Gamma radiation sterilization of Bactrocera invadens (Diptera: Tephritidae) from southern Ghana

Abstract

The African invader fly, Bactrocera invadens, an invasive pest in Africa since 2003, causes damage and poses a threat to the mango and horticultural industry. Its control is therefore needed. Sterilization of males using gamma radiation doses (25, 50 and 75 Gy) as a means of population control was investigated. Irradiation at the pupal stage (about 6 days after pupation) was found to be suitable. It was observed that a gamma radiation dose of 75 Gy rendered males of B. invadens completely sterile, while doses of 25 and 50 Gy induced partial sterility in the males. Females were made completely sterile by all doses of radiation tested.

Keywords: Bactrocera invadens, mango, gamma radiation doses, Sterile Insect Technique, fertility