Effects of kaolin-based particle film on spruce budworm (Choristoneura fumiferana (Lepidoptera: Tortricidae)) oviposition in the laboratory

A laboratory study conducted in 2003 determined the influence of a kaolin-based particle film (Surround™ WP Crop Protectant) on spruce budworm (Choristoneura fumiferana (Clem)) oviposition. Three concentrations (15, 30 and 60 g litre−1 spray carrier) were applied to white spruce (Picea glauca (Moench) Voss). When presented with different paired choices of oviposition surfaces, spruce budworms laid very few egg masses overall and showed no significant (P < 0.05) preference between kaolin-coated and untreated foliage. During no-choice tests, spruce budworms were significantly (P < 0.05) less inclined to oviposit on the 60 g kaolin litre−1 treated foliage than on the controls, but no kaolin treatment completely inhibited spruce budworm oviposition. Egg mass size and percentage hatch were unaffected by the kaolin treatments, and overall the percentage of egg masses laid on foliage was inversely proportional to treatment concentration. It is unlikely that kaolin-based particle film would be practical for wide use in natural forests without significant adaptations to current pesticide application equipment and methods. However, the technique might be feasible in selected urban settings. © 2005 Her Majesty the Queen in Right of Canada. Published for SCI by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.