Development and survival of immature Aubeonymus mariaefranciscae (Coleoptera: Curculionidae) at constant temperatures

Resumen

Laboratory studies were conducted to assess the effect of temperature on the development rate and survival of a new sugar beet pest Aubeonymus mariaefranciscae Roudier at 7 constant temperatures ranging from 15 to 33°C. Egg development occurred over the entire range of temperatures, although a large decrease (30%) in hatching percentage was observed at 33°C. The 1st, 2nd, and 3rd instars were able to develop at all temperatures, but mortality was high (>50%) at >30°C. Conversely, a low percentage of mortality for the 4th instar and pupae was recorded at 30°C, but they failed to develop at <18°C. The developmental time of the 4th instar accounted for >50% of the total larval period at all temperatures. Considering developmental time and survival, the most favorable temperature range appeared to be 23-26°C. Both linear and nonlinear (Logan type III) models provided a reliable fit of developmental rates versus temperature for all immature stages. To complete development from egg to adult 545 DD above a development threshold of 16.7°C were needed. Yet the nonlinear model can describe more accurately (r2 > 0.96) the development from egg to adult, particularly at the high (27.4°C) and low-temperature (15.3°C) thresholds. The potential of these models to predict the phenology of this pest are discussed.