Effects of extremely low frequency (50 Hz) magnetic field on development dynamics of the housefly (Musca domestica L.)

Abstract

Metamorphosis time (pupa to adult eclosion time) and adult lifespan were observed in an alternating, sinusoidal, magnetic field, and compared to control. Pupae of the housefly, Musca domestica (Diptera), of approximately the same age were chosen randomly (groups of 50 individuals) and individually placed in separate glass tubes (70 mm × 11 mm) without food. The group exposed to an electromagnet (50 Hz, 6 mT) with poles of 9.3 cm × 4.8 cm (area 44.6 cm2), spaced at 7.2 cm, was placed with the magnet at a sufficient distance from the control group where the experimental magnetic field effects were not detected. The experiments were carried out successively at temperatures of 19°C and 24°C, and a 12 h light/12 h dark regime, with a controlled 60–70% relative humidity. The results show that the magnetic field significantly slowed down metamorphosis at both temperatures. The adult lifespan in the magnetic field at 24°C was statistically significantly extended with respect to control, whereas the same lifespan in the magnetic field at 19°C showed no statistically significant shortening.