ISHS Acta Horticulturae 600: VIII International Controlled Atmosphere Research Conference
CONTROLLED ATMOSPHERE FOR INSECT AND MITE CONTROL IN PERISHABLE COMMODITIES |
| Author: | E.J. Mitcham |
| Keywords: | arthropods, carbon dioxide, fumigants, heat, high temperature, mode of action, quarantine, temperature |
| Abstract:
The effect of insecticidal controlled atmospheres on insect and mite mortality is discussed in relation to its use for quarantine or stored product pest control in fresh, harvested fruits, vegetables and cut flowers. Mortality generally increases at higher CO2 and lower O2 concentration. Mortality at a given atmosphere generally increases with increasing temperature, and can also increase as temperature decreases near 0°C. Arthropods and lifestages within arthropods can vary considerably in their susceptibility to a given atmosphere. Effective treatments have been developed at cold storage temperatures and at high temperatures. Sequential CA treatments, including a short exposure to an extreme atmosphere followed by a longer exposure to a moderate or mild atmosphere or low temperature storage in air, have been very effective. The advantages of sequential treatments include improved commodity tolerance and the ability to conduct the follow-up mild atmosphere or cold storage during marine transit. Carbon dioxide has been used in combination with various fumigants to enhance the activity of the fumigant. Both low O2 and high CO2 atmospheres appear to induce metabolic arrest or a reduced metabolic rate in arthropods, resulting in low ATP levels, loss of membrane function, and eventual cell death. In addition, CO2 appears to have direct effects on membrane permeability; therefore, the failure of membranes under elevated CO2 could result from both energy insufficiency and increased membrane permeability. Therefore, it becomes more likely under elevated CO2 that the decreased energy supply due to metabolic arrest will not be able to meet the needs of maintaining a more permeable membrane. | |
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