Is Local Selection Followed by Dispersal a Mechanism for Rapid Development of Multiple Insecticide Resistance in the Colorado Potato Beetle?

Abstract

Colorado potato beetle, Leptinotarsa decemlineata (Say), is one of the most severe pests of potatoes in the world. It is also a classic example of the rapid development and the potential severity of insecticide resistance (Forgash 1985). Resistance mechanisms known for Colorado potato beetle include microsomal oxidases, esterases, altered cholinesterase, reduced penetration, and knockdown resistance (Ahammad W Ahammad et al. 1994; Argentine et al. 1989a; Grafius et a1. 1989; Ioannidis & Grafius 1988; Ioannidis 1990; Ioarlnidis et a1. 1991, 1992; Rose & Brindley 1985). Most of the resistance mechanisms appear to be inherited as single dominant or semidominant genes (e.g., Ioannidis et al. 1992). In addition to insecticide resistance, 59-fold resistance to Bacillus thuringiensis te1tebrionis Berliner has been selected (Whalon et al. 1993). Our ability to understand and manage insecticide resistance in the Colorado potato beetle will potentially contribute to management of pesticide resistance in other situations.