The Use of Double Translocations to Control Populations of the German Cockroach.
Abstract
The goal of this project is to conduct a field test of a unique type of sterility mechanism, embryonic trapping, for control of the German cockroach, Blattella germanica (L.). Trapping of viable embryos occurs when their number is reduced by genetic lethality to a point at which they are unable to force open the egg case at the time of hatch. Sterile egg cases occur frequently in matings of double translocation heterozygotes. Their frequency depends on the amount of lethality characteristic of the particular double. Using sex differences in lethality (chromosome disjunction) of certain single translocations, it has been possible to establish a crossing system for producing totally sterile double translocation-carrying males. One of the important points emerging from this year's study is that releases of sterile males may be very small indeed - certainly much smaller than a pre-cleanout population. Nevertheless, the sterile males are potentially capable of suppressing population growth or, if completely successful, of leading to the elimination of small residual populations.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Mar 19, 1979
- Accession Number
- ADA066456
Entities
People
- Donald G. Cochran
- Mary H. Ross
Organizations
- Virginia Tech