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How to measure the food utilization of subterranean insects: a case study with the western corn rootworm ( Diabrotica virgifera virgifera )
Author(s) -
Moeser J.,
Vidal S.
Publication year - 2005
Publication title -
journal of applied entomology
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 0.795
H-Index - 60
eISSN - 1439-0418
pISSN - 0931-2048
DOI - 10.1111/j.1439-0418.2005.00928.x
Subject(s) - western corn rootworm , biology , larva , insect , agronomy , pest analysis , botany
To date, nutritional studies on subterranean insects have focused on qualitative aspects due to experimental limitations. We have developed a method of studying insect–plant interactions quantitatively in subterranean environments. The initial and final weights of larvae of Diabrotica virgifera virgifera LeConte (Chrysomelidae, Galeruncinae) and those of maize roots, which served as food items were determined. The difference between initial and final weight of larvae and roots allowed for the calculation of the food conversion efficiency. This can be used to portray differences in food quality and its impact on larval performance and development.