Artificial carbon dioxide source to attract lesser cornstalk borer (Lepidoptera: Pyralidae) larvae

Area of Science:

• Agricultural Entomology
• Pest Management
• Chemical Ecology

Background:

• The lesser cornstalk borer, *Elasmopalpus lignosellus* (Zeller), is a significant pest in agriculture.
• Understanding insect olfactory responses is crucial for developing novel pest control strategies.
• Carbon dioxide (CO2) is a known attractant for various insect species.

Purpose of the Study:

• To identify effective artificial carbon dioxide (CO2) sources for attracting lesser cornstalk borer larvae.
• To investigate the relationship between CO2 release rates, concentration, and larval attraction.
• To evaluate the efficacy of CO2 sources under simulated soil conditions and in combination with insecticides.

Main Methods:

• Olfactory bioassays using an olfactometer were conducted to assess larval attraction.
• Infrared gas analysis was employed to measure carbon dioxide release rates from different combinations of urea, urease (in jack bean meal), and water.
• Simulated soil conditions using Zonolite and the addition of insecticides (Lorsban, Temik, Force) were tested.

Main Results:

• A combination of urea, jack bean meal, and water was necessary for significant carbon dioxide release and larval attraction.
• Optimal CO2 concentrations were identified; excessively high levels decreased attractiveness.
• Larvae were significantly more attracted to artificial CO2 sources compared to controls, even under simulated soil conditions. Insecticides did not significantly alter CO2 release rates.

Conclusions:

• Artificial carbon dioxide sources, specifically formulated mixtures of urea, jack bean meal, and water, can effectively attract lesser cornstalk borer larvae.
• This research provides a basis for developing attractant-based lures for monitoring or controlling this pest.
• The findings highlight the importance of optimizing CO2 concentration for maximum insect attraction.