Locomotor activity of Trichogramma brassicae (Hymenoptera) under the influence of high-temperature shocks

In order to assess the effects of high temperatures prevailing during the releases of Trichogramma brassicae Bezdenko parasitoid used against the European corn borer Ostrinia nubilalis Huebner, we exposed wasps in the white pupa stage (WP) to single or double shocks (at 35 or 44 degree C for 6 h) in the laboratory. The locomotor activity of adults in the presence of O. nubilalis egg masses is greater than in pure air. Single or double shocks at 35 degree C have little effect on the females. On the contrary, wasps exposed to single or double shocks at 44 degree C had a lower motility than control wasps.