Observations on the bionomics of Pseudolynchia canariensis (Diptera: Hippoboscidae)

Abstract

Host suitability, reproduction, effects of temperature on reproduction and pupal development, effects of humidity on pupal development and the effects of photoperoid on puparial deposition, pupal development and adult emergence were studied in a laboratory colony of Pseudolynchia canariensis. Flies were observed to lack strong host specificity. Puparia were produced at regular 24 h intervals by flies maintained at 30 °C, averaging 8·8 puparia per female. Optimum temperature for colony maintenance was observed to range between 26·6 and 30·0 °C. Temperatures of 13 and 37 °C were lethal to pupae. Humidity and photoperiod did not markedly affect pupal development. Puparial deposition and adult emergence occurred only during the photoperiod.