The effect of diflubenzuron and hexaflumuron on the last larval instars of the Mediterranean Flour MothAnagasta kuehniella(Zeller) (Lepidoptera: Pyralidae) under laboratory conditions

In insects, insect growth regulators (IGRs) regulate many developmental and physiological parameters. The effects of diflubenzuron and hexaflumuron wettable powder 25% and emulsifiable concentrate 10%, respectively, were investigated on the mediterranean flour moth. Different concentrations of them were applied topically on the last larval instars pronotum. The results indicated that the percentage of transformation of larvae to pupae, larvae to adult and pupae to adults reduced with increase in dosage; these parameters were recorded as 100% in control and 70, 30 and 43.45%, respectively for diflubenzuron and 73.33, 30 and 41.07%, respectively for hexaflumuron. Percentage of abnormal adults was 44.44% in 1,000 ppm of diflubenzuron and 66.67% in 316 ppm of hexaflumuron. Percentage in reduction of fecundity and fertility were counted 97.89 and 95.34% in the highest dosage of diflubenzuron, respectively, also 97.88 and 100% in 316 ppm of hexaflumuron, respectively. Consequently, they play an effective role in inhibiting cuticle formation and can reduce pest population.