Effect of Gamma Radiation upon Life Expectancy and Reproduction in the House Cricket, Acheta domesticus (Orthoptera: Gryllidae)

Effects of various doses of gamma radiation upon life expectancy and reproduction of Acheta domesticus (L.) were investigated following gamma irradiation of 2.5 ± 0.5-day-old adults. Radiation levels used were: 0 (controls); 500; 1000; 2000; 4000; 6000; 8000; and 10,000 R. Radiated crickets were mated to nonirradiated crickets. All tests were carried out at 30°C and 70% RH. The results of the studies are summarized as follows: (1) life expectancy of female crickets was increased by 500, 1000, and 2000 R of gamma radiation. Life expectancy of male crickets was not significantly increased at these same radiation levels. Radiation closes from 4000 to 10,000 R significantly reduced life expectancy in both sexes. (2) Fecundity, measured as oviposition, was reduced as the radiation dose was increased from 500 to 4000 R. No eggs were laid at doses above 4000 R. (3) The oviposition period decreased significantly with an increase in radiation dose. (4) Fertility of irradiated females was reduced at both 500 and 1000 R, and no eggs hatched from females exposed to 2000 R. (5) Total F1 mortality increased with an increase in radiation dose. However, the duration of the nymphal period and nymphal mortality was not affected by radiation.