Influence of the site of oviposition on the level of egg parasitism in the corn leafhopper, Dalbulus maidis (Hemiptera: Cicadellidae)

The corn leafhopper Dalbulus maidis (DeLong) (Hemiptera: Cicadellidae), transmits three important plant pathogens that adversely affect crop and ranges from the USA to Argentina. vector has a rich natural enemy complex generates high levels of parasitism, but its populations are persistent prevalent. We characterized oviposition sites D. on young plants in order verify hypothesis an strategy for mitigating parasitism. Oviposition locations were assessed laboratory eggs within exposed parasitism cornfield. Eggs located mostly laid unfolded leaves attacked by five parasitoid species. Parasitism was significantly affected class leaf position egg leaf. Anagrus virlai Triapitsyn most abundant species, which emerged higher basal blade than other Our results suggest leafhoppers minimize laying their concealed plant.