Effect of temperature on the biological parameters of Aphis craccivora (Hemiptera Aphididae) on Robinia pseudoacacia

Abstract

Aphis craccivora is considered to be a potential indicator for global warming. This species is characterized by a fast developmental rate and a high reproductive potential. It reveals a number of adaptation strategies to adjust to changing environmental conditions. The paper presents the impact of temperature on developmental stages, fecundity, survival rate and the demographic parameters of A. craccivora rear on Robinia pseudoacacia. The research was carried out under control at five constant temperatures of 10, 15, 20, 25 and 28°C, 75% humidity and photoperiod 16 L:8 D. The higher the temperature, the shorter the observed length of the pre-reproductive period, ranging from 6 days at 28°C up to 24 days at 10°C. The reproductive period also became shorter with the increase in temperature. A. craccivora female fecundity was dependent on temperature. The highest recorded rate of fecundity was observed when the temperature was 20°C (on average 115 larvae/female). The developmental threshold was calculated to be 3.3°C. The intrinsic rate (rm) was maximal (0.42) at 28°C and minimal (0.07) at 10°C. With increasing temperature there is a finite rate of increase, and the mean rate of generation development shortens. The research suggests that the best range of temperatures for the development of A. craccivora on R. pseudoacacia is between 20-28°C. Therefore, in the future, with climate warming, Aphis craccivora may become more problematic.