Abstract
The aim of this research was to assess the larval instar number of Pissodes castaneus (De Geer) and to facilitate the study of its biology by identifying a reliable method to determine the instar of individual larvae. The larvae of this weevil were collected in central Italy in 2004, and their head capsules were measured by means of a binocular microscope. Head capsule width and length data were analyzed using Hcap, a computer program that use the distribution of size measures to determine instar separation rules. To determine instar number, the Gaines and Campbell method, which represents the perfect geometric progression of size measures (Dyar's rule) by a regression line, was also used. This study identified four larval instars of P. castaneus and found that head capsule widths and lengths followed Dyar's rule and reliably distinguished instars.
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Disclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.