Oviposition and Fecundity of Boll Weevils in Mass-Rearing Laboratory Cultures12

Abstract

By using new techniques and complete mechanization to mass produce eggs of the boll weevil, Anthonomus grandis Boheman, more than 1 million eggs per week were obtained at a cost of less than 10 cents per thousand. Of 9 diets tested, 2 containing soybean protein were most satisfactory. Diets, formulated into pellets that also served as oviposition sites, were placed in wire baskets, raised 3/16 inch above a screen-bottomed rearing cage designed with solid top and sides so that all light came from below the cage.