Oviposition Behavior of Trichogramma californicum1 on Artificial Substrates2

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Abstract
Oviposition behavior of Trichogramma californicum Nagaraja and Nagarkatti on droplets of artificial substrates, enclosing liquid diet, is influenced by the kind of waxes used and varying combinations with vaseline. Waxes with a high melting point, parowax (m.p. 70°C) and beeswax (m.p. 80°C), were not penetrated by the ovipositor even with prolonged drilling. Stickiness and hardness seem to be factors preventing penetration. Waxes with lower melting points, ceresin (m.p. 50°C) and paraffin (m.p. 47°C) and combinations with vaseline in different ratios were penetrated by the ovipositor. The duration of drilling necessary for penetration of various wax:vaseline combinations increased with the percentage of wax and the corresponding hardness of the substrate, as denoted by the higher melting point. The results of tests to relate the hardness of the substrate with duration of antennal tapping and sensing with the abdominal tip, when the ovipositor is ensheathed, were variable.

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