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INTRODUCTION Legner, E. F. 1958.
Some effects of aldrin, chlordane, dieldrin and heptachlor on the
European earwig. M.S. Thesis, Utah
State University. 56 pp. During the past 15 years, the
European earwig (Forficula auricularia L.) has assumed the number one
position as a general pest to homeowners in Utah. It has spread to nearly every corner of the state where
environmental conditions are suitable for its growth, and agricultural agents
in certain Utah counties have received more complaints concerning earwigs
than any other insect pest. This
recent interest in earwigs has resulted in many suggestions and
recommendations as to the most effective means of control. Among the vast number
of poison baits, traps and chemical8 that have been used in the attack upon
this pest, one group of hydrocarbon insecticides stood out as being the most
promising of combatants. This group
includes aldrin, chlordane, dieldrin and heptachlor. The primary purpose of
this study was to test some of the effects of these four chemicals on earwigs
and to compare their effectiveness as indicated by rapidity of kill, degree
of recovery and length of exposure time necessary for them to be
effective. In conducting these
experiments, observations were made on the general biology of the ear-wig and
its response to certain heretofore untested attractants that were used in the
traps. It is hoped that the
information on the effects of these chemicals presented in this paper will
form a basis for future research into the biology, behavior and control of
earwigs, and further that it will prove useful to persons recommending
control measures using these four chemicals. |