Gamma radiation sensitivity of the kola weevil, Sophrorhinus gbanjaensis D. and T. (Coleoptera: Curculionidae)

Studies on the sensitivity of the kola weevil, Sophrorhinus gbanjaensis D. and T. to gamma irradiation showed that 15 to 29 Krad were effective for the control of the immature forms. Pupal and larval mortalities which increased with dosage were 100 per cent 15 days post treatment. The percentage of irradiated pupae that metamorphosed into adults decreased with dosage while the percentage of deformed adults increased with the dose. The females were more sensitive to gamma radiation than the males. Males irradiated at 5 Krad produced viable sperms while females irradiated at 5 Krad and paired with untreated males failed to lay eggs. Both males and females were completely sterilized at 10 Krad. (author)