Fitness parameters of Plutella xylostella (L.) (Lepidoptera; Plutellidae) at four constant temperatures by using age-stage, two-sex life tables

Abstract

Different temperature zones have significant impact on the population dynamics of <i>Plutella xylostella</i>. Effective management of <i>P. xylostella</i> requires the knowledge of temperature tolerance by different life stages. In the current study, fitness parameters of diamondback moth were reported by using age-stage, two-sex life table traits at four constant temperatures (15, 20, 25 and 30 °C). The life cycle of <i>P. xylostella</i> was significantly longer at 15 °C. The 20 °C level of temperature was found optimal for fecundity, gross reproductive rate (51.74 offspring) and net reproductive rate (44.35 offspring per individual). The adult pre-oviposition period was statistically at par at all four level of temperatures. However, the survival was maximum at 20 °C as compared to other three temperature ranges. Based on the current study, it was concluded that temperature has a great role in population build-up of <i>P. xylostella</i> and effective management tactics should be applied to prevent significant damage to cabbage and other cruciferous crops when the temperature in the field is near 20 °C.