The potential for insecticide resistance in Glossina (Diptera: Glossinidae)— an investigation by computer simulation and chemical analysis

Abstract

A computer model of a tsetse population was developed to determine whether insecticide resistance could evolve as a result of current tsetse control programmes. Chemical analyses were also carried out which showed that Glossina morsitans morsitans Westw. can metabolise DDT to DDE, indicating a potential for insecticide resistance in this species. The model showed that a completely isolated tsetse population stands little chance of surviving attacks with insecticides repeated at short intervals. However, when sufficient time is allowed between applications, such a population may survive and evolution of resistance take place. Given a small amount of immigration, the evolution of resistance is retarded, but population extinction is prevented. The degree of resistance developed by a population also depends on the dominance relationship of a resistant gene with its wild-type allele and on the reproductive fitness of the mutant. It is suggested that control strategies are adopted which would minimise the risk of insecticide resistance becoming a problem in tsetse and that susceptibility studies are carried out both before spraying operations and on any residual population post-spraying.

Mathematical modelling and control of African animal trypanosomosis with interacting populations in West Africa—Could biting flies be important in main taining the disease endemicity?

“…Also, biting flies could develop resistance to commonly used insecticides in a geographical location based on quantity and frequency of use [ 33 ]. This resistance is less likely in tsetse flies because they are K-strategists, in which case they have low reproducing capacity with very high success rate [ 45 ].…”

Toxicity of chlordimeform to the tsetse fly Glossina morsitans

“…dieldrin and resmethrin (Hadaway, 1972). Glossina spp have the potential to develop resistance to conventional insecticides (Maudlin et al, 1981) and, should this occur, chlordimeform could be of value for use against resistant populations particularly if lower dose rates can be achieved. Thus the decrease in susceptibility was not simply in proportion to the increase in wet weight.…”

Toxicity of insecticides to the tsetse fly,Glossina palpalis palpalisin Nigeria and comparison of tolerances in 1974–1975 and 1979–1982

“…Koeman et al, 1971;Cockbill, 1979;Douthwaite et al, 1981) and, contrary to earlier conclusions (Burnett, 1970), there is theoretical indication that insecticide resistance may develop in tsetse populations under certain circumstances (Maudlin et al, 1981). Koeman et al, 1971;Cockbill, 1979;Douthwaite et al, 1981) and, contrary to earlier conclusions (Burnett, 1970), there is theoretical indication that insecticide resistance may develop in tsetse populations under certain circumstances (Maudlin et al, 1981).…”