Termination of pupal diapause in Cuterebra tenebrosa (Diptera: Cuterebridae) with injections of ecdysterone.

Abstract

Pupal diapause in Cuterebra tenebrosa Coquillett was terminated by injections of 0.1 to 0.6 μg of ecdysterone per pupa. Treated pupae resumed development 2–3 days after injection and emerged as adults in 44 days independent of prior time in diapause. Controls remained in diapause. Reproductive capability of the resulting flies was normal. This technique is practical and useful in shortening the long pupal diapause and Serves to coordinate development of pupae of different ages so adults emerge within a limited time range.