The effects of a single irradiation at 4000 roentgens on larvae of the powder-post beetle Lyctus brunneus (Steph.) are described. These included a reduced and delayed emergence of the first generation. The number of beetles produced per female returned to normal in subsequent generations. The vigour of emerged beetles as judged by their average weights did not appear to be much affected. Irradiation at a sublethal dosage thus seems unlikely to be a practical method of employing y-radiation for the treatment of infestations by wood-boring insects. One of the chief limiting factors in the employment of lethal dosages for such treatments is the mass of screening required, hence a technique enabling lower dosages to be used would be of value.
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