Mate-seeking behavior and reduced mating byEphestia cautella (Walker) in a sex pheromone-permeated atmosphere.

The mating rate ofEphestia cautella (Walker) was inversely related to the level of pheromone permeating the air. However, permeation did not prevent mating by altering the number of females calling or the frequency, duration, or pattern of male flight. Instead, permeation probably prevented mating by reducing the distance from which a male can respond to a female. The pheromone level necessary to achieve a particular reduction in mating increases with moth density.