Identification of visual and olfactory stimuli for cornsilk flies (Euxesta sp) management

Abstract

Maize (Zea mays L.) is the most widely cultivated cereal in the world. The introduction of the Bt gene and the development of sweet corn varieties with softer pericarp has led to the emergence of new pests in the genus Euxesta (Diptera: Ulidiidae), previously considered as secondary invaders. In Argentina, Euxesta eluta and Euxesta mazorca predominate. Some control measures are being implemented; however, no biorational control strategies have been developed to date. With aims at developing effective monitoring traps, this study investigated visual and olfactory stimuli that attract Euxesta sp.