Summary: | Herbivorous insects have developed a series of behavioral responses to insecticides used in agricultural systems. The
aim of the present study was to investigate behavioral changes in populations of diamondback moths exposed to areas treated with
different concentrations the oxine methylcarbamate insecticide. Populations of Plutella xylostella from the municipalities of Camocim
de São Félix-PE (CSF), Sairé-PE (SR), Lajedo-PE (LJ) and laboratory populations: Recife-PE (RCF) and Viçosa-MG (VÇS) were
exposed to dry residues of the insecticide in increasing doses. These populations had the behavioral parameters analyzed (Walking
Distance (DC), Walking Time (DC), Average Speed (VM), Number of Stops (NP) and Rest Time (TR)). Regarding CD, the
populations of SR, CSF, LJ and VÇS did not show a clear pattern of reduction or increase of CD. The FHR population did not show
any change in CD and differed statistically between studied areas. Regarding the TC parameter, the SR population showed an
increase in this parameter, the FHR decreased and the other populations did not show a defined pattern. For Parameter VM, there
was a reduction in the SR and CSF populations, and an increase in the MV in the FHR population. For the TR variable, the LJ, VSÇ
and CSF populations did not present a definite pattern, therefore, the RCF population increased and SR reduced this parameter.
Changes resulting from insect behavioral responses to insecticide-treated areas contribute to the poorer control effectiveness of
insecticides as they are less exposed to lethal concentrations.
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