Neurophysiological Study of Vector Responses to Repellents.
Abstract
Our research objective was to gain a better understanding of the basic mechanisms of chemoreception and the action of repellents on the sensory system so that a more rational approach would be possible in the development of methods to prevent disease transmission by these organisms. The responses of the five different types of chemosensory sensilla on the antennae of Aedes aegypti were compared and each of these different morphologic types responded to a series of host odors, oviposition attractants, and repellents with characteristic patterns of electrophysiologic responses. Interspecific comparisons of electrophysiologic responses of A. triseriatus, Culex tarsalis, and Anopheles stephensi with A. aegypti revealed that the sensilla homologues of each species all respond similarly. The intensity of responses to various repellents and other behaviorally significant chemical stimuli indicated interspecific differences in sensitivity. The definition of insect repellents has been on the practical consideration that they prevent biting by the female. This led to the notion that repellents are a single class of compounds having a single mode of action.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Aug 01, 1980
- Accession Number
- ADA126920
Entities
People
- Edward E. Davis
Organizations
- SRI International