Influence of temperature and humidity on development and survival of Telenomus reynoldsi (Hymenoptera: Scelionidae) parasitizing Geocoris punctipes (Heteroptera: Lygaeidae) eggs

Telenomus reynoldsi Gordh & Coker parasitizing Geocoris punctipes (Say) eggs, and nonparasitized G. punctipes eggs, were reared at eight constant temperatures (15-35 degree C) and six relative humidities (25-100% RH) to determine the influence of temperature and humidity on survival and developmental time. Parasitoid survival was significantly reduced by low and high temperatures at all humidities. Survival was highest between 50 and 85% RH. Survival of nonparasitized G. punctipes eggs was reduced by low and high temperatures at 25 and 50% RH and by high temperatures at 60% RH, but was independent of temperature above 75% RH. Male T. reynoldsi emerged earlier than females at most temperature and humidity combinations. Mean rate of development for T. reynoldsi and G. punctipes eggs increased linearly between 18 and 30 degree C, with optimal development at 33 degree C for T. reynoldsi and at 33-35 degree C for G. punctipes eggs.