Researcher(s)
- Phoenix Grimme, Wildlife Ecology and Conservation, University of Delaware
Faculty Mentor(s)
- Harsh Bais, Plant & Soil Sciences, University of Delaware
Abstract
The lesser mealworm, Alphitobius diaperinus, is a highly destructive pest insect. The insect acts as a disease vector and reservoir, harming both humans and poultry. Using chemical insecticides to limit their spread has raised concerns regarding the toxicity of chemical residues left on food products. This study aimed to determine if the proteolytic bacteria MH-1 and MH-2 can be used to control the spread of A. diaperinus by acting as a lure to control and remove them without the use of chemicals. Choice-based and direct assays were conducted using oat paste and 250 µL of each bacterium placed into connected Petri dishes. The choice-based assay had MH-1 added to oat paste in one dish, oats without bacteria in another, and a starting dish. The same was repeated for MH-2 in separate tri-dishes. Another choice assay included MH-1 in one dish, MH-2 in another, and the starting area within the same tri-dish. For the direct assay, A. diaperinus was placed in Petri dishes with oat paste and 250 µL of MH-1, without a control, to gauge a reaction. The same was done in separate Petri dishes for MH-2. Direct assays were then performed with different amounts of bacteria: 150 µL, 250 µL, and 350 µL. Recent monitoring of these experiments has shown A. diapernius has a preference for MH-2 over both MH-1 and the control during choice-based assays. The direct assays are currently still in progress and incomplete at this time; it is likely A. diapernius will continue to show a preference for MH-2. With further study, this could lead to the use of MH-2 to lead A. diaperinus into controlled areas to prevent disease spread and prevent them from reaching their final instar.