Horizontal transmission of Beauveria bassiana spores using infected males and inoculation device: impact on survival and fecundity of Ceratitis capitata (Diptera: Tephritidae)

Abstract

The mode of transmission of fungus spores (horizontal transmission or assisted auto-dissemination) directly influences the effectiveness of a fungal pathogen when used as a control agent. Fungal infections cause physiological alterations leading to the host's death. During this process, the fungus uses the energy reserves in the hemolymph of insects, affecting the development and performance of individuals and, therefore, the demographic features of their populations. In this work, we evaluated topical inoculation and a passive dissemination device in the transmission of Beauveria bassiana (Balsamo) Vuillemin conidia to Ceratitis capitata Wiedemann (Diptera: Tephritidae). Survival and fecundity were negatively affected by the action of the fungus, and mortality was influenced by the inoculation method. Inoculated sterile males were as competitive as untreated males and reduced the fecundity and survival of females. We conclude that the pathogenic action of B. bassiana reduces the survival and fecundity parameters of C. capitata infected by horizontal transmission, while the behavioral response of treated sterile males is similar to that of sterile-fertile untreated males. We discuss the potential use of this strategy as part of the pest management of C. capitata.