An experimental study of Phototactic responses of Tanytarsus barbitarsis Freeman (Diptera: Chironomidae

Abstract

A series of salt lakes near Port Augusta, South Australia, supports large larval populations of Tanytarsus barbitarsis Freeman, a chironomid midge. When adults emerge they often fly to nearby artificial lights, and when large numbers do so a considerable nuisance to local residents is caused. In an investigation designed to provide control advice, those parts of the spectrum of particular attractivity to adults were identified in an experimental study of phototactic responses. Results indicated that the peak of attractivity lies in the near-ultraviolet part of the spectrum (370-400 nm). A second, weaker peak lies between 490 and 510 nm. Light intensity does not appear to be important. Certain sorts of commercially available lamps emit light with peaks in those parts of the spectrum attractive to T. barbitarsis and may be suitable for control purposes.