The progeny production of a hymenopterous parasitoid,Apanteles sp. groupultor,as affected by temperature

Adults of the parasiteApanteles sp. groupultor were held unter constant temperatures (15, 20, 26, 30°C) each within ±1°C. Total progeny production was significantly greater at 26°C, averaging 85 per female and decreased at 15°C and 30°C. Mating behavior showed that both sexes were a polygamous. The range of constant temperature did not greatly alter the progeny sex ratio when female parent had been mated. At 15°C, male activity was adversely affected when both sexes were exposed to it without previous mating, resulting in a higher number of male progeny. A temperature of 26°C was the most appropriate for normal sex ratio.