Effect ofBacillus thuringiensisendotoxin onApanteles litaeNixon andBracon instabilisMarsh. (Hym., Braconidae), two parasitoids of the potato tuber mothPhthorimia operculellaZeller (Lep., Gelishiidae)

Abstract

Abstract:Treatment of the host larvae,P. operculella, withB. thuringiensisdid not change their susceptibility to being parasitized by eitherB. instabilisorA. litae. The longevity of adults of both parasitoids, as well as their egg production, were not markedly affected as a result of the treatment, while the duration of immature stages was prolonged. Also, emergence of the adult parasitoids was significantly reduced. The longevity of emerged adult parasitoids was significantly shortened when fed on honey containingB. thuringiensisand the fertility of the resultant females was significantly reduced.