Effect of kairomones from egg and female adult stages ofOstrinia nubilalis (Hübner) (Lepidoptera, Pyralidae) onTrichogramma brassicae Bezdenko (Hymenoptera, Trichogrammatidae) female kinesis.

Volatile chemicals emanating from the different developmental stages ofOstrinia nubilalis Hübner (Lepidoptera, Pyralidae) increase the mobility ofTrichogramma brassicae Bezdenko (Hymenoptera, Trichogrammatidae) in a linear airflow olfactometer. In this paper, we have demonstrated that airborne chemicals from egg masses and virgin females during calling activity stimulate an intensive search behavior byTrichogramma females. On the other hand, emanations from mated females with extruded abdominal tips do not incite the parasitoid's movement. For the moment we cannot elucidate, with these bioassays, the real role of these kairomones as attractants, guides, stimulants, or retainers.