Influence of temperature and other factors on flight behavior of the cigarette beetle (Lasioderma serricorne (Fabricus))

Mahsa Fardisi, Purdue University

Abstract

Temperature is an important factor that can affect the monitoring of insect populations in storage facilities. Temperature may be high enough for insect growth but not high enough to initiate flying or walking to a trap. If this is the case, then an empty pheromone trap does not necessarily mean that the facility is free from insect infestation. Temperatures within the appropriate range stimulate flight activity, an important factor in cigarette beetle infestation spread. This research addresses the influence of a primary environmental condition (temperature) on monitoring of cigarette beetle in storage facilities. The first part of this research indicated the minimum flight initiation temperature and range of temperatures that allow cigarette beetle flight. Effects of other variables (gender, age and mating status) also were indicated. Part two of this research consisted of two sections. First, effect of food lure on flight activity of mated females of 6–9 d-old was tested. Second, effect of a sex pheromone lure on flight activity of mated males of 6–9 d-old was examined.

Degree

M.S.

Advisors

Mason, Purdue University.

Subject Area

Entomology

COinS