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Geographic variability in demographic performance of the potato moth, Phthorimaea operculella(Zeller) (Lepidoptera: Gelechiidae), in Australia

Published online by Cambridge University Press:  10 July 2009

D. T. Briese
Affiliation:
CSIRO Division of Entomology, G.P.O. Box 1700, Canberra, ACT 2601, Australia

Abstract

Measurements of several parameters of demographic performance for 16 field-derived Australian populations of Phthorimaea operculella (Zeller) were obtained under laboratory conditions. Fecundity, female weight and low temperature development rates were the most important parameters contributing to differences between populations. It is suggested that the increased fecundity and female weights found in warmer regions may be selected for in part by the continuous high mortality imposed by parasitoids, which have a reduced impact in the colder parts of P. operculella's range. A more rapid development rate in populations from colder areas is probably due to selection for a decreased lower threshold temperature in these areas, indicating better survival characteristics under cold conditions.

Type
Original Articles
Copyright
Copyright © Cambridge University Press 1986

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