Parachartergus apicalis (Hymenoptera : Vespidae) associated with nymphs of Guayaquila gracilicornis (Hemiptera: Membracidae) in jackfruit crops in Bágala- Chiriquí, Panama

Abstract

Objective: To identify guard wasp species and stinging-sucking insect nymphs associated with the jackfruit crop Artocarpus heterophyllus Lam. (Rosales: Moraceae). Methodology: The study was carried out from January to August 2025, on an agroecological farm for fruit production, located in Bágala, Boquerón district, Chiriquí province, Panama (8°29'3” N82°32'5” W, 127 m a.s.l.). The behavior of the insects was observed and samples were collected (1 adult wasp and 10 Membracidae nymphs), using a plastic bag and vials with 70% ethanol, for observation and identification in the laboratory, with the help of specialized literature. Results: The guard wasp species was Parachartergus apicalis (Fabricius, 1804) (Hymenoptera: Vespidae), while the stinging-sucking insect nymphs were Guayaquila gracilicornis (Stål, 1869) (Hemiptera: Membracidae). There are previous records of other Hymenoptera species, such as Camponotus lindigi Mayr, 1870 and Paratrechina longicornis (Latreille, 1802) (Formicidae), in mutualism with G. gracilicornis. This Membracidae species affects other crops, such as Anacardium occidentaleL., Coffea arabica L., Annona muricata L. and has a wide distribution in Panama (from sea level to more than 1000 m a.s.l.). Conclusion: Two insect species were identified in a mutualistic relationship associated with jackfruit crop in Boquerón, Chiriquí.G. gracilicornis is considered polyphagous, capable of affecting other crops, making it necessary to implement integrated pest management (IPM) strategies for both the pest and its guardian organisms, such as wasps and ants.