Host-finding behavior ofPatasson lameerei [Hym., Chalcidoidea], a parasitoid ofSitona eggs [Col., Curculionidae]

Patasson lameerei Debauche females showed significant positive responses in olfactometer studies to chewed or damaged alfalfa and red clover plant material and to the feces of adultSitona hispidulus (Fabricius) weevils. No significant responses were obtained for the host eggs or the adult weevils themselves. Intact females produced an average of 12.8 offspring when exposed to 16S. hispidulus eggs for 12 h under light. Intact females under dark conditions and females with antennae removed and under light and dark conditions produced an average of 0.8, 0.4 and 0.0 offspring, respectively. A sequence of host finding byP. lameerei females is suggested.