Effect of floral nectar, water, and feeding frequency on Cotesia glomerata longevity

Abstract

This study examined how water, sucrose, and frequency of nectar availability affects the longevity of the parasitoid Cotesia glomerata (L.) (Hymenoptera: Braconidae). Under standard laboratory conditions, water did not extend longevity in the absence of sugar in three out of four comparisons, nor did it extend longevity with access to nectar. Cotesia glomerata lived 2–3 days when given water or nothing, 8–15 days when given buckwheat (Fagopyrum esculentum Moench) nectar daily with or without water, and 23–26 days when given a 50% sucrose solution. The lifespan of C. glomerata fed flowers every other day was one-third shorter than that of C. glomerata fed flowers every day, but this difference was not statistically significantly. Only minimal benefits occurred when flowers were given every 3 days.