EFFECTS OF LARVAL CROWDING AT SOME STAGES OF DEVELOPMENT OF MUSCA DOMESTICA IN SOKOTO METROPOLIS

Abstract

This study investigated the effects of larval crowding on the developmental stages of Musca domestica (housefly) within Sokoto Metropolis. Adult flies were collected and reared under controlled laboratory conditions to obtain eggs for experimentation. The eggs were introduced into varying larval densities categorized as low (5 eggs/10g substrate), medium (15 eggs/10g), and high (30 eggs/10g), with each treatment replicated three times. Observations focused on larval duration, pupal weight, emergence rate, and adult size. Results showed that increased larval crowding significantly prolonged development time, reduced pupal weight, and led to smaller adult flies. These findings highlight the impact of environmental and population pressures on the biological development of M. domestica, with implications for vector control and public health strategies, particularly in urban areas with poor sanitation.