Thermal Requirements and Prediction of Populational Peaks of Lipaphis erysimi (Kalt.) (Homoptera: Aphididae)

Laboratory and field experiments were conducted from October 1998 to August 1999, aiming to estimate the thermal requirements of Lipaphis erysimi (Kalt.). The development of the aphid was studied under laboratory conditions in kale (Brassica oleracea L. var. acephala. using incubators adjusted to 10, 15, 20, 25 and 30ºC, 14h photophase and 70±10% RH. The lower developmental thermal threshold found was 3.04°C and the thermal constant 132.21 degree-days. The prediction of adult occurrence in the field was done using the triangulation method; the populational peak was predicted to occur 0-1 day before the date it was actually observed in the field.

Insecta; temperature; degree-days; thermal threshold; Brassica oleracea