Method for Dispensing Planaria (Dugesia dorotocephala) for Mosquito Control

摘要

Predation studies of mosquitoes by the planarian dugesia dorotocephala have since shown that D. dorotocephala is an effective predator on all larval stages of mosquitoes. Densities of 25 planaria/m2 have been cited as sufficient to effect significant control of mosquito populations (Yu and Legner 1976). However, no studies describe a practical means of disseminating planaria in the field. Previously, the only method of dispersal was by hand. The objective of this study was to evaluate a compression sprayer for feasibility of planaria application. Three tests were conducted to determine if sprayer pressure and mechanical injury, incurred during spraying affected planaria reproduction, and if a consistent number of planaria could be dispensed overtime. A test was performed to determine if pressures within the sprayer were harmful to the planaria. The effect of mechanical injury on survival of planaria was evaluated. The number of planaria dispensed over time was tested. Data indicated that planaria are not harmed by the pressures (0-50 psig) encountered within the sprayer and that a consistent number of planaria can be successfully sprayed from a modified 2-gallon compression sprayer at 25 psig. Keywords: Biological insect control; Reprints. (kt)