Population structural changes in single species of flour beetles with ozone as an environmental factor

1. Although a 5 hour monthly exposure for 16 months to 45.0 ppm O₃ at 0.3l/min. reduced the numbers of individuals in single-species populations of T. confusum and T. castaneum, it did not result in elimination or a significant decrease in numbers which would be useful in a control program for these flour beetle species.
2. During the first 5 months of culture, ozone had a stimulating effect on productivity of T. confusum; a similar effect was not noted for T. castaneum.
3. Control of flour beetles by ozone in stored-products seems unlikely; however, ozone in an integrated control program with ionizing radiation might prove beneficial.
4. Biological interpretations are offered to explain the responses of these species to ozone exposures.
5. Further research is warranted to define ozone modifications in pest control programs and on stored-products per se.