Development and reproduction of an exotic pest mealybug, Phenacoccus solani (Homoptera: Pseudococcidae) at three constant temperatures

Abstract

The developmental and reproductive characteristics of a mealybug, Phenacoccus solani, were investigated at 20, 25, and 30°C and a photoperiod of 16L : 8D. The total developmental periods of the immature stages and the pre-reproductive period of adults decreased significantly with increased temperatures. Survival rates of immature stages were high at all temperatures. The number of offspring produced per female was significantly lower at 30°C than at other temperatures. Adults lived significantly longer at 20°C than at other temperatures. Generation time was longest at 20°C. The net reproductive rate and the intrinsic rate of natural increase were highest at 25°C.