The effect of lufenuron (Match CE), an insect growth regulator, on the fecundity and egg hatchability of Diabrotica speciosa (Germar) (Coleoptera: Chrysomelidae) was evaluated under controlled conditions. Newly-emerged adults from a stock culture were sexed and transferred to acrylic cages (1 couple/cage). Fifteen couples were fed on lufenuron-treated bean (Phaseolus vulgaris, L.) leaves during 13 d after emergence. Thereafter, they were fed on untreated bean leaves. The same number of couples were fed on untreated bean leaves during all period of observation. Adult fecundity and egg hatchability were evaluated until the 34 d after emergence. The mean number of eggs laid/female (177.5) and the egg hatchability (19.8 %) were lower when insects were fed on lufenuron-treated leaves compared to 375.4 eggs and 68.7 % of hatchability when insects were fed on untreated leaves, respectively. Lufenuron seems to affect the embryonic development of D. speciosa by means of a transovarian action, thus avoiding larval eclosion. Results show the possibility of applying lufenuron to reduce the offspring production of D. speciosa when adults are fed on treated plants.
Insecta; root worm; fecundity; egg hatchability; insecticide
