Lethal and sublethal effects of spirodiclofen on the biological performance of the predatory thrips Scolothrips longicornis (Thysanoptera: Thripidae)

Abstract

Determination of negative non-target effects of insecticides on natural enemies by measuring only lethal effects is likely to undercalculate effects from sublethal doses. In this study, the sublethal effects of spirodiclofen on the predatory thrips Scolothrips longicornis Priesner fed on Tetranychus urticae Koch were estimated under laboratory conditions. Exposure to sublethal concentrations (LC10, LC20 and LC30) of Spirodiclofen significantly affected fecundity and longevity of treated females of S. longicornis. In addition, transgenerational effects on reproductive and life table parameters of the subsequent generation were established. The results from this study can be utilized to develop guidance for the use of spirodiclofen in order to reduce the impact on S. longicornis.