Effects of an imidazole derivative (KK-42) on development and ecdysteroid production in Locusta migratoria (Insecta, Orthoptera).

The imidazole derivative KK-42 was applied in various experimental conditions to larvae and adult females of Locusta migratoria. The effect of this compound was monitored on the development of larvae, on oocyte growth in adult females and on the development of eggs laid by these females. KK-42 had only minor effects on postembryonic development; anticipation of imaginal moult was never observed. In contrast oocyte and egg development were markedly affected by KK-42: this effect is however not related to modifications of the synthesis of ecdysteroids in the ovaries.