Biology and descriptions of nymphal and adult Jadera choprai (Hemiptera: Rhopalidae)

Abstract

The biology of nymphs and adults of the Neotropical scentless bug Jadera choprai Göllner-Scheiding feeding on mature seeds of the balloon vine, Cardiospermum halicacabum (L.) (Sapindaceae), was studied in the laboratory. Most nymphs (>75%) successfully reached adulthood when feeding on this food. Nymphs reared individually had lower mortality (14.0%) and shorter developmental times (35.7 d) than did bugs reared in groups (23.3% and 39.9 d). All adult females oviposited when fed on seeds of balloon vine. Mean adult longevity was 86.0 d for males and 47.7 for females. Mean fecundity was ≈147 eggs per female, and ≈85% of the eggs hatched. Fresh body weight of females increased significantly during the first week of adult life; males, however, lost weight significantly during this period. Females lost weight during their second week posteclosion, but they regained the weight subsequently. However, males did not. Nymphs and adults (macropterous and braehypterous forms) of J. choprai are described and illustrated, as are their setal patterns. © 2005 Entomological Society of America.