Micronutrients - Significance and function in growth and survival of insects – A case study

Bindu K. Jose; V. V. Sudheendrakumar; T. V. Sajeev

2014 Volume 1 Issue 3

Micronutrients - Significance and function in growth and survival of insects – A case study

Bindu K. Jose, V. V. Sudheendrakumar, T. V. Sajeev

Abstract

Eight different micronutrients (Wesson’s salt mixture, ascorbic acid, potassium, calcium, sodium, ferrous, vitamin E and a mixture of vitamins) in different combinations were given to Hyblaea puera in order to understand their role in insect growth. Larval growth period, survival rate, pupation rate, pupal size, pupal weight, moth emergence rate, moth behavior and fecundity rates were analyzed. Ascorbic acid increased feeding rate , Wesson’s salt shows marginal increase in the pupal weight and vitamin E caused statistically significant increase in fecundity rate of H. puera. The possibility of addition of selected micronutrients in a continuous H. puera rearing program was also
evaluated.

Key words: micronutrients, Hyblaea puera, artificial diet, insect development

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Entomology and Applied Science Letters is an international double-blind peer reviewed publication which publishes scientific research & review articles related to insects that contain information of interest to a wider audience, e.g. papers bearing on the theoretical, genetic, agricultural, medical and biodiversity issues. Emphasis is also placed on the selection of comprehensive, revisionary or integrated systematics studies of broader biological or zoogeographical relevance. In addition to full-length research articles and reviews, the journal publishes interpretive articles in a Forum section, Short Communications, and Letters to the Editor. The journal publishes reports on all phases of medical entomology and medical acarology, including the systematics and biology of insects, acarines, and other arthropods of public health and veterinary significance.

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Entomology and Applied Science Letters supports the submission of entomological papers that contain information of interest to a wider reader groups e. g. papers bearing on taxonomy, phylogeny, biodiversity, ecology, systematic, agriculture, morphology. The selection of comprehensive, revisionary or integrated systematics studies of broader biological or zoogeographical relevance is also important. Distinguished entomologists drawn from different parts of the world serve as honorary members of the Editorial Board. The journal encompasses all the varied aspects of entomological research.