The Performance of Simulium Hargreavesi Larvae Reared Under Three Contrasting Gradients and Current Velocities.
J. K. MakpoDepartment of Biological Sciences, Nasarawa State University, Keffi (Nigeria).
Abstract: This study investigated the survival and pupation of Simulium hargreasvesi larvae under three contrasting gradients and current velocities in the laboratory. S. hargreavesi larvae exhibited higher pupation success in the highest gradient of 420 and current velocity of 46.6 cms-1 with a mean survival index of 291.5 while the mean survival index at lowest gradient of 00 with a current velocity of 13.6 cms-1 was 199.8. These suggest that high current velocity and gradient are more conducive for survival and pupation as indicated by accelerated development under these conditions. It is apparent that high gradient and water current velocity favour the development of the blackly larvae in the laboratory. These observations can be useful in developing fly control strategies for this onchocerciasis vector which has been a scourge of humans in Africa.
Keywords: Variations; pupation; Simulium hargreavesi; gradients; current velocity Back to TOC