A model for chemosterilization experiments with special reference to the cabbage root fly (Erioischia brassicae (Bouche)).

Published online
01 Jan 1977
Content type
Journal article
Journal title
Journal of Applied Ecology
DOI
10.2307/2401825

Author(s)
Hawkes, C. & Coaker, T. H.

Publication language
English

Abstract

A mathematical model is described that was developed to relate observed egg sterility in insects to other parameters of mating and reproduction, for use in the interpretation of chemosterilisation experiments. Published data on the chemosterilisation of Delia brassicae (Wied.) (Erioischia brassicae) were analysed to illustrate the use of the model and some of its features, which provide a means of interpreting chemosterilisation experiments on a more quantitative basis than was previously possible. General implications of the results for the development of methods of chemosterilisation are discussed. Some already published models of the population dynamics of D. brassicae were used to illustrate the effect of an ideal chemosterilant on population numbers; the results indicated a high potential of control of this species by limiting the production of viable eggs.

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