Behavioral response of Stomoxys calcitrans (Diptera : Muscidae) to conspecific feces and feces extracts

The attraction response of Stomoxys calcitrans (L.) to its own feces was ev aluated in a triple cage olfactometer. Both time- and concentration-respons e relationships were obtained for female S. calcitrans exposed to cellulose sponges impregnated with fresh By feces or filter papers treated with chlo roform:methanol extracts of fresh By feces in B-min tests. Attraction to fe ces collected on cellulose sponges decreased as the air now increased. Fece s collected on cellulose sponges and held for 28-31 d retained attractive a ctivity. More female flies were attracted than males to feces on sponges or to polar solvent extracts of feces-contaminated cages. The activity of fec es extract on Biter paper decreased rapidly. Chemical identification of the active compounds present could lead to useful baits for traps.