Cytogenetic analyses have been widely used to understand evolutionary processes and to resolve taxonomic uncertainties in insects. In particular, the mapping of specific chromosomal regions can provide insights about the genome organisation and interspecific relationships. Considering the importance of this approach and the scarcity of chromosomal data in some groups of Hymenoptera, this study provides the first cytogenetic characterisation of the parasitoid wasp, Brachymeria (Pseudobrachymeria) vesparum Bouček, 1992 (Hymenoptera: Chalcididae). This species was characterised by 2n = 10 metacentric chromosomes. The heterochromatin was located at pericentromeric and terminal regions, being particularly conspicuous due to occupying a large part of chromosomes from pair 2. In addition, guanine–cytosine-rich blocks (GC+) were detected in the interstitial region of two chromosomal pairs. The data obtained were found to be useful for inferring the chromosomal rearrangements involved in speciation within Brachymeria, in addition to providing cytotaxonomic markers for further comparative cytogenetic studies.

The radish fly, Delia planipalpis Linnaeus (Diptera: Anthomyiidae), is an emerging pest of broccoli and brassicaceous crops (Brassicaceae). The fly oviposits close to the stem of broccoli plants, and larvae feed within the stem and then pupate in the soil. Due to D. planipalpis’s recent appearance as a pest, no insecticides are registered for its management in Mexico. This study evaluated the efficacy of 13 synthetic and biological insecticides against different developmental stages through laboratory bioassays. Neonicotinoid-based products were highly toxic to the larvae, especially when applied via root irrigation, with thiamethoxam, clothianidin, and imidacloprid showing systemic activity. Thiamethoxam- and spinetoram-based products were also effective when applied to the stem oviposition site as a spray. A clothianidin-based product demonstrated moderate ovicidal activity, and bifenthrin had moderate residual activity against adult flies. A pyriproxyfen-based product effectively suppressed adult emergence. Products based on spirotetramat, neem (Meliaceae), and Tagetes (marigold) (Asteraceae) extracts and the microbial insecticide Bacillus thuringiensis var. israelensis (Bacillaceae) were ineffective against this pest. Spinosad and Sterneinema feltiae (Rhabditida: Steinernematidae) were not highly effective but could be used together with other control strategies in organic production. Neonicotinoids, spinetoram, and pyriproxyfen are promising options to validate in field trials for the management of D. planipalpis in broccoli.

Rising atmospheric carbon dioxide (CO2) concentrations are a major driver of climate change, posing a significant challenge to global ecosystem functions. This challenge is compounded by the potential effects of elevated CO2 on forest pest insects like the eastern spruce budworm (Lepidoptera: Tortricidae), a major mortality agent in Canadian boreal forests. To better understand these impacts, this study investigates how elevated (1000 ppm) and ambient (469 ppm) CO2 concentrations affect budworm development across different life stages. In vitro experiments revealed that budworms exposed to the elevated CO2 concentration exhibited accelerated development, with increased larval weight gain from third to sixth instars, faster pupation and adult emergence, and earlier oviposition compared to those exposed to the ambient condition. However, elevated CO2 concentration led to reduced realised fecundity. These findings highlight the direct impact of elevated CO2 concentrations on budworm biology, with important implications for its role in forest ecosystems under climate change.

We report the first observation of the Dorantes longtail, Thorybes dorantes (Stoll, 1790) (Lepidoptera: Hesperiidae), in Canada. On 16 April 2023, a single adult was observed on the northwest shore of Lake Ontario, in Toronto, Ontario, Canada. The observation represents a 1500- to 2000-km disjunction from the species’ nearest known populations in North America. After considering several scenarios that could explain the occurrence of the Dorantes longtail in Canada, the most likely explanation is that the observed individual came in on produce through the Ontario Food Terminal, Etobicoke, Ontario, providing another example of the constant pressure of species introductions to the region.

Three Cannings brothers describe their intertwined but separate careers in Canadian biology: Rob as an entomologist, Syd as an entomologist and conservation biologist, and Dick as an ornithologist and politician. They emphasise the influence on their lives of the British Columbia’s Okanagan Valley where they grew up, the naturalist family in which they were raised, and the mentors who inspired them in their work. Bird study and nature interpretation in BC Parks were early enthusiasms and influences. Biological research, museum work, nature conservation, public education, and writing have dominated their careers. In Dick’s case, his public life has culminated in a decade of Canadian federal politics as a member of Parliament.

This article is modified from the closing plenary address presented at Entomology 2022, the joint annual meeting of the Entomological Society of America, the Entomological Society of Canada, and the Entomological Society of British Columbia, in Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada, 16 November 2022. The presentation also acted as the 2022 Heritage Lecture of the Entomological Society of Canada.