Effects of sodium chloride on feeding behavior of Eurygaster integriceps Put. (Heteroptera, Scutelleridae) and usabilities as an insecticide enhancer

Abstract

A study was conducted to determine the effects of sodium chloride (NaCl) on the sunn pest, Eurygaster integriceps Put. (Heteroptera, Scutelleridae) feeding and using as an insecticide enhancer in the laboratory. Firstly, it was examined the feeding behavior of adults on wheat kernels and 2.-3. instar nymphs on ear of grain. It was observed the feding behavior of sunn pest on distilled water threated and % 0.5 NaCl threated wheat by stereomicroskobic observation duration 3 hours. Secondly, the study was conducted to determine the effect of the addition of % 0.5 NaCl to insecticides, on the control of the sunn pest nymphs. Sunn pest nymphs releasing on ears sprayed with recommended doses of four insecticides and half-recommended doses of four insecticides+% 0.5 NaCl was tested in petri dishes. Results showed that NaCl had an arresting effect over the sunn pest and no differences were observed for mortality among rates of insecticides or insecticide+ NaCl. As a result of study, it was deduced that addition of NaCl to tested insecticides may provide a reduction of at least 50% of the recommended dose, without reducing effectiveness. However, these results should be demonstrated by field trials.