In Cameroon, many amphibians are collected for food, medicinal and cultural purposes. Despite being fully protected, the endangered frog Conraua goliath, is still intensively collected. However, the motivation driving this illegal exploitation are manifold and not fully understood. Using semi-structured questionnaires, we interviewed 149 hunters from 10 villages. This study profiles this hunting community and examines drivers of Goliath frog use in the Littoral region of Cameroon. Fourteen local names were identified, highlighting the frog's significance in local culture. Respondents, aged 15-60 years (79.9% men, 20.1% women), and represented 20 ethnic groups, including 67.7% non-autochthonous. Frog hunters were predominantly young (25-54 years old) with low education and unprofitable occupations, engaged in frog hunting for subsistence or sold through various channels, including local markets, roadside, restaurants, and private orders. Predominantly non-native hunters travelled over 10 km and used diverse, sophisticated, and combined hunting techniques, including firearms in order to collect frogs. Inter-ethnic variation in hunting techniques was observed, with most hunting sessions, occurring weekly, resulting in up to 15 captured frogs. The species holds special cultural significance to some local ethnic groups. Its perception as totem and different ethno-medical applications have been reported. This study showed the significant economic and cultural value of the Goliath frog. Therefore, its urges conservation strategies that consider riparian communities' social, economic and cultural context within its range. Key recommendations include law enforcement, fostering community involvement through ecological awareness campaigns, and educating hunters on sustainable harvesting practices of alternative resources to align subsistence needs with biodiversity conservation.

Background: Okra production is often constrained by insect pest infestation, leading to significant crop damage and yield loss. Excessive use of synthetic pesticides for pest management adversely affects non-target organisms, including beneficial flower-visiting insects essential for pollination and ecosystem balance. Therefore, eco-friendly botanical extracts are being explored as sustainable alternatives for pest control. Objective: The present study aimed to characterize the composition, structure, and functioning of the flower-visiting insect community in okra fields and to determine the impact of aqueous leaf botanical extracts on these insects for achieving effective and environmentally safe pest management. Study Design: Ecological survey was conducted in 11 trials (four plots each). Place and Duration of Study: Investigations were carried out in Bockle from June 15 to October 10, 2022. Methodology: Plants were identified in-situ when possible or photographed and a sample of leaves, bark, flowers and fruits (when available) allowed identification in the laboratory by botanist colleagues. Collected insects were identified to the species level in the Laboratory of Applied Zoology (Department of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Science, University of Ngaoundere) where voucher specimens were deposited. Aqueous extracts were sprayed and flowers inspected two days a week. Results: A total of 4,406 specimens belonged to six orders, 11 families and 14 species. Lilioceris lilii (42.2%) and Apis mellifera adansonii (12.0%) highly occurred. Extracts affected exclusively Li. lilii. Species richness was low (d=0.012 in the pooled Azadirachta indica extract to d=0.044 in 15% Eucalyptus camaldulensis plots; pooled assemblages: d=0.003). Species diversity was slightly median in pooled assemblages (H’=2.064, H’max=2.639), low in experiments (H’=1.908; H’max=6.644 in untreated to H’=2.255, H’max=5.781 in 15% Senna occidentalis); highly even (J=0.723 in untreated plots to J=0.855 in 15% Se. occidentalis; J=0.782 in the pooled assemblages), four co-dominants in untreated plots, 5% and 10% Az. indica and Se. occidentalis respectively to eight species in the pooled assemblages. Assemblages fitted Zipf’s model with a high decay coefficient and fractal dimension (γ=0.986, 1/γ=1.014 in 15% Eu. camaldulensis to γ=1.362, 1/γ=0.734 in 10% Eu. camaldulensis; pooled assemblages: γ=1.203 and 1/γ=0.831). Assemblage 15% Az. indica plots fitted Zipf-Mandelbrot with a high decay coefficient (γ=2.152), high niche diversification (β=2.578) and low fractal dimension (1/γ=0.465). Six dominant pollinators and flying insects strongly tolerated each other, repelled eight pests and shredders that in turn were weakly correlated each other. Conclusion: Promoting pollinators and flying insects, breaking solidarity among pests and shredders, and using pollinators and butterflies as indicators (their decrease indicate imminent pests invasion) would optimize the health of Okra plants. However further studies are needed to validate reliability.

Aims: Flower-visiting activity in honeybees was compared to that of Xylocopa olivacea on cowpea and sesame. Study Design: Daily activity, weekly activity, floral products and bee behavior were recorded. Place and Duration of Study: Field records (May to July 2016 and 2017) were conducted in Obala Higher Institute of Agriculture and Management campus (Bilone, Obala-Cameroon). Methodology: Thirty neighboring experimental plots (6x5.5 m each) were delimited each year (15 for sesame and cowpea respectively). Bee foragers came naturally from the station During the flowering period, in each year, day, plot and each plant species, two plants were randomly selected. Blooming flowers were checked from 1st to 14th. Daily activity was recorded each day from 6-7 a.m. to 4-5 p.m. Foragers were counted, collected floral products were identified; collection behavior and duration were recorded as well as air temperature and humidity. Results: Bee occurrences could be predicted using a linear combination of bee, plant, and air temperature. Flowers were visited from 2nd flowering day, ceased at 12th day (peak in 6th and 7th day). Daily activity started in sun shining mornings (8-9 a.m.) and stopped at 4-5 p.m., with a slight shift in activity peaks (honeybee:9-10 a.m.; Xy. olivacea: 11 a.m.-12 p.m.). Bees behaved similarly and collected nectar and pollen, with nectar collection lasting longer than pollen, which was in turn, longer in Xy. olivacea on cowpea than honeybee on sesame. Honeybees were interrupted by honeybees, Xy. olivacea and Megachile sp., and Ascalaphus africanus (Neuroptera: Ascalapidae). As for Xy. olivacea, visits were interrupted by Xy. olivacea, honeybees and As. africanus. Honeybees activity was not correlated with the climatic conditions while Xy. olivacea occurrence was positively correlated with air humidity. Conclusion: Sesame more attracted honeybees and cowpea more attracted Xy. olivacea, suggesting a probable difference in quality and/or quantity in floral products.

Agroforestry leads to the degradation of natural forests, floral and faunal biodiversity. Little information exists on faunal functioning in agroforestry environments invaded by exotic pests compared to natural environments. Ecological survey was conducted from September to November 2023 in Mbalmayo Reserve Forest (Centre-Cameroon), the community structure and functioning of macro-invertebrates in cocoa plantations invaded by the little fire ant, were compared to the situation in neighboring secondary forest. Baits, pitfall, and quadrats allowed collection of 129,916 specimens of seven classes, 18 orders, 39 families, and 82 species. Insecta was mostly abundant (cocoa plantations: 92.7%, secondary forest: 6.97%, pooled sites: 99.7%), as well as Hymenoptera (cocoa plantations: 92.6%, secondary forest: 6.80% of 13 species, pooled sites: 99.4% of 14 species). Cocoa plantations and secondary forest presented each low species richness, diversity, and evenness, and a high dominance by a few species. Cocoa plantations presented more exotic species (92.9%, 25 species) while secondary forest showed mostly natives of unknown pest status and few native pests. The little fire ant was abundant (92.6%) and dominant exclusively in cocoa plantations. In secondary forest, Myrmicaria opaciventris, Crematogaster gabonensis, and Pheidole megacephala were abundant in the dry season, the two former being co-dominants while in the rainy season Cr. gabonensis, Cr. striatula, Craspedophorus bonvouloirii, My. opaciventris, Ph. speculifera, and Paltothyreus tarsatus were abundant, the four former being co-dominants. A low dissimilarity was noted between the two sites. The change in species composition from cocoa plantations to secondary forest was relatively large. Armadillidium vulgare Latreille, 1804 (Armadillidiidae) and Wasmannia auropunctata Roger, 1863 (Formicidae) were good indicators of disturbed environments. Assemblage functioned on the basis of maintaining a multi-species network developed in time and space for the circulation of the information, but with a weak force of regeneration. The secondary forest undergrowth was unfavorable for exotics and in-depth studies would be conducted on the behavior of natives in relation to the progression of invasions, since cases of repellency have been recorded. Policy makers responsible for green space management should take effective measures to prohibit the transfer of plants infested with exotic pest species between invaded and non-invaded areas when creating agroforestry areas.

Ecological survey in invaded and non-invaded sites allowed the verification of occurrence or persistence of Wasmannia auropunctata (Roger, 1863) (Hymenoptera: Formicidae), and it’s impact on soil macro-invertebrates. Specimens were collected using baits (70% honey and 30% canned sardine, daily checked at 15 min intervals during 2 hours a day and five consecutive days a week), pitfalls (plastic tubes 150 mm length x 15 mm diameter, half filled with 10% formalin, weekly checking starting after seven days), and hand-picking by two peoples. Collections (September to November 2023) were conducted in the Mbalmayo Reserve Forest. A total of 33 sites were visited (29 and four in non-invaded and invaded areas respectively). In a site, three 1x50 m parallel transects were delimited (separation: 10 m), overlapping a plantation and a secondary forest. In a transect, eight quadrats were delimited (1x1 m; separation: 5 m). Baits were used in 1st transect, pitfalls in 2nd, and hand-picking in 3rd. In a site category 24 sessions were conducted (eight for baits, pitfalls, and hand-picking respectively). Captures were stored in labeled pill boxes containing 70% ethanol. A total of 129,916 specimens belonged to three phyla, seven classes, 18 orders, 39 families, and 84 species. Three and one sites were newly and formerly invaded respectively. Assemblage was highly species-rich in non-invaded sites (68 and 34 species in non-invaded and invaded sites respectively). Five orders and 20 families were absent in invaded sites. Oniscidae, Cydnidae, Scarabaeidae and Blaberidae were tolerated by W. auropunctata (highly abundant and dominant). Macro-invertebrates fauna was lowly even in invaded sites and operated by maintenance of a network of information with a weak force of regeneration. W. auropunctata caused disappearance of macro-invertebrates and dictated a functioning order to tolerated species. Sustainable approach may be developed against W. auropunctata.

The taxonomic status of the Pyrgomorphid genera Parapetasia Bolívar, 1884, and Loveridgacris Rehn, 1954 is complex and challenging. Here, we use a combination of morphological, distributional, and genetic data to revise the two genera and provide new information on their diversity. We describe a new species, Loveridgacris tectiferussp. nov., from Tanzania and formally resurrect the status of Parapetasia rammei as a valid species within Parapetasia, resulting in two species in Parapetasia (P. femorata and P. rammei) and two in Loveridgacris (L. impotens and L. tectiferussp. nov.). We also sequenced the COI and 16S genes of 10 Pyrgomorphidae species and provided the first phylogeny of the group. Our data show that all species are clearly distinct and represent molecular operational taxonomic units (mOTUs), with the exceptions of L. impotens and L. tectiferussp. nov., which are morphologically clearly distinct but for which the concatenated sequence alignments of the two individual gene datasets (COI and 16S) do not provide sufficient information. In addition, high interspecific distances were found between Parapetasia and Loveridgacris. Moreover, the complete mitogenomes of L. impotens and L. tectiferussp. nov. were sequenced using next-generation sequencing technology. The total lengths of the assembled mitogenomes were 15,592 bp and 15,737 bp, representing 13 protein-coding genes, 22 transfer RNA genes, two ribosomal RNA genes and one D-loop region, respectively. To aid in identification, we present a key for the two genera, including a key to species. This study provides insights into the morphology, distribution, and phylogeny of Pyrgomorphidae in Africa.

A survey was undertaken from July 2021 to January 2022 in South-Cameroon on the biodiversity of micro-arthopods in the Memve’ele dam (Site 1), the tributary river (Site 2) and the adjacent river (Sites 3 and 4). Four abiotic parameters were measured in-situ while nine other abiotic parameters were measured in the laboratory using standard methods. Micro-arthopods were counted and identified. Water quality was determined. BOD5, conductivity, NO2-, NO3-, pH, PO43-, temperature and suspended solids were on average within the standards for drinking water. Chlorophyll a, color, DO, NH4+ and turbidity values were on average above the standard upper limits. Based on the water quality index (WQI) raw waters were unfit for direct drinking (Dam: WQI=898.864; Site 2: WQI=752.451; Site 3: WQI=883.808; and Site 4: WQI=1,665.883) and presented ideal conditions for fish farming or irrigation for agriculture. A total of 5,487 specimens belonged to three classes, eight orders, 20 families, 57 genera, and 87 species and morphospecies (54 freshwater and 33 tolerant species able to develop in at least two water environments). Ectocyclops sp. was the most recorded species (10.6%), followed by Cyclops sp. (9.1%), Alona costata (8.9%), Mesocyclops sp. (7.9%), Tropocyclops sp. (7.5%), Senecella calanoides (6.8%), Diaphanosoma sarsi (6.1%), while other species were represented each by less than 5.0%. Low species richness, high species diversity and a very low dominance by a few species were noted. Assemblages were highly even (Pielou’s index close to 1). Species exhibited in all sites, a positive global net association. The assemblage recorded during the wet season at Site 3 functioned as a pioneer community (Broken-Stick model) while, the assemblage recorded during the dry season at Site 2 and the one recorded during the dry season at Site 3 functioned as nomocenosis (log-linear or log-normal models) and were therefore little evolved. In contrast, during the two seasons in the dam and Site 4, as well as during the rainy season in Site 2 and the combined seasons in Site 3, the assemblages functioned as highly evolved communities (Zipf or Zipf-models) with significant regenerative force, suggesting that these assemblages maintained a complex information network developed at spatio-temporal scales. The evolved state (close to natural balance) of the micro-arthopods communities should be preserved and protected.

A survey was undertaken from March to June 2014 on the water quality and the occurrence of Cyanobacteria bio-indicator species in Nyong and Kienké warm river mouths. Physico-chemical parameters were measured in-situ. Species were identified and counted in laboratory. The pH varied from slightly acidic to slightly basic. Temperature, pH and transparency were within the tolerable limits for drinking water or fish farming. NO3-, Chlorophyll a and biomass were lower than standards. DO and FC were higher than upper limits, except DO in Kienké. NO2- was higher in Nyong than the upper limit. It was within the recommended range in Kienké. TSS was within acceptable standards for fish farming but above the upper limit for drinking water. NO2-, NH4+ and PO43- proved good conditions for bio-fertilizers or toxin-producers. Chlorophyll a and biomass contains were low but FC and TSS exceeded standards for drinking water, and were within standards for fish farming. Thirty-seven species belonging to 28 genera, 15 families and four orders, were divided into 25 freshwater species and 12 tolerant species. Sixteen toxigenic species, 15 useful species and six species of unknown status were identified. The species diversity was low and Microcystaceae (Chroococales) was the most species-rich family (eight species i.e. 21.6%) and was the most abundant (34.7%), followed by Rivulariaceae (Nostocales) (five species i.e. 13.5% and 12.4% of abundance), Aphanizomenonaceae (Nostocales) (four species i.e 10.8% and 20.8% of abundance), Hapalosiphonaceae (Nostocales) (two species i.e.5.4% and 0.8% of abundance), Microcoleaceae (Oscillatoriales) (two species i.e. 5.4% and 2.1% of abundance), Nodulariaceae (Nostocales) (three species i.e. 8.1% and 7.9% of abundance), Nostocaceae (Nostocales) (two species i.e. 5.4% and 1.9% of abundance), and Oscillatoriaceae (Oscillatoriales) (three species i.e. 8.1% and 0.8% of abundance). Eight families [Chroococcaceae (Chroococales), Coelosphaeriaceae (Synechococcales), Cyanothecaceae (Gomontiellales), Cymatolegaceae (Nodosilineales), Cyanothrichaceae (Chroococales), Gomphosphaeriaceae (Chroococales), Pseudanabaenaceae (Pseudanabaenales), and Tolypothrichaceae (Nostocales)] presented each one rare species (2.7%). According to abundances, species classification in descending order is Raphidiopsis mediterranea (14.3%), Synechocystis aquatilis (11.9%), Aphanothece elabens (7.3%), Microcystis aeruginosa (5.1%). Other species were rare. Twenty-three co-dominants (62.2%) were identified. Globally, a positive association was noted between species in each river. The pooled assemblage at low tide fitted the log-linear niche partitioning model with a high environmental constant while other assemblages fitted the lognormal model with in each case a low environmental constant. Although these two river mouths were suitable for fish farming, direct consumption of raw water is detrimental to human health.

Synthetic pesticides present risks of pollution of the environment, humans and livestock and the alternative proposed today is to use botanical extracts in the fields against crop pests. But in North Cameroon, little information exists concerning the effect of these extracts on useful pollinating insects in general and no information exists in particular on foragers of the genus Amegilla Friese, 1897 (Apidae: Apinae: Anthophorini). The frequency and foraging activities of Amegilla, on newly blooming flowers of Vigna unguiculata (L.) Walp., 1843 (Fabales: Fabaceae) were recorded during five consecutive days in 2021 and 2022 planting campaigns. Plants were divided into untreated plots and plots treated using the synthetic insecticide Parastar (l p.c..ha-1) or 10%, 20% and 30% aqueous leaf extracts of Calotropis procera (Aiton) Aiton, 1811 (Gentianales: Apocynaceae), Eucalyptus camaldulensis Dehnh., 1832 (Myrtales: Myrtaceae) and Tithonia diversifolia (Hemsley) Gray, 1883 (Asterales: Asteraceae) respectively. Among 8,987 insects collected (48.9% in 2021), Amegila calens Le Peletier. 1841 with stockier foragers (2021 campaign: 2.2% of the total collection, entomophily FA. calens=4.5%; 2022 campaign: 0.7%, FA. calens=1.3%; pooled campaigns: 2.9%, FA. calens=2.9%) and Amegilla sp. with slender foragers (2021: 3.8%, FAmegilla sp.=7.7%; 2022: no data) were recorded. Foragers started activity from 6 a.m. and stopped foraging before noon, with a peak of activity in 8 to 9 a.m. time slot for A. calens and 10 to 11 a.m. time slot for Amegilla sp.. During the five consecutive days from the first blooming day of the flowers, 598 visits (89.8% in 2021 and 10.2% in 2022) were recorded with a peak of visits during the 3rd day and then declined until it stopped during the 5th day. Treatments including the synthetic insecticide (which was the most repellent to the wild bees), did not significantly reduce the frequency of visits. But 20% aqueous extract of Ca. procera showed a significant increased of the mean duration of visits of the bees, compare to the results recorded in Parastar-treated plots. Therefore, the tested extracts, especially 20% aqueous leaves extract of Ca. procera may be recommended to control field insect pests and for preservation of foraging activities of Amegilla genus.

Synthetic pesticides present risks of pollution of the environment, humans and livestock and the alternative proposed today is to use botanical extracts in the fields against crop pests. But in North Cameroon, little information exists concerning the effect of these extracts on useful pollinating insects in general and no information exists in particular on foragers of the genus Amegilla Friese, 1897 (Apidae: Apinae: Anthophorini). The frequency and foraging activities of Amegilla, on newly blooming flowers of Vigna unguiculata (L.) Walp., 1843 (Fabales: Fabaceae) were recorded during five consecutive days in 2021 and 2022 planting campaigns. Plants were divided into untreated plots and plots treated using the synthetic insecticide Parastar (l p.c..ha-1) or 10%, 20% and 30% aqueous leaf extracts of Calotropis procera (Aiton) Aiton, 1811 (Gentianales: Apocynaceae), Eucalyptus camaldulensis Dehnh., 1832 (Myrtales: Myrtaceae) and Tithonia diversifolia (Hemsley) Gray, 1883 (Asterales: Asteraceae) respectively. Among 8,987 insects collected (48.9% in 2021), Amegila calens Le Peletier. 1841 with stockier foragers (2021 campaign: 2.2% of the total collection, entomophily FA. calens=4.5%; 2022 campaign: 0.7%, FA. calens=1.3%; pooled campaigns: 2.9%, FA. calens=2.9%) and Amegilla sp. with slender foragers (2021: 3.8%, FAmegilla sp.=7.7%; 2022: no data) were recorded. Foragers started activity from 6 a.m. and stopped foraging before noon, with a peak of activity in 8 to 9 a.m. time slot for A. calens and 10 to 11 a.m. time slot for Amegilla sp.. During the five consecutive days from the first blooming day of the flowers, 598 visits (89.8% in 2021 and 10.2% in 2022) were recorded with a peak of visits during the 3rd day and then declined until it stopped during the 5th day. Treatments including the synthetic insecticide (which was the most repellent to the wild bees), did not significantly reduce the frequency of visits. But 20% aqueous extract of Ca. procera showed a significant increased of the mean duration of visits of the bees, compare to the results recorded in Parastar-treated plots. Therefore, the tested extracts, especially 20% aqueous leaves extract of Ca. procera may be recommended to control field insect pests and for preservation of foraging activities of Amegilla genus.

A survey was undertaken from March to June 2014 on the biodiversity and the community structure of Chromista Cavalier-Smith, 1981 in Nyong and Kienke River mouths (South-Cameroon). In each river, raw waters were collected from upstream to downstream at four sites. Cells were counted using the Malassez cells procedure and species were identified. A total of 10427.1x105 cells corresponded to three phyla, eight classes, 23 orders, 32 genera and 40 species (24 freshwater species (60.0% of total species richness and total collection respectively), three marine species (7.5% and 2.4% of the total species richness; and total collection respectively), and one brackish water specialist in Kienke (2.5% and 5.1%), 13 tolerant species (32.5% and 32.6%)). The trophic diatom index revealed undisturbed conditions with no or little alteration of human origin and a low organic pollution (oligotrophic or mesotrophic state) (Nyong: TDI=52.7; Kienke: TDI=69.7; pooled assemblage: TDI=65.0). A low species richness was detected (richness ratio in Nyong: d=0.008; Kienke: d=0.003; pooled rivers: d=0.004), a high species diversity (Shannon index close to maximum) (Nyong: H’=2.742 and H’max=2.996; Kienke: H’=2.685 and H’max=2.996; pooled rivers: H’=3.245 and H’max=3.689), a very low dominance by a few species (Berger-Parker index close to 0) (Nyong: IBP=0.156; Kienke: IBP=0.175; pooled rivers: IBP=0.134), and Hill’s ratio were close to 1 (Nyong: Hill=0.819; Kienke: Hill=0.803; pooled rivers: Hill=0.722). The community was highly even with a high value of the Pielou’s evenness close to 1 (Nyong: J=0.915; Kienke: J=0.896; pooled rivers: J=0.880). Two useful species and one harmful species to fish were rare in Kienke. Species exhibited in Kienke and pooled data in rainy season, a positive global net association while it was negative in Nyong. Assemblage fitted Preston’s model in Nyong with a high environmental constant in the dry season (m’=1.469), low constant in the rainy season (m’=0.947) and the pooled seasons (m’=0.853). In Kienke constants were low (dry season: m’=0.574; rainy season: m’=0.566; pooled seasons: m’=0.581) suggesting a evolved community in less disturbed environments where the majority of species showed moderate abundances. In the dry season, the pooled assemblage functionned on the basis of maintaining a complex information network (close to ecological balance) developed at spatio-temporal scales (ZM model) and it presented a low force of regeneration (fractal dimension of the distribution of individuals among species (1/γ)=0.925<1). The evolved oligotrophic state (close to natural balance) of the chromists’ community should be preserved and protected and the studied rivers classified as reference.

Synthetic pesticides present worldwide risks of contamination of humans, livestock and the environment due to the strong persistence and the toxic residues in fruits and vegetables. Natural biopesticides of local plant origin present low persistence and are the best alternative for the control of crop pests. In the Adamaoua region (Northern Cameroon), few studies exist concerning effects of botanical pesticides on the behavior of beneficial insects. Studies aimed to draw up a list of pollinating insects on flowers of Vigna unguiculata (L.) Walp., 1843 (Fabales: Fabaceae), in situations of treatment with botanical pesticides compared to the situation of the use of synthetic insecticide and to determine the effect of the biopesticides on the behavior of the main floricultural insects. Field investigations were carried out during two cowpea cultivation campaigns (June to September 2021 and June to October 2022) in Dang (suburb of Ngaoundere) on the effect of leaves extracts of local plant origin on the foraging behavior of Apis mellifera Linnaeus, 1758 (Hymenoptera: Apidae) and the main sap-sucking insect Aphis craccivora Koch, 1854 (Hemiptera: Aphididae). Forty-four cowpea plots of 4x3.5 m each distributed according to the randomized complete block model (four untreated plots as negative control, four plots treated with the synthetic insecticide Parastar (40EC 535/ 10/IN, 20 g/l of imidacloprid and 20 g/l of lamda-cyhalothrin) as positive control, and 36 experimental plots treated with three concentrations (10%, 20% and 30%) of aqueous leaves extract of Calotropis procera (Gentianales: Apocynaceae), Eucalyptus camaldulensis (Myrtales: Myrtaceae), and Tithonia diversifolia (Asterales: Asteraceae) respectively, made it possible to conduct four treatments: (1) flowers left to freely pollination, (2) flowers protected against pollinators, (3) flowers visited exclusively by Ap. mellifera and (4) flowers protected against insects. Among eight species (four orders, four families and seven genera) recorded on the flowers of V. unguiculata, the domestic bee Ap. mellifera was the most common and collected nectar and pollen. The control plots and those treated with 10% or 20% aqueous leaves extracts allowed the bee to carry out its activity. Plots treated with 30% extract of each plant and those treated with the synthetic insecticide Parastar, drastically altered the rhythm and speed of activity in Ap. mellifera foragers. This behavior became less coordinated and slow on treated plants. It would be wise to use 10% or 20% aqueous extracts as botanical insecticides and an alternative to the synthetic insecticide Parastar.

The Loranthaceae are known parasites of natural forests, plantations, orchards and ornamental plants throughout the world and their rampant infestation of plants along the windward slope of mount Cameroon is a cause for concern. This research was designed to identify the species of Loranthaceae along the windward slope of mount Cameroon and identify the host range. Field assessment of the parasite and host range studies were done in a rectangular plot (200 x 50 m) laid within 16 localities each along the slope. Two Loranthaceae species, Phragmanthera capitata (Sprengel) S. Balle, and Tapinanthus apodanthus Sprague were found to parasitize a total of 38 species belonging to 18 families. Phragmanthera capitata (Sprengel) S. Balle, and Tapinanthus apodanthus Sprague were found to parasitize a variety of trees and shrubs species. Phragmanthera capitata (Sprengel) S. Balle, had the highest host range with 36 species while Tapinanthus apodanthus Sprague parasitized 27 species. Of the parasitized plants, 13 species were unique to Phragmanthera capitata while 2 species Mangifera indica and Acacia sp. were unique to Tapinanthus apodanthus. Twenty-three (23) species were common to both parasites. The Lauraceae had the highest number of individual infested species recorded, like Persea americana Mill, infested by both parasites. Euphorbiaceae and Fabaceae were the two families specious with 5 and 4 infested species respectively. Similarity indices for host species of Phragmanthera capitata (Sprengel) S. Balle, and Tapinanthus apodanthus Sprague, showed that 0 - 249 m asl and 250 - 499 m asl were greatly similar.

Cowpea plants are damaged by insects in North-Cameroon. During ecological survey (2021 and 2022) in 44 plots of 4x3.5 m each, insects were captured on stems, leaves, flowers and pods, stored in vials containing 70° alcohol, identified in laboratory and the community structure was characterized. We captured 26,015 adults belonging to six orders, 13 families, 19 genera and 19 species. Coleoptera, Hemiptera and Hymenoptera were species-rich orders [five species each (26.3%)]. Hemiptera was mostly abundant (40.0%) followed by Coleoptera (27.6%), Hymenoptera (21.9%), Lepidoptera (0.9%). Heteroptera and Orthoptera were least abundant (0.8% respectively). We recorded five (26.3%) useful species [the West African predator species Cheilomenes sulphurea (Coleoptera: Coccinellidae), and four (21.1%) afrotropical Apidae species [Apis mellifera adamsonni, Amegilla calens, Amegilla sp. and Xylocopa olivacea]], seven (36.8%) phytophagous species [the indomalayan native Aulacophora indica (Coleoptera: Chrysomelidae), Nearctic native Danaus plexippus (Lepidoptera: Nymphalidae), Palaearctic native Dolerus sp. (Hymenoptera: Tenthredinidae), afrotropical native Hypolimnas misippus (Lepidoptera: Nymphalidae), afrotropical native Monolepta marginella (Coleoptera: Chrysomelidae), Palaearctic native Phyllotreta cruciferae (Coleoptera: Chrysomelidae) and the Eurasian native Tettigonia viridissima (Orthoptera: Tettigoniidae)]. We recorded seven (36.8%) sap-feeding species [the afrotropical native Anoplocnemis curvipes (Hemiptera: Coreidae), cosmopolitan Palaearctic native Aphis crassivora (Hemiptera: Aphididae), old world native Bothrogonia sp. (Hemiptera: Cicadellidae), subtropical native Dysdercus cingulata (Hemiptera: Pyrrhocoridae), western Palaearctic native Lagria hirta (Coleoptera: Tenebrionidae), North American native Poecilocapsus sp. (Hemiptera: Miridae) and the Palaearctic native Riptortus dentipes (Heteroptera: Alydidae)]. Giving up eight (42.1%) native species, 11 (57.9%) non-native species and 14 (73.7%) pest species [three natives species (15.8%) and 11 non-natives species (57.9%)]. The abundant species were M. marginella (39.9%), Poecilocapsus sp. (14.4%), Au. indica (11.4%), Ph. cruciferae (10.4%), C. sulphurea (4.6%), H. misippus (3.7%), L. hirta (3.4%), Ah. crassivora (2.4%) while 11 species (57.9%) were rare (<2.2% each). Insects associated with cowpea consisted mostly of non-native species and the situation calls for more research on the bio-ecology of recorded pests. Cowpea plants' insect assemblage mostly presented in Bockle and Dang, a fairly significant regeneration force (Zipf and Zipf-Mandelbrot functioning models) and all conditions combine to soar. Due to the numerical and behavioural dominance of non-native insects, a significant number of resources are potentially exploitable. In due course, once the invaders would monopolize available resources and saturate the localities, they would not allow native species the niche opportunities to re-establish themselves. The consequences of loosing native species, which may well interact with the endemic flora and fauna, will be of extreme concern.

Aims: Mealybugs are protected on plants by ants for honeydew. They were identified and assemblages were characterized in Douala suburbs (Littoral-Cameroon). Study Design: Basic information is needed on pest’s occurrence for the pest control strategies. We determined host plants and characterized the community structure of mealybugs and foraging ants. Place and Duration of Study: Field investigations were conducted from March to August 2020 in Douala suburbs in 16 transects (10x1,260 m each) and 126 quadrats (10x10m each). Methodology: Stems, the underside of leaves, flower buds and fruits were inspected on weeds, plant bases and canopy of trees. Mealybugs and ants were captured. When the plant was highly infested, the average number of insects was determined on 10 randomly chosen plant organs. Abundances were noted and captured specimens were stored in vials containing 70° alcohol, identified to the species level and the community structure was characterized. Results: A total of 24,640 specimens belonged to 23 families, 54 genera and 85 species were collected in this research. A low species richness, low diversity and low dominance were detected. Assemblage of foraging ants in Yassa functioned according to the brokend-stick model. Scale insects in Ngoma functioned according to Motomura’s model. Assemblages of host plants in Lendi, Yassa, global host plants, global scale insects, foraging ants in Lendi and the global settlement, functioned according to the lognormal model. Host plants in Ngoma, scale insects in Yassa, and foraging ants in Ngoma functioned according to Zipf’s model while Zipf-Mandelbrot was adapted to scale insects in Lendi suggesting that these communities had sufficient time to develop a complex network of information close to natural environments and presented a fairly regeneration force. Conclusion: Due to the abundance pest insects, resources are available and once they will be well developed; they will cause plant pathologies and yield loss.

Among ants, Myrmicinae represents the most speciose subfamily. The venom composition previously described for these social insects is extremely variable, with alkaloids predominant in some genera while, conversely, proteomics studies have revealed that some myrmicine ant venoms are peptide-rich. Using integrated tran-scriptomic and proteomic approaches, we characterized the venom peptidomes of six ants belonging to the different tribes of Myrmicinae. We identified a total of 79 myrmicitoxins precursors which can be classified into 38 peptide families according to their mature sequences. Myrmicine ant venom peptidomes showed heteroge-neous compositions, with linear and disulfide-bonded monomers as well as dimeric toxins. Several peptide families were exclusive to a single venom whereas some were retrieved in multiple species. A hierarchical clustering analysis of precursor signal sequences led us to divide the myrmicitoxins precursors into eight families, including some that have already been described in other aculeate hymenoptera such as secapin-like peptides and voltage-gated sodium channel (NaV) toxins. Evolutionary and structural analyses of two representatives of these families highlighted variation and conserved patterns that might be crucial to explain myrmicine venom peptide functional adaptations to biological targets.

Nesting system, diet behaviour, activity rhythm and predatory behaviour of Crematogaster (Nematocrema) stadelmanni Mayr, 1895 were studied in the field situation in suburbs of Douala (Littoral-Cameroon). Polycalic and polydomous nesting system were recorded. Large independent nests were positioned on the bark surface of trunks (50.8%) or the underside bark of the fork of large branches (49.2%) of cultivated or wild trees (45.8% and 54.2% respectively). Workers collected nectar from 18 plants from eight families: Asteraceae, Costaceae, Ehretiaceae, Euphorbiaceae, Mimosaceae Phyllantaceae, Poaceae and Rutaceae. They collected honeydew from Aleyrodidae and four Hemipteran families from Sternorrhyncha suborder: Aphididae, Coccidae Pseudococcidae and Stictococcidae. These Hemipterans proliferated on 11 plant families: Anacardiaceae, Annonaceae, Apocynaceae, Asteraceae, Costaceae, Euphorbiaceae, Myrtaceae, Poaceae, Rutaceae, Solanaceae and Urticaceae. Solid particles brought back to the nest were mostly from plants (72.5%) and weakly preys (27.5%). Sugary liquids were preferred over fats, carbohydrate sources, and even preys. Products were collected continuously (day and night) in the foliage of the host plant and neighbouring plants, shrubs and grasses. Workers occasionally brought back to the nest dead or dying larvae of grasshoppers and small particles of other arthropods (ants, flies, caterpillars). The sequence of behavioural acts recorded during the capture of larvae of Ruspolia differens (Orthoptera: Tettigoniidae) and adults of Zonocerus variegatus (Orthoptera: Pyrgomorphidae) (3 to 5 mm and 15 to 20 mm long respectively) were compared. The main sequence presented succession of seven acts: (1) detection by contact; (2) antennation; (3) attack-seizure; (4) short-range recruitment of nestmates in the vicinity; (5) spread-eagling of preys; (6) cutting up the prey on the spot; and (7) transport of pieces or whole prey to the nest. The stinging phase was not recorded. The duration of the capture of small prey (66 min. to 1 hr. 25 sec.; mean ± se: 1 hr. 57 min. 25 sec. ± 12 min. 2 sec.; 10 essays) was lower than that of large preys (2 hrs. 33 sec. to 4 hrs. 16 sec.; 2 hrs. 58 min. 32 sec. ± 17 min. 15 sec.; 10 essays; Mann-Withney test: T = 72.00; p = 0.014). The long duration of captures suggested that spread-eagling and cutting up preys on the spot lasted a long time. Cr. stadelmanni is a poor predator indirectly harmful for wild or cultivated trees since their predatory aptitude is low compared to aggressive dominant arboreal-nesting ants and is counterbalanced by the propensity to honeydew.

The Douala harbour represents the main gateway through which human activities introduce invasive ants, so that Solenopsis geminata (Fabricius, 1804) originating from Neotropics has been reported in several areas of the Littoral region of Cameroon. But nothing is known about the ant community structure and composition of the coastal zone. We hypothesized that environmental perturbations around Douala have repercussions on the native litter-dwelling ants. Collections conducted in 33 houses, six gardens of 225 m² each, 41 plantations of one hectare each and 34 two-year old fallows of one hectare each suggested lowly even communities, low species richness, low diversity and low dominance by a few species. Among 28 species recorded four species were mostly represented: two foreign origin species [S. geminata (Fabricius, 1804) and Trichomyrmex destructor (Jerdon, 1851), from tropical America and India respectively], one native species [Pheidole megacephala (Fabricius, 1793)] and two ambiguous native range species [Paratrechina longicornis (Latreille, 1802) and Tapinoma melanocephalum (Fabricius, 1793)] since they have long been recorded as having a widespread distribution. Alien species were highly represented than native ones (52.9% and 47.1% respectively, p<0.001). Inside houses, gardens and plantations the ant species were distributed according to the geometrical progression (Motomura’s model) while in the old fallows abundance distribution suggested an evolved ecosystem (Mandelbrot’s model). Between the three dominant species [Pa. longicornis (Latreille, 1802), Ph. megacephala (Fabricius) and S. geminata (Fabricius)], the first species was positively correlated with the third one while other associations were not significant. These dominant species appeared influencing the abundance of the rare species. Dominance and high abundance of a few species indicated that areas were influenced mostly by interspecies competition and/or disturbance by human activities.

Solanum tuberosum L. 1753 (Solanaceae) is widely cultivated for its therapeutic and nutritional qualities. In Cameroon, the production is insufficient to meet the demand in the cities and there is no published data on the diversity of associated pest insects. Ecological surveys were conducted from July to September 2020 in 16 plots of five development stages in Balessing (West-Cameroon). Insects active on the plants were captured and identified and the community structure was characterized. The abundance of each species and the part of the plant attacked were recorded. A total of 370 specimens belonged to four orders, 16 families and 21 species. From rearings of 3,200 scarified stems and tubers, two Lepidoptera emerged: the Crambidae Leucinodes orbonalis Guenee, 1854 (18.0%) and the Noctuidae Helicoverpa armigera Hübner, 1808 (26.0%). This gives a total of five orders, 18 families and 23 species associated with the potato plants. We recorded 16 (69.6%) pest species [10 (43.5%) non-native and six (26.1%) native species]. Base on the family composition, Coleoptera and Hemiptera were mostly represented (31.3% respectively) followed by Orthoptera (25.0%) and Diptera (12.4%). Based on the species composition, Hemiptera presented a high number of species (38.1%) followed by Coleoptera (28.6%), Orthoptera (23.8%) and Diptera (9.5%). Based on abundances, Aphididae (60.6%) was the most represented, followed by Gryllotalpidae (7.6%), Tenebrionidae (6.5%), Bibionidae (5.7%), Gryllidae (4.9%), Pentatomidae (4.9%), Cicadellidae (3.5%) and Pyrgomorphidae (2.4%). Eight rare families were recorded (<1% of the total collection respectively) (Acrididae, Chrysomelidae, Elateridae, Lycidae, Scarabeidae, Scutelleridae, Tipulidae and Pyrrhocoridae). Chemicals were not efficient in the study locality, since entomofauna associated with potato plants remained diverse and consisted of alien pests. The situation calls for more research on the bio-ecology of the recorded pests with further goal of developing sustainable management strategies to reduce yield losses.

The specimens studied were collected with sweep net and pitfall in the forests, agro-forests, herbaceous fallows, and crop fields of 14 localities in the southern part of Cameroon, from August 2015 to February 2018. The results show that Heteracris hannai sp. nov. and Heteracris lecoqi sp. nov. differ from previously known species of the same genus by the pattern of coloration and the details or shape of the phallic complex. H. lecoqi sp. nov. is characterized by light brownish body; male cercus with flattened, downcurved and obtuse apex; lophus strongly curved; interlophal space with V shape; apodeme of cingulum bow, convergent, with V-shape; valve of cingulum in lateral view longer than apical valve of penis; ramus in ventral view joined. H. hannai sp. nov. is distinct to other species by brown to grey body; male cercus with apex rounded, curved inside; lophus curved; interlophal space with U-shape; apodeme of cingulum thick, slightly parallel, with U shape; valve of cingulum in lateral view hardly longer than apical valve of penis; ramus in ventral view opened. The characteristics of H. guineensis are closer to H. hannai sp. nov. than to H. lecoqi sp. nov. H. lecoqi sp. nov. was collected only in the fallows while H. hannai sp. nov. was collected in the forests, agro-forests, fallows, and crop fields. Compared to H. guineensis, both new species are scarce in the natural vegetation and their distribution area is limited to two and four localities respectively for H. lecoqi sp. nov. and H. hannai sp. nov. All these three grasshopper’s species were recorded as accidental species in all types of vegetation.