Directional selection to improve the sterile insect technique (SIT): survival and sexual performance of desiccation resistant Anastrepha ludens strains

The sterile insect technique (SIT) is an effective, environmentally friendly method for insect control whose success depends on the sexual performance and survival of sterile males. These two parameters are influenced by environmental conditions of target areas and, releasing insects with a higher tolerance to stressful environments can improve SIT efficiency. Directional selection can be used to produce insect strains with higher tolerance to extreme environmental conditions, such as low humidity, for extended periods. We evaluated, under field cage conditions, the sexual competitiveness, sexual compatibility and, survival of strains of Anastrepha ludens (Loew) selected for desiccation resistance to determine the value of directional selection as a possible approach to enhance sterile insect technique efficiency. Fly strains (selected and unselected and those mass-reared) were exposed to stressful conditions of low humidity and food and water deprivation for 24 hours before test. As a ...