Diel oviposition activity of Armigeres subalbatus (Diptera, Culicidae)

Abstract

The diel oviposition activity of Armigeres subalbatus (Coquillett) was investigated under natural conditions in a shaded home-garden habitat in Kandy. A total of 28,771 eggs of this species were collected in an ovitrap during 10 diel cycles carried out in December 1987 - January 1988. Oviposition activity was biphasic, with a major peak at sunset and a secondery peak of sunrice. The diel oviposition profile was similer to the biting profile of the species and it appears that rapid changes in light intensity associated with the crepuscular periods act as cues controlling maor rhythmic activity patterns of the species.