Using a population growth model to simulate response of Plodia interpunctella Hübner populations to timing and frequency of insecticide treatments

摘要

Management strategies for urban and stored-product pests are chosen for a variety of attributes including cost, efficacy, and human safety. Insect growth regulators, which are low-risk alternatives to traditional neurotoxic insecticides, may be valuable management options. However, as these new products become available there is a need to determine efficacy in regard to survival after exposure and effect on population dynamics, so that overall value of these treatment methods can be determined. This study was conducted to predict the effects of methoprene and two conventional insecticides combined with methoprene on development of Plodia interpunctella Hübner populations on an optimal diet and on a suboptimal diet. Effects on populations were simulated using a modified temperature-based growth model at 24, 30, and 35 °C, and the effects of timing and frequency of insecticide treatments were determined. The results of this simulation study predict rapid population growth of P. interpunctella populations on optimal and suboptimal diets, and that single applications of a contact insecticide or aerosol may not be sufficient to manage P. interpunctella populations over a 6-month period.