Journal of Applied Entomology (2008) 132, 382-386

F. Mattioli and G. Cabrera Walsh (2008)
Performance of marking techniques in the field and laboratory for Diabrotica speciosa (Germar) (Coleoptera: Chrysomelidae)
Journal of Applied Entomology 132 (5), 382-386
Abstract: A reliable marking technique was needed for a mark-release-recapture experiment with adults of Diabrotica speciosa (Germar). Four marking techniques, acrylic paint (spattered or brushed on the surface of the insect); and fluorescent pigments (dusted on surfaces or mixed with diet to produce an ingested marker), were tested. Fluorescent pigment durability for the dusting and ingested techniques was evaluated for laboratory conditions and under simulated field conditions. The impact of the techniques on beetle survival was also assessed. Both acrylic paint techniques caused mobility problems in the beetles, and neither technique lasted for more than 48 h. Both fluorescent pigment techniques were more reliable, but the dusting technique showed a significantly higher mortality than the control, and duration variations between laboratory and field conditions. Use of fluorescent pigments added to the diet was the most reliable technique. This technique allowed the manipulation of the marking period, and provided reliable timing of marker persistence in the field.
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Link to article at publishers website
Database assignments for author(s): Guillermo Cabrera Walsh

Research topic(s) for pests/diseases/weeds:
population dynamics/ epidemiology
environment - cropping system/rotation

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Pest and/or beneficial records:

Beneficial	Pest/Disease/Weed	Crop/Product	Country	Quarant.
	Diabrotica speciosa