Neural effects of allethrin on the free walking cockroach <i>Periplaneta Americana</i>: An investigation using defined doses at 15 and 32°C

Abstract

Abstract The action of allethrin has been studied in the free‐walking cockroach, Periplaneta americana (L) using implanted electrodes, at 15 and 32°C, following topical application of an LD 95 dose (that at 32°C being approximately ten times the LD 95 at 15°C). At both temperatures there was marked hyperexcitation of the peripheral nervous system. At 32°C there was also hyperexcitation of the central nervous system but central effects at 15°C were probably secondary. Likewise, nerve blockage often did not occur until many hours after paralysis and could thus be a secondary consequence of allethrin poisoning.