Edward Fred Knipling
Edward Fred Knipling (1909-2000) was a world-famous entomologist and theorist. He advocated the use of pest specific, preventive, and environmentally-safe methods applied on an area-wide basis. His contributions include the parasitoid augmentation technique, insect control methods involving the medication of the hosts, and various models of total insect population management. Knipling was best known as the inventor of the sterile insect technique (SIT), an autocidal theory of total insect population management.
Edward F. Knipling early employment. From left: Charles Hall, Billy Ellis, Parish, Miss Nash, Bushland, and Knipling.
Edward F. Knipling and colleagues inspecting larvae trays of feeding screwworm insects at Mission, Texas plant. Knipling on left. The feed mixture was spread on large trays with the insects and frequently replenished.
Edward F. Knipling and colleagues inspecting ground meat at Mission, Texas plant. Knipling on far right. Mass-reared screwworm larvae were fed on ground meat, beef blood, water and a small amount of preservative.
Edward F. Knipling and colleagues inspecting pupae trays on conveyor belt at Mission, Texas plant. Knipling fourth from left. When the larvae matured, they transformed into hard-shelled pupae. Pupae were separated from less mature larvae along a conveyor belt. The pupae were kept in controlled conditions for several days.