Studies in Breeding Insects Throughout the Year For Insecticide Tests

Abstract

A method for year around rearing of the large numbers of flies (M. domestica) required for insecticide tests has been developed. The equipment consists of an inexpensive insectary, breeding cages, rearing jars and stock cages. The technique of breeding, rearing, feeding and handling large numbers of larvae and adults has been made very simple and convenient. As a result of the procedure described, large cultures of flies of high vitality can be developed as easily in winter as in summer. Flies, reared as described reach maturity sooner and have a shorter adult life span.