The Screwworm, Cochliomyia Hominivorax (Diptera: Calliphoridae), in Central America and Proposed Plans for its Eradication South to the Darien Gap in Panama

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Abstract
The screwworm is a persistent pest of all classes of livestock in Central America, with oviposition occurring at all times of the year. Economic losses are sufficient to justify eradication, which has been determined to be technically feasible. As the screwworm in Central America has been determined to be morphologically, behaviorally, and reproductively similar to other populations studied in the U.S. and Mexico, reproductive isolation should not exist. However, political problems in several of the countries prevent serious consideration of such a program until a more cooperative climate prevails. Once this occurs, the various governments will certainly become interested in eradication because the screwworm is one of the most important insect problems facing the livestock industries in each of the 7 countries. It is estimated that a total eradication program will cost from 200 to 290 million dollars and require 4 to 6 years for completion. The program should work from north to south and begin as soon as a barrier is established at the Isthmus of Tehuantepec (if politically feasible) to utilize the personnel, factory, equipment, supplies, etc. from the Mexico/U.S. program.

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