Some observations on the effects of temperature and relative humidity upon pupation, fecundity and the longevity of Dermestes lardarius L. (Coleoptera, Dermestidae)

Abstract

Larvae of Demestes lardarius L. were bred at 80% r.h. and 15 or 30°C on a diet of fish-meal, yeast and cholesterol. Resulting adults were paired within 2 days of emergence and kept under the same conditions. Adults obtained at 15°C were morphologically normal and lived up to 211 days. Most females failed to lay eggs but 2 laid a small number (4 and 12) of infertile eggs after 89 days. At 30°C adults lived only up to 36 days and none of the females laid eggs. Larvae were also reared at 65% r.h. and 30 or 15°C until they pupated and then they were transferred to 25 and 20°C respectively. Adults at 25°C lived up to 61 days but no eggs were laid. Adults obtained at 20°C were morphologically normal but very small in size and lived up to 165 days. Matings between them were infertile.