Effects of Concentration and Thickness of Agar on the Predatory Behaviour of Mononchoides Longicaudatus and M. Fortidens (Nematoda: Diplogasterida)

The attraction of Mononchoides longicaudatus and M. fortidens was affected by different concentrations and thickness of agar layers. The maximum attraction took place at 1 and 2 per cent concentration and in agar layers of 4–6 mm in thickness. Agar concentrations of 1 and 2 per cent were also suitable for predation. M. longicaudatus and M. fortidens killed maximum number of Hirschmanniella oryzae and Meloidogyne incognita juveniles at these concentrations. However, the rate of predation remained unaltered in all agar layers. The activity of predators and prey is attributed as the cause of differential response of predators.