae). GRAELLSIA 2013. [DOI: 10.3989/graellsia.2013.v69.087] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
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32
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García-París M, Ruiz JL. Description of a new species of Epicauta Dejean, 1834 from Mexico with a review of the Epicauta cupraeola species group (Coleoptera, Meloidae). GRAELLSIA 2013. [DOI: 10.3989/graellsia.2013.v69.079] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
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33
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García-París M, Ruiz J, Jiménez-Ruiz Y, Castilla A, Saifelnasr EO. Meloe (Mesomeloe) coelatusReiche, 1857 (Coleoptera: Meloidae): first record for the fauna of Qatar and COI mtDNA data. QSCIENCE CONNECT 2013. [DOI: 10.5339/connect.2013.20] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/03/2022] Open
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34
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Ge SQ, Wipfler B, Pohl H, Hua Y, Ślipiński A, Yang XK, Beutel RG. The first complete 3D reconstruction of a Spanish fly primary larva (Lytta vesicatoria, Meloidae, Coleoptera). PLoS One 2013; 7:e52511. [PMID: 23300692 PMCID: PMC3530488 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0052511] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/26/2012] [Accepted: 11/14/2012] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
The first detailed anatomical study of a primary larva of Meloidae is presented. Thereby techniques such as three-dimensional reconstructions, microtome sections, SEM (scanning electronic microscopy) and CLSM (confocal laser scanning microscopy) are applied. The structural features are discussed in the context of phylogeny, but also possible correlations with parasitism, phoresy and miniaturisation. The triungulin first instar larva is likely an apomorphy of Meloidae excl. Eleticinae and linked with a specialisation on acridoid eggs or larvae and provisions of bees. The campodeid body shape of Lytta and Meloinae is a groundplan feature of Meloidae, whereas a navicular body is an autapomorphy of the generally phoretic larvae of Nemognathinae. Head structures of Lytta and features of the postcephalic body are largely plesiomorphic. The musculature of the head is only moderately simplified while the one of the postcephalic body is well developed. Its thorax is largely characterised by plesiomorphies. The characteristics of the legs suggest phoretic habits, even though this does not apply to larvae of Lytta. It is conceivable that a phoretic behaviour is secondarily lost, together with some but not all morphological modifications related to it. Derived features of the abdomen of Meloidae are the complete loss of the fixed urogomphi (also missing in Rhipiphoridae and other related groups) and the presence of one or two conspicuous caudal bristles. Only few features of Lytta are shared with the parasitic larvae of Rhipiphoridae and Strepsiptera. These characteristics, which are possibly linked with specialised life habits, have obviously evolved independently. Miniaturisation effects are minimal in the larvae of Lytta.
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Affiliation(s)
- Si-Qin Ge
- Key Laboratory of Zoological Systematics and Evolution, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
- Entomology Group, Institut für Spezielle Zoologie and Evolutionsbiologie mit Phyletischem Museum, Friedrich-Schiller-Universität Jena, Jena, Germany
| | - Benjamin Wipfler
- Key Laboratory of Zoological Systematics and Evolution, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
- Entomology Group, Institut für Spezielle Zoologie and Evolutionsbiologie mit Phyletischem Museum, Friedrich-Schiller-Universität Jena, Jena, Germany
| | - Hans Pohl
- Entomology Group, Institut für Spezielle Zoologie and Evolutionsbiologie mit Phyletischem Museum, Friedrich-Schiller-Universität Jena, Jena, Germany
| | - Yi Hua
- Key Laboratory of Zoological Systematics and Evolution, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Adam Ślipiński
- CSIRO Ecosystem Sciences, Australian National Insect Collection, Canberra, Australia
| | - Xing-Ke Yang
- Key Laboratory of Zoological Systematics and Evolution, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
- * E-mail:
| | - Rolf Georg Beutel
- Entomology Group, Institut für Spezielle Zoologie and Evolutionsbiologie mit Phyletischem Museum, Friedrich-Schiller-Universität Jena, Jena, Germany
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Bologna MA, Turco F, Pinto JD. The Meloidae (Coleoptera) of Australasia: a generic review, descriptions of new taxa, and a challenge to the current definition of subfamilies posed by exceptional variation in male genitalia. INVERTEBR SYST 2013. [DOI: 10.1071/is12054] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
The seven Australasian genera of blister beetles (Coleoptera : Meloidae : Nemognathinae) are reviewed. Included are a key to genera, generic synopses and descriptions of two new genera of Nemognathini, Australozonitis and Pulchrazonitis, as well as a new monotypic tribe Palaestrini, which features a bauplan of male genitalia unique not only to the subfamily Nemognathinae but to the entire family. The genus Palaestra is redefined to include several Australasian, Asian and African species previously assigned to Zonitis. Exceptional variation of male genitalia encountered in the Palaestrini challenges current subfamily definitions, which are partly based on male genitalic structure and correlated sexual behaviour. Generic synopses include synonyms, type species, number of species, geographic distribution, significant references on taxonomy, life history and morphology, and additional notes. Forty-six new combinations are proposed for species previously in Zonitis. Distribution and relationship of tribes within the Nemognathinae, as well as the biogeography of the Australasian Meloidae are outlined and discussed.
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García-Rollán M. Catálogo comentado de las especies de Cyaneolytta Péringuey, 1909 (Coleoptera, Meloidae) del Museo Nacional de Ciencias Naturales (Madrid, España) y clave de las especies del género. GRAELLSIA 2012. [DOI: 10.3989/graellsia.2012.v68.053] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
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37
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Serri S, Pan Z, Bologna MA. A new Mylabris species from south-eastern Iran and a key to the Iranian species of the nominate subgenus (Coleoptera, Meloidae). Zookeys 2012:81-6. [PMID: 22977351 PMCID: PMC3433698 DOI: 10.3897/zookeys.219.3674] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/11/2012] [Accepted: 08/03/2012] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
A new species of Mylabris of the nominate subgenus is described and figured. This species is apparently endemic to the south-eastern Iranian province of Kerman and seems to be phenetically very distinct from all other species of this subgenus, primarily because of the unique elytral pattern. A key to the species of the nominate subgenus distributed in Iran is also presented.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sayeh Serri
- Insect Taxonomy Research Department, Iranian Research Institute of Plant Protection, Tehran, 19395-1454, Iran
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38
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Nikbakhtzadeh MR, Vahedi M, Vatandoost H, Mehdinia A. Origin, transfer and distribution of cantharidin-related compounds in the blister beetle Hycleus scabiosae. J Venom Anim Toxins Incl Trop Dis 2012. [DOI: 10.1590/s1678-91992012000100011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
| | - M Vahedi
- Tarbiat Modares University, Iran
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Vereecken NJ, McNeil JN. Cheaters and liars: chemical mimicry at its finestThe present review is one in the special series of reviews on animal-plant interactions.In memory of Jan Tengö (1939–2010), who made exceptional contributions to our understanding of the chemical ecology of solitary bees, including chemical mimicry. CAN J ZOOL 2010. [DOI: 10.1139/z10-040] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Chemical mimicry is an essential part of certain interspecific interactions, where the outcome for both species may depend on the degree to which the original signals are mimicked. In this review, we discuss a number of specific cases relating to pollination and obtaining nutrient resources that we believe exemplify recent advances in our understanding of chemical mimicry. Subsequently, we suggest avenues for future ecological and chemical research that should allow us to gain further insight into the evolution of chemical mimicry.
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Affiliation(s)
- N. J. Vereecken
- Evolutionary Biology and Ecology, Free University of Brussels/Université Libre de Bruxelles, avenue FD Roosevelt 50 CP 160/12, B-1050 Brussels, Belgium
- Department of Biology, The University of Western Ontario, London ON N6A 5B7, Canada
- Institute of Systematic Botany, University of Zürich, Zollikerstrasse 107, CH-8008 Zürich, Switzerland
| | - J. N. McNeil
- Evolutionary Biology and Ecology, Free University of Brussels/Université Libre de Bruxelles, avenue FD Roosevelt 50 CP 160/12, B-1050 Brussels, Belgium
- Department of Biology, The University of Western Ontario, London ON N6A 5B7, Canada
- Institute of Systematic Botany, University of Zürich, Zollikerstrasse 107, CH-8008 Zürich, Switzerland
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Phylogeny and evolutionary history of the blister beetles (Coleoptera, Meloidae). Mol Phylogenet Evol 2008; 48:679-93. [PMID: 18514547 DOI: 10.1016/j.ympev.2008.04.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 71] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2007] [Revised: 03/11/2008] [Accepted: 04/09/2008] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
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41
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Lückmann J, Assmann T. Reproductive biology and strategies of nine meloid beetles from Central Europe (Coleoptera: Meloidae). J NAT HIST 2006. [DOI: 10.1080/00222930500533823] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
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Bologna MA, D'Inzillo B, Cervelli M, Oliverio M, Mariottini P. Molecular phylogenetic studies of the Mylabrini blister beetles (Coleoptera, Meloidae). Mol Phylogenet Evol 2005; 37:306-11. [PMID: 15886024 DOI: 10.1016/j.ympev.2005.03.034] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/21/2004] [Revised: 02/25/2005] [Accepted: 03/27/2005] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
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