EFFECTS OF THE INSECT GROWTH-REGULATORS OMS-2017 AND DIFLUBENZURON ONTHE REPRODUCTIVE POTENTIAL OF AEDES-AEGYPTI

The effects of 2 benzoylphenylurea insect growth regulators, OMS 2017 and diflubenzuron, on 4th instar larvae of Aedes aegypti were investig ated in the laboratory. Apart from delayed lethal action, possible eff ects on the reproductive potential were also studied. A baseline conce ntration of each compound causing 30% emergence inhibition was determi ned. At this concentration, OMS 2017 affected fecundity of the mosquit o but diflubenzuron did not. The fertility of females that survived OM S 2017 exposure also was decreased; 23% of the eggs reached the 4th la rval instar. Diflubenzuron did not cause any reduction in fertility. T he basal follicle number showed great variability after both treatment s as it was alternatively equal, lower, or higher than in the control.