Australian Journal of Zoology (1989) 37, 675-683

S. Firempong and M.P. Zalucki (1989)
Host plant-selection by Helicoverpa armigera (Hubner) (Lepidoptera, Noctuidae) - role of certain plant attributes
Australian Journal of Zoology 37 (6), 675-683
Abstract: The role of some plant properties in host plant selection by adults of the polyphagous H. armigera were investigated. Those factors found to positively influence host plant selection included presence of flowers, plant height and application of soil fertiliser. The presence of flowers greatly increased a plant's attractiveness to oviposition. Non-hosts, on which larvae did not survive, were readily oviposited on when offered in flower along with known hosts not in flower. The attractiveness of flowers may provide a mechanism for the expansion of host range. However, no effect of crude plant extracts (including various flowers) on oviposition could be detected. The role of chemical attractants is discussed. Tall plants attracted heavy oviposition and it is suggested that moths use silhouette as a cue to locating plants. There was no effect of plant water status on oviposition.
(The abstract is excluded from the Creative Commons licence and has been copied with permission by the publisher.)
Link to article at publishers website
Database assignments for author(s): Myron P. Zalucki

Research topic(s) for pests/diseases/weeds:
general biology - morphology - evolution

---

Pest and/or beneficial records:

Beneficial	Pest/Disease/Weed	Crop/Product	Country	Quarant.
	Helicoverpa armigera