A large-scale scheme for the eradication of Glossina morsitans morsitans Westw. in the Western Province of Zambia by aerial ultra-low-volume application of endosulfan

Abstract

An effective method of tsetse eradication has been demonstrated on a practical scale in country infested with Glossina morsitans morsitans Westw. in the Western Province of Zambia. An area of slightly over 600 miles2 (1 600 km2) was sprayed from aircraft five times, at approximately three-week intervals, with endosulfan in oil solution at an average of 8·2 gal/mile2 (14·4 litre/km2), so that the area dosage of active ingredient was 17 lb/mile2 (3 kg/km2) per application or approximately 2 oz/acre (0·15 kg/ha) for the whole operation. The insecticide was dispensed as an aerosol (most droplets of 20 μm diameter) made by injecting the spray liquid into the extended exhausts of the aeromotors. Post-spray fly-rounds showed that tsetse eradication was apparently achieved except near an unsatisfactory isolation barrier. The total cost was about K300/mile2 (£175 sterling).