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Cannibalism in mosquito larvae during microbial larvicide potency tests
1Department of Biological Chemistry, A. Silberman Institute of Life Sciences, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Jerusalem, Israel.
Folia Parasitologica
|May 1, 2020
Summary
Cannibalism occurred in Culex pipiens larvae during Lysinibacillus sphaericus larvicide bioassays without food. This intraspecific predation, especially in younger larvae, impacts bioassay results and requires optimal testing conditions.
Area of Science:
- Entomology
- Pest Management
- Toxicology
Background:
- Culex pipiens larvae are significant disease vectors.
- Lysinibacillus sphaericus is a widely used biopesticide.
- Larvicide bioassays are crucial for evaluating pesticide efficacy.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate larval cannibalism in Culex pipiens during Lysinibacillus sphaericus bioassays.
- To assess the impact of food deprivation on cannibalistic behavior.
- To highlight the implications of cannibalism for bioassay interpretation.
Main Methods:
- Larval bioassays of Lysinibacillus sphaericus were conducted on Culex pipiens.
- Larvae were exposed to the larvicide for 48 hours without food.
- Observations focused on instances of intraspecific predation.
Main Results:
- Cannibalism (intraspecific predation) was observed among intra-instar Culex pipiens larvae.
- Larvae attacked and consumed visibly affected larvae.
- Cannibalism was more frequent in 1st-2nd instar larvae compared to 3rd-4th instar larvae.
Conclusions:
- Cannibalism in Culex pipiens larvae can influence Lysinibacillus sphaericus larvicide bioassay outcomes.
- The phenomenon is significant when larval exposure exceeds 24 hours and food is absent.
- Optimal conditions, including adequate nutrition, are essential for accurate bioassay results.
