Analysis of Oviposition Preference in the Webbing Clothes Moth, Tineola bisselliella HUM. (Lepidoptera: Tineidae)

Abstract

The oviposition releasing factors in Tineola were studied through several preference tests using various kinds of oviposition substrates. The female moths laid their eggs predominantly on fleecy substrates irrespective of whether they were wool or cotton. Wool was less pre ferred than cotton, probably because of greasy substances adhering to it. Certain limitations were demonstrated in the moth's preference as to the mesh size of wire gauze or the dimen sion of the gap between two glass plates which were used as oviposition substrates. Moths seem to sense the configuration of the mesh or the gap by means of mechanoreceptors dis tributed on the ovipositor; if the configuration is suitable then oviposition is released. All the evidence indicated the importance of the tactile, rather than the chemical, stimuli al though the possibility of the latter in oviposition control cannot be excluded. © 1985, JAPANESE SOCIETY OF APPLIED ENTOMOLOGY AND ZOOLOGY. All rights reserved.