Modelling temperature-dependent bionomics of Bemisia tabaci (Q-biotype)

Abstract.  The influence of temperature (17, 21, 25, 30 and 35 °C) on life-history traits of a Q-biotype Bemisia tabaci population on tomato is studied. Temperature-dependent relationships are characterized for immature developmental rate, immature survival, fecundity, longevity and intrinsic rate of increase. Development time vary from 20 days at 30 °C to 56 days at 17 °C and the lowest thermal threshold is estimated at 10.2 °C. The optimal temperature for immature development is 32.5 °C. Total fecundity (eggs per female) ranges from 105.3 (at 21 °C) to 41 (at 35 °C). The longevity decreases with temperature increase. The intrinsic rate of increase ranges from 0.0450 (at 17 °C) to 0.123 (at 30 °C). The functional relationships between temperature and life-history parameters are used to evaluate the effect of temperature on the population dynamics. Such mathematical relationships could provide a basis for future development of population models.