Male-linked translocations and the control of insect pest populations.

Published data on an experimental release of Culex pipiens carrying a male-linked translocation are re-examined and it is shown that the steady decline in translocation frequency after termination of releases agrees with theoretical expectations, because of the selective disadvantage of translocation heterozygote males. Systems based on negative heterosis or meiotic drive are considered whereby it might be possible to prolong the population control which would be achieved by a short term release.