Some Aspects of the Ecology, Behaviour and Vectorial Capacity of the Tsetse Fly Glossina Austeni Newstead.
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Date
1992
Authors
Owaga, Mary Ludvine Akoth
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
Kenyatta University
Abstract
A study was undertaken in the south coast of Kenya, on the
tsetse fly species, Glossina austeni Newstead. The objective was to
investigate its population ecology, behaviour and vectorial capacity.
The main aspects studied were: habitat requirements and density,
responses to sampling devices and methods, such as traps and
odours, activity pattern, and infection with trypanosome parasites.
Some aspects of the study, such as sampling and activity
experiments, evaluation of density, dispersal and habitat
requirements, and trypanosome infection rates, were conducted in the
field. Others, such as assessment of the effect of temperature and
relative humidity on activity and response to odours, and evaluation
of the efficiency ofG. austeni in picking up trypanosome parasites
from infective blood meals, and in transmitting them to the next
mammalian host, were conducted in the laboratory.
I' Sampling was carried out using five trap-types, the biconical,
the NG2B, the Lancia (original), Lancia (modified) and the 4t traps,
to determine whether G. austeni could be trapped in sufficient
numbers, and which trap might be most suitable for routine
sampling. Similarly, five odour sources were tested as baits: buffalo
urine, cow urine, acetone, urine derived phenols and dry ice. Period
of activity, and activity pattern as related to feeding, were
determined by continuous trapping, using traps and stationary
vehicle, and by laboratory observation in a flight chamber, where only
olfactory, but no visual stimulant, was presented to the flies. To
study the density and dispersal ofG. austeni, the method of markrelease-
recapture was used. By this method a sample of tsetse flies.....
Description
A Thesis Submitted In Fulfilment for the Degree of Doctor of Philosophy in Kenyatta University, 1992