Life expectancy (e_x) and stable age distribution (C_x) of Plutella xylostella (L.) (Lep.: Yponomeutidae), exposed to sublethal doses of hexaflumuron

Abstract

The diamondback moth, Plutella xylostella (L.) is a major pest of crucifers in Iran. In this study, the influence of two sublethal concentrations (LC₁₀ and LC₂₅) of an insect growth regulator, hexaflumuron on life expectancy (e _x ), stable age distribution (C _x ), age-specific fertility (m _x ) and number of fertile eggs per day was investigated. Results showed that the sublethal doses of hexaflumuron decreased life expectancy (e _x ), age-specific fertility (m _x ) and number of fertile eggs per day of P. xylostella. Also stable age distribution (C _x ) of population in next generation was changed and rate of adults in sublethals was increased compared to control. According obtained results, hexaflumuron is a good choice for IPM strategy in controlling the diamondback moth.

Keywords:

• P. xylostella
• sublethal doses of hexaflumuron
• life expectancy
• stable age distribution

Acknowledgements

We thank the Department of Agricultural Entomology Research of Iranian Research Institute of Plant Protection, Tehran, Iran and the Entomology section of the Department of Plant Protection of Shahed University, Tehran, Iran.