First record of Brontocoris tabidus and Podisus spp. (Heteroptera: Pentatomidae) as predators of Actinote sp. (Lepidoptera: Nymphalidae)

Abstract

The genus Actinote is one of the most diverse of Nymphalidae in the Neotropical region, with 35 species. Among them, Actinote pellenea Hübner stands out as widely distributed throughout South America. Although aspects of its biology have been documented, little is known about its natural control agents. The objective was to report for the first time the predation by Podisus nigrispinus, P. graziae, and Brontocoris tabidus on different developmental stages of Actinote sp. under natural environmental conditions. Sampling was conducted through active observation along a 250-meter transect in a locality in Jujuy Province, Argentina. Asopine bugs were collected manually and predation events were documented. One adult of B. tabidus, three adults of P. graziae, and seven specimens of P. nigrispinus (one adult and six nymphs) were recorded. The species B. tabidus was observed preying on an Actinote pupa, while Podisus species consumed larvae, pupae, and adults. Most events corresponded to the pupal stage, suggesting greater vulnerability during this phase. Attack patterns and preference for specific body regions of the prey were also described. This work represents the first record of P. graziae for Argentina and extends the distribution of B. tabidus to Jujuy Province. Furthermore, this is the first report of B. tabidus and Podisus spp. preying on immature stages and adults of Actinote under natural conditions. These findings expand knowledge about the trophic behavior of these species in wild environments.