Effects of temperature on the development of Scymnus (Pullus) argentinicus (Coleoptera: Coccinellidae)

Abstract

The biology of Scymnus (Pullus) argentinicus Weise on Schizaphis graminum at the temperatures 20, 25 and 30^oC was studied. The temperatures of 25 and 30^oC were favorable to S. (Pullus) argentinicus development. The average of the incubation period was 3.24 days and the larval development was 8.43 days at 25^oC. The duration of the instars and pre-pupal and pupal periods was significantly shorter at 25 and 30^oC. The percentage of emerging adults was higher at 30^oC (98%) while at 20^oC this percentual was 82%.