Use of Radiation Disinfestation in the Control of Oryzaephilus surinamenesis L. : a Pest of Stored Dry Dates

Abstract

A preliminary biological study of Oryzaephilus surinamenesis was conducted to determine the duration of preadult stages. The lethal and sterilizing effects of gamma radiation on eggs, larvae, pupae, three-day and four-week old adults of O. surinamenesis were investigated. Doses were 0.0, 0.1, 0.3, 0.5, 0.7, and 1.0 kGY. Eggs and larvae were unable to develop to adults at any dose. Pupae were able to reach adult stage at doses of 0.1 – 1.0 kGy but adults emerged from irradiated pupae failed to produce progeny. Three-day old adults were most tolerant of irradiation but a complete sterility occurred at doses of 0.3 kGy and above. These results indicate that a commercial irradiation treatment at a dose of 0.3 kGy should effectively disinfest stored dates against this pest