Some aspects of the rate of increase of a coccinellid

Abstract. 1. Fecundity, growth and development were determined at a range of feeding levels and temperatures and compared with the component models for the predator rate of increase.
2. Fecundity and growth rate show a linear dependence on rate of consumption, while development rate conforms to an alternative non-linear model. The non-linearity of development rate is due to a dependence of weight gain during an instar on rate of consumption.
3. The primary influence of temperature is on the rate of consumption, limiting fecundity and growth rate at temperatures below the optimum for the stage, while higher temperatures have a deleterious effect. Temperature has a more direct influence on development rates, allowing comparable growth despite the variation in rates of consumption.