Variations in the life span, enzymes and lipid peroxide levels in ageing Caryedon serratus (Coleoptera: Bruchidae)

Effect of age on lipid peroxidation in a short-lived species of reptile, Calotes versicolor

The lipid peroxidation potential, measured as a thiobarbituric acid-reactive substance (TBA-RS) increased with advancing age in liver, brain and kidney of a short-lived species of reptile, Calotes versicolor. The same parameter did not show a significant change in an ageing heart. The pattern of age changes in lipid peroxidation potential in this species shows similarity with the findings in a majority of mammalian species. While suggesting a commonality in a basic mechanism of ageing between reptiles and mammals, the results also partially support the free radical theory of ageing.

Effect of ascorbic acid on longevity and biochemical alterations in Callosobruchus maculatus F. (Coleoptera: Bruchidae)

Optimal ascorbic acid concentration (1 mM) increased the median (LT(50)) and maximum (LT(100)) life spans, decreased age-independent susceptibility to death (a(0)), reproductive period, number of eggs laid/female but prolonged the post-reproductive period in Callosobruchus maculatus. The activities of respiratory enzymes and the levels of metabolic end-products declined while the activities of antioxygenic enzymes increased. The increased longevity of insects reared on ascorbic acid soaked seeds may be interpreted in terms of conservation of energy by way of decreased reproductive potentiality and the maintenance of a homeostatic balance between pro-oxidant generation and antioxidant defences.

Life prolonging effect of butylated hydroxy anisole in Callosobruchus maculatus F. (Coleoptera: Bruchidae)

The present study deals with the effect of butylated hydroxy anisole (BHA), an antioxidant, on longevity and fecundity of insects infesting BHA soaked seeds of Vigna radiata. Median (LT(50)) and maximum (LT(100)) life spans as well as post-reproductive period of the insect reared on optimal concentration (1 mM) of antioxidant soaked seeds were higher than the control. However, the reproductive period of the females and the number of eggs laid/female declined. The results are indicative of the increased life span of the insects on BHA feeding at the cost of the reproductive period.