Effect of Temperature Fluctuation on Some Biological Parameters of Dysdercus koenigii (F.)

Abstract

Under natural environmental conditions, insects are highly affected by heat stress. Studies on the effect of heat stresses on the life history of Dysdercus koenigii are scarce. This study investigated the effect of short-term high temperature stress on the developmental period, survival rate of all stages and reproduction of D. koenigii adults. Eggs, nymphs and adults were exposed to 28 °C, 31 °C, 34 °C, 37 °C and 40 °C for 2 h and returned to the laboratory to check all the above-mentioned aspects. The developmental duration and survival rate of all stages decreased with the increase of temperature. Longevity and survival rate of females were significantly higher than males after exposure to heat. Fecundity and hatching percentage was significantly decreased with the increase of temperature. Because short-term high temperature stress response is vital for the survival of all stages of D. koenigii, our findings can be used to develop a more profound understanding of the potential for this insect to evolve in response to environmental changes.