Reproductive parameters and longevity of Gryon gallardoi (Brethes) (Hymenoptera: Scelionidae) parasitizing Spartocera dentiventris (Berg) (Hemiptera: Coreidae) eggs

Abstract

The fecundity, daily progeny and longevity of Gryon gallardoi (Brethes) (Hym.; Scelionidae) were determined under laboratory conditions, using Spartocera dentiventris (Berg) (Hem.; Coreidae) eggs as host. Nineteen G. gallardoi females and 34 males were reared at 25 +/- 1 degrees C, with a 12 h photophase, fed on a 10% aqueous honey solution and provided with 25-30 S. dentiventris eggs daily. The average pre-oviposition period was 1.3 +/- 0.35 days, although some females began laying from the day of emergence. On average, oviposition lasted for 10.1 +/- 1.74 days, reaching a peak on the second day, with 67.5 +/- 11.29 eggs laid. The post-oviposition period was short (2.4 +/- 0.48 days). G. gallardoi females lived significantly longer than males: 13.7 +/- 1.94 and 10.6 +/- 1.78 days, respectively. The overall sex ratio was 0.79. The results reported here on the reproductive capability of the species suggest it may have a good potential as an agent for the control of S. dentiventris.