Detection of the phototoxic dye phloxine B in Anastrepha ludens (Loew) (Diptera: Tephritidae), Apis mellifera Linnaeus (Hymenoptera: Apidae) and honey

Authors

Aleena M. Tarshis Moreno, University of Texas-Pan American

Date of Award

5-2001

Document Type

Thesis

Degree Name

Master of Science (MS)

Department

Biology

First Advisor

Dr. Mohammed Farooqui

Second Advisor

Dr. Robert L. Mangan

Third Advisor

Dr. Robert I. Lonard

Abstract

A spectrophotometric method for detection of phloxine B, a phototoxic dye proposed as a replacement for malathion bait sprays, in extracted tissues of Anastrepha ludens, Apis mellifera and in honey was developed. Dye detection was increased with a pH change from 6 to 13.7 in tissues or from 3.7 to 8 in honey with 2% sodium hydroxide. An LC 50 of 29.62 ppm phloxine B in 30% sucrose was obtained by feeding honey bees. A predictive model for dye in insect tissues and honey was developed and shown to be 89–92% effective. This study provides a forensic approach to determine if bees were killed or honey was contaminated by phloxine B sprays.

Comments

Copyright 2001 Aleena M. Tarshis Moreno. All Rights Reserved.

https://go.openathens.net/redirector/utrgv.edu?url=https://www.proquest.com/dissertations-theses/detection-phototoxic-dye-phloxine-b-i-anastrepha/docview/250250818/se-2?accountid=7119

Granting Institution

University of Texas-Pan American