Some aspects of the biology of Callosobruchus subinnotatus (Pic) (Coleoptera: Bruchidae) a pest of stored bambarra groundnuts
1990
Mbata, G.N.
Some aspects of the biology of Callosobruchus subinnotatus (Pic) were investigated at controlled conditions. Temperature and relative humidity were found to have effect on oviposition, development and longevity of adults. The best condition for oviposition was 30 degrees C, 80% r.h. at which the mean number of eggs laid was 135.8 and the worst condition was 35 degrees C, 50% r.h. at which 61.1 eggs were laid per female. Oviposition lasted very long at 25 degrees C and was too short at 35 degrees C. Relative humidity favoured oviposition at 30 and 35 but not at 25 degrees C. The beetles were found to be positively phototactic as more eggs were laid at 12 hr light and 12 hr dark (105.1 eggs) and continuous light (98.6) than at continuous darkness (43.0). Duration of development was shorter at 35 degrees C than at other temperatures investigated. The shortest developmental period was at 35 degrees C, 80% r.h. (23.2 days) while longest was at 25 degrees C, 50% r.h. (42.6 days). While development was shorter at 35 degrees C, more progenies were produced at 30 degrees C and the rate of increase was better enhanced at 30 degrees C. Adults were heavier when reared at lower temperatures and high humidities than at high temperatures and low humidities. Adults lived longer at lower temperatures and high humidities than at higher temperatures and lower humidities. The females were heavier and lived longer than the males.
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