TEMPORAL INCIDENCE AND SEXUAL-MATURATION OF AUSTRACRIS-GUTTULOSA (WALKER) (ORTHOPTERA, ACRIDIDAE) IN QUEENSLAND, AUSTRALIA

Life history data for the cyrtacanthacrid locust Austracris guttulosa in Queensland were compiled from field observations over the period 19 71-1976. Nymphs were present from November to April inclusive and adul ts throughout the year, with adults from overlapping generations prese nt in January and February. A. guttulosa was univoltine, adults remain ing sexually immature throughout the dry season (April to October). Se xual maturation was related to the higher temperatures, humidities and day lengths from September/October onwards and resulted in depletion of fat body. Sexually mature adults died out by February.