ABSTRACT
This chapter discusses the factors that play a role in the choice of plants for oviposition and to compile a list of known stimulants and deterrents. Assessment of the role played by stimulants and deterrents in oviposition by insects depends on a sound knowledge of all the physical as well as chemical stimuli that affect landing on and acceptance of a plant. The factors that determine whether a plant is utilized by a specific insect are numerous and complex. The chemical stimuli involved in mediating oviposition may be perceived by various chemoreceptors on different parts of an insect’s body. The promise of deterrents in discouraging oviposition by agriculturally important pests has prompted many studies on the effects of known chemicals sprayed on the plants. The potential use of oviposition deterrents to protect crop plants from insects at a stage before any feeding damage can occur is particularly appealing to agricultural entomologists.
