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Non-target arthropod testing with the predatory bug (Orius laevigatus)

The acute toxicity of Orius laevigatus nymphs will be measured in the laboratory via contact on treated leaves compared to a water treated control and to a reference item. Additionally, an assessment for significant sublethal effects will be made (reproduction assessment). If possible the LR50 value for mortality effects will be calculated.

Study Design

Test organisms

The predatory bug Orius laevigatus is recommended as standard species for non-target arthropod regulatory testing for plant protection products (Candolfi et al. 2001).

Course of the test

Exposure time will last approximately 9 days. Mortality asessments will be carried out at least 2 times a week after treatment. In addition, for the control and the test item treatment groups where the corrected mortality is less than 50 % the reproductive performance of the adults, i.e. egg deposition and nymphal hatching rate, will be determined (2 checks, each lasting 2 days, nymphal hatching rate from the 1st check).

Tailor-made study designs

The study can also be performed in an aged residue design. For this study type plants will be treated under field conditions and the treated leaves will be transferred to the lab after aging of a determined time period. The course of the test is the same as described above.

Endpoints

Nymphal mortality; if possible LR50: lethal rate producing 50 % mortality. Additionally reproductive capacity of survived predatory bugs.

Guidelines and Literature

  • Bakker F.M., Aldershof S.A., Veire M v.d., Candolfi M.P., Izquierdo J.I., Kleiner R., Neumann Ch., Nienstedt K.M. and Walker H., 2000: A laboratory test for evaluating the effects of plant protection products on the predatory bug, Orius laevigatus (Fieber) (Heteroptera: Anthocoridae). - In: Candolfi, M.P., Blümel, S., Forster, R., Bakker, F.M., Grimm, C., Hassan, S.A., Heimbach, U., Mead-Briggs, M.A., Reber, B, Schmuck, R. & H. Vogt (edt.) (2000): Guidelines to evaluate side-effects of plant protection products to non-target arthropods. IOBC/ WPRS, OILB/SROP: pp 57-70