Influence of Neem-Azal T/S on feeding activity of Colorado Potato Beetles (Leptinotarsa decemlineata Say)
Institute of Agricultural and Environmental SciencesEstonian University of Life Sciences, Kreutzwaldi St. 1, EE51014 Tartu, Estonia;e-mail: kylli.hiiesaar@emu.ee, fax: 372 7 313 351
Abstract:
The influence of 0.3% water emulsion of Neem-Azal T/S on the behaviour and feeding activity of Colorado Potato Beetles (Leptinotarsa decemlineata Say) has been investigated. In choice test beetles mostly choose clean leaves, but did not avoid Neem-treated leaves entirely. In no-choice test beetles did not refuse to eat the Neem-treated food, although fed reluctantly. Consumption of Neem-treated leaf areas was reduced by 3–5 times in both, as in choice as in no-choice variants in comparison with control. Regarding the Colorado Potato Beetles, Neem-Azal T/S belongs to the category of relative antifeedant: it was not able completely deter beetles from visiting and eating the treated food. The antifeedant activity of preparation, which was expressed by the total coefficient of deterrence, exceeded 100. The interaction of time and treatment had no significant effect on feeding activity. Beetles did not become habituated to Neem-Azal T/S during one week.
Key words:
choice and no-choice test, Colorado potato beetles, food consumption, Neem-Azal T/S, placement