Life-history of 'Thaumastocoris peregrinus' and 'Thaumastocoris' sp. in the laboratory with some observations on behaviour

Abstract

'Thaumastocoris peregrinus' Carpintero and Dellape is a new pest of 'Eucalyptus' in Sydney and southern South Africa and has recently arrived in Argentina. Recently another as yet undescribed species of this genus was discovered and is an emerging pest of Corymbia in Sydney. Laboratory studies were undertaken to elucidate life history parameters of both species such as instar duration, adult longevity and reproductive potential. At 17-22 degreesC the eggs of both species hatched in approximately six days. The duration of the five stadia were similar in both species: with 'T. peregrinus' taking approximately 4.6, 3.5, 3.3, 3.7 and 5.3 days, while 'T. sp.' 4.7, 3.4, 3.5, 4.0 and 5.2 days. The adult males and females of both 'Thaumastocoris' spp. can live for approximately 40 days and females can produce at least 60 eggs during that time. The laying of virgin eggs is reported for this genus.