SEMI-FIELD EVALUATION OF ULTRA-LOW VOLUME (ULV) GROUND SPRAY OF AQUALUER ® 20-20 AGAINST IRRADIATED AEDES AEGYPTI

Abstract

Sterile insect technique (SIT) using irradiated mosquitoes is an effective control method capable of being assimilated into integrated vector management (IVM) programs. Chemical control of mosquitoes using ultra-low volume (ULV) spray applications of pyrethroid and organophosphate insecticides is already an essential component of IVM programs. Prior to their release in nature, irradiation of mosquitoes for SIT use can significantly impact the mosquito’s biology, specifically its host-seeking and feeding behavior. Little is known about how radiation exposure might impact a mosquito’s susceptibility to pyrethroid insecticides. The present study was carried out to evaluate the influence of Aqualuer ® 20-20 ULV applications on irradiated Aedes aegypti. Caged mosquito trials indicated that both male and female irradiated Ae. aegypti were as susceptible as their non-irradiated counterparts of the same population to Aqualuer 20-20 ULV application, with the highest mean percent mortalities achieved at the first 24h post-treatment period at both 30.5 m and 61 m downwind of the spray application path.