AGE, FECUNDITY, WEIGHT, AND THE INTRINSIC RATE OF INCREASE OF THE LUPINE APHID MACROSIPHUM ALBIFRONS (HOMOPTERA: APHIDIDAE)

Abstract

AbstractThe fecundity, survivorship, and rate of development of the lupine aphid Macrosiphum albifrons Essig were determined and summarized into life tables from which the intrinsic rate of increase was computed. The life tables, using a time scale in days, were converted to a variable life table model using a physiological time scale based on an estimated thermal threshold of development of 3.59° (± 0.587°). A method of determining age and fecundity of adult aphids was developed from weight and embryo content. The use of intrinsic rate of increase and of the method of aging in field population dynamics are discussed.