Studies in Utah of the Bitting Gnat Leptoconops Kerteszi Kieffer (Diptera: Ceratopogonidae)

摘要

The objectives of the study were to determine the distribution and type of breeding habitat of this gnat, improve methods for sampling immature stages and adults, determine unknown phases of the life history and behavior and develop more effective and practical methods of control. It was determined that these gnats mature in moist soil that is sandy in texture and chemically alkaline and salty. They are generally present in all parts of the state below 7,500 ft. elevation where suitable conditions exist. Methods were developed for removing immatures from the soil by flotation in sodium chloride solution and for collecting adults with a CO2 baited 'stickem' trap. Larvae were effectively controlled by reducing the soil moisture to less than five per cent by drainage. Dieldrin, Dursban, Abate, and Baytex were applied as larvicides in determined amounts of chemical and water. Adults were effectively controlled with 1.8 ounces(.05 lbs.) of Dursban per acre applied LV by airplane. Malathion, parathion, Baygon, Vaponite and Diazinon were reported as effective adulticides when applied by ground equipment in fogs and mists. (Author)