G. it. Ent., 5 (25): 49-53
August 31, 1990
Influence of some carbohydrate diets on the reproduction of
the spiny bollworm, Earias insulana (Boisd.)
(Lepidoptera: Noctuidae)
at different temperature-humidity conditions
by
RAM SINGH
Abstract - The influence of some carbohydrate diets (10%) on the reproductive biology of the spiny bollworm, Earias insulana (Boisd.) was studied under different temperature-humidity conditions registered in the laboratory from January to May 1988. At temperature-humidity conditions ranging from 16±1°C, 68±3% R.H. to 35±2°C, 45±4% R.H. sucrose diet yielded the highest number of eggs and hatches. It was followed by honey and glucose, which enhanced fecundity and eggs viability between 20 to 30°C and 45-63% R.H. The reproduction in starch fed adults was even poorer than in distilled water fed adults, indicating the inefficiency of bollworm adults to utilize polysaccharides (starch) for energy and reproduction. Highest adult longevity (5-26 days) was recorded at 16±1°C and 68±3% R.H., while it was lowest (2-6 days) at 35±2°C and 45±4% R.H. Mild temperature (25±1°C) and humidity (50±4%) were most suitable for highest fecundity (215 eggs/female) and hatch (100%) in sucrose fed adults. Similar results were obtained with other diets.
