Evaluation of fast neutron irradiation as a new control method against the Indian meal moth, Plodia interpunctella (Hübner)

ABSTRACT Ionizing radiation is considered a promising treatment for stored product pest management. The dose levels 0, 64, 128, 192, and 256 Gy of Fast Neutron Irradiation (FNI) were tested to determine the lethal dose for preventing the reproduction of Plodia interpunctella. The dose needed to induce sterility in both sexes of adult moths is also evaluated. The results of immature stages irradiation demonstrated that the developmental periods and adult longevity were significantly shorter than the control treatments. Moreover, the reductions of fecundity, fertility, and growth rate were based on the dose of FNI, insect sex, and sage. The results revealed that inherited sterility in F1 generation was more prevalent in irradiated male pupae than irradiated female pupae and also full grown larvae. The results indicated that the 256 Gy was prevented the development of all immature, thus we could considered it as a lethal dose that use in disinfestation treatment. While, full grown pupae irradiation with 128 Gy was an effective dose that induce adequate sterility of Plodia interpunctella that can use in the sterile insect technique program