Effects of UV-absorbing plastic films on greenhouse whitefly (Homoptera: Aleyrodidae).
Studies were conducted to investigate the effects of ultraviolet (UV)-absorbing plastic films on the orientation and distribution behavior of the greenhouse whitefly, Trialeurodes vaporariorum (Westwood). In field experiments, small tunnels were constructed and covered with either an UV-transmitting (Thermilux) or UV-absorbing (K-Rose) plastic film. Results show that significantly more whiteflies were recorded in the tunnels with high compared with those with low UV intensities. Moreover, whitefly penetration and dispersion were less inside the UV-deficient tunnels. These results suggest that the type of plastic film used for greenhouse covers may have a significant influence on both the initial immigration and distribution of T. vaporariorum into greenhouses. The possibilities of using UV-absorbing plastic films for whitefly integrated pest management in greenhouses are discussed.
Mutwiwa
Urbanus N
UN
Department of Horticulture, Herrenhauser Strasse 2, University of Hannover, D 30419, Hannover, Germany.
Borgemeister
Christian
C
von Elsner
Burkhard
B
Tantau
Hans-Juergen
HJ
D000383:Agriculture / Q000379:methods; D000818:Animals; D003252:Construction Materials; D004780:Environment, Controlled; D006430:Hemiptera / Q000502:physiology*; D007300:Insect Control / Q000379:methods*; D008027:Light; D010969:Plastics; D014466:Ultraviolet Rays
D010969:Plastics