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INTRODUCTION

Legner, E. F. 1958. Some effects of aldrin, chlordane, dieldrin and heptachlor

on the European earwig. M.S. Thesis, Utah State University. 56 pp.

During the past 15 years the European earwig Forficula auricularia L.) has assumed the number one position as a general pest to home owners in Utah. It has spread to nearly every corner of the state where environmental conditions are suitable for its growth, and agricultural agents in certain Utah counties have received more complaints concerning earwigs than any other insect pest. This recent interest in earwigs has resulted in many suggestions and recommendations as to the most effective means of control.

Among the vast number of poison baits, traps and chemicals that have been used in the attack upon this pest, one group of hydrocarbon insecticides stood out as being the most promising of combatants. This group includes aldrin, chlordane, dieldrin and heptachlor.

The primary purpose of this study was to test some of the effects of these four chemicals on earwigs and to compare their effectiveness as indicated by rapidity of kill, degree of recovery and length of exposure time necessary for them to be effective. In conducting these experiments, observations were made on the general biology of the earwig and its response to certain heretofore untested attractants that were used in the traps.

It is hoped that the information on the effects of these chemicals presented in this paper will form a basis for future research into the biology, behavior and control of earwigs, and further that it will prove useful to persons recommending control measures using these four chemicals.