Abstract
The larval developmental rate of the tortoise beetle Metriona elatior Klug (Coleoptera: Chrysomelidae), a potential biocontrol agent of tropical soda apple (TSA) Solanum viarum Dunal (Solanaceae), was studied in the laboratory at 3 constant temperatures (20[degree], 25[degree], and 30[degree]C), photoperiod (14:10 L: D), and relative humidity 60%- 80% in growth chambers. Sixteen neonate larvae were individually reared on excised TSA leaves placed in 0.5-liter transparent-plastic containers for each temperature treatment. Larvae were daily checked to determine the number and duration of larval instars at each of the temperature tested. At 20[degrees] and 25[degree]C, the percent survival from first instar to adult was 75 and 73%, respectively. A constant temperature of 30[degrees]C had a detrimental effect on the larvae and none reached the pupa/adult stages. The general life cycle of this beetle is discussed.
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