Wheat fertilization affects oviposition preference of wheat midge, <scp> <i>Sitodiplosis mosellana</i> </scp> (Géhin) (Diptera: Cecidomyiidae)

Plant fertilization increases plant growth, nitrogen, and protein levels, alters the VOC profile, and affects female wheat midge oviposition preference. Increased egg-laying may be affected by the observed changes in the VOC profile, which warrants further investigation comparing the effects of fertilization on the VOC profiles of susceptible and oviposition-deterrent wheat varieties. Under no-choice conditions we did not detect fertilization effects on wheat midge oviposition or early development, but future studies should focus on potential effects on adults and their reproduction. These findings provide a deeper understanding of how plant nutrients influence wheat midge-host plant interactions. © 2026 The Author(s). Pest Management Science published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of Society of Chemical Industry.