Effect of Humidity, Temperature, and Light o the Growth and Developmn of Sesamia inferens (Walker).

Abstract

Eggs, pupae, and adult moths of S. inferens were exposed to constant humidities, ranging from 20-95 percent, constant temperatures, ranging from 20-34 C, and constant continuous light intensities 0 and 10 foot-candles, and the effects on the development, emergence, and life duration of the borer wre compared. Humidity at the test range affected greatly the hatching of eggs and ault longevity. In almost all cases, they showed higher preference in higher humidity. Optimum humidity for hatching eggs and at rearing adult moths were between 90-95, and 70-90 percent RH respectively. Pupae developed well in all humidities eventhough slight effect on the adult emergence was observed at the humidity below 50 percent RH. Temperature at the test range affected greatly the egg and pupal periods, but very little on hatching percentage and adult emergence. The percent adult emergence was reduced markedly only when pupae were exposed throughout their development at 34 C. Hatchability of eggs was favored when they were illuminated continuously with 10 foot-candle light as compared to those kept in the darkness under the experimental conditions. It had no effect on the pupal development and emergence. Eggs and pupae of S. inferns, in general, exhibited their higher tolerance to temperature when compared with those of C. polychrysa and T. incertulas at the same conditions