Paracrias pluteus (Hymenoptera, Eulophidae) in Brazil: new distribution and host records, and with a new host group for Paracrias
2011

New Host Records for Paracrias pluteus in Brazil

Sample size: 12 publication Evidence: moderate

Author Information

Author(s): Tiago G. Pikart, Gabriely K. Souza, Valmir A. Costa, Christer Hansson, José C. Zanuncio

Primary Institution: Universidade Federal de Viçosa

Hypothesis

The study aims to record the occurrence of Paracrias pluteus as a parasitoid on immature stages of Sennius spp. in Brazil.

Conclusion

Paracrias pluteus is identified for the first time as a parasitoid on specific bruchine beetles in Brazil.

Supporting Evidence

  • Paracrias pluteus was previously known only from Costa Rica.
  • This study adds to the knowledge of Paracrias species with a new host group.
  • Melanoxylon brauna is economically important, and bruchines can destroy a significant portion of its seeds.

Takeaway

Scientists found a new bug that helps control pests on seeds in Brazil, which is important for farming.

Methodology

Seeds of Melanoxylon brauna infested by bruchines were collected, and insects that emerged were identified.

Limitations

The study is limited to a specific region and may not represent broader ecological interactions.

Digital Object Identifier (DOI)

10.3897/zookeys.102.1343

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