Effects of temperature on oviposition and development of Amphibolus venator (Klug) (Hemiptera: Reduviidae), a predator of stored product insects.

Abstract

The egg production and development of Amphibolus venator (Klug) were investigated at five temperatures (25, 27.5, 30, 32.5 and 35°C), 70% r.h. and 16L–8D photoregime. The optimum temperature for multiplication and development of A. venator was around 32.5°C. Pre-oviposition period decreased with increasing temperature. Temperature in the range 25–35°C had no effect on oviposition period. The average numbers of egg laid per ovipositing female increased with increasing temperatures, however differences were not significant. The percentages of ovipositing females at 32.5 and 35°C were the same (95.8%), but higher than in other temperatures. Total oviposition number was highest at 35°C. Egg incubation period decreased with increasing temperature, however, hatchability was not affected. The development period of nymphs decreased with increasing temperature. The lower developmental thresholds and total effective temperatures were calculated as 16.9°C and 126.6 degree-days for eggs, respectively. The corresponding values for nymphs were 20.7°C and 714.3 degree-days.