G. it. Ent., 3 (17): 409-412
December 31, 1987
Bionomics of Trioxys indicus Subba Rao & Sharma,
an aphidiid parasitoid of Aphis craccivora Koch. 25.
The role of host haemolymph in the host stage preference
by the parasitoid
by
RAJENDRA SINGH & MAMTA SRIVASTAVA
Abstract - The parasitoid Trioxys indicus examines more intensely filter paper squares soaked in the haemolymph of its host Aphis craccivora. Host haemolymph contains host seeking stimulants - the kairomones - for the parasitoid, which help her to recognize and accept the host. The parasitoid was more responsive to the haemolymph of the third nymphal instar of the host than others. The differential response of the parasitoid (in terms of time required to reach, frequency of antennal contacts with and hitting, and period spent at, the different nymphal instars haemolymph patch) was discussed on the account of variable concentrations of kairomones in the haemolymph of the different host stages.
