Studies on the biology of Attagenus elongatulus Casey (Coleoptera: Dermestidae) and the effects of larval crowding on pupation and life cycle

Abstract

The rates of pupation of Attagenus elongatulus Casey larvae were reduced by increased larval crowding. Artificial selection reduced the crowding effects and shortened the minimum life cycle. Female fecundity and mating success declined with age. Male potency was not affected by age but mating success declined. Females produced progeny from eggs laid during the first 4 days after mating with over 80% of the larvae produced during the first 2 days.