THE INFLUENCE OF FOOD ON LONGEVITY AND OVIPOSITION IN RHYSSA PERSUASORIA (L.) (HYMENOPTERA: ICHNEUMONIDAE)

ABSTRACT A study was made of the effect of carbohydrate food on the longevity and oviposition of Rhyssa persuasoria (L.). The adult life span was 9 days without food and approximately 45–55 days on a carbohydrate diet. When females were starved, searching and egg‐laying activity were reduced. Aphid honeydew was found to be as effective as honey solution in promoting longevity and oviposition. Some aspects of the availability of honeydew in Australian pine plantations and its importance in the establishment of rhyssines are discussed.