Effect of host fruit species, size, and color on parasitization of Anastrepha ludens (Diptera: Tephritidae) by Diachasmimorpha longicaudata (Hymenoptera: Braconidae).
Leyva J. L., Browning H. W., Gilstrap F. E.
Author Affiliation: Department of Entomology, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX 77843-2475, USA.
Environmental Entomology 20 : 1469-1474
Abstract : The effect of fruit species on parasitism of Anastrepha ludens by Diachasmimorpha longicaudata [Biosteres longicaudatus] and the roles of fermenting fruit volatiles, size and colour in host habitat selection by the parasitoid were studied in the laboratory. The smallest percentage parasitism was recorded for larvae in grapefruit. On the other hand, grapefruit volatiles and size proved most attractive to B. longicaudatus. Greater percentage parasitism was recorded for larvae in smaller and apparently less attractive fruit (peaches, mangoes and oranges). The length of the parasitoid's ovipositor, depth of the fruit pulp and host larval behaviour could explain these contrasting results. Citrus volatiles attracted almost twice as many female parasitoids as volatiles of mango or peach. Fruit >5 cm in diameter were equally attractive to B. longicaudatus. Selection of colours by B. longicaudatus was not statistically different among colours tested.