Evaluation of Agnique MMF in man-made ponds for the control of pestiferous chironomid midges (Diptera: Chironomidae).
The efficacy of a monomolecular surface film, Agnique MMF (a liquid isostearyl alcohol ethoxylate containing 2 oxyethylene groups [ISA-2OE]) in suppressing emergence of adult Chironomidae from man-made earthen ponds was studied. Three replicated rates, 0.23, 0.47, and 0.94 ml/m2 (or 0.25, 0.5, and 1.0 gal/acre) of Agnique MMF were applied. Pretreatment and periodic posttreatment samples of adult chironomids were collected by employing submerged metal-cone traps as well as floating traps. Concurrently, water pH, dissolved oxygen, specific conductance, and water temperature were measured. Tanytarsini (>82%), Chironomini (16%), and Tanypodinae (1%) midges were collected during the study period. Midge adult collections in floating traps were not significantly reduced by the 0.23-ml/m2 treatment rate, but were significantly reduced (73-93%) for 1-2 wk posttreatment at 0.47 and 0.94 ml/m2 of Agnique MME The lowest rate significantly reduced midge adult emergence for 1 day posttreatment as measured by metal-cone traps, whereas the 2 higher rates reduced emergence by 78.6-97% for 1 wk posttreatment. Using either trap, the highest rate of Agnique MMF did not produce suppression of adult midges of any greater magnitude or duration than the middle rate. Agnique MMF was not detected by the indicator oil in any treated pond after 7 days posttreatment. Water pH, dissolved oxygen, specific conductance, and water temperature in the ponds were not significantly influenced by Agnique MMF treatments. Analysis of these data supports the possible use of Agnique MMF for chironomid control in areas where the surface film of this material can be maintained for sufficient time to interfere with adult emergence.
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University of Florida, Mid-Florida Research and Education Center, Apopka 32703-8504, USA.
D000818:Animals; D002683:Chironomidae; D005233:Fatty Alcohols; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D007300:Insect Control / Q000379:methods*; D011092:Polyethylene Glycols; D013501:Surface-Active Agents
D005233:Fatty Alcohols; D013501:Surface-Active Agents; D011092:Polyethylene Glycols; C049713:Arosurf; C026199:isostearyl alcohol