The role of volatiles from cruciferous plants and pre‐flight experience in the foraging behaviour of the specialist parasitoid Cotesia plutellae

• DOI: 10.1046/j.1570-7458.1999.00565.x
• Publication Date: 2003-10-15T23:18:54Z
• Authors: R.P.J. Potting; G.M. Poppy; T.H. Schuler
• Keywords: Plutellidae; Parasitoid wasp

Abstract The braconid Cotesia plutellae is an important larval parasitoid of the diamondback moth ( Plutella xylostella ), a major pest crucifers in tropics and sub‐tropics. in‐flight searching behaviour C. was investigated wind tunnel close‐range attack observed cages. relative importance volatile stimuli emanating from plant‐host‐complex, oilseed rape Brassica napus ) – P. , long‐range attraction investigated. Plants that were mechanically damaged, or damaged by larvae, attractive to parasitoid. Host‐damaged leaves remained after removal host larvae. These results indicate predominantly uses plant derived its behaviour. An oviposition experience contact with host‐damaged leaf prior bioassay significantly increased response these cues. foraging compared other parasitoids attacking lepidopteran hosts on crucifers.