Effects of temperature on the development and reproduction of Orius sauteri (Poppius) (Heteroptera : Anthocoridae), a predator of Thrips palmi Karny (Thysanoptera : Thripidae)

The development and reproduction of Orius sauteri reared on Thrips palmi la rvae were studied at four constant temperatures, 15, 20, 25 and 30 degrees C. Thermal constant (K) and developmental zero (T-0) for eggs and nymphs of O. sauteri were calculated at 62.1 day-degrees and 11.1 degrees C and 180. 8 day-degrees and 10.3 degrees C, respectively. Egg mortality rate was alwa ys 7.1% or less. There was no significant difference in survival rate durin g the nymphal stage among the four temperatures. Longevity of female and ma le adults was greatest at 15 degrees C and shortest at 30 degrees C. Female lifetime fecundity reached a maximum at 25 degrees C. The intrinsic rate o f natural increase (r(m)) was highest at 30 degrees C.