The Biology and Thermal Requirements of the Fennel Aphid Hyadaphis foeniculi (Passerini) (Hemiptera: Aphididae)

• DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0100983
• Publication Date: 2014-07-08T17:32:44Z
• Authors: José B. Malaquias; Francisco S. Ramalho; Aline C. S. Lira; Flávia Q. Oliveira; Francisco S. Fern...; Wesley A. C. Godoy; José C. Zanuncio
• Keywords: Foeniculum

The relationship between the insect development rate and temperature was established very early represents an important ecological variable for modeling population dynamics of insects. accurate determination thermal constant values lower upper developmental thresholds Hyadaphis foeniculi (Passerini) (Hemiptera: Aphididae) on fennel (Foeniculum vulgare Miller (Apiales: Apiaceae)) crops would obviously benefit effective application control measures. This paper is a study biology requirements H. foeniculi. Winged insects were collected from at Embrapa Algodão in Campina Grande, Paraíba. Nymphs (age ≤24 h) produced by winged subjected to temperatures 15, 20, 25, 28, 30 or 33°C, photophase 12 h relative humidity 70±10%. results showed that 15 30°C, nymphs able develop normally. four instars found all tested. However, 3 33°C lethal nymphs. nymph stage time varied 5 (30°C) 19 (15°C) days. influence dependent instar. base (Tb) (K) estimated 11.2°C 107.5 degree-days, respectively. shortest observed highest viability (85.0%) 28°C. information can be used developing phenological models based relationships so outbreaks crop predicted, therefore improving programs targeting this pest.