Effects of the insect growth regulator (S)-methoprene on survival and reproduction of the freshwater cladoceran Moina macrocopa

Abstract

This study examines the acute and chronic effects of the insecticide (S)-methoprene on the survival and reproduction of the freshwater cladoceran Moina macrocopa. In laboratory toxicity tests, the 24- and 48-h LC50 values for (S)-methoprene were 0.51 and 0.34 mg litre −1, respectively. Survival, longevity and fecundity were reduced at 0.05 mg litre −1 and higher concentrations. At 0.005 and 0.01 mg litre −1, longevity and fecundity increased slightly as compared to control animals. If environmental concentrations of methoprene do not exceed 0.05 mg litre −1, as is generally the case, application of this insecticide is unlikely to induce detrimental effects on natural cladoceran populations. The stimulatory effect of very low levels of methoprene on reproductive performance is consistent with the hypothesis of a regulatory role of juvenile hormone-like compounds in crustacean reproduction.