Effect of 200 Gy as Gamma Sterilising Radiation on Reproductive Performance and Life Span of Male Moths, Spodoptera litura (Fabr.)

Abstract

The lepidopteran Spodoptera litura is an insect pest of scientific and economic importance. This insect pest is polyphagous pest of major crops like tobacco, cotton, rice and tomato. The characteristics like high reproductive capacity and ability to migrate over large distance in adult stage have resulted in it becoming a pest of many agricultural crops throughout its geographical range. In order to control this pest we need to suppress its reproductive potential. The present study reports the results from a laboratory experiment in which behavioural components of reproductive performance and life span of male moths (treated with 200 Gy of gamma radiation) were observed. When treated with 200 Gy of gamma radiation the mating percentage and copulation period observed were significantly different among treated and control group with p? 0.05. Survival period analysis also showed a statistically significant difference among treated and control group with p? 0.0001. Present results showed a significant variation in reproductive performance among radiation treated and control group suggesting the effect of 200 Gy as sterilising dose of gamma radiation on mating behaviour in male moths. Survival period analysis further supports significant effects of sterilising dose of gamma radiation on longevity of male moths.