Gamma-radiation effects on Trogoderma inclusum and T. variable

Effects of gamma radiation exposures of 5—100 krad on all developmental stages of Trogoderma inclusum LeConte and T. variabile Ballion were studied. Results with the 2 species were similar. Development of adults from treated eggs and larvae was prevented by 5 krad. Some adults emerged from pupae at all treatment levels, but no reproduction occurred at 30 krad or above. Adult females were more sensitive to the sterilizing effects of gamma radiation than were males. All adults were sterilized when irradiated at 30 krad or above. Control of the 2 species appears feasible with levels of radiation currently approved for treatment of stored-grain insects.