Effect of short time exposure to magnetic on biology and DNA mutagenicity of the black cutworm Agrotisipsilon (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae)

Abstract

Abstract Agrotis ipsilon is a significant pest of various crops, and the widespread use of chemical pesticides has led to numerous environmental issues, including pollution and the destruction of natural predators. Therefore, developing alternative pest control methods is essential. This study evaluates impact of short-term magnetic field exposure on the biological (life cycle duration) and genetic changes in A. ipsilon larvae. Larvae were exposed to a 180-milliTesla magnetic field for 20, 40, and 60 min using a Magnetizing Battery apparatus. The results showed that prolonged exposure significantly extended the larvae’s life cycle, with a 23.9% increase observed in the 60-min group compared to the control. Genetic analysis using Inter-Simple Sequence Repeat (ISSR) markers revealed mutagenic changes, with a polymorphism rate of 74.13%, indicating genetic alterations such as insertions and deletions. These findings suggest that magnetic fields may influence insect development and genetics, offering a potential alternative to chemical pesticides. Further research is needed to explore its broader applications in sustainable pest management to reduce environmental impacts.