Inhibition of the larval ecdysis and emergence behavior of the parasitoid Cotesia congregata by methoprene.

Parasitism of the tobacco hornworm, Manduca sexta, by the braconid wasp Cotesia congregata, induces developmental arrest of the host in the larval stage. During the final instar of the host, its juvenile hormone (JH) titer is elevated, preventing host metamorphosis. This study investigated the effects of hormonal manipulation of the host on the parasitoid's emergence behavior.