Development of liquid larval diet with modified rearing system for Bactrocera dorsalis (Hendel) (Diptera: Tephritidae) for the application of sterile insect technique

摘要

A liquid larval diet and its rearing system have been developed for mass rearing of Bactrocera dorsalis (Hendel). Baking yeast, soy bran, soy proteins were used at different combinations for the formulation of liquid diet. Sugar, anti-microbial agent (sodium benzoate) and citric acid were also included in the diet. The quality parameters of flies reared on liquid larval diets i.e., pupal weight, pupal density, larval duration, percentage adult emergence, percentage fliers, percentage egg hatch, male-female ratios were comparatively better on modified liquid diet where baking yeast, soy bran and soy protein was used at 2:1:1 ratio. Low cost disposable plastic boxes and sponge cloths used as rearing tray and supporting substrate for larvae which reduce the rearing space and replace the need for the traditional bulking agents (wheat bran/mill feed) for mass production of B. dorsalis under laboratory condition. Benefits derived from liquid diet and its rearing system is discussed in relation to use of Sterile Insect Technique programmes of B. dorsalis .