Monitoramento populacional e danos de Herminodes sp. (Lepidoptera: Erebidae): primeiro registro em açaizeiros no sul do Amazonas

Abstract

The açaí palm (Euterpe oleracea Mart.) is a species of significant economic importance to the Amazon region, and its productivity can be compromised by insect pests. This study aimed to monitor the occurrence and population fluctuations of Herminodes sp. (Lepidoptera: Erebidae) in an açaí palm plantation in the municipality of Humaitá, southern Amazonas, as well as to evaluate its relationship with climatic variables and the damage caused to the crop. Monitoring was conducted weekly for 14 consecutive weeks, between April and July 2025, in an area containing 514 açaí palm plants. Sampling involved visual inspections of the plants and the use of light traps to capture adults. During the evaluation period, 170 Herminodes sp. larvae were observed and collected, alongside records of pupal, cocoon, and adult stages; this confirmed the species' establishment in the study area and constituted the first record of its occurrence associated with açaí palm cultivation in southern Amazonas. Infestation levels varied throughout the evaluation period, with higher occurrence rates observed in areas under micro-sprinkler irrigation. The observed damage was characterized by leaf yellowing, dark spots on the stem, and plant lodging, highlighting the species' potential to compromise crop development and productivity. Analysis of climatic variables indicated a significant negative correlation between insect infestation and solar radiation. These results expand knowledge regarding the bioecology, damage, and population dynamics of Herminodes sp. in açaí palm plantations, providing a basis for future Integrated Pest Management strategies in the Amazon region.