The beetle Alphitobius diaperinus (Coleoptera: Tenebrionidae), known as lesser mealworm or darkling beetle is a cosmopolitan pest and a crucial problem in poultry production. Consequently, deterioration of animals’ health and fitness is observed. Hence, an effective deterrent against lesser mealworm is highly desired. As the model repellent, propionic acid was used. Only one paper treats on the effect of pure propionic acid, without additional substances. Dose-dependent repellent effects on adult stored-grain pests: Sitophilus granarius and S. Oryzae was observed. In our experimental setup each insect was placed separately in a custom-made rectangular chamber made of clear Lucite with constant air flow sources at the opposite sides of each chamber. The insect was allowed to move freely between the side supplying the chamber with pure air, and that with propionic acid odored air. The locomotion of insects was digitally recorded and analyzed with SwisStrack software. As the effect of analysis a pattern of spatial preferences was obtained. Used method allowed to determine dynamic changes of spatial behavior modified by olfactory stimulus. Developed protocol will be useful as an assay to test potential repellent agents against A. diaperinus.
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