Longevity and fecundity of Coccophagus lycimnia (Walker) (Hymenoptera: Aphelinidae), a primary parasitoid of Coccus hesperidum (Homoptera: Coccidae)

The influence of temperature and food on longevity and fecundity of unmated male and female Coccophagus lycimnia (Walker), a primary parasitoid of Coccus hesperidum L., was investigated in the laboratory. Unmated male and female C. lycimnia were maintained at three constant temperatures (17, 22, and 27 degree C) on two food diets (honey + water and water alone). Both males and females lived longer at 17 degree C with honey and water than with water alone. Females lived longer than males at all temperatures and diets evaluated. Male and female longevity was lowest at 27 degree C and highest at 22 and 17 degree C, respectively. Fecundity of mated female C. lycimnia was also determined at 27 degree C. Mated females laid an average of 5.6 (0-22) eggs/day and lived 12.6 days (1-31) at 27 degree C with a diet of honey and water.