Levantamento e caracterização de Sternorrhyncha em plantas de importância agrícolas no município de Itacoatiara-AM

Abstract

The objective of this study was to identify phytophagous Hemiptera species of the suborder Sternorrhyncha in agroecosystems of Itacoatiara, Amazonas, Brazil, and to determine the climatic conditions favorable to the occurrence of the most agriculturally important species. The study was conducted in two areas: the experimental field of the Federal University of Amazonas (UFAM), Campus II, and the Boa Esperança Community. Systematic sampling was carried out on host plants, including the evaluation of different plant organs and the recording of damage. Climatic variables (temperature, relative humidity, and precipitation) were obtained considering the 30 days prior to each sampling event. During the survey, within the superfamily Coccoidea (scale insects), the families Coccidae (11 species), Diaspididae (7 species), Ortheziidae (2 species), Pseudococcidae (3 species), and Monophlebidae (1 species) were identified. In the superfamily Aphidoidea (aphids), the family Aphididae was recorded, comprising 9 species. In the superfamily Aleyrodoidea (whiteflies), the family Aleyrodidae was identified, with 3 species. The identified species were mainly associated with crops such as citrus, guava, and vegetables, causing characteristic damage such as sap sucking, chlorosis, and the development of sooty mold. Population fluctuation analysis showed that precipitation and relative humidity were the main factors influencing population dynamics, predominantly exerting a negative effect on insect abundance due to the mechanical action of rainfall. Conversely, periods with lower precipitation favored population increase. Temperature showed less variation throughout the study period and exerted a secondary influence on insect populations. Species such as Aleurocanthus woglumi, Toxoptera citricida, and Protopulvinaria longivalvata stood out due to their higher frequency and constancy, indicating greater adaptation to local conditions, while other species showed occasional occurrence. The results demonstrate that the Amazonian equatorial climate, particularly precipitation, regulates the seasonality of Sternorrhyncha populations. The diversity of species associated with different host plants highlights the potential economic impact of these insects and emphasizes the importance of climatic and population monitoring as a basis for more efficient integrated pest management strategies in the region.