Resistance inducing agents on the biology and probing behaviour of the greenbug in wheat

Abstract

The greenbug Schizaphis graminum (Rond.) (Hemiptera: Aphididae) is one of the main pestinsects of wheat (Triticum aestivum, L.). Resistance inducing agents as silicon (Si) and acibenzolar-s-methyl (ASM) can provide some protection against insects and diseases. The effect of Si and/or ASM on the development and probing behaviour of S. graminum in wheat plants was evaluated. Wheat plants (cultivar Embrapa 22) were treated with Si (silicic acid at the rate of 1%) and acibenzolar-S-methyl (ASM) at the rate of 0.5%. The effects of these treatments on greenbugs were analyzed by development parameters, honeydew excretion and probing behavior monitored by Electrical Penetration Graphs (EPG). The development and honeydew experiments consisted of ten replications each and EPG experiment was replicated 25 times. The application of both resistance inducing agents reduced fecundity, prolonged the duration of pre-reproductive period, and decreased honeydew production. Induced resistance was localized mainly at phloem level and caused a strong reduction of phloem sap ingestion, but some effect of ASM at parenchyma/mesophyll level could not be discounted as far fewer aphids reached the sieve elements.