BPA
Chargée de Cours
Scientific activity
Researcher profile
Faculty researcher at the University of Yaoundé I. Grade: Chargée de Cours.
Scientific publications
Désirée Chantal Aléné, Nina Latar Vernyuy, Champlain Djiéto-Lordon, Daniel Burckhardt
The Catalogue of Life
Désirée Chantal Aléné, Nina Latar Vernyuy, Champlain Djiéto-Lordon, Daniel Burckhardt
The Catalogue of Life
Pierre Stephan Elono Azang, Cyril Roméo Heumou, Désirée Chantal Aléné, Félécité Kelly Eyenga, Pierre Ngassam, Champlain Djiéto-Lordon
International Journal of Advanced Multidisciplinary Research and Studies
Capsicum annuum (pepper) is a vegetable plant whose fruits are used as spices or condiments and present in many African dishes. This crop is subject to numerous attacks by insect pests causing significant damage to crops despite the use of various means of control which negatively affect the environment and cause significant damage to the health of the producer. Very often, market gardeners do not have a good knowledge of the different varieties likely to increase their production. In order to increase the yield of this crop, this study is a contribution to the knowledge of the resistance of certain varieties of C. annuum to pests. It was carried out from May to September 2019 on an experimental plot set up for this purpose within the campus of the Higher Teacher Training College of the University of Yaoundé I. This study allowed us to inventory and compare the associated entomofauna to the red and yellow varieties of C. annuum. To do this, we carried out sampling, inventories and direct field observations of the entomofauna and their activity. Following this study, we noted that the entomofauna was quite diversified. The number of insect orders was 06 for the yellow variety and 05 for the red variety. On yellow pepper, the Coleoptera order presented the highest abundances with 42.85% of all individuals, followed by Hemiptera (22.45%) and Orthoptera (20.81%). On red pepper, the Coleoptera order presented the highest abundances with 45.71% of all individuals, followed by Diptera (28.57%), and Orthoptera (14.29%). The analysis of the variation of the average abundances of the pests on the two varieties of pepper revealed that the phenology influences on this one. Indeed, during flowering, the orders of Coleoptera, Orthoptera, Hemiptera were the most represented with respectively 13 individuals (i.e. 46.42% of all individuals), 06 individuals (i.e. 21.42%) and 05 individuals (i.e. 17.85%) for the yellow pepper while at the flowering-fruiting stage, the Coleoptera and Diptera orders were the most represented with respectively 08 individuals (i.e. 44.44% of all individuals) and 07 individuals (i.e. 38.88%) for the Red pepper. The yellow pepper produced a total of 28 individuals at the flowering stage (i.e. 57.14% of the orders combined) and the red pepper 18 individuals at the flowering-fruiting stage (i.e. 51.42% of the orders combined). The attack rates on fruits due to Cryptophlebia leucotreta presented significant differences from one variety of pepper to another with higher values on the yellow pepper at the third harvest (P=0.01; F=6.83), fourth harvest (P=0.001; F=44.67) and at the fifth harvest (P=0.003; F=4.43) with respectively average rates of 13.9±3.2% (N=49); 35.33±3.90% (N=110) and 24.76±8.62% (N=23).
Youchawou Kouyam Nsangou, Désirée Chantal Aléné, Champlain Djiéto-Lordon, Daniel Burckhardt
Journal of Entomology and Zoology Studies
Two poorly known species of psyllid, Pauropsylla longipes, and Pauropsylla willcocksi (Triozidae) develop on Ficus gnaphalocarpa. (Moraceae), an African wild fig tree, whose fruits are widely eaten locally and used in traditional pharmacopoeia. Based on specimens collected in the western highlands of Cameroon (Koutaba, Noun Division), some morphological details of the two species are supplied. P. longipes differs from other Pauropsylla species by the presence of a long caudal process in immature, the absence of a ventroapical spur on the forecoxa and a sexual dimorphism in coloration, the male being darker than the female. As for P. willcocksi, this species is distinguishable by an uneven marginal fringe of truncate sectaseate, moderately dense and the dorsum covered with truncate sectasetae. Likewise, additional information on their biology is provided and their relationships with their host plant are well enlightened. Immatures of the two psyllid species feed and grow on the underside of the leaves of F. gnaphalocarpa. In P. longipes, they are free living while in P. willcocksi, they are galls forming. It is a case of sympatric distribution without separation of niches but different feeding behaviours.
Désirée Chantal Aléné, Liliya Štarhová Serbina, Champlain Djiéto‐Lordon, Igor Malenovský, Daniel Burckhardt
Open MIND
This dataset contains the digitized treatments in Plazi based on the original journal article Aléné, Désirée C., Serbina, Liliya Š., Djiéto-Lordon, Champlain, Malenovský, Igor, Burckhardt, Daniel (2025): Unusual feeding behaviour and association with ants in Lilaoshia psorospermi sp. n. (Hemiptera: Psylloidea: Liviidae) developing on Psorospermum glaberrimum (Hypericaceae). Journal of Natural History 59 (9 - 12): 573-586, DOI: 10.1080/00222933.2025.2452396ABSTRACTLilaoshia psorospermi Burckhardt, Aléné and Serbina, sp. n. (Psylloidea: Liviidae: Liviinae: Paurocephalini), developing on Psorospermum glaberrimum (Hypericaceae), is described from the Western Highlands of Cameroon. Adults, fifth-instar immatures and eggs are diagnosed and illustrated, and relationships to other Lilaoshia species are discussed. Information is provided on the biology and ecology. In contrast to most psyllids, which feed on young plant parts, immatures and adults of L. psorospermi were observed feeding on old leaves, where they were always tended by the following ant species: Camponotus congolensis, C. flavomarginatus, Crematogaster striatulus and Tapinoma sp. (Hymenoptera: Formicidae). The workers of these ants, especially C. congolensis and C. striatulus, usually build shelters of soil, sand and plant debris around and above the psyllid colonies.
Atougour Ndakabo, Didi Gaëlle Mokam, Désirée Chantal Aléné, Teboh Fombong Ayuka, Shepard Ndlela, Ezéchiel Awono and 4 more
Advances in Entomology
Tephritid fruit flies (Diptera) represent a major threat to mango production and food security across Sub-Saharan Africa. Up to date, the species diversity and ecological roles of their natural enemies remain underexplored. This study provides the first comprehensive analysis of hymenopteran parasitoid communities associated with tephritids infesting mangoes in two agroecological zones (AEZs) of Cameroon: the Sudano-Sahelian savannah (AEZ 1) and the High Guinean savannah (AEZ 2). From 2,795 mangoes sampled between 2020 and 2021 across seven orchards, a total of 27,654 tephritids (representing four species) and 1,008 parasitoids (belonging to six species from three families) adults emerged. A marked biogeographic partitioning of parasitoid communities was observed: Braconidae (Fopius caudatus, Diachasmimorpha fullawayi, Psyttalia concolor) were exclusively recorded in AEZ 1, particularly in the orchard of Lagdo which belong to the dry zone, whereas Figitidae (Ganaspis sp., Ealata saba) and Diapriidae (Trichopria sp.) dominated in the more humid AEZ 2 orchards. Notably, Ganaspis sp. was found in both AEZs. Host specificity varied: Ganaspis sp. and Trichopria sp. exhibited a broad host range, primarily parasitizing Bactrocera dorsalis, while E. saba showed a high specificity for Ceratitis cosyra. Importantly, the exotic parasitoid Fopius arisanus, previously introduced as a biological control agent, was not detected. Parasitism rates were high in cultivar with thin pericarp (e.g., ‘Palmer’). However, in Djefatou and Ngong (AEZ 1), premature fruit harvesting for livestock feed limited parasitism assessment, as fruits were removed from the orchards before parasitoid infestation could occur. These findings underscore the importance of managing indigenous parasitoids through the selection of suitable ecological conditions and plant resources. Indeed, elucidating host-parasitoid dynamics, as demonstrated in this study, could support the development of practical and sustainable strategies for mango pest management in Central Africa.
Didi Gaëlle Mokam, Ndakabo Atougour, Zéphirin Tadu, Désirée Chantal Aléné, Ezéchiel Awono, Serge Lontsi Tapéo and 2 more
Journal of Insect Science
The Sudano-Sahelian and the high Guinea savannahs agroecological zones of Cameroon are suitable for the full development of tree crops, including mango. Unfortunately, fresh fruits exported to local and international markets are frequently rejected due to the presence of fruit fly larvae (Diptera: Tephritidae), resulting in drastic income losses and overuse of chemical control products. To promote sustainable management strategies, a 2-yr study (2020-2021) was conducted in 4 and 3 mixed orchards, respectively. Attacked mangoes showing signs of fruit fly damage were collected and taken to the laboratory to rear and identify fruit flies. Repeated grafting and agroclimatic differences were responsible for dissimilarities between the 2 zones, with 18 and 16 cultivars, respectively. From 2,857 attacked mangoes, 26,707 fruit flies belonging to 4 species were identified: Bactrocera dorsalis, Ceratitis cosyra, Ceratitis fasciventris, and Ceratitis anonae. Climate change was the factor determining the distribution of the 2 most important mango fruit flies: B. dorsalis was a wetland species (dominance/occurrence > 70%), while C. cosyra was a dry-land species (dominance/occurrence > 75%). Both species were responsible for high levels of infestations. Bactrocera dorsalis preferred 3 mango cultivars, namely Palmer and Smith in Zone 1, and Ifack 1 in Zone 2 (infestation > 20 individuals/100 g of mango). The host-plant spectrum of C. cosyra was modified by alternative host plants. Both C. fasciventris and C. anonae were rare. Findings from this study could guide researchers in the development of monitoring tools for fruit fly populations and, subsequently, in reducing the damage they cause to mangoes.
Audrey Valtery Voula, Désirée Chantal Aléné, Zéphirin Tadu, E. F. Manga, G. Zang-Affa’a, Champlain Djiéto-Lordon
International Journal of Biological and Chemical Sciences
Pepper is a vegetable which plays an important role in the human diet and health. Many insects attack this plant and decrease its production in the absence of appropriate phytosanitary treatment. Thus, the objective of the present study was to record the arthropods associated with the yellow and red pepper varieties. For this purpose, weekly observations were conducted during two cropping cycles on 192 plants, using a completely randomized device. As results, the fauna of the pepper was very diverse and stable (specific richness 47 and Equitability index 0.86). The yellow pepper was the most sensitive with an average of nine insect species per plant versus eight on the red pepper. These insects belonged to seven orders (Arachnida, Coleoptera, Diptera, Hemiptera, Hymenoptera, Lepidoptera and the Orthoptera), 28 families and 47 species. The densest orders were Diptera represented by Ceratitis capitata, Silba capsicarum, followed by Hymenoptera were represented by Camponotus floridanus, Camponotus acvapimensis and Crematogaster sp. and Hemiptera represented by Aphis gossypii, Macrosiphum euphorbiae, Pseudococcus sp. The present study provided a database on arthropodofauna of the pepper plant. This is of paramount importance for the development of healthy and sustainable protection strategies among pepper producers in order to improve national production.
Zéphirin Tadu, Edoa Stephanie, MESSOP YOUBI EDITH-BLANDINE, Guibaï Jean-Pierre, Judicael Fomekong‐Lontchi, Désirée Chantal Aléné and 1 more
Journal of Insect Biodiversity
Urban expansion in Cameroon and many other Congo basin countries, involves the destruction of natural habitat previously colonized by a rich and diversified invertebrate and vertebrate fauna. In order to understand the dynamic of transformation of natural landscape into urban area on ant communities, a study was conducted at Mfou, a suburban agglomeration of Yaoundé. We aimed to evaluate the variation in ant diversity and ant community structure in relation to the type of habitat. Ants were collected on the ground and trees in cocoa farms, secondary forests, and palm groves using visual catch, pitfall traps, quadrat, and baits. We recorded 144 species belonging to 39 genera and 6 subfamilies. Cocoa farms (S= 102; H’= 3.83; E=0.83) were richer and more diversified than secondary forests (S= 100; H’= 3.83; E=0.83) and palm groves (S= 70; H’= 3.61; E=0.85). Myrmicinae, Formicinae and Ponerinae were the richest subfamilies both at genus and species levels. Based on their frequency of occurrence, Myrmicaria opaciventris (18.6%), Crematogaster striatula (17.1%), Crematogaster gabonensis (14.9%) and Camponotus crawleyi Emery, 1920 (14.2%) species were numerically dominant. Strumigenys sp.1, Strumigenys sp.2, Strumigenys sp.3, and Strumigenys sp.4 species were found only in secondary forests, suggesting the relatively stability of this habitat despite anthropogenic disturbance. Camponotus brevicollis, Technomyrmex sp.2 and Tetramorium guineensis were the indicator species in cocoa farms. In the secondary forests, Camponotus wellmani, Hypoponera punctatissima and Pheidole pulchella were found as indicator species while in palm groves H. punctatissima was the only indicator species.
Désirée Chantal Aléné, Désirée Chantal Aléné, Yveline Matchinda Moukem, Zéphirin Tadu, Champlain Djiéto‐Lordon
International Journal of Biological and Chemical Sciences
Tritrophic plant-hemipteran-ant relationships are poorly documented in tropical African market-garden agro-systems despite its agronomic importance. The present study aimed at characterizing ant-hemipteran associations on five market crop species at Nkolondom (north-western suburb of Yaoundé): Abelmoschus esculentus, Capsicum annum, Solanum lycopersicum, Solanum melongena and Solanum scabrum. From July to October 2013, twice per week, feeding activities of ants were examined and the occurrence of each ant/hemipteran association recorded per plant species. As result, ants preferentially harvested honeydew excreted by hemipterans. However, Myrmicaria opaciventris and Camponotus flavomarginatus also collected plant sap from wounded organs. Among hemipterans, Aphis fabae, Aphis gossypii, Aulacorthum solani, Macrosiphum euphobiae, scale insects and mealybugs were the most recurrent. The most frequent associations were M. opaciventris-A. fabae and C. flavomarginatus-A. fabae on S. scabrum, C. flavomarginatus-M. euphorbiae on S. lycopersicum, C. flavomarginatus-A. solani on C. annuum, M. opaciventris-A. gossypii and Technomyrmex sp.-A. gossypii on S. lycopersicum. Some moderately frequent associations viz. C. flavomarginatus-M. euphorbiae and M. opaciventris-M. euphorbiae were recorded on S. melongena. For these associations, highly significant and positive correlations was raised between ants’ and aphids’ populations, suggesting potential mutualistic interactions between the two taxa. Keywords: Aphids, bugs, feeding behavior, Formicidae, interactions, market crops.
Azang Pierre Stephan Elono, Désirée Chantal Aléné, Cyril Roméo Heumou, Pierre Ngassam, Champlain Djiéto-Lordon
African Journal of Agricultural Research
Various species and varieties of the genus Solanum (Solanaceae) are among the most important market crops produced worldwide. They may be considered as multipurpose crops since leaves and/or fruits are eaten fresh or cooked in various dishes. The increase of garden surfaces and the permanence of gardening have induced frequent outbreaks and diversification of pests and cryptogrammic diseases. In order to improve farmer’s capacities in controlling these constraints, the present study assessed diversity, abundance and incidence of fruit pests on Solanum spp. Data collection was conducted in two agroecological zones of southern Cameroon: Okola (Center Region) and Koutaba (Western Region), on three plant varieties from the genus Solanum: Solanum aethiopicum (African scarlet eggplant) with two varieties (jakatu and zong) and Solanum melongena (brinjal eggplant) var. inerme. The study aimed to (1) characterise the community of fruit pests associated with these plant varieties, (2) assess damage due to the main pests and (3) determine their impact on fruit yield. To achieve this, systematic sampling were done by visual observations in experimental gardens set up at the above cited sites. Harvests and incubations of infested fruits allowed identifying 15 insect species, belonging to three orders and 12 families: Lepidopterans with Leucinodes orbonalis, Cryptophlebia leucotreta, Helicoverpa armigera, Chrysodeixis chalcites and Hypolycaena phylippus), Dipterans with Batrocera (Batrocera) dorsalis, Ceratitis (Ceratitis) capitata, Ceratitis (Pterandrus) anonae, Neosilba sp., Atherigona sp. three unidentified species belonging to undetermined genera and Coleopterans with Diplognatha gagates and Formicomus sp.. Among them, H. phyllipus and C. chalcites were absent from Koutaba’s samples. Without site considerations, L. orbonalis was the most abundant with higher incidence on fruit production. At Okola, fruit losses on S. aethiopicum var. jakatu, on S. aethiopicum var. zong and on S. melongena var. inerme were 53.8-76.97, 43.65-61.51 and 29.42-46.61% respectively while at Koutaba, they were 49.51-68.57, 33.41-60.23 and 11.68-30.44%. The present study provided baseline data for integrated pest management strategies of Solanum in Cameroon. Key words: Solanum, yield, fruit pests, L. orbonalis, damages.
Désirée Chantal Aléné, Champlain Djiéto‐Lordon, Daniel Burckhardt
African Entomology
Homotoma eastopi Hollis & Broomfield 1989, previously described from Bamenda (Northwest Region, Cameroon) with unknown immatures and host plants is presently reported from Yaounde (Centre Region, Cameroon), on several species of the genus Ficus on which adults and immatures feed. The last instar immature is described and illustrated; taxonomically relevant morphological details of the adults are illustrated, especially on the head, and male and female terminalia. The host plant range and information on its biology are also given.
Zéphirin Tadu, Régis Babin, Désirée Chantal Aléné, Yédé, Edith Blandine Messop-Youbi, Abraham Fomena
Agritrop (Cirad)
À partir de méthodes d'analyse spatiale, les caractéristiques de distribution des fourmis ont été étudiées dans trois exploitations cacaoyères traditionnelles dans la Région Centre du Cameroun. L'étude a été menée dans le but d'évaluer (1) l'influence du système d'ombrage sur la distribution des fourmis et (2) la dynamique spatiale et temporelle des populations de fourmis sous l'effet d'un traitement insecticide. Pour la réaliser, des parcelles de 100 cacaoyers adjacents ont été délimitées et cartographiées y compris les arbres voisins, qui ont été identifiés à des espèces. Des points de coordonnées cartésiennes ont été attribués et enregistrés pour chaque arbre. De plus, la surface horizontale de la couronne a été estimée pour chaque arbre en mesurant la projection de la couronne au niveau du sol. L'ouverture de la canopée et le pourcentage de lumière transmis à travers la canopée ont été estimés en analysant des photographies hémisphériques. Les fourmis ont été collectées pendant deux cycles de culture consécutifs par une technique de Chemical Knock Down. La loi binomiale négative et des semivariogrammes ont été utilisés pour définir la distnbution des populations de fourmis. Ensuite, une Pondération inverse à la distance a été utilisée pour des cartes d'interpolation destinées à localiser des colonies éparses. Les résultats montrent que les populations des espèces dominantes comme Oecophyllalonginoda, Tetramoriumaculeatum, Crematogastergabonensis, C. clariventriset C. striatula étaient généralement regroupées et présentaient une forte dépendance spatiale. Camponotus acvapimensis qui est une espèces sous-dominante commune dans la plupart des agrosystèmes à base de cacaoyers était répartie de façon aléatoire et suivait un effet de pépite pur et simple d'un point de vue spatial. Les cartes d'interpolation spatiale ont montré de fortes corrélations entre des densités élevées de populations de O. longinoda et de Caacvapimensis et des zones de luminosité élevée dans les exploitations. À l'opposé, T. aculeatum, C. gabonensis, C. clariventris et C. striatula étaient très regroupées dans les zones ombragées. L'utilisation de certaines espèces comme O. longinoda and T. aculeatuin comme agents de lutte biologique pour la protection des cultures doit prendre en compte l'influence de ces facteurs pour favoriser l'expansion des colonies dans les exploitations cacaoyères.
Désirée Chantal Aléné, Champlain Djiéto‐Lordon, Daniel Burckhardt
African Invertebrates
Diaphorina enderleini, known from Sudan, Tanzania and Yemen, is reported for the first time from Cameroon, Ethiopia and Kenya. Observations and records from Cameroon and Ethiopia show that it develops on Vernonia amygdalina. The species is diagnosed and the last instar larva is described and illustrated. The larvae lack a functional circumanal ring and do not produce wax, a feature unusual for psyllids. The lack of wax deprives them of the protection common in various free-living psyllids. Consequently the psyllid is involved in an unusual mutualistic interaction with the ants Pheidole megacephala and Crematogaster striatula. This association is described and discussed.
Désirée Chantal Aléné, René Hoess, Daniel Burckhardt
E-Periodica
Daniel Burckhardt, Désirée Chantal Aléné, David Ouvrard, Joseph Lebel Tamesse, Jean Messi
Invertebrate Systematics
African members of the pantropical genus Diclidophlebia Crawford (Paurocephalinae) are revised. Sixteen species are recognised including three known species, seven new species and six species that are not formally described owing to insufficient material. Adult and last larval instars are diagnosed and illustrated and keys are provided for identification. Five species are associated with Sterculiaceae (Malvales) and one each with Tiliaceae (Malvales), Irvingiaceae/Simaroubaceae (Rutales), Chrysobalanaceae (Rosales) and Euphorbiaceae (Euphorbiales). Host plants of other species are unknown. Possibly monophyletic groups include four species restricted to the Guineo-Congolian region and five species in the Sudano-Zambezian region.
Désirée Chantal Aléné, Jean Messi, Serge Quilici
Fruits
Influence of shade on the sensitivity of seedlings of Ricinodendron heudelotii (Baill.) to attacks of Diclidophlebia xuani Messi et al. in the natural environment in Cameroon.
Désirée Chantal Aléné, Jean Messi, Serge Quilici
Fruits
Introduction. Ricinodendron heudelotii, a forest seed oil tree, has been domesticated in Cameroon for a few years. Many insect pests feed on this tree. Among them, Diclidophlebia xuani Messi et al. (Hemiptera, Psyllidae) seems to be the most important. In order to identify some natural enemies of this psyllid, an inventory of the arthropods associated with R. heudelotii was carried out. Materials and methods. Samplings were done from 2001 to 2002 in the Yaounde neighbourhood. R. heudelotii vegetal material was collected weekly. This material was examined with a stereomicroscope and arthropods collected. Results and discussion. In addition to the psyllid, numerous phytophagous insects were recorded; among them, the most important are Lepidoptera. Predators and parasitoids of the psyllid and of other phytophagous insects were also recorded. Among the predators of the psyllid, the most important are anthocorids, coccinellids, mirids, syrphids and spiders. Members of the latter group are still unidentified. A few species of parasitoids were also recorded, mainly belonging to the Encyrtidae family.
Désirée Chantal Aléné, Liliya Štarhová Serbina, C. Djiéto-Lordon, Igor Malenovský, Daniel Burckhardt
Zenodo (CERN European Organization for Nuclear Research)
Figure 1. Psorospermum glaberrimum: (a) habitus; (b) details with leaves and fruits; (c) habitat.
Didi Gaëlle Mokam, Atougour Ndakabo, Ezéchiel Awono, Albert Ngakou, Ulrich Tanegang Lambou, T.W. Ounguetou Antani and 2 more
Open Journal of Ecology
Désirée Chantal Aléné, Liliya Štarhová Serbina, C. Djiéto-Lordon, Igor Malenovský, Daniel Burckhardt
Open MIND
Table 1. Distribution of Lilaoshia psorospermi Burckhardt, Aléné and Serbina sp. n. and its associated ant species on old leaves (O), young leaves (Y) and very young leaves (VY) of Psorospermum glaberrimum. Age classes of Psorospermum glaberrimumSpeciesOYVYTotalKW-Test (Χ2)Lilaoshia psorospermi3387 (46.85%)2319 (32.08%)1523 (21.07%)7229Χ2 = 0.42; P> 0.05Crematogaster striatulus238 (42.42%)198 (35.30%)125 (22.30%)561Χ2 = 0.43; P> 0.05Camponotus congolensis77 (48%)46 (28.60%)38 (23.60%)161Χ2 = 17.71; P <10−3Camponotus flavomarginatus194 (71.90%) 56 (20.74%)56 (20.74%)20 (7.41%)270Χ2 = 0.47; P> 0.05Tapinoma sp.5 (50.00%)5 (50.00%)0 (0.00%)10Χ2 = 8.17; P <10−3 Numbers represent insect abundance (absolute and relative values). KW-Test = Kruskal-Wallis test.
Désirée Chantal Aléné, Liliya Štarhová Serbina, C. Djiéto-Lordon, Igor Malenovský, Daniel Burckhardt
Zenodo (CERN European Organization for Nuclear Research)
Table 1. Distribution of Lilaoshia psorospermi Burckhardt, Aléné and Serbina sp. n. and its associated ant species on old leaves (O), young leaves (Y) and very young leaves (VY) of Psorospermum glaberrimum. Age classes of Psorospermum glaberrimumSpeciesOYVYTotalKW-Test (Χ2)Lilaoshia psorospermi3387 (46.85%)2319 (32.08%)1523 (21.07%)7229Χ2 = 0.42; P> 0.05Crematogaster striatulus238 (42.42%)198 (35.30%)125 (22.30%)561Χ2 = 0.43; P> 0.05Camponotus congolensis77 (48%)46 (28.60%)38 (23.60%)161Χ2 = 17.71; P <10−3Camponotus flavomarginatus194 (71.90%) 56 (20.74%)56 (20.74%)20 (7.41%)270Χ2 = 0.47; P> 0.05Tapinoma sp.5 (50.00%)5 (50.00%)0 (0.00%)10Χ2 = 8.17; P <10−3 Numbers represent insect abundance (absolute and relative values). KW-Test = Kruskal-Wallis test.
Désirée Chantal Aléné, Liliya Štarhová Serbina, Champlain Djiéto‐Lordon, Igor Malenovský, Daniel Burckhardt
Journal of Natural History
Lilaoshia psorospermi Burckhardt, Aléné and Serbina, sp. n. (Psylloidea: Liviidae: Liviinae: Paurocephalini), developing on Psorospermum glaberrimum (Hypericaceae), is described from the Western Highlands of Cameroon. Adults, fifth-instar immatures and eggs are diagnosed and illustrated, and relationships to other Lilaoshia species are discussed. Information is provided on the biology and ecology. In contrast to most psyllids, which feed on young plant parts, immatures and adults of L. psorospermi were observed feeding on old leaves, where they were always tended by the following ant species: Camponotus congolensis, C. flavomarginatus, Crematogaster striatulus and Tapinoma sp. (Hymenoptera: Formicidae). The workers of these ants, especially C. congolensis and C. striatulus, usually build shelters of soil, sand and plant debris around and above the psyllid colonies.
Pierre Stephan Elono Azang, Cyril Roméo Heumou, Désirée Chantal Aléné, Desiree Dounia, Leslie Carelle Mahanac Njiti, Pierre Ngassam and 2 more
American Journal of BioScience
The study on the temporal fluctuation of populations and damage caused by <i>Leucinodes orbonalis</i> on African eggplant (<i>Solanum aethiopicum</i>) fruits was carried out in the forest region of South Cameroon from June 11 to September 22, 2018. It consisted of incubations of the attacked fruits in the laboratory for the study of <i>L. orbonalis</i> abundances and the evaluation of the damage caused by the same pest directly in the field and during each harvest; followed by the correlations with abiotic factors. The results showed that out of 331 incubated fruits for 06 harvests and 02 seasons of study, the average number of adults / fruit of <i>L. orbonalis</i> varied significantly from one harvest to another (F (5, 325) = 27.038, <i>p</i> <0.001) with a peak of 4.37 ± 0.66 individuals / fruit (N= 2) at the 2nd harvest (in August), and season to season (F (1, 329) = 15.002, <i>p</i> <0.001) with a peak of 3.22 ± 0.48 individuals / fruit (N=31) during the short dry season. Damage on <i>S. aethiopicum</i> fruits varied significantly from one harvest to another (F (5, 325) = 27.038, <i>p</i> <0.001) with a peak of 13.05 ± 4.10% in the first week of harvest in August. This damage did not change from one season to another (<i>p</i> <0.659). Means weight, length and diameter of an incubated fruit varied significantly from one harvest to another (F (5, 325) = 5,893; F (5, 325) = 7.71 and F (5, 325) = 7.84; <i>p</i> <0.001 respectively). The highest means weight, length and diameter were obtained at the 2nd and 3rd harvest with average values of 36.15 ± 6.87g and 40.20 ± 4.40g for the mean weight; 4.03 ± 0.30cm and 3.86 ± 0.15cm for the mean length and 4.15 ± 0.34cm and 4.12 ± 0.20cm for the mean diameter. Study revealed that the mean number of <i>L. orbonalis</i> per fruit had a significant positive correlation with mean weight (r=0.39, <i>p </i><0.01), mean length (r=0.40, <i>p </i><0.001) and mean diameter (r=0.41, <i>p </i><0.001) of attacked fruits and multiple regression equations of y=5.3302x+16.021, R<sup>2</sup>=0.8172; y=0.3103x+2.6544, R<sup>2</sup>=0.8194 and y=0.3684x+2.6037, R<sup>2</sup>=0.8664 of weight, length and diameter respectively. Field damage showed a positive and non-significant correlation with precipitation (r = 0.80, <i>p</i> <0.20) and a negative and non-significant correlation with mean temperature (r = -0.737, <i>p</i> <0.262) and mean relative humidity (r = -0.632, <i>p</i> <0.367). These results are of practical significance in designing appropriate strategies for <i>L. orbonalis</i> control in eggplant intercropping systems.
Daniel Burckhardt, Liliya Štarhová Serbina, Igor Malenovský, Dalva Luiz de Queiroz, Désirée Chantal Aléné, Geonho Cho and 1 more
Zoological Journal of the Linnean Society
Abstract Using molecular (COI, Cytb, H3, wg, 12S, 16S, and 28S) and morphological data (61 characters of adults and immatures), the phylogenetic relationships of the 20 nominal genera of Liviinae were analysed, and the monophyly of the subfamily was tested relative to the other two subfamilies of Liviidae. The analyses of the molecular, morphological, and combined datasets provided similar results with a strong or moderate support in the molecular and combined analyses for the subfamilies of Liviidae and two clades in Liviinae given tribal rank (Liviini and Paurocephalini stat. rev.). Three of the six previously recognized genera were confirmed as monophyletic (Aphorma, Camarotoscena, and Livia) and three were shown to be polyphyletic: Diclidophlebia s.l. (Diclidophlebia s.s., Haplaphalara stat. rev., Klyveria Burckhardt, Serbina and Malenovský, gen. nov., Melanastera Serbina, Malenovský, Queiroz and Burckhardt, gen. nov. and Woldaia stat. rev.), Paurocephala s.l. (Liella Burckhardt, Serbina and Malenovský, gen. nov. and Paurocephala s.s.), and Syntomoza s.l. (Anomoterga stat. rev. and Syntomoza s.s.). The new generic definitions require 38 new and eight revived combinations, including the transfer of two species to other families. All genera of Liviinae are diagnosed and keys are provided for their identification. A checklist of world Liviinae is supplemented.
Désirée Chantal Aléné, Nina Latar Vernyuy, Champlain Djiéto‐Lordon, Daniel Burckhardt
Journal of Natural History
Diaphorina (Psyllidae: Diaphorininae) is a large Old World genus with an unusually wide range of host plants. Its most prominent member is undoubtedly the Asian citrus psyllid, Diaphorina citri, one of the most devastating citrus pests in tropical Asia and the New World where it is adventive. Recently, the species also was discovered in Africa where it appears to be spreading quickly. Detection and correct identification is difficult due to the presence of over 50 described and many undescribed native species. Morphological differences between species are small, and there are no diagnosable species groups (with one exception: the Diaphorina amoena group). Here we define a second, putatively monophyletic species group, the Diaphorina albomaculata group, consisting of six Afrotropical species. In two of the species, it was observed that the immatures were tended by ants. One of the members of the D. albomaculata group is Diaphorina pfanderae Aléné and Burckhardt sp. nov., developing on Ozoroa pulcherrima (Anacardiaceae) in West Cameroon. Here, adults and immatures are described and diagnosed with illustrations. Diaphorina pfanderae differs from the other species of the D. albomaculata group in the fore wing pattern and details of the male and female terminalia as well as details of the chaetotaxy in immatures. Keys are provided for the identification of the adults and last-instar immatures of the species of the D. albomaculata group. Immatures of D. pfanderae showed a preference for young leaves, a characteristic shared by other psyllids. The species has always been associated with the three ant species Camponotus congolensis, C. flavomarginatus and Crematogaster sp. (Hymenoptera: Formicidae). The first two species often build soil shelters around the psyllid colonies situated on twigs, stems or leaves of O. pulcherrima.urn:lsid:zoobank.org:pub:4418BAB6-B6B7-459C-B75E-9CDC8971E054
Désirée Chantal Aléné, Nina Latar Vernyuy, Champlain Djiéto‐Lordon, Daniel Burckhardt
Global Biodiversity Information Facility
This dataset contains the digitized treatments in Plazi based on the original journal article Aléné, Désirée Chantal, Latar Vernyuy, Nina, Djiéto-Lordon, Champlain, Burckhardt, Daniel (2021): Diaphorina pfanderae Aléné and Burckhardt sp. nov. (Hemiptera: Psylloidea: Psyllidae) and its association with ants on Ozoroa pulcherrima (Anacardiaceae). Journal of Natural History 55 (27 - 28): 1649-1662, DOI: 10.1080/00222933.2021.1951861, URL: http://dx.doi.org/10.1080/00222933.2021.1951861ABSTRACTDiaphorina (Psyllidae: Diaphorininae) is a large Old World genus with an unusually wide range of host plants. Its most prominent member is undoubtedly the Asian citrus psyllid, Diaphorina citri, one of the most devastating citrus pests in tropical Asia and the New World where it is adventive. Recently, the species also was discovered in Africa where it appears to be spreading quickly. Detection and correct identification is difficult due to the presence of over 50 described and many undescribed native species. Morphological differences between species are small, and there are no diagnosable species groups (with one exception: the Diaphorina amoena group). Here we define a second, putatively monophyletic species group, the Diaphorina albomaculata group, consisting of six Afrotropical species. In two of the species, it was observed that the immatures were tended by ants. One of the members of the D. albomaculata group is Diaphorina pfanderae Aléné and Burckhardt sp. nov., developing on Ozoroa pulcherrima (Anacardiaceae) in West Cameroon. Here, adults and immatures are described and diagnosed with illustrations. Diaphorina pfanderae differs from the other species of the D. albomaculata group in the fore wing pattern and details of the male and female terminalia as well as details of the chaetotaxy in immatures. Keys are provided for the identification of the adults and last-instar immatures of the species of the D. albomaculata group. Immatures of D.pfanderae showed a preference for young leaves,a characteristic shared by other psyllids. The species has always been associated with the three ant species Camponotus congolensis, C. flavomarginatus and Crematogaster sp. (Hymenoptera: Formicidae). The first two species often build soil shelters around the psyllid colonies situated on twigs, stems or leaves of O. pulcherrima.urn:lsid:zoobank.org:pub: 4418BAB6-B6B7-459C-B75E-9CDC8971E054
Désirée Chantal Aléné, Youchawou Kouyam Nsangou, Champlain Djiéto‐Lordon, Dalva Luiz Queiroz, Daniel Burckhardt
Revue suisse de zoologie
Homotoma chlamydodoraHollis & Bromfield, 1989 (Homotomidae) and Pauropsylla tatricheaHollis, 1984 (Triozidae) are two poorly known psyllid species that develop on Ficus vallis-choudae. Based on material collected within the framework of biodiversity studies of psyllids (Hemiptera: Psylloidea) associated with Ficus spp. (Moraceae) in Cameroon, the taxonomy of the two psyllid species is revised and information on the biology is provided. In particular the previously unknown immatures of both species and the male of P. tatrichea are described and illustrated here. A tubercular process on the mesocoxa of P. tatrichea, a putative autapomorphy of PauropsyllaRübsaamen, 1899 is described here for the first time. Both species are polyvoltine with overlapping generations. Immatures of H. chlamydodora develop under the stipules whereas those of P. tatrichea induce pit galls on the leaves. Both species appear to be restricted to Ficus vallis-choudae, at least locally.
Désirée Chantal Aléné, Yveline Matchinda Moukem, Zéphirin Tadu, Champlain Djiéto-Lordon
International Journal of Biological and Chemical Sciences
Hemipterans are sap sucking insects that may seriously affect their host-plants’ fitness in case of population outbreaks. They are often associated with various ant species that feed on the honeydew they produce. These two insect taxa are highly diversified, but poorly documented in market crop environment of tropical Africa. In order to improve knowledge on these potential pests, they were sampled twice per week on five plant species including Abelmoschus esculentus, Capsicum annuum, Solanum lycopersicum, Solanum melongena and Solanum scabrum in a trap garden settled at Nkolondom, a north-western suburb of Yaoundé, from July to October 2013. As result, the hemipteran community was dominated by aphids (Aphididae), vz Aphis fabae, Aphis gossypii and Aulacorthum solani on S. scabrum, A. esculentus and C. annuum respectively, and Macrosiphum euphobiae on S. melongena and L. esculentum; scale insects and mealybugs (Coccoidea), the whitefly Bemisia tabacci (Aleyrodidae) on C. annuum. Leafhoppers (Cicadelidae) and treehoppers (Membracidae) occurred preferentially on S. melongena and A. esculentum. Some true bugs (Heteroptera), vz Miridae, Pentatomidae, Pyrrhocoridae and Reduviidae were recorded mainly on okra. The ant community was mostly represented by honeydew feeding species among which Myrmicaria opaciventris, Camponotus flavomarginatus, Pheidole megacephala and Technomyrmex sp. Keywords: Sap sucking insects, aphids, Formicidae, market crops, inventory. English Title: Diversité des hémiptères et des fourmis dans un agrosystème à base de cultures maraîchères dans une banlieue de Yaoundé, Région du Centre (Cameroun)Les hémiptères sont des insectes suceurs de sève capables d’affecter sérieusement le fitness de leurs plantes hôtes en cas de fortes pullulations. Ils sont souvent associés avec diverses espèces de fourmi qui se nourrissent du miellat qu’ils produisent. Ces taxa sont très diversifiés, mais faiblement étudiés en milieu maraîcher en Afrique tropicale. Dans le but d’améliorer les connaissances sur ces potentiels ravageurs, ils ont été échantillonnés deux fois par semaine sur cinq espèces de plantes dont Abelmoschus esculentus, Capsicum annuum, Solanum lycopersicum, Solanum melongena et Solanum scabrum dans un jardin expérimental à Nkolondom, périphérie nord-ouest de Yaoundé, entre Juillet et Octobre 2013. Comme résultat, la communauté des hémiptères était dominée par les pucerons (Aphididae), Aphis fabae, Aphis gossypii et Aulacorthum solani sur S. scabrum, A. esculentus et C. annuum respectivement, et Macrosiphum euphobiae sur S. melongena et S. lycopersicum ; des cochenilles (Coccidae et Pseudococcidae) et la mouche blanche Bemisia tabacci (Aleyrodidae) ont été trouvés sur C. annuum ; des Membracidae et des Cicadelidae ont préférentiellement été trouvés sur S. melongena et A. esculentum quelques hétéroptères (Miridae, Pentatomidae, Pyrrhocoridae et Reduviidae) ont principalement été observés sur le gombo. La communauté de fourmi comprenait surtout des espèces mielliphages telles Myrmicaria opaciventris, Camponotus flavomarginatus, Pheidole megacephala et Technomyrmex sp. Mots clés : Insectes suceurs de sèves, pucerons, Formicidae, cultures maraîchères, inventaire.
Désirée Chantal Aléné, C. Djiéto-Lordon, Zéphirin Tadu, Daniel Burckhardt
African Entomology
Leucaena leucocephala (Fabaceae: Mimosoideae), originating from Central America, was introduced into Cameroon in the 1960s as a shade tree and for soil improvement. The tree is strongly infested by Heteropsylla cubana (Hemiptera: Psyllidae), also native to Central America. The purpose of this study is to record the presence of the psyllid in Cameroon, and assess its infestation pattern in order to provide the necessary data for an integrated pest management strategy. Data were collected at two sites, Koutaba (Western Highlands) and Yaounde (Southern Plateau), respectively, with three plots (K1, K2, K3) at the former site and one (Y) at the latter. The relative abundance of psyllids varied significantly between the four plots (K = 97.6, d.f. = 3, P < 0.0001). The Yaounde plot with a mean of 4013.71 individuals/100 leaves was more infested than any of those in Koutaba (with 1888.10, 314.60 and 2546.92 individuals/100 leaves, respectively). At both sites, the spatial distribution of psyllid populations globally followed an aggregated pattern with the dispersion index k ranging from 0.082 to 5.32. The infestation rate observed was influenced by plot age rather than climatic factors. In fact, the Yaounde plot was younger than those in Koutaba.
Champlain Djiéto‐Lordon, Désirée Chantal Aléné, Jean-Louis Reboul
Agritrop (Cirad)
Dans le cadre de la recherche des voies et moyens de l'amélioration des activités agricoles en zones urbaine et périurbaine au Cameroun, la présente étude a permis d'établir une liste commentée des insectes ravageurs des cultures maraîchères et de leurs ennemis naturels dans la région de Yaoundé. Les familles de cultures inventoriées et examinées sont: les Solanaceae, les Malvaceae, les Tiliaceae, les Amaranthaceae , les Fabaceae, les Apiaceae, les Lamiaceae, les Asteraceae, les Liliaceae. L'entomofaune déprédatrice des Solanaceae est de loin la plus diversifiée (25 espèces), suivie de celle des Malvaceae (14 espèces) puis des Amarantaceae et des Astéraceae avec 11 espèces chacune. Celle des autres familles est relativement pauvre avec respectivement six espèces d'insectes sur les Tiliacées, 3 sur les Cucurbitacées, deux sur les Lamiacées une sur les Apiacées et aucun ravageurs sur les Liliacées. Les données ainsi récoltées, quoique non exhaustive constituent un préliminaire dans la connaissance de la faune des ravageurs des cultures maraîchères dans la région de Yaoundé. Elles devraient servir de base à la conception des stratégies de surveillance et d'intervention dans ce secteur agricole. (Texte intégral)
Désirée Chantal Aléné, Jean Messi, Serge Quilici
Fruits
Some aspects of the biology of Diclidophlebia xuani Messi et al. (Hemiptera: Psyllidae), a pest of Ricinodendron heudelotii Baill. (Euphorbiaceae) in Cameroon.
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