260 - Inhibition of emergence: Field validation of encapsulated methoprene

Abstract: Pre-treatment larval abundance (first and second instar larvae, third and fourth instar larvae, and pupae) should be recorded in both experimental and control sites. The sampling method should be appropriate to the type of breeding habitat, and the appropriate number of samples should be taken from each habitat based on the type and size of the habitat. Larval instars and pupae from each sample are counted and recorded. Post-treatment larval abundance (all stages) should be monitored 48 hours post application and then weekly using pupae collected from treated and untreated control areas. After the first 48 hours, begin collecting pupae and rearing them out for inhibition of emergence calculations. Inhibition of emergence begins at application, but waiting 48 hours after the initial treatment ensures that all pupae collected have developed in the presence of (S)-methoprene. Collection of pupae starts at 48 hours, 1 week, 2 week, 3 week, 4 week and 5 week post-treatment, if possible. Characterization of the habitats in terms of abiotic and biotic factors aids the interpretation of results. Rainfall and any change in water level or other parameters, such as algal bloom, water quality, outflow, temperature or predators in the habitats, should be recorded.