Morphogenetic derangements in the reproductive system of Bracon hebetor, a beneficial parasitoid, bred on juvenoid treated host (Corcyra cephalonica) larvae.

ABSTRACT

Effect of juvenoids (hydroprene and methoprene) on the ecto-parasite B. hebetor was investigated by rearing them upon the juvenoid treated ultimate instar host larvae of C. cephalonica. Emerged adultoid wasps of either sexes obtained from treated series showed anatomical deformities in the reproductive systems. Ill-developed ovaries with reduced length, terminally free ovarioles and abnormal testicular growth showing non-fusion of lobes were the important abnormal features. Data on measurements of male reproductive system, e.g., width (transverse axis) of testis, length of common vas deferens plus ejaculatory duct and length of accessory gland showed significant difference (P < 0.05) from control.