A rearing method for Sitona humeralis Stephens (Coleoptera: Curculionidae), and its development under controlled conditions

Abstract

AbstractSitona humeralis Steph. was successfully reared from egg to adult on potted lucerne plants. Soil pH was adjusted to 6·9, and soil additives were mixed with a ‘standard potting mix’ to produce a potting mix suitable for lucerne growth and S. humeralis development. Development was faster at 20 than at 15°C, but higher mortalities occurred at 20 than at 15°C.