The Role of Kairomones in Host Recognition and Host Acceptance Behavior of the Parasite Brachymeria intermedia 134

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Abstract
The role of kairomones in host recognition and host acceptance of the parasite Brachymeria intermedia (Nees) (Hymenoptera: Chalcididae) was examined using 3 lepidopteran host species: the gypsy moth, Lymantria dispar (L.) (Lymantriidae); the greater wax moth, Galleria mellonella L. (Pyralidae); and the spruce budworm, Choristoneura fumiferana (Clemens) (Tortricidae). The behavioral sequence from initial contact of the host through oviposition and departure is described. Responses to kairomones washed from host pupae with equivalent amounts of n -hexane per pupal surface area were greatest with gypsy moth, followed by spruce budworm and wax moth. When pupae were washed several times with n -hexane, there was a reduction in responses to the gypsy moth washes, with a dramatic reduction in responses to wax moth and spruce budworm washes. Females responded to gypsy moth pupae after 3 washes, but not to wax moth and spruce budworm pupae. B. intermedia females did not respond to n -hexane washes of larvae, nor to washes of combined larval frass, exuviae, and silk. Parasite males showed no response to kairomones.