Author
 |
Jewett, Darryl |
|
Carpenter, James |
|
Submitted to: Annals of the Entomological Society of America
Publication Type: Peer Reviewed Journal Publication Acceptance Date: 6/1/1997 Publication Date: N/A Citation: N/A Interpretive Summary: Diapetimorpha introita is a parasitoid of fall armyworm/beet armyworm pupae in south Georgia. Release of D. introita adults could be a valuable tool for managing low density populations of overwintering armyworms. Recent progress in techniques for mass rearing D. Introita may help realize its potential as a biocontrol agent. As their potential importance e to managing armyworms grows, a convenient method of monitoring D. introit in fields is desired. Results of the present study show that males are attracted by females. An active extract that attracts males will allow for more convenient monitoring of D. introita, facilitate identification of the sex attractant, and provide insight into other chemically mediated behaviors like host-finding. Technical Abstract: Data supporting chemically mediated communication between males and females of a pupal parasitoid, Diapetimorpha introita, were gathered from the field, with a bioassay, and with an electroantennogram. In the field, more males were recovered from traps baited with females than from traps baited with males or a control. In the bioassay, more males also were recovered from traps baited with females than from traps baited with males or a control. In electroantennogram experiments, responses of male antennae to females or a direct extract of their entire body were greater than responses to males, their extract or a control. Although small, responses of female antennae were often significant. Responses of antennae to the extract from each of an insect's body parts were consistent with those to extracts of entire insects, but a more specific site of release could not be identified. None of the extracts attracted males in the bioassay, but methods of acquiring one that does are being considered. |
