Analysis of Sublethal and Lethal Effects of Chlorantraniliprole on <i>Loxostege sticticalis</i> Based on Age-Stage, Two-Sex Life Table

Chlorantraniliprole, serving as a substitute for traditional insecticide, has been widely utilized in controlling lepidopteran pests. <i>Loxostege sticticalis</i> (Lepidoptera: Crambidae) is a polyphagous insect and poses a significant threat as a migratory insect. This study investigated the life history traits of a field-collected population in response to chlorantraniliprole exposure based on an age-stage, two-sex life table. After treating the third-instar larvae of <i>L. sticticalis</i> with three different doses of chlorantraniliprole, namely LC₁₀, LC₂₅, and LC₅₀, the survival, development, and fecundity of <i>L. sticticalis</i> were affected significantly in a dose-dependent manner. Chlorantraniliprole at doses of LC₁₀, LC₂₅, and LC₅₀ prolonged the average generation time (<i>T</i>) compared to the control group. The net reproductive rate (<i>R₀</i>) and intrinsic growth rate (<i>r</i>) were significantly higher in the LC₁₀ group but significantly lower in the LC₂₅ and LC₅₀ groups. Chlorantraniliprole used at a dose of LC₁₀ was shown to increase the finite growth rate (<i>λ</i>), while it decreased <i>λ</i> at doses of LC₂₅ and LC₅₀. These results suggested that chlorantraniliprole induces hormetic effects by enhancing fecundity and reproductive potential at lower sublethal concentration (LC₁₀), while reducing the reproductive output at higher doses (LC₂₅ and LC₅₀). Our results provide useful information for developing management strategies for <i>L. sticticalis</i> involving the use of chlorantraniliprole.