G. it. Ent., 5 (25): 55-58
August 31, 1990
Utilization of dry matter and energy in
Utetheisa pulchella (Linn.)
(Lep., Arctiidae)
by
P. C. SRIVASTAVA & P. N. PANDEY
Abstract - The growth efficiencies for the larva of Utetheisa pulchella (Linn.) fed on Crotalaria juncea (L.) were determined from the dry matter and energy budgets of the form "Ingestion (I) = Growth (G) + Respiration (R) + Egestion (F)" at 27.16±0.32°C, 82.60±1.16% R.H. and 12 hr photophase. The gross efficiencies of growth (100 G/I), 17.29% (dry matter) and 23.38% (energy equivalent), are similar to those of other lepidopterans, while net ones (100 G/I-F), 39.22% (dry matter) and 47.92% (energy equivalent), are lower. The average and lower efficiencies of U. pulchella do not support the hypothesis of a more efficient utilization of resources in oligophagous herbivores.
