Modulation of whitefly take-off and flight orientation by wind speed and visual cues

摘要: The effect of different wind speeds on take-off and flight orientation the sweetpotato whitefly, Bemisia tabaci Gennadius (Homoptera: Aleyrodidae), was studied in presence a green visual stimulus which reflected 550 ± 10 nm light, or white same intensity. When light present, negatively correlated with speed. Analysis tracks whiteflies 0, 15 30 cm/s present showed that not directed toward zero wind, insects were carried downwind as increased. Net displacement significantly slower than speed, indicating B. can control its rate relative to surroundings, is always passively transported by wind. In stimulus, behaviour markedly observed light. Taking off more likely made upwind orientated flights, landing illuminated section screen when it At all tested, mean ground approximately 20 cm/s whether flying downwind. This uniformity speed regardless changing effects wind-induced drift directions strongly suggests actively their using flow fields manner similar other examined thus far.