Abstract
In laboratory bioassays, the ovipositors of virgin females of the Hessian fly, Mayetiola destructor (Say), released a sex pheromone that attracted males. Pheromone release appeared to be regulated by extension and retraction of the ovipositor. Males were highly attracted to females with extended ovipositors. Females mated only once. After mating, females were unattractive to males. Female sexual behavior was manifested in a diurnal rhythm. Female attractiveness and mating activity were highest from 0600 to 1000 hours and lowest from 1400 to 1800 hours. Female age up to 72 h had little effect on sexual attractiveness or mating success.

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