Effects of gamma radiation on the sterility and behavioral quality of the Caribbean fruit fly, Anastrepha suspensa (Loew) (Diptera:Tephritidae)

Pupae of Anastrepha suspensa (Loew) were irradiated 2 days before adult eclosion in an air atmosphere with 15, 20, 25, 30, 50 and 70 Gy of gamma radiation (Co-60). The radiation effects on sterility and other parameters of quality and behavior of males and females of Caribbean fly were established. Males became fully sterile with a dose of 50 Gy and females laid no eggs when exposed to 25 Gy. Radiation had no significant effect on adult eclosion, sex ratio, flight ability and irritability, but female mortality was affected significantly by radiation, showing higher survival rates in low dosage treatments. The mating behavior of the males was reduced significantly by increasing the radiation doses. (author)