Sublethal Effects of Chlorantraniliprole on the Mobility Patterns of Sitophilus spp.: Implications for Pest Management

Abstract

Chlorantraniliprole, an anthranilic diamide insecticide, has emerged as a promising solution for controlling agricultural pests because of its low mammalian toxicity and selectivity towards non-target organisms. This study investigated the sublethal effects of chlorantraniliprole on the mobility behavior of two significant stored-product pests, Sitophilus oryzae (L.) and Sitophilus zeamais Motschulsky (Coleoptera: Curculionidae). Contact toxicity assays revealed varying susceptibility levels between the two species, with S. zeamais showing higher sensitivity. Subsequent analysis of mobility behavior, both in the presence and absence of food, indicated significant differences between chlorantraniliprole-exposed and control groups. While S. oryzae exhibited altered locomotion patterns and a decreased number of food approaches at sublethal concentrations, S. zeamais displayed increased walking time and reduced immobility periods. These findings highlight the importance of considering sublethal effects in understanding the overall impact of chlorantraniliprole on stored-product pests. Further research into the long-term consequences of sublethal exposure is warranted to inform more effective pest management strategies in storage.