Possible use of insect growth regulators as chemosterilants against Ceratitis capitata
In laboratory experiments conducted in Spain, 10 insect growth regulators were tested as chemosterilizing agents for Ceratitis capitata (EPPO A2 quarantine pest). The compounds were given to adult flies, mixed with their food. Sterilizing activity was studied on virgin or mated females and on males. The best results were obtained with lufenuron and triflumuron, and more particularly with lufenuron. None of the tested products prevented fecundity completely, as some eggs were produced. However, lufenuron completely prevented egg hatch at a dosage of 1,000 ppm for 3 h in mated and virgin females, and at 5,000 ppm in males. Further studies in the natural habitat of C. capitata are needed to confirm the possibility of substituting organophosphates with lufenuron applied in traps or sprayed (as spot treatments), combined with attractants (lure and food bait).
Sources
Casaña-Giner, V.; Gandía-Balaguer, A.; Mengod-Puerta, C.; Primo-Millo, J.; Primo-Yúfera, E. (1999) Insect growth regulators as chemosterilants for Ceratitis capitata (Diptera: Tephritidae).
Journal of Economic Entomology, 92(2), 303-308.