Abstract
The optimal sex ratio ( sr) for insect mass rearing depends upon the use to which the insects will be put. Mass rearing for release in control programs and for producing insects for experimental purposes may require sr values in the breeding population that optimize the production of male offspring, female offspring, or some combination of both. We have developed a number of models to guide those in mass rearing in their choice of strains to be used in the rearing facility. We have considered the cases of both prezygotic and postzygotic determination of sr, as well as whether or not there is a limit to the resources and time available to raise the insects. In general the number of females or males and females together produced is maximized for a sr in which there is a maximum possible number of females in the breeding population. When males alone are required the optimal sr in the rearing facility lies between 0.1 and 0.5 its actual value being dependent upon a variety of parameters such as the number of generations available and the number of eggs laid per female.
Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
