Document Type
Thesis - Open Access
Award Date
1964
Degree Name
Master of Science (MS)
Department / School
Entomology-Zoology
Abstract
Three species of Diabrotica, the western corn rootworm, D. Virgifera, Lec; the northern corn rootworm, D. longicornis, (say); and the southern corn rootworm, D. undecimpuenctata howardi, Barber; are generally abundant during the summer months in corn fields in various areas throughout the Midwest. Field observations indicate that these insects apparently have preferred feeding sites on host plants. In corn fields they frequently congregate and feed on the silks and tassels. As the corn reached maturity, the Diabrotica beetles feed extensively on the more succulent parts of the remaining silks. Some feeding also occurs on weeds and other plants within the corn field. Feeding occurs on the blossoms and leaves of alfalfa and clover and on the blossoms of cucurbits. The field observations previously mentioned provided the basis for the preliminary investigation onto the olfactory capabilities of the Diabrotica beetles. The ultimate objective of this type of research, although not within the scope of this problem, is to isolate and identify the compound or compounds responsible for attraction. This material might ultimately be incorporated with an insecticide in trapping devices to reduce the general practice of widespread field application chemicals.
Library of Congress Subject Headings
Beetles
Diabrotica
Agricultural pests
Description
Includes bibliographical references
Format
application/pdf
Number of Pages
66
Publisher
South Dakota State University
Recommended Citation
Hostetter, Donald L., "Observations of the Locomotor Responses of Diabrotica Virgifera lec., D. Undecimpunctata Howardi Barber and D. Longicornis (SAY), as Induced by Various Odoriferous Plant Materials" (1964). Electronic Theses and Dissertations. 2996.
https://openprairie.sdstate.edu/etd/2996