Behavioural responses of the serpentine leafminer to visual and olfactory stimuli

<p dir="ltr">Introduction: The invasive serpentine leafminer (SLM), Liriomyza huidobrensis, now established in Australia, rapidly develops resistance to pesticides. Understanding the development of SLM on different hosts, along with early detection and mass trapping is crucial for the sustainable management of this pest. We investigated SLM’s development on important hosts, and their response to different colours and shapes of sticky traps, and essential oils in the laboratory as well as in the field.</p><p dir="ltr">Hypothesis: The visual (colour and shape), and olfactory (essential oils) stimuli influence the behaviour of SLM.</p><p dir="ltr">Methods: SLM development was studied on various hosts under laboratory conditions. The response of SLM to five different coloured sticky traps was assessed. Geometric shapes of yellow sticky traps were then tested, leading to the design of a radially symmetrical flower model trap (FMT). Additionally, Y-tube olfactometer assays identified attractant essential oils, which were tested alongside the FMT to evaluate potential synergistic effects in attracting SLM.</p><p dir="ltr">Results: SLM showed a preference for oviposition and developed better on kidney beans and broad beans. Yellow sticky traps proved to be the most effective traps, with no significant influence of shape. However, FMT captured more SLM than regular-shaped traps. Basil and clove oils attracted SLM in Y-tube olfactometer assays but did not enhance SLM attraction in field conditions.</p><p dir="ltr">Conclusions: Kidney beans and broad beans are preferred hosts for SLM. A radially symmetrical FMT enhanced SLM trapping. Clove and basil oils attracted SLM in the Y-tube olfactometer assays but not in the field.</p>