Effect of Iranian formulation of diatomaceous earth on confused flour beetle, Tribolium confusum Duval (Col., Tenebrionidae), under laboratory conditions

One of the most promising alternatives to synthetic insecticides for the control of stored product pests is diatomaceous earth (DE). Laboratory studies were performed to evaluate the insecticidal effects of Iranian formulation of DE (Sayan®)on adults of confused flour beetle, Tribolium confusum du Val (Coleoptera, Tenebrionidae), at 27±1 °C and 55±5 % RH in dark. Experiments for bioassay & adult emergence evaluation, were carried out with 5 concentrations (50, 80, 126, 200 and 315 ppm (mg DE/kg wheat)) and 7 concentrations (0, 50, 80, 126, 200, 315 and 500 ppm), respectively, with 8 replications. The results showed that the concentration 315 ppm of DE hadacceptable effects on T. confusum mortality after 14 days. After 14 days, the LC50 of DE for T. confusum adults was estimated 183 ppm. There was a significant difference between DE-treated and untreated wheat for progeny survinal, as DE killed the newly emerged beetles. As time went by, DE stability and efficiency were constant. As a result, Iranian formulation of diatomaceous earth (Sayan®) can be used to protect grains against T. confusum adults.