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Effects of gamma radiation on the stable fly, Stomoxys nigra Macquart (Diptera: Muscidae)

Published online by Cambridge University Press:  10 July 2009

M Ramsamy
Affiliation:
Entomology Division, Ministry of Agriculture and Natural Resources and the Environment, Reduit, Mauritius.

Abstract

Abstract

Freshly formed (less than 1-day-old) pupae of Stomoxys nigra Macq. treated with gamma rays showed a linear-regression mortality-response with radiation exposure. Mature 5-day-old pupae did not show this effect and were considered more suitable for sterility studies. Flies emerging from both groups of treated pupae showed no deviation from a 1:1 sex ratio. Radiation inhibited fecundity. An exposure dose of 1000 R halved egg production and a dose of 2000 R almost stopped oviposition. Females from pupae exposed to 3000 R produced no eggs. Complete sterility of males was not achieved within the range of tested dosage; exposures of 3000 R and 4000 R induced 98–8 and 99–7% male sterility, respectively. Radiation reduced the longevity of both males and females. A dose of 3000 R did not impair either male mating ability or sexual competitiveness in small-scale laboratory tests.

Type
Original Articles
Copyright
Copyright © Cambridge University Press 1977

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