Penetration and insecticidal activity of diflubenzuron in Tenebrio molitor pupae

Abstract

AbstractDiflubenzuron was found to be effective on the pupae of Tenebrio molitor L. (Coleoptera, Tenebrionidae) when applied topically, by dipping, or by injection. Death occurred before or at adult ecdysis, or during the first few days after emergence. Its effectiveness decreases with increasing age of the pupa. Diflubenzuron delays adult ecdysis and decreases the longevity of normally ecdysed adults.After diflubenzuron had been applied topically or by dipping, the compound was determined, on the pupal cuticle, in the body and on the rearing tray, by highperformance liquid chromatography. The results showed that diflubenzuron penetrated rapidly into the body and was not degraded during the pupal life. The level of incorporation of the insecticide, in dipping experiments on pupae at the same stage, varied from one individual to another. Moreover, the mean amount of insecticide incorporated was lower after dipping of older pupae than of younger pupae. It is suggested that the lower efficacy of diflubenzuron on older pupae may be caused by the decrease both in the permeability of the cuticle and in the sensitivity of the target cells.