Effects of Buprofezin, Pyriproxyfen and Fenpropathrin on some foraging behaviors of Encarsia formosa

Greenhouse whitefly, Trialeurodes vaporariorum (Hom.: Aleyrodidae), causes economic damages in most of agricultural areas, which several natural enemies are restricting its damage. Among its natural enemies, Encarsia formosa (Hym: Aphelinidae) role in its population control is undeniable. Chemical pesticides can affect several various aspects of natural enemies’ biology. In the current research effects of three insecticides, Buprofezin, Pyriproxyfen and Fenpropathrin on host preference and functional response of E. formosa was studied. Wasps were exposed to insecticides by using leaf disc method. Experiments were carried out under controlled conditions, 26 ± 1 ºC, 60 ± 5 RH and 16:8 (: D). According to obtained results parasitized hosts, third instar, were not significantly different in control and Buprofezin treated wasps (P > 0.05) and also between control and Pyriproxyfen treated wasps (P > 0.05). However control wasps significantly parasitized more hosts than Fenpropathrin treated wasps (P